Discover Newport

In Newport, the highlights range from Roman history and the locks along the canal to expansive wetlands. Caerleon is home to Roman remains, Fourteen Locks tells the story of the canal, and Newport Wetlands Nature Reserve showcases a landscape of reed beds, lagoons and estuary mudflats. You can shape your stay around culture, nature or a mix of both.

Roman heritage in Newport and Caerleon

Newport Museum and Art Gallery has been collecting evidence of Newport’s history, culture and environment since 1888. Its exhibitions span from prehistory to the 20th century, offering a view of the city’s history over a long period rather than focusing on just a few individual eras.

The Newport Medieval Ship tells a special story: discovered in June 2002 in the riverbank deposits of the River Usk, it was excavated by archaeologists beam by beam. The Newport Medieval Ship Centre is open during the 2026 visitor season from 27 March to 31 October. Admission is free and includes either a tour led by volunteers or an audio guide.

Caerleon, in Newport, was also an important site in Roman history. During the Roman Empire, the military base housed 5,000 soldiers and cavalrymen of the Second Augustan Legion. The National Roman Legion Museum brings to life what it was like to live at a remote outpost of the empire. Caerleon Roman Baths preserve the remains of the Roman natatio, a large outdoor swimming pool. There is an exhibition on site at the monument; access is level and well lit. The museum and baths offer different perspectives on Caerleon’s Roman heritage.

Locks, markets and transport history

Fourteen Locks, a listed monument, lies on the Crumlin Arm of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal in Newport. The flight of locks was completed in 1799: its 14 locks raise the water level by 50 metres. Along the canal towpath, you can walk, watch wildlife and enjoy the surrounding landscape, including Allt-yr-Yn Nature Reserve.

The traditional covered Newport Market offers another glimpse of city life. The market has been attractively restored and is home to independent traders and a lively food court. Newport Transporter Bridge is a striking landmark in transport history: opened in 1906, it is one of just six operational transporter bridges remaining worldwide. It is closed to the public during extensive renovation work; check the official destination website before travelling.

There are different reference points to help you find your way along the routes. The Newport City to Sea Walk opened in May 2012 as part of the Wales Coast Path and is eight kilometres long. Route 88 connects the city centre via Malpas to Caerleon and the surrounding countryside; most of it follows a flat route along the river.

Wetlands, parkland and activities

Newport Wetlands Nature Reserve covers more than 438 hectares of reed beds, lagoons, wet grassland and estuary mudflats. The area can be explored on foot or by bike and has a visitor centre. Visitor facilities include level paths, a wheelchair-accessible viewing platform and viewing screens overlooking the reed beds and main lagoons. The variety of habitats gives a nature outing its own distinctive focus.

Tredegar House is a 17th-century red-brick mansion in Newport. Its grounds include an ornamental lake, woodland and extensive open spaces for visitors to explore. The grounds are open daily and free to enter. Check the official website for opening times before you visit.

Cycling is also part of what the city has to offer: the Geraint Thomas National Velodrome of Wales is one of five internationally recognised indoor velodromes in the UK. It hosts track cycling sessions for beginners as well as national and international competitions.

Nearby Cardiff adds a regional point of interest: it can be reached from Newport by train or car in 20 minutes. When planning a trip, you can consider Newport in terms of both its own cultural and natural attractions and this nearby point of interest.

Discover more destinations: Caerleon, Marshfield, Rogerstone, Bettws, Castleton, Newport, Isle Of Anglesey, Vale Of Glamorgan.

For the wider travel overview: Wales.