Big Pit National Coal Museum
Blaenavon
Gwent
NP4 9XP
United Kingdom
Tel: 01495 790311
The Big Pit in Blaenavon allows you to experience the life of a coal miner in the valleys. Above ground there is a museum and mining exhibition, and the original buildings that would have been used by the collier. However, the highlight of the Big Pit experience is the authentic underground guided tour, where visitors are kitted up and taken down 300ft into the mine shaft for a first-hand glimpse into the working conditions faced by the miners. The town of Blaenavon is also a World Heritage Site.
Brecon Beacons National Park
C/o Plas y Ffynnon
Cambrian Way
Brecon
Powys
LD3 7HP
United Kingdom
The beautiful Brecon Beacons National Park stretches across Wales, above Gwent and Glamorgan and through much of Powys. The region was declared a National Park in 1957 and is home to some of South Wales’ most rugged and stunning scenery, as well as its highest peaks and largest lakes. The distinctive scenery and appeal of the Brecon Beacons are popular with walkers and climbers, as well as enthusiasts of outdoor pursuits.
See our feature on the
Brecon Beacons
Caerleon Roman Remains
Caerleon
Newport
Gwent
LD3 7HP
United Kingdom
Caerleon is a historic village just outside Newport. It is famous for its archaeological remains, which include an Iron Age fort and several findings related to the area’s substantial Roman occupation. In particular, the amphitheatre excavated at Caerleon is the best preserved example of its kind in Britain. Caerleon was the base of a Roman legion, when the area was known as Isca. Evidence of the fortress and baths can still be seen, and there is a small museum devoted to the findings close to the remains.
Caldicot Castle and Country Park
Church Road
Caldicot
Monmouthshire
NP26 4HU
United Kingdom
Tel: 01291 420241
Caldicot castle has a chequered history as Norman stronghold, medieval fortress, and Victorian stately home. Extensively restored, the castle is a pleasant way to while away a few hours, either exploring the history of the fort with an audio tour, partaking in some hands on activities, or simply enjoying a picnic in the castle’s 55 acre grounds.
Chepstow Castle
Bridge St
Chepstow
Gwent
NP16 5EY
United Kingdom
Tel: 01291 624065
Built for the Earl of Hereford in 1067, Chepstow Castle is an example of an early British stone castle. As a defensive structure it was used to mediate border relations. By the 17th century it was no longer needed as a military base, becoming more of a tourist attraction, as it is today. On-site facilities include wheelchair access, gift shops and military exhibitions.
Chepstow Racecourse
St. Lawrence Road
Chepstow
Gwent
NP16 6BE
United Kingdom
Tel: 01291 622260
Located on part of the historic Piercefield estate, just a mile north of Chepstow, Chepstow Racecourse holds year-round meets and is the home of the Coral Welsh National. The Racecourse also holds themed events throughout the year, as well as lending its grounds for various fairs and festivals.
Dewstow Hidden Gardens and Grotto
St. Lawrence Road
Caerwent
Monmouthshire
NP26 5AH
United Kingdom
Tel: 01291 430444
Dewstow gardens are a unique example of Edwardian landscaping: they are largely subterranean. Built in the 1890s, and buried after WWII, Dewstow gardens were only rediscovered in 2000, and a major restoration has painstakingly brought back the underground grottoes and sunken ferneries to their former glory.
Tredegar House
Newport
Gwent
NP10 8YW
United Kingdom
Tel: 01633 815880
Tredegar House is set in 90 acres of glorious grounds just two miles to the west of Newport city centre. It is a formidable example of a 17th century mansion; the earliest areas of the estate hark from the 15th Century, and the remainder of the grandiose house was built in the 1600s. There are guided tours of the house available, and visitors may also enjoy the woodland walks and boating on the lake in the grounds.
Usk Rural Life Museum
The Malt Barn
New Market Street
Usk
Monmouthshire
NP15 1AU
United Kingdom
Tel: 01291 673777
Run entirely by volunteers, the Usk Rural Life Museum gives an insight into daily life in Monmouthshire between the mid-19th century and the end of WWII. Arranged by season and task, the museum provides an entertaining hands-on experience. Opening times vary.
Wye Valley
Monmouthshire
United Kingdom
The Wye Valley is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It lies in the southeast region of Wales, stretching into the English Midlands. It encompasses parts of Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and Monmouthshire, offering miles of beautiful countryside around the River Wye. There are numerous activities to enjoy here, including pony trekking, paragliding, hang-gliding, canoeing or kayaking, or you can gently discover the beauty of the Wye at your own pace.