When it comes to Newport, beach attractions aren’t the only draw that this humble city boasts. Thanks to its rich Roman history, it is home to some stunning historical buildings. We’ve highlighted the best ones, along with a roundup of the best parks and open spaces, plus a profile on the National Velodrome.
Attractions in Newport
Parks
There are few finer things in life than a bracing Welsh walk, and Newport is home to some outstanding parks and green spaces. One of the oldest is Belle Vue Park, which is just to the south of the city centre. Opened in 1894, the Victorian park includes traditional period buildings like the Parc Pantry tea room, a pavilion, bandstand and a rockery. The park is full of rare trees and plants, including the Himalayan magnolia, Judas trees and the ginko biloba. Well-maintained and peaceful, the park also has a small children’s playground and a walled garden which comes alive in the summer.
Several miles out of the city centre, Fourteen Locks Canal is a gorgeous area full of connecting canal locks. Also known as Cefn Flight, the flight is one of the steepest in the UK and makes for a fascinating modern development against the rural Welsh countryside. The canal visitor centre is home to a popular tea room and art gallery, and with a large car park, is a great base for walking and exploring.
To the west of the city centre lies Beechwood Park, a 30-acre space that includes a Grade II-listed house that dates back to the 19th century. The once private estate was bought by the Borough Council and is now a public park including popular café Mrs T’s. There is a small playground as well as a basketball court, tennis courts and a bowling green.
If you’re looking to explore the region’s wildlife, head down to Newport Wetlands. With a brand new RSPB visitor centre, café, shop and children’s playground, the grounds cover over 1,000 acres, with plenty to entertain the family for several hours. And thanks to several well-positioned hides around the wetlands, you can get great views of some spectacular and unusual birds. If you’re staying in our Newport Wales (M4, J24) hotel, you’ll be just a 15-minute drive away from the glorious wetlands.
Once a hunting wood, Wentwood Forest is a conifer plantation that’s perfect for walks and bike rides. It’s also home to a range of adders and lizards, so mind your step!
Historic buildings
For a full run-down of Newport’s historic buildings, including the Roman ruins and Newport Castle, head to our dedicated page.
Arenas
We’ve rounded up all the information you need on the Newport Velodrome on our dedicated page.