Usk Valley Walk

About the Area

The Usk Valley Walk follows the River Usk for 48 miles from the Roman town of Caerleon, near Newport, all the way to Brecon in the heart of Bannau Brycheiniog, threading a gentle path between the great uplands of the Black Mountains and the Central Beacons. Waymarked throughout with the distinctive symbol of an otter’s head, an animal you have a genuine chance of spotting along the riverbank, this is one of the gentlest and most accessible long-distance walks in South Wales, following riverside paths, canal towpaths and quiet farmland for the majority of its length, with only a handful of notable climbs along the way.

The walk begins amid the historic grandeur of Caerleon, site of Isca Augusta, one of only three permanent Roman legionary fortresses in Britain and, in its day, home to the mighty Second Augustan Legion. The impressive remains of the fortress baths, amphitheatre and barracks make for a fascinating start to the walk, offering a real sense of just how long this valley has been an important route through South Wales, long before the current trail was ever waymarked.

From Caerleon, the trail climbs briefly over the Wentwood ridge before settling into gentle dairy pastureland on its way to the market town of Usk, affectionately known as the “town of flowers” for its beautifully kept gardens and hanging baskets, and home to its own quietly atmospheric castle ruins. The walking from here to Abergavenny stays close to the riverbank for much of the way, passing through some of the prettiest and most unspoilt stretches of the entire Usk Valley.

Abergavenny itself marks a real change in character, often described as the gateway to Wales, and the point at which the walk enters Bannau Brycheiniog National Park proper. From here the trail joins the towpath of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, offering several miles of level, easy walking high above the river, with increasingly fine views towards the Black Mountains as the trail passes close to Crickhowell and the striking gritstone plateau of Mynydd Llangatwg above Llangattock.

The final stretch continues along the peaceful canal towpath, passing close to Talybont Reservoir, the largest stretch of open water in the national park, before arriving in the lively market town of Brecon. With its cafes, restaurants and easy access to the wider national park, Brecon makes a fitting and thoroughly enjoyable end to a walk that manages to combine Roman history, quiet river scenery and the dramatic backdrop of the Beacons without ever feeling like particularly strenuous walking.

Walking the Usk Valley with Drover Holidays

This riverside walk through southern Wales is a perfect holiday choice for energetic families and ramblers alike, gentle enough to enjoy at a relaxed pace, yet full of interest and variety throughout. As with all our self-guided walking holidays, we take care of every arrangement, leaving you free to simply enjoy your few days in the Welsh countryside. There are no set departure dates, so you can pick a date that suits you and we will take care of the rest. Our Usk Valley Walk package includes pick-up and drop-off at Newport and Abergavenny railway stations at the start and end of your holiday (the closest stations to Caerleon and Brecon respectively), five nights’ accommodation in quality B&Bs and guesthouses, daily luggage transfer, emergency vehicle back-up, custom maps highlighting your walk day by day and marking local facilities, a comprehensive route guide with directions and background information, and a first aid kit.