Newport Castle
Final remains of a significant waterfront fortress
Though it has largely been swallowed up by the modern-day city, you can still get a sense of Newport Castle’s scale by viewing it from the bridge across the River Usk. From here, its central tower with water dock come into view, flanked by two further towers which mark the fortress’s north and south ends.
The castle’s curtain wall was originally surrounded by a deep moat, which was filled with water at high tide – a key benefit of its riverside location. Built in the 14th century, it replaced an earlier motte-and-bailey castle close to the cathedral on Stow Hill.
Opening times & prices
Opening times
| 1st April - 31st March | Can be viewed externally |
|---|---|
Visitor information
Dogs welcome
Dogs on short leads welcome to access ground floor levels of the site.
Walking difficulty
Terrain: Level 2 – Easy
Drone policy
No smoking
Smoking is not permitted.
Health & Safety
Although the monument outer fencing is currently permanently locked, you are still able to view the monument from outside the main entrance and upon the bridge. There is a narrow pavement leading to and from the castle. The bridge offers an amazing view of the riverside profile of the monument. The castle grounds are prone to flooding upon high tide.
There is no designated parking for this site. The monument is adjacent to a busy main road, please be mindful of your surroundings when visiting. You can safely view the castle from a pedestrian paved section that also serves the pedestrian underpass entrance.
As with all ancient monuments there is always a risk of stones being dislodged in bad weather, however, we manage this through extensive monitoring.
Climbing may result in serious injury.
There are several wild plants and flowers, although these are great pollinators, they may be poisonous to visitors and animals, we strongly advise you not to touch or allow dogs to eat any vegetation.
Please watch our health & safety film before visiting Cadw sites.
Iechyd a Diogelwch / Health and Safety
Please report any anti-social behaviour such as climbing, setting fires, graffiti etc. to CadwAccidentsReports@gov.wales
The following signs can be found around the site at key areas of risk, please pay attention where appropriate.
Falling masonry
Deep water
Slippery or uneven surfaces
Low ceilings
Directions
Google MapRoad:
B4591, Newport.
Rail:
Newport, Newport town centre. For further information, please contact: Traveline Cymru on 0800 464 0000 or National Rail Enquiries on 03457 48 49 50.
Bike:
NCN Route No.47 On route
No designated parking
what3words: ///coach.jobs.listed
Unlimited access to Wales' past
Join Cadw for as little as £2.00 a month and gain unlimited access to over 100 historical sites.
Enjoy the many benefits of Cadw membership
- 10% off Cadw gift shops
- 50% off entry to English Heritage and Historic Scotland sites
- FREE entry to English Heritage and Historic Scotland on renewal
- FREE entry to Manx National Heritage properties
- FREE membership pack including car sticker and full colour map