Usk Valley Walk route
This super waterside walk follows the River Usk, the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal and the Brecon and Newport Canal from Caerleon to Brecon. The walk passes through Abergavenny and Usk and is enclosed by beautiful hills for the whole of its length.
There are also splendid views of the Brecon Beacon mountains, particularly towards the end of the walk. The route is relativley flat as much of it takes place alongside the river or the canals, so there are only a few notable climbs.
A 48 mile (77km) walk through the Vale of Usk
The Usk Valley Walk closely follows the river Usk, from the Roman town of Caerleon to Brecon, in the heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park. A relatively flat walk, leading through fields and woods, down country lanes, past farms, hamlets and villages. The original walk, from the Ship Inn, Caerleon to Usk Bridge, Abergavenny is just over 25 miles. An extension, mainly following the Brecon canal completes the route from Abergavenny to Brecon.
Cadw Sites Crown Copyright Visit Wales
Crown copyright Visit Wales
In addition to the unspoilt river scenery and views of the mountains, sites to visit along the way include: the Roman amphitheatre and remains at Caerleon, the derelict Llancayo windmill, Clytha house and castle, Coed-y-Bwynydd Iron Age hill fort, Abergavenny Castle, Llanelly church, the towns of Llangattock and Crickhowell and the aqueduct and lock near Brecon. There are museums at Abergavenny, Brecon, Caerleon, Newport and Usk and railway stations at Newport and Abergavenny.
The walk is waymarked with white disc.
Please click here for more information about the route.
Explore the Usk Valley and Brecon Beacons on the bus
Follow the banks of the River Usk between Abergavenny and Brecon on a bus journey through some of our most beautiful landscapes. You’ll find friendly villages, historic sites and countryside walks of every shape and size. Find out more here.