This riverside path and canal towpath alongside the Monmouthshire and Brecon canal connects Newport, Wales' newest city and the canal basin at Pontymoel.
From Newport, you follow a path alongside the River Usk, before joining National Route 49 north along the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal towpath all the way to Pontymoile Canal Basin in Pontypool.
Passing through a fairly built-up area, the canal provides a green corridor with an excellent wide, gravel towpath and views of hills rising to over 1000 ft at its western end.
Originally built to connect with a large network of tramways transporting limestone, coal and iron ore, the canal was eventually abandoned in 1962 with sections filled in. Restoration of the section north of Pontypool has made it possible to navigate north from here to Brecon.
Possible Extension: From Pontypool, you could continue North to the Garn Lakes at Blaenavon along Route 492, the traffic-free Pontypool / Blaenavon Cycle Route which follows the line of an old mineral railway.
There are plenty of things to see and do along the route, including Newport Museum and Art Gallery, Fourteen Locks Canal Centre and Pontypool Park.
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Please note
We have taken all responsible steps to ensure that these routes are safe and achievable by people with a reasonable level of fitness.
However, all outdoor activities involve a degree of risk. To the extent permitted by law, Sustrans accepts no responsibility for any accidents or injury resulting from following these routes.
Walking and cycling routes change over time. Weather conditions may also affect path surfaces.
Please use your own judgement when using the routes based upon the weather and the ability, experience and confidence levels of those in your group.