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Caerleon is a small, attractive town on the outskirts of Newport, sitting alongside the River Usk. Its quiet appearance belies the key part that this town has played in Britain's past: the strategic location at the crossing of the River Usk meant that the Romans set up one the 3 Legionary Headquarters across England and Wales (the others being Chester and York), with the aim of suppressing the local Celts, the Silures. The town has many Roman sites to visit. Here is a stunning reconstruction video of Roman Caerleon.
The history of this town also includes connections with King Arthur, the Glyndŵr Rising and the Chartists - so there's lots to explore.
| Town Attractions |
Caerleon Roman Fortress and Baths The Roman sites are all within a few minutes walk - here is a useful map of the town. There are a variety of independent shops around this compact town. |
| Nearby Attractions (within approximately 5 miles) |
Newport Transporter Bridge - the Transporter Bridge is currently undergoing a major development project which will create a new visitor centre and viewing platform as well as repairing the bridge itself. It is due to reopen in early 2024. |
| Events | Art and Roman events take place around Caerleon throughout the year - check out the Caerleon Arts website and follow National Museum Wales for up to date information. |
| Hotels |
The Priory Hotel is in the centre of the village, in buildings that were originally a 12th century Cistercian Monastery. Nearby is The Celtic Manor Resort with a range of accommodations options, including 5* hotel and individual lodges across the championship golf courses. Newport has a wide variety of hotels, including Mercure Hotel Newport, The Holiday Inn Newport and Coldra Court Hotel. The area also has a wide range of guest houses and self catering options - check the Newport website for more info. |
| Cafes and Restaurants |
The Priory Hotel is a great food and drink stop for groups. Around the village there are numerous cafe's and small restaurants for smaller groups to visit. |
| Walks |
Lodge Hill overlooks Caerleon - there is a beautiful 3 mile walk starting from the church on the hill. There is a dedicated walk/cycle path linking Newport and Caerleon, running alongside the River Usk. The Usk Valley Walk (running from Brecon to Newport) also runs through Caerleon. |
| Length of Stay | Caerleon is a great 2 hour stop. For avid historians, a whole day can be spent exploring the Roman sites. |
| Coach Parking | Coach Drop Off and Parking: Alongside the Ampitheatre - Broadway, Caerleon NP18 1AY |
| Toilets | Public toilets are available at the Pavilion alongside the coach parking on Broadway, next to the Amphitheatre. |
| Tourist Information and contact for more information | Tourist Information is available at the Roman Fortress Baths, the Roman Legionary Museum and the Post Office. For more detailed assistance contact the Newport Tourism Team on tourism@newport.gov.uk. |
| Other Information |
