Bridge Steet Chepstow

Bridge Street, Chepstow © TAB

Chepstow is the first main town on the road into South Wales. Strategically located on the western bank of the River Wye, it became a rich and busy port in the 13th-c. The town is best know for its magnificent 11th-c Norman castle. Although the town's fortunes have waxed and waned over the years, it has developed into a pleasant riverside town, retaining much of its original heritage and architectural character. The town was walled during the medieval period and the West Gate and the old Port Wall still survive. The main High Street, which runs down hill from West Gate towards the river and castle, is lined with many handsome Georgian and Victorian buildings. The top end of the High Street affords a pleasant shopping area, with a good range of shops, tea rooms, pubs and restaurants.

Chepstow Bridge

Chepstow Bridge © TAB

The river is crossed at the bottom of the hill by an elegant cast iron bridge, built in 1816. This section of the river has one of the greatest tidal differences in the world, rising and falling by an amazing 40 ft (12 metres). The are many excellent walks along the river here and the best view of Chepstow Castle can be observed from the centre of the old bridge.


Tourist Information Centre:

 Bridge Street (near to the castle entrance) - Tel: 01291 623772

What to see and do in Chepstow

Bulwark Camp

A double bank and ditch enclosure, dating from the iron age period.

Location: Alpha Road, Chepstow

Chepstow Castle

chepstow Castle

One of the earliest stone castles built in Britain (circa 1067). The impressive curtain walls and towers of this Norman fortress are sited in a highly strategic location on the banks of the River Wye.

Opening times: Apr~Oct, daily 9am to 5pm; Nov~Mar, Mon-Sat 9.30am to 4pm, Sun 11am to 4pm - Admission Charge
Location: Bridge St, Chepstow, Gwent, NP16 5EY
Tel: 01291 624065
Website

Chepstow MuseumChepstow Museum

Located in a fine Georgian Town house, just across from the castle entrance. Its many exhibits describe the history and culture of the town, with displays covering local maritime history and shipbuilding. Workshops, activities and regular special exhibitions.

Opening times: all year, daily from 11am (2pm Sun) - Free Entry
Location: Gwy House, Bridge St, Chepstow, Gwent, NP16 5EZ
Tel: 01291 625981
Website

Port Wall

Built during the medieval period to protect the landward side of Chepstow.

Walks and Trails in Chepstow

Chepstow is the starting point for three national trails: Gloucester Way, Offa's Dyke and the Wye Valley Walk. The first section of the Wye Valley Walk runs up the valley to Tintern Abbey. From here you can cross the river and return along the the Offa's Dyke pathway; making a pleasant circular route of around 12 miles (19 km).

Map of Chepstow

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