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Fourteen Locks Canal Centre

Industrial heritage meets natural beauty at Wales' most spectacular canal flight.

4.4

A historic canal visitor centre situated on the spectacular Fourteen Locks flight of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal near Newport, Wales. This family-friendly attraction features a museum, gift shop, and tea room serving locally sourced food. Visitors can explore the engineering marvel of the industrial revolution, enjoy scenic towpath walks suitable for all ages, and learn about 200 years of canal heritage. The site includes accessible facilities, dog-friendly amenities, and serves as a hub for cycling route 47 and the Sirhowy Valley walk.

A brief summary to Fourteen Locks Canal Centre

  • Cwm Ln, Newport, Rogerstone, NP10 9GN, GB
  • +441633892167
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
  • Budget
  • Environment icon Mixed
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 9:30 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-4 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on weekday mornings for a peaceful experience with fewer crowds. The locks and towpath walks are particularly serene during these quieter periods.
  • Bring a camera for the scenic views and photogenic lock structures. The industrial heritage architecture and surrounding landscape provide excellent photography opportunities.
  • Check the events calendar before visiting. The centre hosts regular guided walks on the last Saturday of each month starting at 9:30 AM, led by Newport City Council and Fourteen Locks staff.
  • If cycling, note that the canal towpath forms part of National Cycle Route 47, making it an excellent stop for rest and refreshments during longer rides.
  • Bring your dog—the centre is fully dog-friendly with dedicated amenities including water and dog biscuits available.
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Getting There

  • By Car from Newport City Centre

    Exit the M4 motorway at Junction 27 and take the B4591 High Cross Road, signposted towards Fourteen Locks. After approximately 0.5 miles, turn right onto Cefn Walk, also signposted for Fourteen Locks. Cross the canal bridge and the centre car park entrance is on your right. Travel time from Newport city centre is approximately 15–20 minutes depending on traffic. Pay-and-display parking is available at the centre for approximately £1.50 for 4 hours, with NFC payment accepted.

  • By Public Transport from Newport Station

    From Newport Station, walk to the nearby bus station and catch bus number 30 or 31 heading towards Rogerstone. The journey takes approximately 20 minutes. Alight at the Cwm Lane stop and walk to the Fourteen Locks Canal Centre, which is a short walk from the bus stop. Single bus fares are typically around £2.50. Alternatively, Pye Corner railway station is approximately 1 mile away if you prefer to walk from there.

  • By Bicycle via National Cycle Route 47

    The canal towpath forms part of National Cycle Route 47, making Fourteen Locks an accessible stop for cyclists exploring the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal. The towpaths are well-maintained and suitable for various cycling abilities. The centre provides a convenient rest point with refreshments and facilities before continuing your journey.

  • On Foot from Rogerstone Area

    If you are already in the Rogerstone area, head towards Cwm Lane and follow the signposted directions to the Fourteen Locks Canal Centre. The walk from Rogerstone takes approximately 15–20 minutes and follows pleasant local roads with directional signage.

Fourteen Locks Canal Centre location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
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  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Fourteen Locks Canal Centre

Engineering Marvel of the Industrial Revolution

Fourteen Locks represents one of South Wales' most spectacular engineering achievements. This dramatic flight of canal locks was constructed as part of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, a waterway that transformed the industrial landscape of the region during the 19th century. The locks were engineered to navigate the challenging topography of the Crumlin Arm, allowing boats to traverse significant elevation changes. Today, the site stands as a scheduled ancient monument, preserving the ingenuity and craftsmanship of Victorian canal engineers. The restoration of two pairs of locks, supported by Heritage Lottery Funding, has ensured that this remarkable structure remains accessible and interpretable for contemporary visitors.

The Visitor Experience and Heritage Interpretation

The Canal Centre serves as the gateway to understanding this waterway's historical significance. Inside, a carefully curated exhibition showcases artifacts and detailed information about the canal's construction, operation, and impact on local communities. The welcoming volunteer-staffed desk provides visitors with local knowledge, historical context, and guidance on circular walks and heritage trails. The centre functions as a vibrant community hub, hosting regular events including activity trails, forest school sessions, history talks, and guided walks. Educational sessions can be arranged through Newport City Council, making it an ideal destination for school groups and lifelong learners seeking to understand industrial heritage.

Refreshments and Local Craftsmanship

The Dadford Tea Room offers a delightful culinary experience, with all produce sourced locally and prepared fresh to order. The menu accommodates diverse dietary requirements, including gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options. Speciality coffees and fair-trade teas complement the homemade food offerings. The recently refurbished gift shop celebrates local artisans, displaying unique handmade crafts created by talented makers from the region. Display boards are available for hire on a monthly basis, providing opportunities for artists to showcase and sell their work. This commitment to local sourcing and artisan support strengthens the centre's role as a cultural and economic asset to the community.

Landscape and Natural Heritage

Surrounded by striking landscape, Fourteen Locks occupies an idyllic setting where natural and industrial heritage coexist harmoniously. The area provides a haven for diverse plant and wildlife species, with the canal towpath forming part of the broader ecological network. The site connects seamlessly to the Sirhowy Valley walk and National Cycle Route 47, enabling visitors to explore wider countryside on foot or bicycle. The towpaths are well-maintained and accessible to visitors of varying abilities, from casual walkers to serious cyclists. Nearby natural attractions include the Allt yr yn nature reserve and connections to broader conservation areas managed through partnerships between the Trust and Newport City Council.

Accessibility and Practical Facilities

The centre is designed to welcome all visitors, with disabled access, disabled toilets, and baby-changing facilities available. Dogs are not only permitted but actively welcomed, with dog towels, dog biscuits, and water provided. The site accommodates groups and coach parties, with dedicated education and study areas. A pay-and-display car park operates on-site, with facilities for conferencing and corporate hospitality also available. Public toilets are accessible to all visitors. The location is situated approximately one mile from Pye Corner railway station, making it reasonably accessible by public transport from Newport and surrounding areas.

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