Sirhowy Valley Country Park
Historic railway valley transformed into a scenic four-mile country park for walking, cycling, and nature discovery.
A sprawling 227-hectare country park in South Wales following the course of a historic railway line through the Sirhowy Valley. The park features nearly four miles of flat, well-maintained paths alongside the River Sirhowy, with opportunities for walking, cycling, and nature watching through woodlands and meadows. Free parking and wheelchair-accessible routes make it accessible to families, dog walkers, and outdoor enthusiasts of all abilities.
A brief summary to Sirhowy Valley Country Park.
- Newport, GB
- +441495270991
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-10:30 pm
- Tuesday 12 am-10:30 pm
- Wednesday 12 am-10:30 pm
- Thursday 12 am-10:30 pm
- Friday 12 am-10:30 pm
- Saturday 12 am-10:30 pm
- Sunday 12 am-10:30 pm
Local tips
- Download the collector trail booklet before visiting to locate the ten wooden posts along the route that provide wildlife information and add an educational dimension to your walk.
- Visit during or after rainfall to experience the park's numerous small waterfalls at their most spectacular, cascading down the hillsides into the river.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching; redstarts, warblers, and flycatchers can be spotted throughout the year, with different species active in different seasons.
- Pack a picnic and plan to spend several hours exploring both the main riverside path and the woodland trails that venture up the valley sides for varied terrain.
- Arrive early to secure parking during weekends and school holidays, as the park is popular with families and dog walkers, particularly on fine weather days.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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By Car from Cardiff
From Cardiff city centre, take the M4 motorway northbound and exit at Junction 28 towards Crosskeys. Follow local signs to the park entrance near the Full Moon roundabout at Crosskeys. The journey takes approximately 25–30 minutes. Parking is available at the main car park with a small fee (approximately £1 per visit). The postcode for sat-nav is NP11 7PX.
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By Car from Caerphilly
From Caerphilly town centre, head south towards Crosskeys on the A469. The park entrance is located between Crosskeys and Gelligroes along the western side of the Sirhowy Valley. Journey time is approximately 15–20 minutes. Free parking is available at the main car park with a small fee of around £1.
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By Public Transport from Newport
From Newport town centre, take a local bus service towards Crosskeys or Caerphilly. Services run regularly throughout the day with frequencies varying by route. Journey time is approximately 20–35 minutes depending on the specific route. Check local transport timetables for current schedules. The park is within walking distance of the Crosskeys area.
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By Bicycle from Crosskeys
The park is part of the Valleys Cycle Network and is accessible via cycle routes from Crosskeys. From Crosskeys town centre, follow cycle network signage towards the park entrance at the Full Moon roundabout. The journey takes approximately 10–15 minutes by bicycle. The park's flat terrain and traffic-free paths make it ideal for onward cycling exploration.
Sirhowy Valley Country Park. location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Sirhowy Valley Country Park.
A Valley Shaped by Industrial Heritage
Sirhowy Valley Country Park traces the path of a remarkable piece of Welsh industrial history. The park follows the route of a former railway line that once connected Tredegar in the north to Newport docks in the south, serving the region's thriving coal and iron industries. Today, this historic corridor has been transformed into a recreational haven, preserving the valley's character while opening it to modern visitors. The flat, well-surfaced pathways that follow the old railway bed create an accessible spine through the park, offering nearly four miles of gentle terrain suitable for walkers of varying abilities.River, Woodland, and Meadow Ecosystems
The park encompasses diverse habitats that support rich wildlife throughout the year. The River Sirhowy flows through the valley floor, its waters creating a dynamic soundtrack to any visit, with small waterfalls cascading down the hillsides during periods of rainfall. Woodlands managed by Natural Resources Wales rise from the riverbanks and extend up the valley sides, creating opportunities for more adventurous exploration beyond the main path. Two designated nature reserves—Graig Goch and Flatwoods Meadows—protect important habitats within the park boundaries. Birdwatchers can spot redstarts, warblers, and flycatchers throughout the seasons, while the meadows and riverside areas support diverse plant communities and small mammals.Historic Landmarks and Cultural Significance
Scattered throughout the park are remnants of the valley's past that reward curious explorers. The spectacular Penllwyn Tramroad Bridge stands as a testament to Victorian engineering, its original stone sleepers still visible after more than a century. Babell Chapel, nestled within the park, marks the final resting place of the poet Islwyn, connecting the landscape to Welsh literary heritage. Ynys Hywel, a traditional working hill farm, operates within the park and welcomes school and youth groups, maintaining agricultural traditions in this valley setting.Recreation for All Seasons
The park's infrastructure supports multiple recreational pursuits. The main tarmac path accommodates wheelchairs, buggies, and cyclists with ease, while benches positioned along the route provide rest stops. The flat terrain and traffic-free environment make it particularly popular with families, dog walkers, and cyclists of all ages. Mountain bikers utilize the park as part of the Valleys Cycle Network, while more serious walkers can venture into the woodland trails and hillside routes that offer greater physical challenge. A collector trail booklet with ten wooden posts along the route provides educational information about local wildlife, adding an interpretive dimension to visits.Seasonal Transformation and Weather Patterns
The valley's appearance shifts dramatically with the seasons. Spring brings new growth and bird activity, summer offers lush green canopies and full river flows, autumn transforms the woodlands with changing colours, and winter reveals the skeletal structure of the landscape. The Welsh climate ensures regular rainfall, which feeds the waterfalls and maintains the river's character, though the park remains accessible year-round thanks to its well-maintained surfaces and open design.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Twmbarlwm
3.3 km
Explore Twmbarlwm’s ancient hillfort with breathtaking views, rich history, and legendary tales atop South Wales’ iconic ridge.
Stable Block, Tredegar House
9.5 km
Explore the elegant 17th-century Stable Block at Tredegar House, a testament to the Morgan family's equestrian heritage and architectural grandeur.
Newport Cathedral
10.2 km
Historic Norman cathedral atop Stow Hill, blending ancient architecture with vibrant worship and cultural events in Newport, South Wales.
Mercure Newport
10.3 km
Modern 4-star comfort with stunning city views and a prime central location in Newport’s vibrant heart.
City Bridge
12.0 km
A modern steel arch bridge in Newport, blending elegant design with vital transport links across the River Usk.
Scott Memorial Lighthouse
12.4 km
Historic lighthouse memorial in Roath Park honoring Captain Scott’s Antarctic expedition, set beside Cardiff’s scenic Victorian lake.
Roath Brook Gardens
13.4 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Roath Brook Gardens in Cardiff, a perfect escape for nature lovers and families seeking relaxation and scenic views.
Roath Local History Society
13.4 km
Explore Roath's captivating history and immerse yourself in its rich cultural heritage at the Roath Local History Society in Cardiff.
Roath Mill Gardens
13.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of Roath Mill Gardens in Cardiff, a perfect urban retreat for relaxation and nature lovers.
Man of Gwent
13.5 km
Explore the Man of Gwent, a unique bus stop in Newport, where local culture meets everyday life in a vibrant urban setting.
Queen Anne Square
14.4 km
Explore Queen Anne Square in Cardiff: A serene gem filled with history, beautiful architecture, and perfect spots for relaxation and photography.
East Usk Lighthouse
14.4 km
Historic 1893 skeletal lighthouse guiding ships at Newport’s River Usk entrance, nestled in a tranquil RSPB reserve with scenic estuary views.
Llandaff Cathedral
14.5 km
Discover the beauty and history of Llandaff Cathedral, a stunning architectural gem nestled in Cardiff, offering a serene atmosphere and captivating artistry.
The Cardiff Buddhist Centre
14.5 km
Experience tranquility and spiritual growth at The Cardiff Buddhist Centre, a serene Buddhist temple in the heart of Cardiff.
Parc Mackenzie
14.6 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Parc Mackenzie, a lush park in Cardiff perfect for relaxation, strolls, and enjoying nature's charm.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cwmcarn Forest
2.7 km
A revitalized South Wales forest offering thrilling mountain biking, scenic walks, and modern visitor facilities for all ages.
Castle Court Shopping Centre
7.0 km
A vibrant shopping and community hub set beside historic Caerphilly Castle, offering diverse retail, dining, and cultural experiences in the heart of Wales.
Fourteen Locks Canal Centre
7.1 km
Industrial heritage meets natural beauty at Wales' most spectacular canal flight.
Cefn Mably Farm Park
7.2 km
A charming all-weather farm park near Cardiff with animals, soft play, pony rides, and a farm shop for family fun and fresh local produce.
Tommy Cooper Statue
7.2 km
Celebrate the iconic Tommy Cooper with this striking bronze statue in Caerphilly, capturing the magic and laughter of Wales’ beloved comedian.
Castell Caerffili / Caerphilly Castle
7.2 km
Explore Wales’ largest castle with its iconic leaning tower, vast moat, and immersive medieval history on a sprawling 30-acre fortress site.
Greenmeadow Community Farm
7.8 km
Discover a vibrant working farm with rare animals, adventure play zones, and a welcoming community spirit on the edge of Cwmbran.
Parc Cefn Onn
8.5 km
Discover Cardiff’s serene Grade 2 listed park with historic gardens, woodland trails, and vibrant seasonal colors.
Sensory Dome
8.7 km
Discover Cardiff’s Sensory Dome, an immersive attraction where all five senses come alive through interactive themed rooms and creative experiences.
Tredegar Fort
8.7 km
Explore the commanding Iron Age Tredegar Fort hilltop with panoramic views over Newport and the Severn Estuary.
Cwmbran Boating Lake Playground
9.3 km
A scenic, inclusive playground and boating lake in Cwmbran offering family fun, nature walks, and accessible amenities for all ages.
The Dragonfly
9.3 km
A charming lakeside country pub in Newport offering hearty British comfort food and a warm, rustic atmosphere.
Tredegar Park
9.4 km
Explore a grand 17th-century mansion set within 90 acres of stunning gardens and parkland in Newport’s historic Tredegar Park.
National Trust - Tredegar House
9.6 km
Explore Tredegar House, a majestic 17th-century Welsh mansion set within 90 acres of stunning gardens and parkland, rich in history and family charm.
Mountain View Ranch
9.9 km
Explore 10 acres of magical woodland, themed play zones, and scenic mountain views at Mountain View Ranch in Caerphilly.
Essential places to dine
The Tredegar Arms
6.2 km
A traditional, community-focused pub in Rogerstone serving hearty British classics in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Tin Can Kitchen - Newport
6.6 km
A colourful shipping container in Rogerstone serving big, tasty burgers, hot dogs, and loaded fries in a relaxed outdoor setting.
The Garden Kitchen by Pugh's
6.7 km
A vibrant café in Rogerstone serving fresh, locally sourced breakfasts and lunches in a bright, welcoming garden-inspired setting.
Mamma Lina's Italian Restaurant
6.9 km
Authentic Italian flavors and wood-fired pizzas in a warm, family-friendly setting in Rogerstone, Newport.
Cafe 8 & Burger Boys Gwent
7.6 km
Savor expertly crafted burgers in a welcoming, casual setting at Cafe 8 & Burger Boys Gwent, Newport’s local favorite for quality and flavor.
Junction 28
7.6 km
Discover Junction 28, where modern European cuisine meets Newport’s rich railway heritage in a tranquil and inviting setting.
Harvester Borderer Newport
8.9 km
A lively, family-friendly British bar and grill offering fresh, hearty meals and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Newport.
The Usk Vale Restaurant
9.7 km
A welcoming country-style pub in Newport offering hearty traditional meals and great-value drinks in a cozy, friendly setting.
Gem 42
9.8 km
Experience inventive modern European cuisine with generous tasting menus and warm service in the heart of Newport.
The Stone House
9.9 km
A welcoming grill and pub in St Brides, Newport, offering British classics, family-friendly dining, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Vittorio’s
10.1 km
Experience authentic Southern Italian cuisine in a warm, family-run setting at Newport’s beloved Vittorio’s.
NP20 Bar and Kitchen
10.3 km
Stylish all-day dining and cocktails in the heart of Newport at Mercure’s NP20 Bar and Kitchen.
Salt & Pepper Tavern
10.3 km
Experience authentic Romanian cuisine in a warm, inviting tavern at Newport’s bustling Commercial Street.
Pierre's - Newport
10.5 km
French-inspired all-day dining in Newport's vibrant shopping heart
Drago Lounge
10.5 km
Lively riverside restaurant and bar in Newport’s Friars Walk Mall, blending eclectic local charm with inclusive dining options.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Newbridge Trading Co "Jimmys"
5.5 km
Experience local charm at Newbridge Trading Co 'Jimmys', where every item tells a story and community spirit thrives.
What! Stores
6.6 km
Budget-friendly discount retailer with extensive home, garden, and hardware selections in Newport
Cwmbran Centre
8.9 km
Cwmbran Centre: Your vibrant shopping and community hub in South Wales with diverse stores and festive events year-round.
Crafty One
9.1 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan crafts in a welcoming boutique setting at Crafty One, Newport's charming gift shop on Keats Close.
The Arcade Collective
10.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local artisan treasures in the charming historic arcade of Newport’s vibrant city centre.
Do You Believe? Bridal & Prom Boutique
10.1 km
Newport’s premier bridal and prom boutique offering personalized service and a stunning collection of gowns for every princess.
Newport Market
10.1 km
Discover Newport Market, a vibrant indoor hub blending diverse food, independent shops, and lively cultural events in the heart of Newport.
The Wardrobe
10.3 km
Discover curated menswear and timeless style at The Wardrobe, Newport’s boutique for quality clothing and personalized service.
Primark
10.4 km
Discover stylish, affordable fashion and homeware at Primark Newport, your go-to shopping destination in the heart of Newport’s Kingsway Centre.
New Look
10.4 km
Trendy and affordable fashion for women and teens at New Look, nestled in Newport’s lively Friars Walk Shopping Centre.
New Pastures Home
10.4 km
Discover handcrafted candles, crystals, and metaphysical treasures in Newport’s cozy and creative gift shop, New Pastures Home.
The Outlet
10.5 km
Affordable fashion in the heart of Newport’s Kingsway Shopping Centre with friendly service and great value.
28 East Retail Park
10.7 km
A modern and spacious retail park in Newport offering a wide range of shops, family-friendly facilities, and excellent accessibility.
Mendalgief Retail Park
10.9 km
A dynamic retail park in Newport offering diverse shops, great bargains, and family-friendly shopping in a convenient, accessible setting.
Nest Cardiff
11.6 km
Discover unique gifts and charming children’s clothes in a welcoming boutique nestled in Cardiff’s leafy Rhiwbina suburb.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bumble Bee
6.3 km
A welcoming modern pub in Gwent with classic pub fare, outdoor seating, and a secret beer garden for families and friends.
Rising Sun
6.9 km
A beloved local pub in Rogerstone offering traditional ales, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere with a popular beer garden.
Blink in Owl
7.0 km
Cosy family-friendly pub in Cwmbran serving hearty roasts, real ales, and lively sports atmosphere with warm community spirit.
The Ridgeway
8.9 km
A stylish pub in Newport blending retro charm with modern comfort, renowned for quality drinks and welcoming service.
The Lyceum Tavern
9.5 km
A cozy and quirky traditional pub on Malpas Road, offering friendly vibes, classic drinks, and a welcoming local atmosphere in Newport.
The Crow's Nest
9.6 km
A classic Cwmbran pub blending traditional charm with modern comfort, great food, and lively entertainment.
The Cellar Door
9.8 km
A cozy micro pub in Newport offering real ales, ciders, and a warm community atmosphere in a relaxed, dog-friendly setting.
Mojos
10.0 km
Lively cocktail bar in Newport known for daily karaoke nights and late-night entertainment in a casual, social setting.
Slipping Jimmy's Bar&Grill
10.1 km
A lively grill and bar in Newport offering slow-smoked ribs, house-special burgers, and vibrant live music in a central city location.
Hogarths
10.1 km
Experience a grand Victorian gin palace in Newport with over 120 gins, local ales, lively sports, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
McCann's Rock N Ale Bar
10.1 km
Experience Newport’s vibrant rock and ale scene at McCann's Rock N Ale Bar, where great music meets quality drinks in a lively setting.
Madame JoJo's
10.1 km
Experience Newport’s vibrant nightlife with live music, cabaret shows, and creative cocktails at Madame JoJo's iconic High Street venue.
Pen & Wig
10.1 km
A beloved Newport pub known for quality ales, a lively beer garden, and the city’s best Sunday carvery in a warm, welcoming setting.
Windsor Castle
10.2 km
A lively and welcoming British pub in Newport’s city center, offering classic fare, full bar service, and a friendly atmosphere for all.
The Potters
10.3 km
A vibrant freehouse in Newport’s city centre, blending vintage charm, hearty home-cooked meals, and the city’s largest live music venue.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Hush Newport
10.0 km
Experience the vibrant Saturday nightlife at Hush Newport, Baneswell’s hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night fun in the heart of Newport.
Vibez
10.0 km
Experience Newport’s vibrant nightlife at Vibez Superclub, where pounding bass and late-night energy create unforgettable weekend parties.
Stow Hill Rooms
10.1 km
A stylish Art Deco nightclub and function venue in the heart of Newport, blending vibrant nightlife with versatile event spaces.
Eclipse Nightclub
13.6 km
Experience Pontypridd’s vibrant midweek nightlife at Eclipse Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community come alive every Wednesday night.
The Globe
13.6 km
A compact Grade II-listed former cinema turned lively live-music venue and nightclub, famed for intimate gigs and energetic club nights on Albany Road.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
15.0 km
Cardiff's largest nightclub ignites Greyfriars Road with 1,500-capacity energy, state-of-the-art production across themed rooms, and epic nights from club beats to private spectacles.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
15.0 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
The CUBE
15.0 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Pulse
15.0 km
A city-centre LGBTQ+-friendly bar that becomes a neon-lit nightclub after dark, blending casual daytime dining with late-night DJs and themed club nights.
For Your Eyes Only
15.3 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Clwb Ifor Bach
15.3 km
Cardiff's gritty Welsh club heart: live music legends, late-night dances, and cultural rebellion on historic Womanby Street since 1983.
Fuel Rock Club
15.3 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Metros
15.4 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
Popworld - Cardiff
15.5 km
Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
Mary's Cardiff
15.5 km
Dive into Cardiff's premier gay cabaret nightclub, where live drag shows, premium gins, and cocktails fuel unforgettable nights of glamour and dance.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Nature Escape
- Adventurous
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
- Scenic Backdrops
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Car-Free Access
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Dog Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
