Best walks from Newport

The beautiful Mon & Brec canal towpath. For most of the way an easy, flat walk along the green and atmospheric Monmouthshire & Brecon canal towpath, surprisingly rural and full of wildlife. The towpath is paved but a little knobbly in the middle section and can be slippery with leaf-fall on slopes. Urban sections with underpasses, overpasses, ramps and steps bookend the canal at both Cwmbran and Newport and with a series of locks on one uphill stretch. Much of the Newport end is signposted as cycle route 47. There is plenty of waterfowl along the canal.

Warnings: Several busy roads must be crossed to get out of central Cwmbran; most have controlled crossings but not all, including a fast roundabout on unmarked crossings.

Walk details: Slow Ways.

The scenery is excellent along the canal. A gentle, very direct walk that is mostly along the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal towpath and with a steep uphill climb from the station at the start and steepish descents into Newport. There is paved road walking at either end and easy-to-follow paths across open fields. The Fourteen Locks Canal Centre at Rogerstone is of historic transport interest, with displays on the canal and the local industrial revolution.

1 lunch spot: Fourteen Locks Canal Centre cafe

Warnings: Steep uphill from the station at the start and steep descents at the Newport end; the path goes through a dark tunnel under the M4 (brief).

Walk details: Slow Ways.

Awesome views across the Severn estuary and Gwent Levels. A long, mostly off-road coastal walk along the Wales Coast Path, with sweeping views across the Severn Estuary and Gwent Levels and plus a few stretches along busy roads going in and out of the two cities. Very exposed to the elements throughout. Mostly follows the Wales Coast Path. Wildlife includes kestrels, curlews and grass snakes; 7,000-year-old footprints have been found on the estuary shore. The Lighthouse Inn at St Brides Wentlooge is currently closed.

Lunch: There are no places to get food or water on the route, so bring everything you need.

Warnings: The route is very exposed, so wind, rain or heat will be strongly felt. There are no refreshment or water stops the whole way, so carry everything you need. A few stretches along busy roads at the city ends.

Walk details: Slow Ways.

Recommended

Walk details: Railwalks.