The storied history of Newport

The Newport transporter bridge is a grade 1 listed structure that crosses the river Usk near the Pillgwenlly area of Newport. Built in 1906, it is one of only a few dozen ever created and the largest in the United Kingdom still in operation.

The transporter style of bridge was used because the site has very low banks at that point in the river so a conventional bridge would require very long approach ramps to gain enough height to allow ships to pass underneath. A ferry was also out of the unsuitable as it could not be used during low tide.

Tredegar House is one of the architectural wonders of Wales and one of the most significant late 17th-century houses in the whole of the British Isles. Situated within 90 acres of beautiful gardens and parkland, this delightful red brick house provides an ideal setting for a fantastic day out.

For more than 500 years the house was home to one of the greatest Welsh families, the Morgans, later Lords Tredegar. The Morgan family owned more than 40,000 acres in Monmouthshire, Breconshire and Glamorgan at the end of the 18th century. Their lives impacted on the population of south-east Wales socially, economically and politically and influenced the heritage of the area. Newport Castle was built in the 14th century. In 1402 it was sacked by Owain Glyndŵr. It was in disrepair by 1522, and was taken by Oliver Cromwell's forces during the Civil War. Its use declined further in later centuries. It has been a Grade two listed building since 1951. Originally it would have dominated the town with its three towers but now it is nestled between two bridges, a testament to Newport’s storied past.

Newport Castle was built in the 14th century. In 1402 it was sacked by Owain Glyndŵr. It was in disrepair by 1522, and was taken by Oliver Cromwell's forces during the Civil War. Its use declined further in later centuries. It has been a Grade two listed building since 1951. Originally it would have dominated the town with its three towers but now it is nestled between two bridges, a testament to Newport’s storied past.