Destination Newport

For too long Newport was one of those places on the M4 that you drive by.

Just 30 minutes from Bristol (on a good run) the city is finally coming out of the shadow of Bristol and Cardiff and becoming a destination in its own right.

Central to that development is the Celtic Manor resort, just off the M4 motorway. The five-star hotel overlooks Newport, with far reaching views across the Severn Estuary and draws in guests from far and wide.

It recently brought in talented Bristol chef Cen Larkin to head up its Asian themed restaurant and, with its eyes firmly on culinary stars, it has just opened fine dining restaurant The Epicure Experience, headed up by Michelin starred chef Richard Davies.

Over dinner at the new restaurant I caught up with former ITN broadcaster turned communications guru Rachel Moss, who lives close to the resort. A decade ago she left the bright lights of London and hasn’t looked back since. 

“It’s a beautiful part of the country which can be overlooked by people heading straight to Cardiff or Pembrokeshire,” she says.

For the truly stunning Welsh beaches you have to venture further along the coast line but closer to Newport is Black Rock, where fishermen catch salmon in hand-held nets and at Chepstow there is a lovely walk along the banks of the River Severn. 

Then there are the walks – the Wales Coastal Path begins just down the road in Chepstow and the stunning Pen y Fan in the Brecon Beacons is just a 45 minute drive away.

It wouldn’t be Wales without the castles and the ruins of Abergavenny and Raglan castles are close at hand to explore. Going even further back in history the city of Caerleon has a stunning restoration of a Roman bathing complex and amphitheatre – think Bath without the crowds and the cost.

For more recent industrial history the Big Pit experience at Blaenavon is second to none and the National Trust’s Tredegar House, was the seat of the greatest of Welsh families the Morgans.

Picture credit: Visit Wales

Back in Newport itself there is a brand new shopping complex at Friars Walk and the city’s arts and performance centre the Riverfront Theatre has an eclectic programming mix.

The area is drawing in the tourists and the Celtic Manor recently announced an expansion plan, taking over the Hilton on it’s doorstep, which will be stamped with the resort’s signature understated luxury.

The Epicure Experience by Richard Davies is another piece in the resort’s plan to offer visitors to the region the very finest experience.  

Chef Richard Davies, who has previously worked at Gordon Ramsay in London and The Manor House at Castle Combe, heads the restaurant and our five course tasting menu showcased the very best of his dishes.  

With a five star hotel, fine dining, beautiful countryside and beaches, challenging coastal walks, adventure sport and history just across the bridge, what’s not to love about Newport?