Newport

Newport has long been the one of the most desired staycation spots in Wales. Nestled comfortably under Carningli mountain, with a view out to Newport Bay and the Nevern, Newport is an ever popular destination for holiday makers. 

What to do:

On Traeth Mawr (The Big Beach) you can swim, play and relax in soft sands and shallow waves backed by hilly sand dunes. Take a sailing boat or kayak out onto the bay to experience the best views of the surrounding coastline and mountain ranges from the water. At high tide, the Nevern Estuary fills the Parrog and this is a perfect opportunity for a paddle board or for little ones to try crabbing off the rocks. When high tide coincides with a clear sunset, the Parrog is the perfect place for an evening dip.

Mynydd Carningli ('Angel Mountain') which looms from the Preseli mountain range behind Newport, offers 360 degree views of the surrounding area from its summit. Here you can also explore the remnants of an Iron Age defensive settlement - in fact there are ruins of many stone circles and cairns for your to discover on your walk up and across this mountain range. Carningli itself is steeped in history and folklore, believed to be a sacred site since the 5th century, when according to legend, the local Saint, Saint Brynach, used to climb the mountain in order to commune with angels. Believe what you will - experiencing this view on a clear day is certainly a special experience. 

Newport's town centre sits below Carningli and is defined by one narrow street - 'Market Street' - the bustling heart of this community. On Monday mornings, a local market is held here, where venders sell their local produce and crafted goods. If the weather permits, grab a seat outside one of the two lovely coffee shops, 'Blas' or Tides, and enjoy watching the hustle and bustle of the morning.

In terms of shopping, there are multiple stores available selling locally sourced homewares, arts and gifts. Wander down Market Street, along Main Street and down Long Street to find gems such as Ffynnon (meaning 'well' in Welsh) - a beautiful homestore which sells tasteful homewares from Newport as well as further afield. 'Codi' (meaning 'lift') is another tasteful homestore which sells arts, crafts and jewellery from local artists. If you're looking for something a little more unusual, delve into the Carningli Centre, a unique and charming antique shop, as well as a Newport institution.

Where to eat:

As far as eating out goes, you're spoilt for choice in Newport. A short stumble away from Dandre is the iconic Golden Lion pub. Here you will find a cosy, traditional, Welsh pub with a beautifully constructed outdoor dining shed and a bright and charming restaurant. Here you are always certain to have a fantastic meal and a warm welcome. We highly recommend! 'Llys Meddyg' next door to the Golden Lion has also converted numerous wooden sheds into a 'Secret Garden' outdoor dining space - perfect for a special occasion. Huts will need to be booked for dining, however it is possible to enjoy a drink at their Garden Bar or even better - their gorgeous Cellar Bar. Particularly charming in the colder winter months, here you can cosy up to a roaring fire enjoying a cocktail off their selected menu. 

In fact, there are no shortage of places to pull up a chair and enjoy a local ale on tap. A particular favourite of ours is the Llwyngwair Arms - they don't do food here, but what this place lacks in menu it more than makes up for in its traditional, Welsh charm. This is an old school, drinking pub - but they wouldn't mind if you fancied grabbing a pizza from the Canteen next door and enjoying it with your drinks in front of any of the live sports they have on screen.