Canal Boating Article: Monmouthshire And Brecon
Visit Monmouthshire And Brecon from the following marina(s)
Length: 35 miles, Locks: 6, Tunnels: 1
Linked to: not linked to any other waterways.
History
The canal was built between 1797 and 1812 to link Brecon with Newport. The main cargo was stone and processed lime and a major tramroad existed between the canal and the limestone quarries at Trefil and Llangattock.
Things of Interest on Route
Brecon Beacons - The canal runs for almost all its course through the stunning Brecon Beacons National Park. This is an area of outstanding natural beauty covering over 500 square miles.
Goyte Wharf Heritage Centre - Discover the industrial heritage and history learn about the people who have lived on the Wharf since 1811. Also located at the centre is a gift shop, the canal and National Park Information Centre, a gallery and coffee shop.
Llangynidr Locks - The canal has over 22 miles of lock free cruising but the Llangynidt flight have five locks in a row. Set in a beautiful spot in the heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park. There is a lovely pub here to stop and take a break and watch the narrow boats pass by.
Aqueduct over the River Usk - The impressive four-arch aqueduct carries the canal over the River Usk in the beautiful Usk Valley.
Cefn Flight and Fourteen Locks Visitor Centre - This flight of 14 locks is currently derelict but there are plans to restore them and the unnavigable Crumlin Arm of the canal. There is a Canal Heritage Centre adjacent to the top lock where you can enjoy a cuppa in The Dadford Tea Room, named after Thomas Dadford who was the engineer involved with the construction of the locks.
Brecknock Museum - Learn about Welsh history and view the exhibits on rural industry and crafts. The museum has many examples of Welsh furniture and a large collection of Welsh love spoons.
Blaenavon and the Big Pit Mining Museum – For an exciting day out take a tour of The Big Pit Mining Museum. Become a virtual miner, learn about what life would have been like for the men and boys who worked the coalface. Go 300 feet underground and take a guided tour of the coal face, engine house and stables.
PLACES TO VISIT
