Newport Wetlands

Newport Wetlands - image from www.dragonfly-days.co.uk

Newport Wetlands is a nature reserve run by Newport Council, Natural Resources Wales, and the RSPB. We usually start our walk from the path that runs along the Uskmouth Power Station, near the car park exit. The initial walk isn't particularly scenic, with views of heavy industry on your right, and noisy pylons on your left. But keep going and once you're past the power station, you'll be rewarded with magnificent views of the Severn Estuary. At the lighthouse you can cut back to the car park through the wetlands and past the visitor centre. Some of the footpaths do not allow dogs in order to protect the birds, but these are clearly marked. If you're a nature enthusiast, the 'Seasonal Highlights' section of their website is worth a look before you go. The dusk starling display from October onwards is apparently not to be missed, with 50,000 starlings flying at the season's peak (and now I have Hard-Fi's 'Living for the Weekend' song from that Carling advert stuck in my head).

http://www.rspb.org.uk/discoverandenjoynature/seenature/reserves/guide/n/newportwetlands/

Useful Info

Free parking
Wheelchair and buggy friendly
Cafe
Visitor Centre
Guided walks