Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal

The Brecon and Monmouth canal runs for 32 miles (51.5 km) through idyllic scenery in the Brecon Becons National Park between Brecon and Pontypool and then on into Newport. Built between 1797 and 1812 the canal linked Brecon with Newport and the Severn Estuary as a way of transporting materials to ships sailing Newport Docks.

A section of the canal passes through Blaenavon World Heritage Site which takes in views of spectacular landscape and many industrial landmarks. The wharfs at Llanfoist and Govilion were leased by the Ironmasters and provided import and export points to serve the growing industries of Blaenavon.

The iron works in the Clydach gorge transported its products along a tram road linked to the canal at Gilwern. In the village of Talybont on Usk the ruins of the disused lime kilns serve as a reminder of a time when the canal carried processed lime for household and agricultural use. Goytre Wharf is a picturesque site of over 200 years of industrial heritage located on the lower section of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal. The unique Waterside facility is open to the public offering information about the canal, tourist attractions and a booking service for canoe tours and a restaurant boat. The shop sells crafts, souvenirs and books and there is a gallery showing local paintings and other exhibitions.

During the 1930’s the canal had fallen into disuse but has been gradually restored by the British Waterways Board with support from the National Park and others since 1968. In 1970 the canal was reopened to the public and is now used for informal recreation including canoeing, fishing, walks along the towpath and for canal boat holidays. During its passage through the Brecon Beacons National Park it features six locks and several public houses are to be found adjacent to the canal.

The picturesque Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal exists in glorious isolation and its scenic route has become a thriving holiday boat hire industry. It’s easy to hire a boat and explore South Wales’ premier canal which is perfect for novices or for smaller crews.