A History
The Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal is today a welcome refuge for its existing community and a delightful surprise to visitors to Cwmbran.
The peace and quiet conceals its chequered history since its opening at the beginning of the last century.
The Monmouthshire, Brecon and Abergavenny canals slowly reduced as commercial waterways during the late 19th century / early 20th century until the last commercial cargo was carried on the Monmouthshire main line in 1938.
One of the most significant changes to the southern section of canal since its closure in 1930 came about with the designation of Cwmbran as a New Town in 1949. This was to provide new employment opportunities following the closure of mining and heavy industry in the southern portion of South Wales.
Why not enjoy a stroll along the canal on this easy waterside walk in Cwmbran? The walk starts on the canal in Old Cwmbran and heads north along the towpath to Sebastopol. The route continues past Griffithstown before coming to the Pontymoile canal basin, a pleasant spot on the canal.
Near here you can catch the train back to Cwmbran at the Pontypool and New Inn Station or return on the same paths.
Today, many people work hard to restore the canal for the benefit of the wider community.
In particular, the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal Trust campaigns to protect, promote, and restore canal, which is widely recognised as being one of the most beautifully located canals in the UK.
You can find out more about the work of this small local volunteer run charity set up in 1984 to campaign for the preservation and restoration of our superb local canal at their website.
The Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal is today a welcome refuge for its existing community and a delightful surprise to visitors to Cwmbran.
The peace and quiet conceals its chequered history since its opening at the beginning of the last century.
The Monmouthshire, Brecon and Abergavenny canals slowly reduced as commercial waterways during the late 19th century / early 20th century until the last commercial cargo was carried on the Monmouthshire main line in 1938.
One of the most significant changes to the southern section of canal since its closure in 1930 came about with the designation of Cwmbran as a New Town in 1949. This was to provide new employment opportunities following the closure of mining and heavy industry in the southern portion of South Wales.
Why not enjoy a stroll along the canal on this easy waterside walk in Cwmbran? The walk starts on the canal in Old Cwmbran and heads north along the towpath to Sebastopol. The route continues past Griffithstown before coming to the Pontymoile canal basin, a pleasant spot on the canal.
Near here you can catch the train back to Cwmbran at the Pontypool and New Inn Station or return on the same paths.
Today, many people work hard to restore the canal for the benefit of the wider community.
In particular, the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal Trust campaigns to protect, promote, and restore canal, which is widely recognised as being one of the most beautifully located canals in the UK.
You can find out more about the work of this small local volunteer run charity set up in 1984 to campaign for the preservation and restoration of our superb local canal at their website.
