Newport Wetlands is a nature/wildlife reserve offering the opportunity to photograph animals from viewpoints and trek around the lovely grounds.
Opening times: 09:00am – 17:00pm
Car Parking cost: £3 for non members / free for RSPB members
Entrance Fee: Free
The reserve was established in 2000 to alleviate losses of wildlife habitat when the Cardiff Bay Barrage scheme was confirmed. Newport Wetlands was made a national nature reserve on 16 April 2008. The Newport Wetlands is accessible by wheelchair and pushchairs in the majority of the reserve. The site has several different routes concentrating on a particular area of conservation. It has lovely facts stations and signs that are great for children and adults throughout the reserve, such as what animals you may spot in particular areas.
The Newport Wetlands neighbours the power station. The juxtaposition between the two is astonishing, man made and nature both standing strong. Situated between the Severn Estuary and the River Usk, the RSPB Cymru (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds) and Newport City Council work in partnership with Natural Resources Wales to provide a safe environment for a variety of species and animals. Newport Wetlands surrounds itself with wetland, reedbed and estuary habitats.
The East Usk Lighthouse faces towards the Severn Estuary and makes for a great compass point when exploring the Wetlands. Like us, even though signposted, you may get lost. The lighthouse will help you find your way back! Not the prettiest, but certainly a help when lost.
There is also a lovely little woodland trail in which we spent a bit of time playing with the camera. When sunny, the light punches through making for some great lens flares.
Newport Wetlands offers a sanctuary for wildlife on the edge of Newport City. With a RSPB visitor centre, a café, shop and children’s play area it can make for a lovely day out with the family. It can also be an educational visit designed for schools, adults and children. Interestingly, Newport Wetlands is one of the best places for wildlife in the UK and is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). In Newport, who would have thought?
Home to an abundance of wildlife, we love to stroll in the reserve to get lost in nature. Watch our video below to view our time at Newport Wetlands.
If you love nature, read our blog about one of the seven new natural wonders of the world, Ha Long Bay Travel Guide.
Travelling Translated
