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Usk Valley and AbergavennyGilwern Wharf and the Canal
Level towpath through wooded cuttings and along the hillside, on the stretch of canal that clings hardest to the valley side.
- Distance
- 3.7 mi / 6 km
- Time
- 1 hr 55
- Ascent
- 60 m
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Shape
- There and back
Where it is
The circle shows the general area, not the exact start. Use the directions link below to get to the car park itself. Contours and paths shown are OpenTopoMap, drawn from OpenStreetMap data.
The route
Follow the towpath in either direction from the wharf. Flat and surfaced, and the distance is up to you.
Worth knowing
- The canal was cut into the steep hillside and the embankment at Gilwern is substantial.
- Fully accessible for several miles in both directions.
- The Clydach gorge above is a steep contrast if you want the climbing.
What you’ll see
The canal and its embankments, wooded cuttings, and the Usk valley below.
Background
Gilwern wharf served the tramroads bringing iron down from the Clydach and Blaenavon works to the canal.