Newport Overview
Newport is a cathedral and university city located in south-east wales, the city is based on the River Usk which had been a major part in the development of the city. Newport grew significantly in the 19th century when the coal industry was booming, the city was the main port for the South of Wales until the improvement of Cardiff saw that become the main port city which in turn, saw a large decline in the infrastructure of the city. Although the cities docks declined, the city managed to remain important due to the manufacturing and engineering centre that is still a major part of the city’s economy to this day. The public sector is the main source of employment in Newport with a rise of technology companies making it a great place to study due to the employment opportunities. Newport Cathedral is an iconic piece of gothic architecture founded in the 5th century, the cathedral is still in use today as a Christian place of worship, the cathedral is free to visit but it is only open on certain days and times of the week.
Things to do in Newport
One of the most visited attractions in Newport is the Caerleon Roman Fortress and Baths, here you will find the ruins of a historic Roman fortress whilst learning everything there is to know about the historic past of the fortress and baths. The attraction also boasts a gift shop and a restaurant which makes it a perfect day out for you and your friends, admission is also free for everyone. For those of you who enjoy a walk with some very picturesque landscape, the Newport Cliff walk is perfect for you, the walk is three and a half miles long. The walk takes you over cliffs, rocky beaches, large gilded age mansions as well as 40 steps to nowhere. There are two cinemas in the city with both of them displaying the latest blockbusters, both cinemas offer student discounts, one of the cinemas are located directly in the city centre. There are two main shopping centres in the city; Friars walk, and Kingsway are home to some of the biggest high-street chains as well as several independent boutiques. Newport Market is where you will find, traders, cafes and independent retailers which make it the perfect place to grab a unique gift at a great price.
Sport in Newport
There are over 5 leisure centres in the city, all of them boasting a wide range of facilities from gyms, sports halls, swimming pools plus many more. Most of the centres offer no joining fee for students which make it very easy to stay fit and healthy whilst at university. There are several well maintained parks in the city with some of them having public tennis courts and football pitches which are free to use. Newport City FC are a professional football team that play at the Newport Stadium with a capacity of 5058 which makes for a great atmosphere.
Escape Newport
Roughly 30-minute drive along the coast will bring you to the capital of Wales, Cardiff, here you will find several fun activities as well as multiple historic monuments and buildings giving you a wealth of knowledge of the country you will be living in. About a 40-minute drive the opposite way down the coast will bring you the English city of Bristol, you will find a very different culture and way of living here. To the north of the city you will find Brecon Beacons National Park which is full of heritage sites, gentle hills, market towns and very beautiful scenery.
Transport in Newport
The M4 runs through the city and connects Swansea to London as well as the national motorway network. You are able to get direct trains to all major cities in Wales as well as most cities in England. National coach services run from the city with links to the majority of the UK. Public transport within the city makes it quick and easy to get around with busses coming frequently.
