Newport Gloucester Train

Newport, in Gwent, is a cathedral city in south east Wales. The city lies on the River Usk close to its confluence with the Severn estuary and is roughly 10 miles to the east of Cardiff, Wales' capital city. Newport has been a port since medieval times when its castle was built by the Normans. The city grew rapidly when the port began to play an important role in exports of coal that had been mined in the eastern valleys of South Wales. Newport remained the largest coal exporting port until Cardiff took over in the 1850's.

Newport's main shopping area is the pedestrianised streets of the city centre which include the High Street, Newport Arcade, Market Arcade, Commercial Street, Skinner Street, Bridge Street, Upper Dock Street, Market Street and John Frost Square. There is also the Kingsway Shopping Centre which is an indoor shopping mall.

Newport Transporter Bridge is one of the few remaining working bridges of its type in the world and featured in the film Tiger Bay. Visitors can travel on the suspended cradle most days and can walk over the top of the steel framework on bank holidays. The only other British example is Middlesbrough Transporter Bridge. Open days are occasionally held to view the renovation of the historically important Newport Ship.

Located in the county of Gloucestershire, the historic city of Gloucester lies on the River Severn and is close to the Welsh border. Gloucester is a friendly, relaxed and safe city. Recent developments have seen the city emerge as a key regional centre with a lifestyle and culture of its own. It is entirely possible to while away an entire afternoon and evening in one of the many coffee shops and pubs.

In the heart of the city in College Green is the Norman cathedral with its fan vaulted cloisters and great east window. The nearby pedestrianised shopping area can be reached by a walk down narrow cobbled streets, passing ancient buildings on the way. From the shopping area it is a short walk to the Victorian Docks with its impressive converted warehouses. In the dock you will see many different kinds of vessels from narrow boats to sea going ships. Pleasure boats also depart from here that will take you on a journey through the past when Gloucester was a thriving commercial port.

The wider Gloucester Quays area is a favourite for visitors, with a great mix of waterside museums, bars, cafes, restaurants and Designer Outlet shopping plus beautiful new communal squares, walkways and dramatic public art, all nestling comfortably alongside the docks’ maritime heritage.