Nature
Through The Local Lens: Neil Baker
Post date:
1st July 2026
Through the Local Lens: with photographer Neil Baker. See why he loves the Forest of Dean, top tips and must visit places.
- Locations
- Chepstow
Chepstow - Cas-gwent
Discover Chepstow
Chepstow is the historic gateway to the Wye Valley, perched on the edge of the River Wye as it winds towards its meeting point with the Severn Estuary. It’s a town rich in history, natural beauty and outdoor adventure, making it a perfect starting point for exploring the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.
At its heart stands Chepstow Castle, Britain’s oldest surviving stone castle. Built in 1067, it still stands guard over the river today - an enduring symbol of the town’s long and fascinating story. From the Norman conquest to the age of romantic tourism, Chepstow has played an important role for centuries.
Things to See and Do
- Chepstow Castle: Explore towering battlements and ancient courtyards in one of Wales' greatest historic landmarks, with breathtaking views across the River Wye.
- Chepstow Racecourse: Just outside town, regular race meetings take place at Chepstow Racecourse, set within the picturesque grounds of historic Piercefield Park. It’s a lively day out whether you’re a seasoned racing fan or simply looking for a great atmosphere.
- Walking and Stunning Views: Chepstow proudly holds Walkers are Welcome status and is a popular starting point for walkers heading onto the Wye Valley Walk. One of the most famous stretches is the Piercefield Walks, a historic trail offering spectacular viewpoints over the river valley.
- Chepstow Town Trail: Discover even more of Chepstow’s hidden corners with our Chepstow Town Trail. This self-guided walk leads you around the town’s key historical sites, including the castle, the old port, and beautiful examples of Georgian architecture. Download the Chepstow Town Trail here
- Chepstow’s Maritime Past: The town’s story has long been shaped by the river. Once a thriving centre for shipbuilding, salmon fishing, and timber exports, Chepstow’s history comes alive through its historic streets and waterfront. Learn more about this fascinating chapter at Chepstow Museum, just a short walk from the elegant iron Old Wye Bridge.
- The Wye Tour: In the 18th century, Chepstow became a must-see stop for early tourists taking the famous Wye Tour. With dramatic riverscapes, romantic ruins, and picturesque villages, it’s easy to see why visitors fell in love with the area - just as they still do today.
Plan Your Visit to Chepstow
Whether you're setting off on a riverside walk, soaking up centuries of history at the castle, exploring the story of the Wye Tour, or following our Chepstow Town Trail, you’ll find a warm welcome and plenty to discover in Chepstow.
Businesses related to Chepstow - Cas-gwent
Families | Groups
Hidden Gems
Stay at Ardens Farm or Holly Barn – two unique countryside escapes in the Forest of Dean, perfect… Stay at Ardens Farm or Holly Barn – two unique countryside escapes in the Forest of Dean, perfect for group getaways and outdoor adventures.
Adventure | Groups | Dogs | Families
Way2Go Adventures Ltd
Way2Go Adventures is a family-run business offering exciting outdoor activities such as Canoeing,… Way2Go Adventures is a family-run business offering exciting outdoor activities such as Canoeing, Kayaking, Stand-up Paddleboarding (SUP) and Gorge Walking in the Wye Valley…
Adventure
Newnham Private Hire
Bespoke chauffeur driven private tours of the beautiful Forest of Dean and Wye Valley. Bespoke chauffeur driven private tours of the beautiful Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.
Families | Groups | History
Chepstow Castle
Beautifully preserved and stretching out along a limestone cliff above the River Wye, Chepstow… Beautifully preserved and stretching out along a limestone cliff above the River Wye, Chepstow Castle’s beauty is matched only by its historical significance.
Families | Foodies
Brockweir Village Shop and Café
The shop stocks a wide variety of both essential and speciality, fresh and frozen foods and… The shop stocks a wide variety of both essential and speciality, fresh and frozen foods and household goods focused on prioritising and promoting local suppliers. There is…
Families
Wyelets
A beautiful perfectly formed cottages designed so you can unwind and take life at a slower pace. A beautiful perfectly formed cottages designed so you can unwind and take life at a slower pace.
Prices from:
£360.00
Business Directory
Oakgrove Cottage
Oakgrove Cottage self catering cottage for 2 in rural location. Ideal walking birdwatching wildlife… Oakgrove Cottage self catering cottage for 2 in rural location. Ideal walking birdwatching wildlife cycling.
Dogs | Accessible
Sailmakers View
Privately situated and detached cottage on the River Wye, blessed with a big beautiful view and an… Privately situated and detached cottage on the River Wye, blessed with a big beautiful view and an electric cedar-clad hot tub
Foodies | Groups
Infamous Catering
We are a boutique catering company based in the beautiful Forest of Dean, specialising in private… We are a boutique catering company based in the beautiful Forest of Dean, specialising in private events for 20 to around 200 people.
The Wye Valley Sculpture Garden hosts one of Wales largest outdoor Summer Sculpture Exhibitions and… The Wye Valley Sculpture Garden hosts one of Wales largest outdoor Summer Sculpture Exhibitions and aims to find a balance between art, wildlife and plants
Families | Groups
Penhein Glamping
Feel at home in the Great Outdoors: sleep in luxury beneath the stars in beautiful Persian-inspired… Feel at home in the Great Outdoors: sleep in luxury beneath the stars in beautiful Persian-inspired tents and experience a rural adventure complete with cooking on a firepit…
Families | Relaxation
Freedom Leisure Sedbury
Freedom Leisure Sedbury has facilities and activities to suit everyone including gym, tennis… Freedom Leisure Sedbury has facilities and activities to suit everyone including gym, tennis courts, 5 a side football and badminton!
Events awarded Chepstow - Cas-gwent
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Families | Groups | Arts
Summer Make and Take
Dates:
29th Jul 2026 - 26th Aug 2026
Next Event Date:
5th Aug 2026
Get crafty at Chepstow Castle during the summer holidays! Get crafty at Chepstow Castle during the summer holidays!
Families | Groups | Arts | History
Steps Back in Time
Dates:
1st Aug 2026 - 2nd Aug 2026
Next Event Date:
1st Aug 2026
Put on your dancing shoes and visit Chepstow Castle as we learn about the evolution of dance. Put on your dancing shoes and visit Chepstow Castle as we learn about the evolution of dance.
Families | Groups | History
Let’s Discover… Herbs and Heritage
Dates:
4th Aug 2026 - 4th Aug 2026
Come and learn all about herbs and their uses during the Middle Ages, with our resident expert. Come and learn all about herbs and their uses during the Middle Ages, with our resident expert.
Families | Groups | History
Let's Discover... Chainmail
Dates:
11th Aug 2026 - 11th Aug 2026
This Summer learn how traditional maille was made at Chepstow Castle. This Summer learn how traditional maille was made at Chepstow Castle.
Families | Groups | History
Let’s Discover... Life as a Servant
Event Dates:
18th Aug 2026 - 18th Aug 2026
Even in times of war, domestic life still has to go on.
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Families | Groups | History
Let’s Discover… The Printed Word
Event Dates:
25th Aug 2026 - 25th Aug 2026
Printer Francesca Kay demonstrates how to set type and print the…
View Event
Families | Groups | History
Medieval Mayhem with Bowlore
Event Dates:
12th Sept 2026 - 13th Sept 2026
Next Event Date:
12th Sept 2026
Experience the sights and sounds of medieval life, as historical…
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Adventure
Pedal Wye Valley: Charity Cycling Event
Event Dates:
20th Sept 2026 - 20th Sept 2026
Charity cycling event starting at Chepstow Racecourse with 25, 57 and 82…
View EventExperiences Awarded Chepstow - Cas-gwent
Adventure | Dogs | Families | Groups
Canoeing on the River Wye
Canoeing is a brilliant way to see the Wye Valley’s stunning scenery and wildlife, and Way2Go… Canoeing is a brilliant way to see the Wye Valley’s stunning scenery and wildlife, and Way2Go Adventures offer a range of guided trips that are suitable for everyone, no…
Prices from:
£250.00
Adventure | Families | Groups
Rock climbing adventure
Reach for the skies with a Wye Valley or South Wales rock climbing adventure Reach for the skies with a Wye Valley or South Wales rock climbing adventure
Trails In Chepstow - Cas-gwent
Dogs | Families | History | Accessible
Market Towns Trail
Explore the character, charm and community spirit of the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley’s market… Explore the character, charm and community spirit of the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley’s market towns with our self-guided Market Towns Trail. Each town on the trail offers…
Discover the history, charm & hidden corners of Chepstow, a town rich in heritage & culture.… Discover the history, charm & hidden corners of Chepstow, a town rich in heritage & culture. Nestled at the gateway to Wales and the Wye Valley, Chepstow’s cobbled streets,…
The Wales Coast Path is the longest continuous coastal path around a country, covering some 870… The Wales Coast Path is the longest continuous coastal path around a country, covering some 870 miles around the whole of Wales.
The Gloucestershire Way is a 100 mile (160km) long-distance national trail which crosses almost the… The Gloucestershire Way is a 100 mile (160km) long-distance national trail which crosses almost the full width of Gloucestershire from its westerly border with the Welsh town…
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