Adventure
Christmas Gift Guide
Post date:
6th December 2025
Find the perfect Christmas gift with local experiences, creative days out and unforgettable adventures across the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.
- 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
Adventure | Groups | Dogs | Families
Way2Go Adventures Ltd
Way2Go Adventures is a family-run business, based in the Forest of Dean offering exciting outdoor… Way2Go Adventures is a family-run business, based in the Forest of Dean offering exciting outdoor activities such as Canoeing, Kayaking, Stand-up Paddleboarding (SUP) and…
Adventure | Nature | Arts | History
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.
Fun, photographic training, group guiding, photography mindfulness sessions and Photo holidays in… Fun, photographic training, group guiding, photography mindfulness sessions and Photo holidays in the heart of the forest and valley with pro photographer, David Broadbent.…
Arts | Nature | Groups
David Broadbent Photography
David Broadbent Photography produces cutting edge and on trend work in stills, video, drone and… David Broadbent Photography produces cutting edge and on trend work in stills, video, drone and time-lapse to communicate your business message effectively with over 30 years…
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.
Prices from:
£320.00
Nature
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.
Arts | Foodies | Nature | Relaxation
Wye Valley Sculpture Garden
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 is one of the top things to see when visiting Tintern and the Wye Valley. .
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…
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
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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Date From:
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Events
Rockfield Gin Tasting
Dates:
7th Dec 2025 - 7th Dec 2025
Discover the art of gin making with Rockfield Gin at The Rising Sun Woodcroft. First Rockfield Gin… Discover the art of gin making with Rockfield Gin at The Rising Sun Woodcroft. First Rockfield Gin and mixer plus antipasti.
Families
Reindeer Trail
Dates:
19th Dec 2025 - 31st Dec 2025
Santa’s reindeers have been grazing (and pooing!) at Chepstow Castle. Santa’s reindeers have been grazing (and pooing!) at Chepstow Castle.
Families | Arts
Make and Take - Christmas Crafts
Dates:
20th Dec 2025 - 21st Dec 2025
Create something festive to take home and hang on your Christmas tree! Create something festive to take home and hang on your Christmas tree!
Experiences 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…
Our latest Chepstow - Cas-gwent blogs
Through the Local Lens: Discover the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley with photographer Lee Pullen and find his favourite places.
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Through the Local Lens: Discover the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley with photographerJames Kelly-Smith. Hidden gems and local insights.
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Plan a festive or winter getaway in the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley. Discover cosy stays, scenic walks, Christmas markets, and seasonal adventures.
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