- Locations
- Newnham
The village of Newnham is on the west bank of the River Severn, around 10 miles to the south-west of Gloucester. Newnham's strategic location on the Severn meant that the Romans built three roads through the location, where they forded the river. The Anglo-Saxons established a permament settlement, the Normans fortified it against the Welsh, and in medieval times it became a major port with links around Great Britain and Ireland. In 1171, Henry II of England staged an invasion of Ireland from Newnham. One account claimed that he set sail with 400 ships and 5,000 men, which indicates the importance of the port. For a while it was the most successful Gloucestershire town west of the Severn. However, its role as a port and trading hub declined rapidly with the 1827 opening of the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal.
Newnham lies on a great bend in the river. It is one of the best places for viewing the famous Severn Bore, the wave that is created when the incoming tide from the Bristol Channel is funnelled into the narrow Severn Estuary. Small scale bores occur throughout the year, but at certain times, usually in early spring or late autumn, tidal conditions can generate a wave of up to nine feet in height - a great challenge to surfers and canoeists.
The parish church was established in the 14th century, although there had been a chapel of ease since 1018. The new church building was dedicated in 1366 as the old one faced erosion from the river. The new building has itself been damaged by a gunpowder explosion in 1644 during the English Civil War and a fire in 1881, but is still very much in use. The peace garden adjoining it is a lovely spot for viewing the river and there are beautiful riverside and countryside walks. You can walk along the river in either direction - to the north to Westbury-on-Severn or to the south to Awre and Blakeney.
From the top of the hill behind Newnham is Blaize Bailey viewpoint offering stunning views over the village, the Severn and the Cotswolds hills on the opposite side.
Businesses related to Newnham
BattleSports Glos - Outdoor Laser Tag
Experience the thrill of outdoor laser tag at BattleSports Glos, where the excitement of paintball… Experience the thrill of outdoor laser tag at BattleSports Glos, where the excitement of paintball meets the safety and comfort of laser technology.
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…
Elton Giant Mazes and Activities Maze
3 Giant maize mazes with two 40 question quizzes. Activities Maze with over 20 activities to… 3 Giant maize mazes with two 40 question quizzes. Activities Maze with over 20 activities to complete. Suitable for the whole family, push chairs, and powered wheelchairs.…
Sabo Yes - The Kings Head, Blakeney
Sabo Yes is a family run coffee shop and licenced restaurant in Blakeney. We take pride in offering… Sabo Yes is a family run coffee shop and licenced restaurant in Blakeney. We take pride in offering a warm and inviting atmosphere where you can enjoy delicious meals…
Broughtons Cottage
Sleeps 2-4 in 2 bedrooms - 1 king size & 1 twin room. Cosy and comfortable sitting room with wood… Sleeps 2-4 in 2 bedrooms - 1 king size & 1 twin room. Cosy and comfortable sitting room with wood burner, wi-fi, modern well-equipped kitchen. Children over 12 are welcome.…
Dean Laser Clay
Laser Clay Pigeon shooting brings the thrill of traditional clay pigeon shooting into the 21st… Laser Clay Pigeon shooting brings the thrill of traditional clay pigeon shooting into the 21st century — no recoil, no mess, just pure fun using high-tech, deactivated…
Severn Valley Touring Caravan, Camping and…
A new, family owned site in the lovely village of Awre, set in open countryside with big skies and… A new, family owned site in the lovely village of Awre, set in open countryside with big skies and starry nights. The perfect place to put your feet up and relax, soaking up…
The Anchorage
The Anchorage is a privately owned camping, caravan and glamping site situated near the banks of… The Anchorage is a privately owned camping, caravan and glamping site situated near the banks of the River Severn at Bullo Pill, Newnham. We are a Freedom Camping Club site…
The George Community Hub
We are friendly and welcoming community hub in the Direst of Dean in the attractive Severnside… We are friendly and welcoming community hub in the Direst of Dean in the attractive Severnside village of Newnham on Severn.
The Severn Bore
The Severn Bore is a large surge wave that can be seen in the estuary of the River Severn, where… The Severn Bore is a large surge wave that can be seen in the estuary of the River Severn, where the tidal range is the 2nd highest in the world.
Events awarded Newnham
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Roaming Reptiles hands on experiences at Elton…
Dates:
26th Aug 2025 - 26th Aug 2025
Roaming Reptiles will be bringing an impressive selection of animals from their vast and diverse… Roaming Reptiles will be bringing an impressive selection of animals from their vast and diverse collection, which includes snakes, lizards, tarantulas, and more!
Mazes by Torchlight
Dates:
22nd Aug 2025 - 22nd Aug 2025
Tickets sell out every year! – Don’t Miss Out! Tickets sell out every year! – Don’t Miss Out!
Roaming Reptiles hands on experiences at Elton…
Dates:
19th Aug 2025 - 19th Aug 2025
Roaming Reptiles will be bringing an impressive selection of animals from their vast and diverse… Roaming Reptiles will be bringing an impressive selection of animals from their vast and diverse collection, which includes snakes, lizards, tarantulas, and more!
Roaming Reptiles hands on experiences at Elton…
Dates:
12th Aug 2025 - 12th Aug 2025
Roaming Reptiles will be bringing an impressive selection of animals from their vast and diverse… Roaming Reptiles will be bringing an impressive selection of animals from their vast and diverse collection, which includes snakes, lizards, tarantulas, and more!
Roaming Reptiles hands on experiences at Elton Giant Mazes
Event Dates:
5th Aug 2025 - 5th Aug 2025
Roaming Reptiles will be bringing an impressive selection of animals from…
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Elton Giant Mazes Dog Show
Event Dates:
26th Jul 2025 - 26th Jul 2025
Returning for 2025, the Elton Mazes Dog Show raises funds for the charity…
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£25.00
Archery Clash 90 minute experience
Archery Clash combines the intensity and excitement of dodge-ball or paint-ball while using the… Archery Clash combines the intensity and excitement of dodge-ball or paint-ball while using the skill-set for archery.
Prices from:
£25.00
Laser Clay Pigeon shooting 90 minute experience
Laser Clay Pigeon shooting is 100% Safe, firing harmless infra-red beams instead of live ammunition Laser Clay Pigeon shooting is 100% Safe, firing harmless infra-red beams instead of live ammunition
Trails In Newnham
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…
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