Walk Description

The walk is well surfaced town paths and pavements with a brief history of the Castle and Town

Grade Easy. Length approx 1 mile There is a huge range of accommodation and opportunities for refreshment view the section stay and eat for further details.

Chepstow Castle Dell and the Town

Basic Directions

• From the Tourist Information Centre in the Castle car park take the smooth gravel path to the left of the castle. The outside of the castle can be viewed from this walk. The castle had several phases of development, beginning in 1067 with a square keep which was built using stone from the Roman town of Caerwent nearby. The Castle was extended and re-fortified over the centuries by various owners. It saw action in the Civil War and was twice taken by Parliamentarians during this turbulent time. In 1685 the garrison was disbanded and the castle fell into disrepair.
• To continue the walk, follow the smooth gravel and then tarmac path gently climbing up the Dell. The large rocky boulder that you will pass on the left was brought here from Plynlimon, close to the source of the Wye and marks the official start of the Wye Valley Walk. A similar rock from Chepstow was taken to the end point of the walk high up in the mountains of Mid Wales.
• The path continues to climb rather more steeply (1:8), and then levels out as the path bends round to the right. Here there are benches on which to catch your breath and a childrens play area. Pass the play area to enter The Dell car park via an archway through the old town wall.
• There are various options to return through Chepstow town, with its many facilities and shops. Take one of the passages near the WC block from car park to reach Bank Street. Turn left down Bank Street, bearing right to reach Beaufort Square (both Middle Street and Hocker Street should be avoided as the former has very narrow pavements, and the latter is cobbled). Go down the pedestrianised St Mary Street to reach Upper Church Street. Note the interesting buildings in this area, including the almshouses and the unusually named Five Alls public house.
• Turn left and follow the road round to the right, and down Bridge Street to return to the Castle car park.