Monmouthshire

Monmouthshire lies in southeast Wales on the border with England, combining river valleys and upland ridges. Towns in the area include Monmouth, Abergavenny, Chepstow, Usk and Caldicot. The River Wye runs through the county and meets the River Monnow at Monmouth, while the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal passes close to Usk and Abergavenny. A stretch of the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty follows the river, and the Offa’s Dyke Path traces much of the eastern boundary, crossing farmland and ridge-top paths.

Medieval and industrial heritage mark the landscape: Tintern Abbey stands on the Wye bank, Chepstow Castle overlooks the lower Wye, and Raglan Castle sits inland on higher ground. Land use includes farming and managed woodland, with fishing, walking and canal boating common pursuits. Market towns host regular events and small-scale food and drink producers work in the valleys. Road and rail corridors link the principal towns with the wider region, and local conservation efforts focus on river habitats, ancient woodlands and the stone-built features that characterise many settlements.