Clytha Estate: River Usk, Chapel Ruins and Castle Woods

Start at the National Trust riverside car park at Clytha, reached from the Bettws Newydd road. Follow the signed estate circuit north beside the River Usk, then take the field-edge path to the road crossing and enter Twyn y Cregan Wood. The woodland path follows Clawdd Brook before climbing to the edge of the park.

At the tracks near Chapel Farm, keep to the waymarked path around the farm, then cross the fields past the remains of St Aeddan’s Chapel. Continue south through gates and stiles to the road by the Clytha Arms. Cross carefully to the stone steps, then follow the estate waymarks and lime-tree avenue towards Castle Wood. The track passes Clytha Castle, an eighteenth-century memorial folly with views towards the Usk Valley and Sugar Loaf. It is private holiday accommodation, so stay on the path and keep out of the building and gardens. Return behind the castle through the woods and parkland, then use the short road section back to the car park.

Allow two hours for this circular walk. Grass paths and fields can be muddy; there are several stiles and a short steep section of steps, so this is not a step-free route. There are two road crossings and about 50 metres of lane at the finish. Keep dogs under close control around livestock. Avoid the river path during flooding and follow any closure signs. Bring suitable footwear; refreshments are available at the Clytha Arms when open. Check parking signs on arrival.

Route reference: National Trust Clytha short circular walk in the Usk Valley.