Along with everyone at RCN Wales, I’m delighted that RCN Congress is to take part in Wales this year and I’m excited for you to discover this vibrant and historic part of the world.
Three things you should know about Newport
- It’s home to a very rare Grade 1 listed Transporter Bridge that dominates the Newport skyline and forms part of the Wales Coastal Path. An ideal stopping off point for walkers and cyclists using the route, it boasts spectacular views from the high-level walkway.
- Some of Wales’s biggest names have been gifted to the world by Newport, including acclaimed stage, film and television actor Michael Sheen; Aneurin Bevan, founder of the NHS, who was born just up the road in Tredegar; and funny and controversial hip hop group, Goldie Lookin Chain.
- Chartism is a big part of Newport’s history and there are plenty of tributes around the city to the people who fought for democratic rights, including statues outside the Westgate Hotel – which saw major scenes of the Newport Rising in 1839 – and the full six-point charter on the steps of Friars Walk.
Where to shop, eat and explore
Thinking of extending your stay in Newport after Congress? I asked some proud Newportonians for some tips and ideas – there’s something for everyone to enjoy in and around this buzzing city!
Newport’s retail and leisure complex, Friars Walk, is where you’ll find all the usual suspects for shopping, eating and entertainment, from H&M and Next, to Wagamama and Coffee #1, and Superbowl and Cineworld.
But if you’re looking to get off the beaten track, here are some hidden gems for you…
Shop
- Newport Indoor Market – a range of independent stalls, including a fair trade handmade jewellery supplier, a nail salon, a comic-book store and a sweet shop.
- Diverse Vinyl – browse a selection of indie, old school hip-hop and punk LPs as well as CDs, hi-fi equipment and local gig tickets.
- Weird Dad Brewery – a quirky nano brewery where you can find a treasure trove of craft beer.
Eat
- The Vanilla Pod Coffee Bar or Lily’s Cheesecakes for coffee and cake.
- Parc Pantry, Newport Market or Rogue Fox for brunch or lunch.
- Fifteen by Llanwern Village Bar & Hotel or Ye Olde Murenger for traditional pub food.
Explore
- Le Pub – a very popular venue hosting gigs by up-and-coming bands and regular comedy nights.
- Tredegar House - one of the most significant late 17th-century houses in the whole of the British Isles, situated within 90 acres of beautiful gardens and parkland.
- Port Electro Club Night at Pen & wig – let your hair down at this regular alternative club night that offers a fun night out while raising money for charities.
- Fourteen Locks – venture out of the city for a walk along the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal at Rogerstone and pop by the visitor centre and tea room.
- Or, if you’re feeling really adventurous, why not wander a little further and head to the top of Pen y Fan in the Bannau Brycgeiniog (Brecon Beacons)? At 886 metres, it’s the highest point in South Wales and, provided you climb on a clear day, the views from the peak are simply stunning!
The International Convention Centre Wales
Getting there
ICC Wales may be built within beautiful woodland and surrounded by fresh mountain air but it’s also very well connected. It sits just off the M4 and is a 14-minute drive from Newport rail station or a 40-minute drive from either Cardiff Airport or Bristol Airport. If you’re driving, there is plenty of space for parking (charges apply). Newport Bus services travel nearby ICC Wales, with the closest bus stop located a five-minute walk away.
Where to stay
When you’re ready to hit the hay after an informative and energising day of debates and exhibitions, you’ll find a range of hotels located within a 10-minute walk of ICC Wales. Accommodation is limited so book yours early via our hotel booking site.
Gweld chi yno! See you there!
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