Clytha short circular walk in the Usk Valley
Explore this timeless estate in Monmouthshire and take in far-reaching views of Sugar Loaf and the Usk Valley on this circular walk. It's a place rich in history and with a wide variety of wildlife to discover.
Wet underfoot
Some areas may become muddy in wet weather. Please wear appropriate footwear.
Total steps: 5
Total steps: 5
Start point
Clytha riverside car park SO361085
Step 1
From the car park, take the gate to the right of the interpretation panel and continue for 220yd (200m). Follow the path around to the right and on alongside the River Usk. After about 660yd (600m), go through the second gate on the right (with the stone counterweight) and head slightly up hill and around the field edge to the metal wicket gate leading onto the road.
Step 2
Follow the waymarked signs through Twyn y Cregan Woods, tracking the course of Clawdd Brook before passing close to the A40 and heading up to the edge of the woods. Before you turn left take in the views across Clytha Park to Clytha Castle. The path now follows a track at the edge of the woods with parkland on your right. After 440yd (400m) you will meet another track. Turn left (note there is no Public Right of Way through the farmyard), then immediately right and follow a path that meanders through the trees. The path brings you out behind a hedge by a track. When the hedge ends cross the track diagonally to your left to a kissing gate that enters a field by a large oak tree. If you end up at the back of Chapel Farm you’ll need to turn around and find the kissing gate on your right.
Step 3
Keeping the oak tree to your left follow the route across the field to a stile. As you cross the field, you will pass several stones on your left. These are the ruins of St Aeddan's Chapel – Capel Aedan founded in 1188 by Aedan of Gwaethfoed. After crossing the first stile continue to follow the way marked route south through several fields and gates. You eventually cross a horse paddock. Head to the top right-hand corner of this field go over the stile. Follow a short section of track to a metal gate near the road. To your left is the drive leading to the Clytha Arms pub. Cross the road very carefully to a flight of steep stone steps up to the top of a bank where the walk continues.
Step 4
After passing through the gate at the top of the steps, keep right at the edge of the fields and continue following the waymarkers over a couple of stiles and right through a gate back into Clytha Park on the top of low hill. Follow the line of lime trees diagonally down to the concrete track. These trees used to be the avenue leading to Clytha Castle from Clytha House. When you reach the track, turn left, following the track uphill taking the right fork up to the castle. Pass through a metal gate across the track and into Castle Woods. The track takes you up to Clytha Castle. Please respect the privacy of those staying at the castle.
Step 5
Follow the wooden signs that direct you along a track that runs down behind the Castle. Pass through the wooden field gate at the edge of Castle Wood and back onto parkland. The path follows a grassy track downhill along the ridge of a steep bank with scattered trees. When the trees end, turn left back under the bank with parkland to your right. After 220yd (200m) head right and downhill until you reach a small metal gate by the road. Pass through the gate, turn immediately left and walk along the road for 50m and then turn right back into the car park where you started your walk.
End point
Clytha riverside car park SO361085
Trail map
More near here
The Skirrid trail in the Sugar Loaf and Usk Valley
Walk a mountain of myths and legends on this energetic trail that will lead you to the summit of the Skirrid.
Upper Tarell Valley walk
This 5-mile walk along an 18th-century track is packed with history, passing the remains of farmsteads once inhabited during the heyday of the coach road. Enjoy wildlife and views of Craig Cerrig-Gleisiad National Nature Reserve in the Bannau Brycheiniog..
Discover the Kymin walk
Enjoy impressive views of both Wales and England, as well as two Georgian buildings, as you tread in the footsteps of Lord Nelson and Lady Hamilton on this gentle walk.
Clytha and Coed y Bwnydd walk
A 7.5-mile walk along the River Usk that takes in the Coed y Bwnydd hillfort and Clytha Castle, an 18th-century folly, along the way.
Get in touch
Our partners
We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.
You might also be interested in
Walking in Wales
Explore wide open landscapes, gentler coastal strolls or energetic hikes for something a little more challenging. We've rounded up some of the best places to walk in Wales.
Visiting the Clytha Estate
Meandering walks wind their way around the estate and along the River Usk, while architectural delights like Clytha House and Clytha Castle are never far away.
Skirrid history and legends
Find out about the myths and legends of the Skirrid and surrounding area, including how the Holy Mountain got its name and how a giant formed the Skirrid.
Cotswold Outdoor: our exclusive walking partner
Find out more about the National Trust’s ongoing partnership with Cotswold Outdoor as our exclusive walking partner.
Walking
Explore some of the finest landscapes in our care on coastal paths, accessible trails, woodland walks and everything in between. Find the best places to walk near you.
Staying safe at National Trust places
The special places in National Trust care sometimes come with a few risks for visitors, be it coastline or countryside. Find out how to keep safe throughout your visits.
Follow the Countryside Code
Help to look after National Trust places by observing a few simple guidelines during your visit and following the Countryside Code.