NCN Route 88
Once you've cycled this small road running between Caerleon and Usk, you'll be hooked. As cyclists say in the South East Valleys; all roads lead to Usk. This is the Roman Way.
Route Overview: Newport to Caerleon - NCN Route 88
Locations include: Newport and Caerleon
Total Distance: 4.7 mi. / 7.56 km
Elevation Change: +155 ft / -159 ft
Approximate Travel Time: ± 30 min.
Ride Level: Beginner
I was first shown this road many years ago whilst cycling with the Kingfishers. We cycled this route most every Tuesday at the start of our weekly jaunts. Today, I often use this short section as a connector for longer rides throughout the Vale of Usk.
Many cyclists can be found pedaling along the somewhat busy Usk Road between Caerleon and Usk. However, Bullmore Road is a much safer and scenic option. Heading north, the route winds quietly to Llantrisant where it then merges onto NCN Route 42, which carries onto the town of Usk.
Many cyclists can be found pedaling along the somewhat busy Usk Road between Caerleon and Usk. However, Bullmore Road is a much safer and scenic option. Heading north, the route winds quietly to Llantrisant where it then merges onto NCN Route 42, which carries onto the town of Usk.
| ROUTE COLOUR KEY: | Traffic-free | Shared Use | Quiet Road | Steep Hill |
About this route - My plan is to create a large circular route from Newport to Usk, looping up through Bettws Newydd and then returning back to Newport. This is a big task, but I decided to first publish this section for not only is this ride worthy of its own recognition, but also as an individual module to be used with bigger and longer routes.
Future Goals - I have several shorter routes like this one planned for my section of "Routes to Ride". This is my first attempt or proof-of-concept model.
Future Goals - I have several shorter routes like this one planned for my section of "Routes to Ride". This is my first attempt or proof-of-concept model.
Begin this section by introducing the ride with keep points on where specificallu it begins and how you got there. Some background information may be crucial for the reader to put the ride in context with other rides or the local area.
Additional Details - Bullmore Road, aka The Roman Way
I can't say enough good things about this short and delightful route. I highly recommend it to every serious cyclist. It's just a joy to ride in either direction.
Look for this route at the start of several upcoming Routes to Ride in the coming months!
Look for this route at the start of several upcoming Routes to Ride in the coming months!
| ROUTE COLOUR KEY: | Traffic-free | Shared Use | Quiet Road | Steep Hill |
Getting to the start: From Newport - cycle along NCN Route 88 heading east to where it ends in Caerleon by the Hanbury Arms. Crossover the River Usk turning left by the toll house and make your way a very short distance down the lane to the Bell Inn and the junction with Bullmore Road. From Usk - head south out of town along Maryport Street, turn right just above Llantrisant and follow Bullmore Road into Caerleon.
Before you leave: It's worthwhile to do a little research before you make your trip to learn about the area. There are locations with facilities, but they're some distance apart and depending upon the time or day, may not be open.
You & your equipment: You should bring snacks and drinks to last the ride. It is highly recommended that you also carry suitable rain gear (This is Wales!) Always carry a spare tube, tyre patch kit (with tyre levers), a good quality multi-tool, and a reliable tyre pump. Be sure your bicycle is in top mechanical condition — do the 11-step M-test!
Before you leave: It's worthwhile to do a little research before you make your trip to learn about the area. There are locations with facilities, but they're some distance apart and depending upon the time or day, may not be open.
You & your equipment: You should bring snacks and drinks to last the ride. It is highly recommended that you also carry suitable rain gear (This is Wales!) Always carry a spare tube, tyre patch kit (with tyre levers), a good quality multi-tool, and a reliable tyre pump. Be sure your bicycle is in top mechanical condition — do the 11-step M-test!
Note to Readers: Examine the provided online maps closely to understand conditions prior to your ride. Each route listed includes a colour-coded map indicating specific terrain along with the distance(s). When considering difficulty; remember elevations +/- gains are equally important to distances. Printing the included .pdf maps and/or downloading the GPS file is highly recommeded.
Disclaimer of Liability. Bike Wales™ and everyone associated with this website/blog accept no responsibility for the conditions of the routes discussed. These are simply "suggested" routes of the National Cycle Network that the reader may choose to follow. Any action(s) taken from reading the content herein, is solely the responsibility of those involved.
