Chepstow Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Chepstow Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Chepstow packs a lot into a small area. The town's main draw is Chepstow Castle (NP16 5EY, open 10am-5pm daily), perched dramatically on limestone cliffs above the River Wye. Built in 1067, it's the oldest surviving post-Roman stone castle in Britain and scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor with visitors praising its well-preserved towers and walls.

Just 5 miles north, you'll find Tintern Abbey (NP16 6SE, 10am-5pm). These Gothic ruins score 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor and look especially magical in autumn. I recommend visiting late afternoon when the light hits the stonework perfectly - great for photos before heading back to enjoy your hot tub.

The Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo (NP25 5QG) gets 4/5 on TripAdvisor and lets you walk among hundreds of free-flying tropical butterflies. It's part of a family attraction complex that includes the aMazing Hedge Puzzle and Miniature Golf - good for keeping kids entertained.

History buffs should visit the Chepstow Museum (NP16 5EZ, Wed-Mon 11am-4pm, free entry) which tells the story of the town's shipbuilding past and wine trade. It's small but informative and scores a solid 4/5 on TripAdvisor.

Pet Friendly

We've found Chepstow to be particularly good for dog owners. The Wye Valley and Forest of Dean offer endless walking routes where your dog can run free. Offa's Dyke Path passes right through town, offering a spectacular long-distance trail you can tackle in sections.

Many local pubs welcome dogs, including The Boat Inn (NP16 5HH) which has water bowls and treats available. Their riverside garden is perfect for summer visits. The Three Tuns (NP16 5HJ) in the town centre also welcomes dogs in the bar area and serves good food.

Chepstow Castle allows dogs on leads throughout the grounds, as does Tintern Abbey. For beach runs, Caldicot and Sudbrook beaches are about 15 minutes' drive away - both allow dogs year-round but check tide times as they disappear at high tide.

Most local shops keep water bowls outside and the town's vets (Chepstow Veterinary Clinic, NP16 5PB) offer emergency services if needed. Remember to bring towels for muddy paws before getting back in your hot tub!

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Chepstow

The Wye Valley Walk offers some of Britain's most stunning landscapes. The section from Chepstow to Tintern (about 4 miles) follows the river through ancient woodland. In spring, the forest floor becomes a carpet of bluebells. One visitor told me: "We saw kingfishers, herons and even an otter. The path is well-maintained and there are several spots to stop for a picnic."

Chepstow Racecourse (NP16 6BE) hosts regular race meetings throughout the year including the Welsh Grand National. Even if you're not into racing, the atmosphere on race days is electric. The course sits on a plateau with fantastic views across to the Severn Estuary. A TripAdvisor reviewer noted: "Great day out even for racing novices. Staff were helpful explaining how betting works and the food options were better than expected."

The 365 Steps at Wynd Cliff lead to the Eagle's Nest viewpoint with panoramic views across seven counties. It's a challenging climb but worth every step. From the top, you can see the Severn Bridges, the Forest of Dean and the Brecon Beacons on a clear day. Take water and wear proper shoes! As one visitor put it: "My legs were burning but the view made me forget all about it. Absolutely spectacular."

Is Chepstow worth visiting?

Absolutely! Chepstow offers a perfect mix of history, outdoor activities and good food. The castle alone justifies a visit, but add in the stunning Wye Valley scenery, excellent walking routes and proximity to other attractions like Tintern Abbey and you've got an ideal short break destination.

What's the best time of year to visit Chepstow?

Spring and autumn are ideal. May brings lush greenery and woodland flowers, while September/October offers spectacular autumn colours in the surrounding forests. Summer is busiest but has the best weather for outdoor activities. Winter can be quiet but the castle looks dramatic against grey skies and your cottage hot tub feels even more luxurious.

Do I need a car in Chepstow?

While Chepstow has a train station with connections to Cardiff and Gloucester, a car gives you much more flexibility. Many of the best attractions and walking routes are outside the town centre. That said, the town itself is walkable and there are some local buses serving nearby villages.

Where's good to eat in Chepstow?

The Riverside Wine Bar (NP16 5EY) offers excellent food with river views. For pub grub, try The Three Tuns or The Boat Inn. Panevino (NP16 5LJ) serves authentic Italian food that gets rave reviews. For breakfast or lunch, Toby's Café (NP16 5LW) is a local favourite with homemade cakes.

Can I visit Chepstow without crossing the Severn Bridge?

Yes, if you're coming from Wales. If travelling from England, you'll cross the Severn Bridge, but since 2018, there's no toll charge in either direction.

Is Chepstow in England or Wales?

Chepstow is in Wales, just across the border from England. The River Wye forms the border here, with Gloucestershire on the eastern bank and Monmouthshire (Wales) on the western side where Chepstow sits.

1. Cadw - Official Chepstow Castle information
2. Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
3. Chepstow Tourism Information