FOURTEEN Locks, in Rogerstone near Newport, is situated midway along the Monmouthshire Canal. Its series of pools and locks, fringed by ancient woodland, provide a delightful and relaxing day out for all the family.

Or they would if you didn't arrive in a hailstorm! When we arrived the surface of the canal hissed and shivered in a furious April downpour.

We took immediate refuge in the visitor centre, which sits at the edge of the first and largest pond.

Inside (entrance to the visitor centre is free) several interesting exhibitions give information on the history and environment of the canal.

It was built at the end of the 18th century to improve the transportation of goods for the flourishing coal and iron industries in the area. Until then everything - however heavy - had been carried by mules and pack horses.

The canal was completed in 1796 and stretches for 22 miles from Crumlin to Pontypool and beyond.

When it was built it was an enormous success, but a short-lived one. The steam revolution brought trains; faster, stronger and more efficient than barges, and the canal fell into disuse and decline.

It hasn't been used since 1915, but it is being renovated, and should be fully open again to pleasure boats by 2008.

By the time we had seen all that the three room visitor centre had to offer the sky was blue again, and we ventured outside.

A giant dragonfly, a climbing frame and fairytale woodland give children plenty of scope for playing and exploring. The woods lying along the edge of the ponds are starry with spring flowers - an ideal spot for a picnic.

A well-maintained system of towpaths mean that it is easy to walk along the banks of the canal, and with views stretching out to the hazy Brecon Beacons, well worth it. Catherine Nixey.