THIS is an exhilarating, mostly level 7.5-mile (12km) circular walk on hard surface paths around the reserve.

Generally flat rural footpaths with stiles and gates to negotiate as you leave the reserve.

Walkers are encouraged to find an alternative route between point C and D during the nesting season.

Parking in Newport Wetlands Car Park. There is a charge to park here.

South Wales Argus: map

A. Start at the Newport Wetlands Visitor Centre and follow surfaced path onto main reserve and around the reed beds leading towards East Usk Lighthouse.

B. Continue along coastal footpath before heading inland towards Salt Marsh Lane.

C. Follow waymarks leading you to field path on the right, the route winds across fields and footbridges past Redhouse farm and eventually onto Goldcliff Road.

D. Turn right along road for approximately 50 metres, look out for a finger post again on your right.

E. Turn right along a footpath that loops around Goldcliff Pill back to kissing gate onto Goldcliff Road.

F. Turn left onto road toward Farmers Arms Pub and follow footpath that leads to the church. Once through the church gates continue along tree-lined path bearing left on approach to church, looking for a footbridge to rear of church.

G. Follow the waymarks across a series of footbridges towards Henton Farm.

H. Cross stile onto lane and head left following a rutted track that will take you past Henton farm, before a better surfaced track leads you towards Cross Farm, and the main Goldcliff Road.

I. Turn right along the road for a short distance before rejoining the footpath at a finger post and bridge on your left.

J. Follow waymark arrows over several footbridges to Farmfield Lane.

K. Turn left along Farmfield Lane until you reach a kissing gate leading you back onto the reserve, continue through gate and follow wide grassed track to the sea wall.

L. Turn right at sea wall and retrace your steps back to the visitor centre.

MORE NEWS:

Newport Wetlands Reserve is a nationally important haven for wildlife and is a designated National Nature Reserve. There is an amazing variety of wild birds, wildlife and flora. Free Admission to the Environment Education and Visitor Centre and Reserve.

Opening Hours 9am to 5pm or dusk if earlier, every day except Christmas day.

For further information contact Newport City Council on 01633 656656 or visit www.@newport.gov.uk, email: countryside@newport.gov.uk