There are several ways to focus a trip to Portskewett: archaeological traces, historic buildings and paths by the Severn. Black Rock adds to these themes with its long history as a crossing point and its Lave Net fishery. When planning, consider whether you would like to focus mainly on the historic sites or set aside time for walks and hiking trails.
Roman traces in Portskewett
Portskewett Hill Roman Site is designated as a Scheduled Monument; the designation date is 23 February 1934. The site comprises the remains of a Romano-British complex dating from around AD 70 to 410. Its former function remains uncertain: it may have been a villa or a temple. Here, a clearly defined monument designation meets an open interpretation of the site’s use.
Black Rock is also connected with Roman history. Throughout the Roman period, the site was used as part of the route between Aquae Sulis (Bath) and Venta Silurum (Caerwent). For many centuries, Black Rock was also an important crossing point over the River Severn. These two perspectives across time make Black Rock a distinct focus alongside the Roman site in Portskewett.
Church architecture and local history
The Church of St Mary in Portskewett is a Grade I listed building. Its nave and chancel arch are Norman. The terms refer to different parts of the church: the nave as the main part and the chancel arch at the entrance to the chancel. The uneven ground south of the church is marked as “Harold’s Field” on some older maps.
At Heston Brake, there is evidence of a significant Neolithic chambered tomb or long barrow. The stones at Heston Brake can be reached via a public footpath accessed through a kissing gate. As path conditions can vary, check them before your visit. The archaeological traces and the church architecture offer different points of interest: one is a possible prehistoric site, the other a church building with named Norman features.
Black Rock and paths by the Severn
Traditional Lave Net fishing has been practised at Black Rock for hundreds of years. From the Black Rock Picnic Site, you can safely observe the Black Rock Lave Net Heritage Fishery. You can also picnic at the site and take a coastal walk between the two Severn bridges. Both the fishing tradition and a waterside walk are possible highlights here.
There are different route descriptions to help you find your way on hikes. The Caldicot and Sudbrook circular walk passes through Portskewett and the open spaces of Harold’s Park and the Cornfield Project. The Black Rock Walk is 3 miles long and follows a section of the Wales Coast Path. You can choose a route based on the places mentioned along the circular walk or the stated length of the Black Rock Walk.
Accommodation and trip planning
When looking for hotels in Portskewett, consider what you want to focus on during your trip: would you like to include historic sites and churches in your plans, or set aside time for hiking trails and a coastal walk?
Discover more destinations: Caerwent, Llangybi, Penperlleni, Llanarth, Usk, Llangattock-Vibon-Avel, Penrhos, Llandenny.
For the broader travel overview: Monmouthshire.
