A village of two parts, steeped in history
Divided into Upper and Lower Redbrook, the village straddles a captivating landscape where England meets Wales. Lower Redbrook nestles along the serpentine route of the main Monmouth to Chepstow road, a scenic journey that courses through the breathtaking Wye Valley. In contrast, Upper Redbrook lies on a winding road that climbs through a picturesque valley toward the quaint village of Newland. Remarkably, most of the village falls within the boundaries of Gloucestershire, England, while a portion extends into Wales, adding to its unique character.
Redbrook's history is steeped in industry, tracing its roots to once-thriving copper works that eventually gave way to a significant tin production facility. Upper Redbrook was historically a hub of milling activities, benefitting from a brook that eventually feeds into the River Wye.
Today, the village offers a quaint and inviting atmosphere, complete with a local church, a community shop filled with local produce, and two charming pubs. One of these pubs is conveniently located on the English side of the River Wye, while its Welsh counterpart can be accessed via a footbridge that links the two nations.
Adding to the area's intrigue, this footbridge is an evocative remnant of the Wye Valley Railway. It served as a crucial connector between two railway stations: Penallt Halt on the Welsh side to the west of the river and Redbrook station on the English east bank. Though the trains no longer run, the footbridge stands as a symbol of the village's rich history, providing a picturesque pathway between the English and Welsh parts of this unique and charming community.
