Newbridge, as its name implies, was the name given by the people to land around the "new bridge" built across the Ebbw (Afon Ebwy) towards the end of the eighteenth century. At this time Newbridge was a predominantly Welsh agrarian community. In the valley, the chief farms were Ty-Llydd, where the new vicarage now stands, Tynewydd, where Newbridge Hotel stands, Ty-hir, the house which stands next to the Beaufort Arms, and the Newbridge Corn mill which stood near the South Celynen Colliery.

Much has changed since and gradually, Newbridge has become more of a centre for trade. From such a sparse agricultural base Newbridge town centre has become a location that attracts many shoppers and businesses. World Boxing Champion Joe Calzaghe also hails from the town.