IT MAY have been excluded from the latest guide to the UK, but that does not mean Newport doesn't have something to offer tourists.

In the latest Lonely Planet guide to Great Britain, published yesterday, Newport is notable by its absence, but the omission from the guide does not mean the city is without its merits.

With two rugby and one football team for sports fans, Newport also boasts a mix of history, industry and a world class golf course and Velodrome.

Anne Gatehouse, membership secretary of Friends of the Transporter Bridge and author of Newport's Treasures said it was "terrible" the city itself was not included.

She added: "There's the canals, the wetlands, the indoor market, over 400 listed buildings, lovely Victorian buildings, we've got a fantastic new university and rugby stadium - I could go on - Newport's got plenty to offer."

Gwent gets a decent showing in the book, which notes its range of attractions, from historical sites such as Raglan Castle and Caerleon's Roman offerings, to the industrial past which helped shape the area with attractions including Blaenavon's Big Pit and Ironworks.

The A466 from Chepstow to Monmouth is described as a "beautiful drive" and the book recommends a trip to Monmouth for a blend of history, such as the castle, with popular culture - Rockfield recording studios have played host to acts including Oasis and Coldplay.

Skenfrith is described as a "chocolate box village" which encapsulates the Monmouthshire countryside.

Blaenavon is described as an "interesting town" to visit with the major attractions including the World Heritage Centre, Big Pit and the Ironworks.

But the town isn't all industry and Blaenavon Cheddar Co is recommended.

For people getting about in the Valleys, the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway steam train is given as a good way to get between the two towns.

The guide book goes into plenty of detail about what is on offer in Caerleon. Lonely Planet describes the village as "one of the largest and most important Roman settlements in Britain" which is home to an "excellent" museum, Roman Baths and amphitheatre.

A spokeswoman for the book said: "Our books are designed to be useful guides for travellers to use on the road and whilst researching at home, not travel brochures listing everything in the UK."

She said Newport was not included as it does not have any drawcards for visitors, but the Great Britain book is updated every two years so researchers will be back for the next edition soon.

Ten of Newport's best

HERE’S our list of Newport attractions the Lonely Planet might like to include next time:

  • Tredegar House
  • The Wetlands
  • Rodney Parade
  • Spytty Park
  • The Transporter Bridge
  • Maindee Festival
  • The Indoor Market
  • The Celtic Manor Resort
  • Velodrome
  • Riverfront Theatre