The Celtic Manor Resort – Roman Road Course

The Celtic Manor Resort – Roman Road Course (Newport, Newport, Wales)

Nestled in the picturesque Usk Valley, The Roman Road Course at Celtic Manor Resort offers golfers a journey through history and natural beauty. As you stand on the tee, overlooking the Severn Estuary with views stretching to Somerset and Devon, you can almost hear the echoes of Roman legions marching along the ancient Via Julia highway that once traversed these lands. Designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Sr., this par 70 championship course, opened in 1995, has challenged and delighted golfers for decades.

Whether you’re aiming to follow in the footsteps of European Tour professionals or seeking a memorable round amidst stunning scenery, The Roman Road Course promises an unforgettable golfing experience.

Key Details

• Location: Newport, Newport, Wales
• Length: 6,406 yards (from championship tees)
• Par: 70
• Designers: Robert Trent Jones Sr.
• Established: 1995
• Notable Events: Wales Open (2005-2007), Wales Senior Open (2015, 2016), All*Star Cup

History and Significance

The Roman Road Course, the first of three championship courses at the Celtic Manor Resort, opened in 1995 under the vision of Sir Terry Matthews, a Welsh billionaire who purchased the property in 1980. Designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Sr., a friend of Matthews with family roots in Aberystwyth, the course was named after the Via Julia, an ancient Roman highway connecting Caerleon to Caerwent, which runs through its fairways. Construction began in 1992, carefully preserving the area’s historical remnants under the oversight of the Glamorgan-Gwent Archaeological Trust.

Since its opening, the course has hosted prestigious tournaments, including the Celtic Manor Wales Open from 2005 to 2007, featuring winners like Ryder Cup stars Ian Poulter and Paul McGinley, and the SSE Enterprise Wales Senior Open in 2015 and 2016. It also staged the All*Star Cup, a celebrity golf event with participants like Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta Jones, adding a touch of glamour to its legacy. Ranked as the “top inland course in Wales” by Golf Monthly Magazine, the Roman Road Course has solidified its reputation as a premier golfing destination, blending historical significance with modern challenges.

The course’s prominence is enhanced by its place within the Celtic Manor Resort, which hosted the 2010 Ryder Cup on its Twenty Ten Course and the 2014 NATO Summit, elevating the resort’s global profile. Its challenging layout, scenic beauty, and association with professional golf make it a must-visit for enthusiasts seeking both sport and heritage.

Course Features

The Roman Road Course is a parkland layout characterized by significant elevation changes and a mix of open fairways and tree-lined holes. The front nine, stretching approximately 600 yards longer than the back, features longer holes with dramatic descents, offering opportunities for bold drives but punishing wayward shots with semi-rough and bunkers. The back nine winds through mature woodland and across streams, creating a more intricate and strategic challenge.

Key features include large, strategically placed bunkers that demand accuracy off the tee and on approach shots, as well as water hazards that add risk-reward elements, particularly on holes like the 14th and 16th. The greens are notable for their size and bold contouring, requiring precise iron play and careful putting to navigate their undulations. The course’s defenses are further reinforced by lush, grassy rough, where errant shots may disappear, emphasizing the need for course management.

The scenic beauty of the Roman Road Course is a highlight, with panoramic views of the Severn Estuary, the Bristol Channel, and the surrounding Welsh countryside. From the closing stretch, golfers can see across the Usk Valley to Caerleon, a former Roman settlement, and the imposing Celtic Manor Resort Hotel, enhancing the visual and emotional impact of the round.

Signature Holes

8th Hole (Par 3, Long)

The 8th hole is a challenging par-3 that tests both accuracy and nerve. Golfers must hit a precise tee shot through a narrow corridor of trees to a green heavily guarded by bunkers. The length of the hole, combined with the tight fairway and surrounding hazards, makes par a rewarding achievement and sets up a potential birdie for those who execute flawlessly.

11th Hole (Par 3, Medium)

The 11th is a picturesque par-3, played through a tunnel of trees that creates a dramatic and secluded setting. The green is protected by bunkers, and its undulating surface demands a well-judged approach to avoid three-putts. The serene beauty and strategic challenge make this hole a standout.

14th Hole (Par 4, Short)

This strategic par-4 features a sharp right-to-left dogleg, requiring careful positioning off the tee to avoid the trees lining the fairway. The approach shot must carry over a water hazard to reach the green, offering a classic risk-reward scenario. Golfers who navigate the dogleg and execute a precise second shot can set up a birdie opportunity.

18th Hole (Par 4, Medium)

The finishing hole is a fitting climax, a par-4 that plays back toward the clubhouse with the dining terrace in view. Bunkers and potential water hazards challenge the drive and approach, demanding accuracy to close out the round. The green’s setting in front of the luxurious clubhouse adds a sense of occasion, making it a memorable finale.

Why Visit

The Roman Road Course offers a compelling blend of history, challenge, and beauty, making it a must-play for golf enthusiasts. Walking fairways that trace the path of an ancient Roman highway, you’ll feel a connection to the past while tackling a modern championship layout designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. The course’s mix of open fairways, tight tree-lined holes, and strategic hazards ensures a test of skill for players of all levels, with forward tees accommodating higher handicappers.

The emotional resonance of playing a course that has hosted European Tour events and celebrity tournaments adds to its allure. As Jim McKenzie, former head greenkeeper, noted, “The Roman Road has been a very important part of [Celtic Manor’s] story and is a golf course we can all feel very proud of”. Beyond the course, the Celtic Manor Resort offers luxury accommodations, award-winning dining, and world-class spa facilities, making it an ideal destination for a golfing getaway. Whether you’re seeking a challenging round or a luxurious retreat, the Roman Road Course delivers an unforgettable experience.

Facilities

The Celtic Manor Golf Club features one of Europe’s most luxurious clubhouses, with high ceilings, wooden beams, open fires, and comfortable sofas. Golfers can dine at The Grill, which offers relaxed meals with views of the 18th green, or unwind at one of two bars or the dining terrace. The clubhouse also includes function rooms for private events and a well-stocked pro shop for equipment and apparel.

Practice facilities are top-notch, including a floodlit Toptracer driving range, putting greens, and chipping areas, allowing golfers to refine their skills. The resort offers PGA professional lessons, equipment rentals, and caddy services, ensuring all golfing needs are met. Additional amenities, such as the Forum Health Club and Ocius Treatment Rooms, provide relaxation and fitness options for guests.

Contact Details and Directions

• Address: Coldra Woods, The Usk Valley, Newport, South Wales, NP18 1HQ, United Kingdom
• Phone: +44 (0)1633 413 000
• Email: Contact via Celtic Manor Contact
• Directions: Located off the M4 at Junction 24, the resort is 90 minutes from London Heathrow, 45 minutes from Cardiff and Bristol Airports, and 5 minutes from the Severn Bridge. From London, take the M4 westbound and exit at Junction 24, following signs for Celtic Manor Resort.
• Public Transport: Newport station, with direct trains from Cardiff, London Paddington, and Birmingham, is the closest rail hub. From there, take a bus along Chepstow Road or a taxi to the resort.
• Parking: Ample outdoor parking is available, with underground options (charges may apply).
• Map: View on Google Maps

Green Fees and Booking

Green fees for the Roman Road Course vary by season and day, with rates starting at £89 for Monday-Thursday and £115 for Friday-Sunday in peak season (May-July). Twilight rates and special offers, such as a complimentary drink during major tournaments, may be available. Below is a sample pricing table for 2025:

Booking is available online at Celtic Manor Golf or by calling +44 (0)1633 410263. Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak times. No handicap certificate is required, but players should be competent golfers. The dress code mandates standard golf attire: collared shirts, tailored trousers, and no denim.

Nearby Attractions

Newport and the Usk Valley weave together Roman heritage, lush landscapes, and vibrant city life, making them perfect for enriching your golf trip to the Celtic Manor Resort. From ancient ruins to stately homes and wildlife havens, the area offers something for every traveler.

• Caerleon Roman Fortress and Baths (1.0 mile): Discover the remarkably preserved ruins of a Roman legionary fortress, featuring baths, barracks, and an amphitheatre. This site offers a vivid glimpse into ancient Britain’s military and social life, perfect for history enthusiasts.
• National Roman Legion Museum (1.0 mile): Explore an extensive collection of Roman artifacts, including weapons, jewelry, and everyday items. The museum brings to life the stories of soldiers and civilians in Roman Wales, ideal for a cultural stop.
• Tredegar House (5 miles): Step into a grand 17th-century mansion, once home to the Morgan family. Its opulent interiors and sprawling gardens, with guided tours available, make it a captivating destination for history and architecture lovers.
• Newport Museum and Art Gallery (3 miles): Delve into Newport’s past through exhibits on local industry, archaeology, and art. This museum offers a compact yet engaging look at the region’s cultural heritage, great for a quick visit.
• Cardiff (15 miles): Wales’ dynamic capital boasts Cardiff Castle, the Millennium Stadium, and vibrant shopping and dining. A short drive away, it’s an excellent day trip for those seeking urban energy and historical landmarks.
• Newport Wetlands Reserve (6 miles): Wander scenic trails through marshes teeming with birds and wildlife. This tranquil reserve is a haven for nature lovers, offering breathtaking views and peaceful walks near the Severn Estuary.
• Caerwent Roman Town (7 miles): Visit the evocative ruins of a Roman settlement, complete with defensive walls and building foundations. Tied to the course’s namesake, it’s a must-see for those intrigued by ancient history.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I book a tee time at the Roman Road Course?

Book online at the Celtic Manor website or call +44 (0)1633 410263 for tee time reservations.

What are the green fees for the Roman Road Course?

Green fees start at £89 for weekdays and £115 for weekends in peak season; check online for rates.

Is the Roman Road Course beginner-friendly?

Forward tees make it accessible, but its challenging layout suits competent golfers best.

When is the best time to play the Roman Road Course?

May to July offers ideal weather, though year-round play is possible; check for wet conditions.

What is the dress code for the Roman Road Course?

Wear collared shirts and tailored trousers or shorts; denim and athletic wear are prohibited.

Are caddy services available at the Roman Road Course?

Yes, caddies can be arranged by contacting the golf concierge at +44 (0)1633 410395.

What facilities does the Roman Road Course clubhouse offer?

The clubhouse includes The Grill restaurant, bars, a dining terrace, pro shop, and locker rooms.

How do I get to the Celtic Manor Resort?

Take the M4 to Junction 24; it’s 90 minutes from Heathrow, 45 minutes from Cardiff or Bristol.

Is parking available at the Celtic Manor Resort?

Ample outdoor and underground parking is available; underground parking may incur a charge.

What tournaments has the Roman Road Course hosted?

It hosted the Wales Open (2005-2007), Wales Senior Open (2015, 2016), and All*Star Cup.

Why is the Roman Road Course named after a Roman road?

The course follows the path of the Via Julia, an ancient Roman highway through the Usk Valley.

Are there accommodation options at Celtic Manor Resort?

Choose from the 5-star Resort Hotel, Manor House, Hunter Lodges, or nearby Coldra Court Hotel.

Can I join as a member of the Roman Road Course?

Golf memberships are available; contact +44 (0)1633 410430 for membership details.

What’s the weather like at the Roman Road Course?

Wales’ weather varies; dress in layers and check forecasts, as rain can affect fairways.

What makes the Roman Road Course unique?

Its Roman heritage, Robert Trent Jones Sr. design, and Severn Estuary views create a distinctive experience.