Newport and Cwmbran have recently emerged as commuter hotspots for those working in Bristol, thanks to the attractive house prices and lower costs of living and travel. Families and young professionals are flocking to both Newport and Cwmbran, according to research by property portal Zoopla. Cwmbran came in first place with modest combined mortgage costs and annual rail season ticket prices of £7,535 and a commute time of 58 minutes. Newport was a close second with a combined cost of £8,393, however the commute is significantly less at just 35 minutes.

This recent research is based on living in these areas and travelling to work in Bristol by train; however, as anyone who has crossed the Severn Bridge recently will know, the scrapping of the tolls has also made it cheaper to drive from Bristol into Wales. If you choose to drive from Newport to Bristol it will take you around 40 minutes, without having to pay the £6 bridge toll on your return.

If you’d rather crowded commuter trains when travelling between the two cities there is now another option. Zeelo coaches are providing a comfortable and premium service that will shuttle you directly from South Wales into the centre of Bristol from just £6 each way. During your journey, you will receive a guaranteed seat with fold-down tables and access to free wi-fi.

Properties for Sale in Cwmbran

According to Zoopla, the current average value of a detached home is £293,624; a semi-detached property will cost you around £166,721, a terraced home £130,111, and a flat is, on average, £102,642.

Forming part of the Usk Valley, Cwmbran is located three miles north of Newport with easy access to the M4 as well as a railways station at its centre. The large shopping centre boasts most retail brands as well as free parking for shoppers. The restaurant and entertainment quarter includes a cinema, bowling alley, gym and popular restaurants such as Harvester, Tiffins and Kaspas.

The local boating lake, park, community farm and theatre makes Cwmbran a great place to live for families. With everything on your doorstep, you can enjoy working in the city and coming home to the surrounding Welsh countryside, plus all the benefits of a town filled with community spirit.

Properties for Sale in Newport

According to Zoopla, the current average value of a detached home is £301,322; a semi-detached property will cost you around £177,648, a terraced home £132,436, and a flat is, on average, £113,020.

Located on the River Usk, the city is just 12 miles from Cardiff and 30 miles from Bristol. As well as the third largest city in Wales, Newport, there are several smaller areas to consider living if you are planning on commuting to Bristol. Langstone and Caerleon are two of the most popular areas, offering both new-build developments and character homes surrounded by history, local amenities and excellent schools.

Ideal for young professionals or families, Newport has something for everyone. Friars Walk is the new shopping centre with restaurants, bars and a cinema. The local football team, Newport County, has a strong following for those who like to support their local team. You can’t ignore the history of Newport with the 17th century country mansion, Tredegar House, the Roman Fortress and Baths and the famous Transporter Bridge.

There is lots more to discover this side of the bridge, so if you fancy living in an increasingly vibrant area surrounded by dramatic countryside as well as taking advantage of some very competitive property prices, it’s time to you came to have a look.

Whether you choose to drive, jump on the train or go via coach you will reap the financial benefits of living in Newport or Cwmbran while working in Bristol. If you are looking for a home here or have a property to sell, call our team on 01633 870777.