Monmouthshire is river country, with the Usk and the Wye running through it. That sounds ideal for a dog who likes the water, but rivers come with currents, mud and rules about access. We couldn’t verify an official dog swimming spot, so here’s what we found, including places to keep your dog out of the water.
1. Usk Island Picnic Site – Llanbadoc
Address: Llanbadoc, Usk NP15 1SY
Google rating: 4.5 (87 reviews)
View on Google Maps
This picnic spot sits on the bank of the River Usk with a small, free car park (reviewers say it closes at 8pm) and a food van. Reviewers describe river swimming and say it’s good for dog walks; others warn the water quality can be dodgy. We found no official swimming guidance, so look carefully at the flow and cleanliness before letting your dog in. Monmouthshire’s dog control order marks the Usk Island play area as no dogs, so keep your dog out of that part.
2. Keeper’s Pond – Blorenge
Address: Near Blaenavon NP4 9QT
Free car park.
The Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority warned in August 2026, as reported by the Monmouthshire Beacon, that people must not enter the water at Keeper’s Pond under any circumstances until further notice. We found no reopening notice as of 11 October 2026, so keep your dog out of the water here.
3. Llandegfedd Reservoir
On the Monmouthshire and Torfaen border. Welsh Water has warned against unauthorised swimming in its reservoirs; the watersports centre runs organised sessions only. We couldn’t confirm dog rules, so treat it as a lakeside walk.
Rivers and the Wye
The Wye Valley National Landscape says the Wye can be dangerous and that below Bigsweir Bridge it is tidal and can be very dangerous. It adds that access to the river is not a right other than at accepted public sites, and mentions soft, dangerous mud at Chepstow landing. It doesn’t mention dogs.
Before you go
Rivers reward a dog who comes back when called; try the Monmouthshire dog trainers directory. If you’re thinking about everyday extras, Calmshops stocks Calmdogs Probiotic Chews, a complementary feed rather than a veterinary medicine; ask your vet what suits your dog. Local vets are listed under best vets in Monmouthshire, and the rest is on dog services in Monmouthshire. For the sea, see our Vale of Glamorgan guide or the UK dog swimming guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my dog swim at Keeper’s Pond?
No. The Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority warned in August 2026, as reported by the Monmouthshire Beacon, that people must not enter the water at Keeper’s Pond under any circumstances until further notice. We found no reopening notice at the time of writing, so keep your dog out of the water and check the authority’s website and local news for updates.
Is the River Usk at Usk Island a safe place for dogs to swim?
There is no official swimming guidance. Reviewers describe river swimming and good dog walks, while others warn the water quality can be dodgy. Look carefully at the flow and cleanliness first, and note that the council’s dog control order marks the Usk Island play area as no dogs.
Is the River Wye safe for dogs?
The Wye Valley National Landscape says the Wye can be dangerous, and that below Bigsweir Bridge it is tidal and can be very dangerous. It also mentions soft, dangerous mud at Chepstow landing and says access to the river is not a right other than at accepted public sites. It doesn’t mention dogs.
Is swimming allowed at Llandegfedd Reservoir?
Only organised open-water swimming through the on-site watersports centre. Welsh Water has warned against unauthorised swimming in its reservoirs. We couldn’t confirm the dog rules, so treat it as a lakeside walk and check at the site.
Written by Georgiana & Figo.
