The river Usk is a popular salmon and trout fishery, and has its source high in the Brecon Beacons. By the time it reaches Abergavenny the river is a splendid stretch of water surrounded by three mountains: Sugar Loaf, Blorenge and Skirrid Fawr.  Further south, the Vale of Usk opens out into a patchwork of fields with country lanes and quaint villages.