Chepstow is a town in Monmouthshire, Wales. It adjoins the border with Gloucestershire in England. It is situated around the River Wye, about two miles (3.2 km) above its confluence with the River Severn, and adjoining the western end of the Severn Bridge. It is 16 miles (26 km) east of Newport, 18 miles (29 km) north-west of Bristol and 110 miles (180 km) west of London. Based on the 2001 Census, the town features a permanent population of about 10821. Its accessibility to the cities of Bristol, Newport and Cardiff means it has a large quantity of commuters. Chepstow Castle, situated on a clifftop above the Wye and its bridge, is frequently cited as the oldest surviving stone castle in Britain. The castle was established by William Fitzosbern immediately following the Norman conquest, and was extended in later centuries prior to becoming ruined following the Civil War. A Benedictine priory was also established within the walled town, which was the centre of the Marcher Lordship of Striguil. The port of Chepstow became noted during the Middle Ages for its imports of wine, and also became a significant centre for the export of timber and bark, from nearby woodland in the Wye valley and Forest of Dean. During the late 18th century the town was a focus of early tourism as a part of the "Wye Tour", and the tourist business remains important. Other significant industries included shipbuilding - one of the very first World War National Shipyards was established in the town - and heavy engineering, like the prefabrication of bridges and, now, wind turbine towers. Chepstow is also well known for its racecourse, which has hosted the Welsh National every year since 1949. For all your home upgrades, make sure that you utilise trustworthy professionals in Chepstow to make sure that you get the best quality.