New documentary tells the story of the Newport Medieval Ship
Cyfrinachau’r Llong / A Ship Through Time: Secrets of the Newport Ship sees presenter Sean Fletcher follow an international team of experts as they uncover the secrets of the ship, which was concealed in the mud of the River Usk in Newport for over 500 years.
Since its discovery in 2002, the ship has provoked intrigue with people across the world, interested in finding out more about when it was built, where it came from and how it ended up in Newport.
The two-part documentary explores this history, the ship’s international significance, and how two of Europe’s most turbulent and violent wars shaped her fate.
A Ship Through Time is available on demand free on S4C Clic, with Welsh or English subtitles. It is also available in English on other pay-for streaming channels such as YouTube, Apple TV and Prime Video.
“The Newport Medieval Ship is an important piece of our city’s history,” said Emma Corten, cabinet member for culture and communications at Newport City Council.
“We’re thrilled that A Ship Through Time will take the story of the ship to new audiences, raising its profile across Wales and the UK. We can’t wait to see the programme air next month!”
Speaking about making the programme, Catrin Evans, director and series producer at One Tribe TV, said:
“It has been an absolute privilege to direct this documentary and tell the story of the incredible Newport Medieval Ship and the tireless, meticulous work carried out by the dedicated team behind its discovery, research and preservation.
“This globally significant archaeological find will undoubtedly make a groundbreaking contribution to Welsh history and heritage and bring the ship’s story to life for generations to come.”
Further details are available from Newport City Council
Reminder: The visitor centre is closed for the winter but reopens again for its 2026 visitor season, from 27 March to 31 October.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has visited the ship and hope to see you again next spring when we reopen to the public.
Although we will be physically closed for the winter we will still be posting updates to our social media channels so please follow us to receive updates.
Volunteer Opportunities and Pictures Request
We are always looking for new volunteers- please see our volunteer page or contact us to learn more about
what opportunities are available.
If you have any images from the excavation of the Ship or FoNS activities since 2002, we would like to hear from you so we can ensure they are part of the Newport Ship archive and to feature them in future newsletters.
Details of how get in touch are on our contact us page