AN iconic pub near a castle has been given permission to convert its upstairs to holiday accommodation.

The Castle Inn, in Church Road, Caldicot, is within the town’s conservation area and backs onto the 12th century Caldicot Castle, built by the Normans and restored during the Victorian period.

Darren Jones has been granted change of use permission by Monmouthshire Council to convert the pub’s existing first floor flat to four bedrooms for tourist use.

Monmouthshire planning officer Kate Young said: “The visitors are likely to remain within the vicinity of the site and use local services and facilities.“

The castle hosts large-scale regular events, including a series of Summer Nights shows last month by the likes of top bands Razorlight, Squeeze and The Levellers.