The historic town of Usk and its Rugby Club both have their origins back in the mists of time. The town is situated in the picturesque Vale of Usk on the banks of the River Usk, renowned world wide for the quality of its salmon fishing. Although there were pre-Roman small Iron Age forts in and around the town, the first settlement was in Roman times. In that era, the town was known as Burrium and formed an integral part of the Roman occupation of Wales.

In the Dark Ages or Celtic times, Usk was know as Bryn Buga and after the Norman conquest, the county of Gwent became a Norman stronghold. More than twelve castles were built in the Marchlands of Monmouthshire and the strong square keep in Usk was an example of Norman domination. In later years, further fortified extensions and enlargements were made to Usk Castle and a well-known local family occupies Castle House to this day.

During the Middle Ages, the town moved away from the manorial system based on the Usk Castle, to become a market town. The industrial Revolution which changed life so dramatically in the Western Valleys of Gwent, passed Usk by and today the town retains all the character and features of a small market town. The population is still only around 2,200 and its street pattern, shops, etc. are typical of such market towns in a rural setting. The number and type of hostelries, be they hotels or pubs, reflect the heritage of the town as a local market and cultural centre which continutes to attract numerous visitors each year.

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