The Valleys - Visit Wales

Transcription

The Valleys
of South Wales
Exhilarating activities
Impressive Castles
Rich Heritage
www.thevalleys.co.uk
Contents
Rediscover
The Valleys
in 2015
2 Each Valley is Unique!
Did you know…
Many people have an
impression of The Valleys in
their mind – but when was the
last time you visited? So much
has changed – away with pits
and tips – in with beautiful
green vistas and welcoming
communities with a rich
heritage to explore.
4 Get out - have fun!
Great for cycling.
8 Sunny days aplenty!
Ideas for sunny days out.
10 Green, Green Grass of Home!
Explore by foot …. Or horse!
14 Valleys Stories
Discover our heritage.
Parc Cwm Darran
The Valleys are very real - we have towering
castles to climb, deep mines to explore with
an experienced guide and a wealth of local
stories. The stunning green landscape is
great for exploring by walking across the
hills or cycling along the network of off road
paths, both great for the whole family.
Cwmcarn Forest
for a great day out!
20 A Tasty Tour
Beer, ice cream and a nice cup of tea!
22 Days out exploring
Suggestions for day trips.
24 Arts and events
Creative ideas.
26 Places to stay
A warm welcome.
40 How to find us
The Valleys are really accessible.
For the more adventurous, how about
mountain biking - we have superb mountain
bike parks with easy and challenging trails or
you can follow the roads over the hilltops
and really get your lungs burning! This
landscape is also great for climbing, caving
or gorge walking and we have brilliant,
experienced leaders to make sure you get
the best from your visit.
Then after a busy day - how about a meal
with the locals! There are great pubs and
eateries across The Valleys - local beers,
cheese and luscious ice creams. You can
even discover how to make Welsh Whisky.
Blaenavon Ironworks
18 It’s never too wet...
With so much to explore - make this the
year that you rediscover The Valleys.
Tredegar Clock and Nye Bevan
The Rhondda Valleys
Each Valley is Unique!
Afon Llwyd
Ebbw
Rhymney
Cynon
Rhondda
Garw
Age old market town and
the earliest ironworks, a
World Heritage Site and a
new town, a peaceful,
meandering canal and a
wealth of historic buildings.
The highest golf course, the
highest railway viaduct and
setting for the film
“Arabesque”. Ancient Celtic
hill fort, great cycling and
tasty Italian ice creams.
Romans, Normans, Welsh
princes, civil war and local
gentry, alongside coal mines
and disasters, and a “big
bite” of cheese!
Unique Welsh Whisky,
thundering waterfalls and
running hero, Guto Nyth
Bran, who is remembered
each New Year’s Eve at the
Nos Galan Road Races.
“Scenes of untouched nature”
that gave way to “Black
Gold”, have now returned to
steep-sided forest and
heather clad hills filled with
unique communities.
A rugged valley with links to
United States of America
and a pure heart that
continually sings …. Calon
Lan!
Sirhowy
Taff (North)
Taff (South)
Llynfi
Ogmore
Ely
Home of the Manic Street
Preachers, the National
Health Service and the
largest block of coal in the
world hewn for the 1851
Great Exhibition.
Merthyr Tydfil, iron capital
of the world and the start
of the railway revolution.
Now it’s “on your bike” on
Taff or Trevithick trail or
dramatic downhill tracks.
University town with a
bridge that’s almost 300
years old. The creation of
your “Grogg” means that
you’ve made it.
One of the oldest pubs in
Wales along with love songs
and almost forgotten Welsh
traditions.
Running into the heart of The
Valleys, walkers and cyclists
love the views and the
challenges of taking on “the
Bwlch” between the Ogmore
and Rhondda Valleys.
Gateway to The Valleys,
home to the Royal Mint and
to Dr William Price, one of
the most dynamic,
flamboyant and eccentric
figures in Welsh history.
2 www.thevalleys.co.uk
3
BikePark Wales
This purpose built bike park (with dedicated
trail crew to keep the trails in peak
condition) sits above Merthyr Tydfil with
terrific views into the Brecon Beacons and
down towards Cardiff. A great uplift (make
sure you book) and trails for cyclists with all
levels of experience. Family groups will love
the smooth flowing Badgers Run whilst the
Wibbly Wobbly (advanced trail) is rocky and
loose at the top, amazingly fast and features
a brilliant natural rock gap jump. For the
“experts” Dai Hard has quickly become a
signature trail – yes, the names are brilliant
as well as the trails!
Get out...
have fun!
The hills... The valleys...
together they make great
places to get on your bike!
The centre has a great café and bike centre
as well as picnic benches to enjoy the views!
Check the website for some fab reviews.
www.bikeparkwales.com
BikePark Wales
BikePark Wales
Mountain Biking
Cwmcarn Forest
Obviously – where there are valleys there
are also hills. In The Valleys this means that
we have great opportunities for Mountain
Biking. There are tracks and paths linking the
valleys and hills for all levels of expertise,
but the very best facilities are found at the
mountain bike centres.
Just 15 minutes from M4 (Junction 28),
Cwmcarn Forest is an ideal destination for
a ride on those long summer evenings, when
you’ll be able to see right across the Severn
Estuary as well as enjoying a brilliant ride.
Cwmcarn
BikePark Wales
The Twrch Trail is over 15km long and is not
for the faint hearted. It’s a purpose built
singletrack which provides a rollercoaster
ride: it’s fast, swooping and you’ll be
exposed to some very steep hillside.
Meanwhile Y Mynydd Downhill has loads of
berms, switch backs, a tunnel, rock steps
and a bottom section where you can go flat
out – if you dare!
Darren Fawr Mountain
Bike Trails
www.cwmcarnforest.co.uk
www.gvcc.org.uk
Darren Fawr
From the Parc Calon Lan Visitor Centre
car park, Blaengarw you can follow 2
brilliant trails across the wooded hillsides,
with winding trails as well as lung burning
climbs and thrilling descents!
Taff Trail
5
Great "Off Road"
trails
Taff Trail
This trail runs right through the middle of
The Valleys – joining Cardiff and Merthyr
Tydfil. For much of the route you are
following the Glamorganshire Canal or
various railway tracks. Along the way you
can call into Castell Coch or visit Pontypridd
Museum before heading on to Merthyr
Tydfil where you’ll cross the magnificent
Cefn Coed Viaduct. There are loads of places
to stop for a picnic – and there are other
routes that link in – like the Trevithick Trail
which follows the exact route of the World
first ever steam locomotive.
Taff Trail
Ebbw Fach Trail
Parc Taf Bargoed
Three Parcs Trail
This brilliant traffic-free route links Sirhowy
Valley Country Park to Parc Penallta and
then on to Parc Taf Bargoed – on the way
travelling across the Hengoed Viaduct,
passing by Sultan the Pit Pony (the UK’s
largest figurative earth sculpture) possibly
catching sight of the dippers and wagtails
that are now so abundant in the reclaimed
woodlands. All this in just 11 miles of cycling.
Follow the Ebbw River from Beaufort to
Llanhilleth – maybe stopping at Nantyglo
Roundhouse Towers, Salem Chapel and
Llanhilleth Institute along the way. You won’t
miss the Guardian at Six Bells, the mining
memorial that looks down from 200 metres
above the former mine site.
Download free maps and trail leaflets for
across The Valleys at
www.ebbwfachtrail.org.uk
Afon Lwyd Trail
This route follows the canal towpath and
former railway tracks between Cwmbran
and the World Heritage Site of Blaenavon –
a great place to stop for a cup of tea.
www.sustrans.org.uk/wales/nationalcycle
-network/free-leaflets-and-maps
Junior Tour of Wales - www.juniortourofwales.org
Enjoy the roads
The road network through The Valleys is
loved by many cyclists and this year there
are opportunities to explore the area and be
part of great cycling events.
On 7 June is the Wiggle Dragon Ride
which will leave Margam Abbey and explore
the west section of The Valleys. Steep
climbs, including the Rhigos, with great
views of the Brecon Beacons are amongst
the challenges that make this event a must
on any cyclists “bucket list”.
Then, on the 14 June it’s the first Wales
Velothon. Starting in Cardiff, participants
will “take on” the infamous Tumble climb in
the Blaenavon World Heritage Site just like
the Tour of Britain cyclists did in 2014. There
is even a Velothon Wales’ King of the
Mountains challenge.
Of course, if you don’t want to join the
crowds then you can follow the routes at any
time of year – just have a look at the
websites.
www.humanrace.co.uk/events/cycling
/dragon-ride
www.velothon-wales.co.uk
7
Parc Bryn Bach
Sunny days aplenty!
Other parks will help you discover
the area’s history, folk tales and the
flora and fauna. Bryngarw Country
Park, Bridgend is the starting point
for The Bridgend Keepers guardians of the story of the Land;
there are 14 to be found each with
their own unique story. Meanwhile
at Parc Cwm Darran, Bargoed you
can follow the Countryside Collector
Trail or use the audio trail to discover
the history of the area. Alternatively,
a trip to Pontypool Park, allows
you to discover some of the early
industrial history as well as some of
the extravagances of the Hanbury
family such as the Folly Tower and
and Grotto that they built on the
hillsides; you can picnic by them just
as the Hanbury’s did!
The scars of industry are long gone - and now The Valleys are
filled with fabulous country parks. When the sun is high in the
sky, it’s great to get out and explore, maybe with a picnic and a
rug to enjoy the views!
Parks like Parc Bryn Bach, Tredegar, Parc
Taf Bargoed, near Trelewis and Dare Valley
Country Park, Aberdare are great for
activities – long walks, cycles, a spot of
fishing or even some water sports – but
each have their own special feature. How
about a round of golf at Parc Bryn Bach? Or
a spot of rock climbing at Parc Taf Bargoed?
Or get dirty at the Combat Zone at Dare
Valley Country Park?
Bryngarw House and Country Park
www.parcbrynbach.co.uk
www.visitmerthyr.co.uk
www.darevalleycountrypark.co.uk
www.bridgendbites.com/2014/11/21/bridgend-nature-keepers
your.caerphilly.gov.uk/countryside/parks/parc-cwm-darran
www.torfaen.gov.uk
Cwmcarn Forest
Splash pad Cyfarthfa Park
The Keepers
9
Walk Routes
The Green, Green Grass of Home!
The Valleys are green - with forests, country parks, unspoilt
hillsides, open common land, clear rivers and crisp lakes
together providing a wonderful backdrop to our traditional
Valley communities. The views from the hill tops are
stunning and are often a surprise.
Experienced walkers will know that picking up an OS map, a compass and putting on your
boots will allow you to explore the very best of The Valleys. However, if you are new to
walking then taking one of the waymarked routes will be an easier way of exploring the hills
and valleys (of course, boots and safety gear are always a must). Here are a few suggestions.
Llynfi
Literally meaning 'smooth stream', the
Llynfi valley is surrounded by green hills,
a wooded valley and a picturesque
viaduct, which once carried the Port
Talbot Railway. There are a series of
walks based around Maesteg.
www.bridgendbites.com
Iron Mountain
The Iron Mountain Trail is an 18km (12
mile) circular walk taking you around the
Blorenge Mountain incorporating former
tram roads and the canal and the wealth
of historical and natural features, which
give the Blaenavon Industrial Landscape
its unique identity. www.visitblaenavon.co.uk
Pontsticill
Bedlinog
Getting out into The Valleys is all about
refreshing your spirit - a great way to help
cope with the everyday pressures of life. All
you need to do is to pull on your walking boots
and follow some of the inspired routes that
link communities and hillsides - how about
exploring Twmbarlwm, our very own Bronze
Age hill fort with spectacular views across The
Bristol Channel or enjoy views into the Brecon
Beacons from the Rhigos mountain above
Hirwaun.
Glamorgan Ridgeway
The Bwlch, Ogmore Valley
A 27 mile scenic route that follows
public footpaths, bridleways, forest
tracks, common land and quiet lanes
along the ridgeline from Margam
Country Park, through spectacular
upland and valley scenery to Caerphilly
Castle.
your.caerphilly.gov.uk/countryside/
Check out www.thevalleys.co.uk/explore/walking for more ideas.
11
Wales Valleys Walking Festival
5 - 20 September 2015
This Walking Festival provides walkers of all abilities with
new walk routes lead by knowledgeable and enthusiastic
guides right across The Valleys. With walks of all lengths
and difficulty, you can also choose the subject that
interests you - whether that’s hidden heritage stories, the
slowly changing autumnal colours or The Valleys flora and
fauna. Why not come and stay so you can enjoy more than
one of these brilliant routes.
www.walesvalleyswalking.co.uk
Adventure Activities
The natural landscape means that The
Valleys are great for watersports like
kayaking, as well as drier activities like
climbing, caving, orienteering and even
paragliding.
As well as the space and the landscape we
also have some of the very best adventure
leaders who can introduce you to the skills
and the excitement in a safe environment a must have for trying new adventures.
Even the youngest members of the family
can have a go at some of the purpose built
centres - how about Segway Trekking at
Mountain View Ranch, Combat Zone Live
@ Dare Valley Country Park, kayaking at
Parc Bryn Bach or a bit of bouldering at
Summit Centre, Trelewis.
Parc Taf Bargoed
Check out www.thevalleys.co.uk
for more ideas.
Laser tag 108
Mountain View Ranch
Golf
West Monmouthshire Golf Club
Walkers in Sirhowy Valley Country Park
Explore on horseback
With acres of common land and miles of bridleways, The Valleys
are great for enthusiastic horse riders. There are experienced
riding schools and trekking centres which can help you get the
best from your ride. With Tickens Trekking, Cwmbran you’ll
explore Blaen Bran Community Woodlands whilst a visit to
Green Meadow Riding Centre, Aberdare gives you an
opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Dare Valley Country Park.
www.tickenstrekking.co.uk
greenmeadow-ridingcentre.co.uk
Fishing
The rivers of The Valleys used to be
known for being black with coal dust now they are sparkling clean with an
abundance of wildlife; even migratory
fish like salmon and sea trout have
made a welcome return.
Check fishingsouthwales.com for
clubs and details of local licenses.
Across The Valleys we are fortunate to have
a wide range of golf courses that take
advantage of the hills and vales. How about
trying the highest course in the UK - West
Monmouthshire Golf Club, Brynmawr, or
one of the courses designed by James Braid,
five time winner of the British Open
Championship - Maesteg Golf Club?
Alternatively, Morlais Castle Golf Club in
Merthyr Tydfil encircles an early castle of
the same name and affords great views
south across The Valleys.
As well as mountain courses we also have
great parkland challenges; Coed-yMwstwr Golf Club is just off the M4 and
Bryn Meadows Golf, Hotel & Spa is a
great base for a golfing weekend in
The Valleys.
13
Valleys Stories
Impressive Castles
Many people think that our
history starts with the
Industrial Revolution - but of
course we have a heritage that
stretches back in time.
How about walking up to Twmbarlwm, an
Ironage Hill Fort that sits high on the ridge
above Cwmbran and Cwmcarn, or visit a
Roman Fort at Gelligaer. There are churches
that date back to the 13th century like
St Illtyd’s above Abertillery and the
medieval church of St Cadoc’s near
Pontypool, as well as religious sites like
Ffynnon Fair, St. Mary's Well and the
Cistercian Abbey of Llantarnam.
You might associate The Valleys
with industry - but did you know
that we have some of the most
impressive castles in the UK?
The best known of our castles is
Caerphilly – the largest in Wales with its
Enjoy exploring The Valleys
and our rich heritage
Capel Gwladys Gelligaer
Gelligaer stone
Lido Pontypridd National Lido of Wales
The much loved Lido Pontypridd was built in 1927 in a
distinctive, Arts & Crafts style. Accommodating up to 1000
swimmers, it played a key part in the social life of Ponty’s
young people right up to the 1980’s.
Now it is being restored and will have 3 heated pools, a café
and a state-of-the-art dry play area. This jewel will reopen
in the summer 2015 – so make sure that you visit.
www.lidoponty.co.uk
concentric “walls within walls” system of
defence. The most dramatic feature has to
be the tower that “out leans” Pisa –
continually challenging the laws of gravity!
And now there are amazing new displays
that bring the stories of the castle to life
for the whole family.
Caerphilly Castle
Merthyr Tydfil is a town with two
castles – yes! Cyfarthfa Castle, built
by the Crawshay family in 1824/5 as a
display of their importance and power,
still sits overlooking the town and is
now home to the town’s Museum and
Art Gallery, and is surrounded by
Cyfarthfa Park. Nearby, on the edge of
the Brecon Beacons is Morlais Castle,
one of The Valleys hidden castles, which
dates back to the 13th century.
Across The Valleys there are the remains
of many other often forgotten castles –
for instance Llantrisant Castle, where
an ivy covered tower is all that remains
of an important 13th century castle.
Coity Castle
New ways to explore
Bridgend’s Heritage
Download to discover hidden heritage
stories including the industry of Llynfi,
Coity Castle and the Maid of Cefn
Ydfa…. track dinosaurs, smelt iron and
hunt ghosts in 17 unique augmented
reality experiences.
www.digitalbridgend.co.uk
Cyfarthfa Castle
15
Real People - Real Stories
Kings Day
Imposing Estates
Across The Valleys there are
grand houses and estates that
date back before the industrial
revolution.
Much of The Valleys was agricultural and
so there are imressive farm houses. In
Cwmbran you’ll find Llanyrafon Manor,
where you can discover the part that this
farm played in WW2. Near Nelson is
Llancaiach Fawr Manor where visitors
are taken back to 1645 to discover how
this area was involved in the Civil War.
The Manor is also known as one of the
most haunted buildings in the UK –
perfect for a winter visit!
As industry changed the landscape so the
wealthy iron and coal masters wanted
striking homes such as Bedwellty House
and Park in Tredegar. Built for Samuel
Homfray it later became the council
chamber where Aneurin Bevan started his
political career before going on to
Parliament and setting up the National
Health Service.
Bedwellty House
Going Local
Local museums are the ideal starting
point for exploring a community’s
heritage - here are just a few:
• Brynmawr – great collection of Brynmawr
•
Furniture that was sold in the very best stores
during the 1930’s.
www.brynmawrmuseum.co.uk
Winding House, New Tredegar – tells the
unique history of Caerphilly County Borough.
www.windinghouse.co.uk
• Pontypool – with a unique collection of
Japanware. www.pontypoolmuseum.org.uk
• Pontypridd – right next to the historic bridge
•
•
in the town centre.
www.pontypriddmuseum.org.uk
Nantgarw China Works Museum – only
surviving 19th century porcelain.
www.nantgarwchinaworksmuseum.co.uk
Blaina Chartist Visitor Centre
www.chartistvisitorcentre.org.uk
As people flowed into The
Valleys to work in the iron and
coal industries, new
communities were established.
The strong character of
individuals ensured that the
hard conditions could be
endured – and now you can
discover many of these
real stories.
Coal mining employed many thousands, and
you can still meet real miners to find out
what life under ground was like. The
Rhondda is probably the most famous
mining area and Rhondda Heritage Park
recreates the life of local miners with a tour
and extensive pit head buildings. Meanwhile,
on the eastern most edge of the coalfield
you’ll find Big Pit National Coal Museum
with its unique underground tours and
fascinating Pithead exhibitions.
Across The Valleys you can also find amazing
reminders of the iron industry – such as
Cefn Cribwr, Bridgend or Sirhowy,
Tredegar. You can discover how the
workers lived at Joseph Parry’s Cottage,
Merthyr Tydfil or Bute Town, Rhymney.
Guardian
Reminders of
past disasters
Working in industry has always been hard –
many have lost their lives. Across The Valleys
there are memorials to the spirit and
determination of the families that moved to
the area in search of work.
Senghenydd – where 439 men died in a
mining disaster in 1913 – is now home to
the National Mining Memorial. At Six
Bells, near Abertillery, one of the most
striking sculptures, Guardian, marks the site
where 45 men died in 1960. Alongside these
memorials are museums where you can find
out about the people who helped and the
impact upon the community.
your.caerphilly.gov.uk/abervalleyherita
ge/www.tyebbwfach.co.uk
Big Pit National Coal Museum
Senghenydd Memorial Garden
Blaenavon World
Heritage Site
This town and surrounding landscape
embodies the story of The Valleys and
the industrial revolution – when
innovation, skills and determination
meant that this area was the most
important industrial site in the world.
The town’s exciting and turbulent history
can be explored as you go underground
at Big Pit National Coal Museum, “feel
the heat” as you discover the story of
iron at Blaenavon Ironworks, and
marvel at the tramways and canals. A
visit to the World Heritage Centre
exhibition lets you meet many of the
people who really made this town.
17
It’s never too wet for a great day out!
Yes - we have rain in The Valleys - that’s what ensures that
we have a beautiful, green landscape! Whatever the
weather - you and your whole family can have a great time.
Put on your waterproofs and get out - how about heading for Sgwd yr Eira waterfalls
where you can walk behind the waterfalls - a brilliant experience - just make sure you
are wearing sensible footwear and stay away from the river if it’s in flood.
"Sunshine is delicious, rain is
refreshing, wind braces us
up, snow is exhilarating;
there is really no such thing
as bad weather, only
different kinds of good
weather."
John Ruskin
Scwd-yr-Eira Waterfall
Wiggleys Fun Farm
Animals stay outside whatever the weather
- so why not join them. We have three great
animal attractions where the whole family
can have fun - Greenmeadow Community
Farm, Cwmbran, Wiggleys Fun Farm
Bridgend and Cefn Mably Farm Park, near
Rudry, Caerphilly.
If you really want to stay out of the weather
then it has to be a trip underground where
the conditions never change - so take a trip
100m underground at Big Pit National
Coal Museum, Blaenavon or join the
underground experience tour at Rhondda
Heritage Park, Porth.
www.breconbeacons.org/walk-waterfallcountry-sgwd-yr-eira
www.greenmeadowcommunityfarm.org.uk
www.wiggleysfunfarm.co.uk
www.cefnmablyfarmpark.com
www.museumwales.ac.uk/bigpit
www.rhonddaheritagepark.com
Greenmeadow Community Farm
19
A Tasty Tour beer, ice cream and a nice cup of tea!
Across The Valleys you will
come across some great cafés
and tearooms - there are too
many to mention. But The
Raspberry Tearoom at
Llanyrafon Manor, Cwmbran
was awarded Silver in the Best
Place to Eat - Café in the Visit
Wales 2015 awards.
Sidoli’s
The Valleys has a great association with Italy
- coffee shops were set up in mining towns
across The Valleys as far back as 1880 by
Italians from Bardi - and you can still find
Italian coffee shops in many towns.
The Otley Brewing Company based in
Pontypridd is a micro brewery that prides
itself on using first class ingredients and
Breconshire water to create its unique
beers. The Celt Experience is another
micro brewery that has a reputation for
innovative beers. The Cerddin Brewery
near Maesteg is famed for being the
carbon friendly brewery as it only uses
green energy!
If your preference is for something a little
stronger - then pay a visit to Penderyn
Distillery where the unique Single Malt
The Chef's Room Fish and Cookery
School is based in Blaenavon, and where,
throughout the year, you can join chefs such
as Franco Taruschio and Lindy Wildsmith to
discover the secrets of Italian dishes and
even the basics of great cookery.
Meanwhile Food Adventure will take you
on culinary explorations where you can meet
local food producers and discover the
secrets of what to do with those unusual
ingredients!
Brewing
www.rhymneybreweryltd.com
www.celtexperience.com
www.otleybrewing.co.uk
www.cerddinbrewery.co.uk
www.halletsrealcider.co.uk
www.welsh-whisky.co.uk
Get Cooking
www.llanyrafonmanor.org
www.sidolis-icecream.co.uk
www.hapusicecream.co.uk
The Valleys is developing a good reputation for craft beers - each of which has its own unique
story. In Blaenavon you can visit Rhymney Brewery and see the brewing process as well as
discovering the story of the “Hobby Horse” and the company that can trace is heritage back
to 1830’s when beer was safer to drink than water!
For cider lovers there's Hallets Real Cider
produced by hand at Blaengawney Farm in
Crumlin using Welsh apples - refreshing!
Penderyn Whisky Visitor Centre
Along with the coffee came Italian ice cream
and two of the best ice cream shops in
Wales are found in The Valleys. Sidoli’s is still
a family firm and has a shop in Ebbw Vale,
whilst Hapus Ice Cream may be a little
younger but makes and sells fabulous ice
cream on a family farm in Machen.
John looking in mash tun
Welsh Whisky is produced using the crisp,
fresh waters of the Brecon Beacons.
Franco - Cooking with game
www.thechefsroom.co.uk
www.foodadventure.co.uk
21
Days out
exploring
Over the Bwlch...
Here are a few suggestions
to help you have a great
day out in the Valleys.
•Travelling north visit the historic village of
A4061/A4058
•Discover the local fauna and flora by
visiting Parc Slip Nature Reserve.
Rhondda Heritage Park
Walks with Nature...
along the A465 (Heads of the Valleys)
•Start in the east with a walk through
the ancient beech woods of Cwm
Clydach – you might spot Nuthatch
and Woodpeckers.
•Travel west to Garwnant Visitor
Centre and explore the forests on
the animal puzzle trail.
•Continue on to Penderyn and follow
the paths to Sgwd yr Eira – it’s a
real experience to walk behind a
waterfall!
•On the way back – why not stop at
Penderyn Whisky Visitor Centre
to discover the secrets of the only
Welsh Whisky!
Llangeinor, which was home to 18th
century philosopher Dr Richard Price
whose writings influenced both the
American ‘Declaration of Independence’
and Constitution.
•Carry on travelling north over The Bwlch,
one of the most stunning views in Wales
as you make your way into The Rhondda.
•Arriving in Treorchy visit the Parc and
Dare Theatre before travelling south to
Porth to explore the story of Black Gold
(coal) at Rhondda Heritage Park.
Llangeinor
Reminders...
A472/A467
Redhouse Cymru
•Start at Pontypool Park, a
An “artful” trail...
along the A470 or The Taff Trail
•Famed as the producer of the
“finest porcelain of its day”,
Nantgarw Chinaworks gives a
fascinating insight into the area’s
history.
•Travelling north, call at The Grogg
Shop to discover modern day
ceramics that celebrate Welsh
celebrities.
•Continue to Merthyr Tydfil and visit
Redhouse Cymru – where James
Keir Hardie was named the first
Labour MP and which is now an
art centre.
The Folly Tower
Pontypool Museum
reminder of the areas long links to
the iron industry – call into
Pontypool Museum.
•Travel to Newbridge on A472 and
visit the Newbridge Memo, built to
remember the local men lost in the
Great War. Recently renovated
having come 2nd in the BBC 2
Restoration public vote in 2004.
•Head north to Six Bells and
“Guardian”, the imposing statue
that remembers the miners lost in
the mining accident over 50 years
ago.
•Carry onto Brynmawr and Nantyglo
– explore the Nantyglo Towers
(the last fortified structure built in
UK) and Brynmawr Museum.
23
The workingmen’s halls and chapels were filled with the sound of song – and many are still
hubs of entertainment across The Valleys with fascinating stories to tell; the Park and Dare,
Treorchy opened in 1913 and was funded by the mine workers of the local Park and Dare
Collieries, whilst the Maesteg Town Hall opened in 1881 funded by the miners of the Llynfi
Valley.
Park and Dare, Treorchy
Maesteg Town Hall
Blackwood Miners' Institute
Cwmbran Congress Theatre
parkdare.rct-arts.org
www.maestegtownhall.com
www.blackwoodminersinstitute.com
www.congresstheatrecwmbran.co.uk
Only Boys Aloud
Coity Castle
Cyfarthfa Castle interior
Arts and Events
Music is at the heart of The Valleys – whether it’s joining in with the National Anthem at the
rugby, enjoying the newest version of a “male voice choir” – Only Boys Aloud, or spending the
weekend at one of the great music events – we all love a good song!
Urdd Eisteddfod 2015
Jam in the Castle
Steelhouse Festival
Llancaiach Fawr Manor
Coity Castle
Ebbw Vale
Check www.thevalleys.co.uk/events for more ideas.
25 - 30 May 2015
11 July 2015
25 - 26 July 2015
Park and Dare
Llantarnam Grange Arts Centre
As well as music, The Valleys inspires all sorts of creativity. The recently opened Workers
Gallery, Porth and Y Galeri in Caerphilly both display a wide range of local artists, whilst
Llantarnam Grange Arts Centre, Cwmbran has a programme that includes national
exhibitions as well as great children’s activities. In July there is an amazing opportunity to see a
wide range of contemporary art at Cyfarthfa Castle Museum and Art Gallery which will
include Kyffin Williams and Shani Rhys James. So – bring your paints or camera – and be
inspired by The Valleys!
Redhouse Cymru, Merthyr Tydfil
Cyfarthfa Museum and Art Gallery, Merthyr Tydfil
Llantarnam Grange and Art Gallery, Cwmbran
Y Galeri, Caerphilly
Rhondda Heritage Park Gallery, Porth
redhousecymru.com
www.visitmerthyr.co.uk
www.lgac.org.uk
www.ygaleri.co.uk
tourism.rctcbc.gov.uk
25
Places to stay
Afon Llwyd
HOTEL
Parkway Hotel & Spa
Cwmbran
01633 871199
www.parkwayhotelandspa.com
H H H H VisitWales • Hotel
Best Western Pontypool
Metro Hotel
Pontypool
01495 750552
www.pontypoolmetrohotel.co.uk
• Budget Hotel
Premier Inn - Cwmbran
Cwmbran
0871 527 8285
www.premierinn.com
• Budget Hotel
Premier Inn - Pontypool
Across The Valleys there are a wealth of places to stay –
everything from budgets hotels to more unusual
establishments like yurts, romany caravans and
glamping pods! What makes our establishments unique
is the people. Wherever you choose to stay we are
confident that you will meet great local people who will
give you an insight into The Valleys – the best places to
visit and the most interesting routes to get there.
This listing of accommodation establishments is
grouped by Valley and then by type. For more ideas of
accommodation in the area please visit
www.thevalleys.co.uk and contact the establishment
directly for specific requirements.
Pontypool
0870 111 2958
www.premierinn.com
• Budget Hotel
Oakfield B&B
Blaenavon
01495 792829
www.oakfieldbnb.com
H H H H VisitWales • B&
Ty Shon Jacob Farm
Pontypool
01495 757536
www.accommodationinpontypool.co.uk
H H H H VisitWales • B&B
SELF CATERING
Blackthorne Lodge
Pontypool
07909 636202
www.blackthornelodge.co.uk
H H H H VisitWales • Self Catering
Greenway House
Pontypool
01633 861119
Jenny's Cottage
Blaenavon
07977 637740
The Lion Hotel
Blaenavon
01495 792516
www.thelionhotelblaenavon.co.uk
INNS & GUESTHOUSES
Ty-Cooke Farm
B&B`
Pontypool
01873 880382
www.tycookefarm.co.uk
H H H H VisitWales • Farm Guest House
Gelligravog Farm
Little Crown Inn and Restaurant
Cwmbran
01633 871147
www.gelligravog.co.uk
Pontypool
01495 763148
www.thelittlecrown.co.uk
H H H H VisitWales • Inn
27
Places to stay
Ebbw
HOTEL
Premier Inn Ebbw Vale
Ebbw Vale
01495 301364
www.premierinn.com
• Budget Hotel
B&B
The Bridgend Inn
Brynmawr
01495 312931 / 07815 595152
www.thebridgendinnbrynmawr.org.uk
• Restaurant and B&B
Ebbw Vale Guest House
Ebbw Vale
01495 301044
• B&B
Stables B&B
Newbridge
01495 243888
www.visitcaerphilly.com
• B&B
The Castle Inn
Cwmcarn
01495 272877
www.castleinnbandb.co.uk
• B&B
Westwood Villa Guest House
Crosskeys
07768 634948 / 01495 272 650
www.westwoodvillaguesthouse.co.uk
H H AA • B&B
SELF CATERING
Cwmcarn Cottage Let
Cwmcarn
01495 272548 / 07879 057367
www.cwmcarncottagelet.co.uk
Cwmcarn Holiday Apartment
Soar Chapel Guest House
Cwmcarn
01633 615900 / 07846 323209
cwmcarnholidayapartments.co.uk
Ebbw Vale
01495 305154
www.soarchapel.co.uk
H H H H VisitWales • Guest House
Glendene Garden Annex
CARAVAN/CAMPING
Gellihaf
01443 268494
www.gellihafhouse.com
LISTED B&B
CRAI Activity park
Halfway House
Newbridge
01495 237800 / 07814 557837
www.craiactivitypark.org.uk
• Camping
Blackwood
01495 220255
www.halfway-house.co.uk
• B&B
Cwmcarn Forest Caravan, Camping
& Glamping
Roseland B&B
Risca
01633 612138 / 07790 605220
www.holidayletsouthwales.co.uk
Safe Haven Holiday Lodges
Wattsville
01495 271225 / 07769 946272
www.safehavenlodges.co.uk
H H H H / H H H VisitWales • Self Catering
Upper Grippath Farm Holiday Cottages
Risca
01633 615000 / 07787 541000
www.uppergrippath.co.uk
INNS & GUESTHOUSES
Kings Arms
Ebbw Vale
01495 352822
H H H VisitWales • Inn
Llanhilleth Hotel
Abertillery
01495 214267
www.llanhillethhotel.co.uk
The Castle Inn
Ebbw Vale
01495 302087
• Inn
The Newbridge Hotel
Newbridge
01495 248536
www.thenewbridgehotel.co.uk
Cwmcarn
01495 272001
www.cwmcarnforest.co.uk
H H H H VisitWales • Caravan/Camping
RESTAURANT/SERVICED APARTMENT
Park Hotel
Ebbw Vale
01495 370053
www.theambala.co.uk
• Restaurant with rooms
Russinda Cottage
Blaina
07833 767505
• Serviced apartments
Sirhowy
B&B
Gellihaf House B&B
Tredegar
01495 722040
www.roselandbnb.co.uk
SELF CATERING
Holly Cottage
Hollybush
07936 034292
www.hollycottageholidays.co.uk
• Self Catering
Tynewydd Farm
Tredegar
01495 724155
www.beaconvvalleybreaks.co.uk
H H H VisitWales • Self Catering
Penrhiwarwydd Farm
Maes Manor Hotel
Mynyddislwyn
01495 200455
Blackwood
01495 220011
www.maesmanor.com
• Hotel
Coach and Horses
HOTEL
INNS & GUESTHOUSES
Tredegar
01495 446847
• Inn
29
Places to stay
Pentre - Tai Farm B&B
Taylors B&B @ The Rock
Bryn Meadows Golf, Hotel & Spa
Blackwood
01495 223441
www.therockblackwood.co.uk
Maseycwmmer
01495 225590
www.brynmeadows.co.uk
Rhiwderin
01633 893284
www.pentretaifarm.co.uk
The Cambrian
Llechwen Hall Hotel
Prince of Wales Inn
Tredegar
01495 723319
www.cambriantredegar.co.uk
Llanfabon
01443 742050
www.llechwen.co.uk
H H H VisitWales • Hotel
Rhymney
01685 844441
• B&B
The Lodge Hotel & Restaurant
Premier Inn (Corbetts Lane)
The Coach House
Blackwood
01495 226092
thelodgeblackwood.co.uk
• Inn
Caerphilly
0871 5278182
www.premierinn.com
• Budget Hotel
Caerphilly
029 2088 4772
www.coachhouserudry.co.uk
H H H VisitWales • B&B
The New Forge
Premier Inn (Crossways)
The Cottage Guest House
Oakdale
01495 228919
www.newforgeoakdale.co.uk
• Inn
Caerphilly
0871 5278184
www.premierinn.com
• Budget Hotel
Caerphilly
029 2086 9160
• B&B
Rhymney House Hotel
Ty Castell Guest House
CARAVAN/CAMPING
Parc Bryn Bach Caravan Site
Tredegar
01495 711816
www.parcbrynbach.co.uk
H H H VisitWales • Caravan/Camping
Pen Y Fan Caravan and Leisure Park
Manmoel
01495 226636
www.penyfancaravanpark.co.uk
Rhymney
HOTEL
Bryn Meadows Golf, Hotel & Spa
Rhymney
01685 844040
www.rhymneyhousehotel.co.uk
• Hotel
Caerphilly
029 2088 4112 / 07980 943883
www.tycastellguesthouse.co.uk
H H H VisitWales • B&B
Travel Lodge Caerphilly
Wern Ganol Farm Guest House
Caerphilly
0871 984 6364
www.travelodge.co.uk
• Budget Hotel
B&B
Bryn Heulog B&B
Aberbargoed
01443 833084/ 07976 946148
Nelson
01443 450413 / 07964 706149
www.wernganol.co.uk
• B&B
Y Fron Guest House
Caerphilly
029 2088 2896
www.yfron.co.uk
• B&B
SELF CATERING
Gwern Ty Isaf Cottage
Deri
01443 820123
www.caerphillycottage.co.uk
The Courtyard
Caerphilly
029 2086 6666
ValleyBreak
Bargoed
07725 540 049
www.valleybreak.co.uk
INNS & GUESTHOUSES
The Hollybush with Rooms
Draethen
01633 441326
www.thehollybush.com
• Inn
Llwyn Iago Farm
Bargoed
01685 844085
www.llwyn-iago.com
The Wingfield Hotel
Llanbradach
029 2088 9199
www.wingfieldhotel.co.uk
Maseycwmmer
01495 225590
www.brynmeadows.co.uk
31
Places to stay
CARAVAN/CAMPING
B&B
INNS & GUESTHOUSES
LODGE/STUDIO APARTMENT /HOLIDAY LET
Parc Cwm Darran
Mount Pleasant Inn
Deri
01443 875557
www.your.caerphilly.gov.uk/countryside
/activities/camping
• Caravan/Camping
Taff (Upper)
HOTEL
Castle Hotel
Merthyr Tydfil
01685 386868
www.castlehotelwales.com
Imperial Hotel
Merthyr Tydfil
01685 722555
www.imperialhotelmerthyrtydfil.co.uk
H H VisitWales • Hotel
The Bessemer Hotel
Merthyr Tydfil
01685 350780
• Hotel
The Nant Ddu Lodge
Merthyr Tydfil
01685 379111
www.nant-ddu-lodge.co.uk
Tregenna Hotel
Merthyr Tydfil
01685 723627
www.tregennahotel.co.uk
• Hotel
Llwyn Onn Guest House
Gethin Lodge
Merthyr Tydfil
01443 693555
www.themountpleasantinn.co.uk
Merthyr Tydfil
01685 384384
www.llwynonn.co.uk
H H H VisitWales • Guest House
Merthyr Tydfil
02920 883781
www.gethinlodge.com
H H H H VisitWales • Lodge
Ty Gronfa
Penrhadw Farm Guest
House & Cottages
Winch Fawr Lodge
Merthyr Tydfil
01685 371399
www.tygronfa.co.uk
Ty Taf Fechan B & B
Merthyr Tydfil
01685 371176
www.tytaffechan.com
Atalanta House
Merthyr Tydfil
07505 309235
• B&B
SELF CATERING
Bwthyn Pen y Fan
Merthyr Tydfil
07505 370835
www.holidaylettings.co.uk
H H H H VisitWales • Self catering Cottage
Chapel Cottage
Merthyr Tydfil
01685 374746
• Self Catering
Granary Cottages
Merthyr Tydfil
01685 383358
www.granary-cottages.co.uk
• Self Catering
Morlais Castle Farmhouse
Merthyr Tydfil
01685 722822
www.morlaiscastlefarmhouse.co.uk
• Self Catering
Merthyr Tydfil
01685 723481
www.penrhadwfarm.co.uk
H H H H AA • Guest House & Cottage
CARAVAN/CAMPING
Grawen Farm
Merthyr Tydfil
01685 723740
www.walescaravanandcamping.com
Rock UK Summit Centre
Merthyr Tydfil
01443 710090
www.rockuk.org
H H VisitWales • Camping
Merthyr Tydfil
01685 385071
www.winchfawrlodge.com
H H H H VisitWales • Lodge
Station House Merthyr Tydfil
Merthyr Tydfil
07966 295021
www.stationhousemerthyrtydfil.co.uk
H H H H VisitWales • Holiday Let
Studios at Glenthorne
Merthyr Tydfil
01685 722205
www.studiosatglenthorne.co.uk
H H H VisitWales • Studio Apartments
Taff (Lower)
HOTEL
BUNKHOUSE
Coed Owen Bunkhouse
Merthyr Tydfil
01685 722628
www.breconbeaconsbunkhouse.co.uk
• Bunkhouse
The Butchers Arms
Merthyr Tydfil
01685 723544
www.butchersarmspontsticill.co.uk
H H H VisitWales • Bunkhouse
Blueberry Inn
Pontypridd
01443 485 331
www.blueberryinn-pontypridd.co.uk
• Hotel
Llechwen Hall Hotel
Cilfynydd
01443 742050
www.llechwen.co.uk
H H H VisitWales • Country House Hotel
SELF CATERING
Ceffyl Cottages
Pontypridd
01443 400163
www.ceffylcottage.co.uk
• Self Catering
33
Places to stay
INNS & GUESTHOUSES
Maesyronnen
Central Guesthouse
Ystradfellte
01639 722343
Treforest
07815 916581
www.centralguesthouse.co.uk
GROUPS
University of South Wales
Treforest
01443 482002
www.glamorganconferenceservices.co.uk
• Group
Cynon
HOTEL
Premier Inn Aberdare
Aberdare
0871 527 8002
www.premierinn.com
• Budget Hotel
Ty Newydd Country Hotel
Penderyn
01685 813433
www.tynewyddcountryhotel.co.uk
H H H VisitWales • Country House Hotel
B&B
Beili Helyg
Penderyn
01685 813609
www.walkingwalesholidays.co.uk
Cherry Tree House
Aberdare
01685 877769
www.cherry-tree-house.co.uk
• B&B
SELF CATERING
Llia Cysglyd
Rhigos
07947 677440
Penybryn Cottages
BUNKHOUSE
Bunkbarn
Penderyn
01685 811789
www.thebunkbarn.com
• Bunkhouse
Cynon Valley Activity Centre
Rhigos
01403 264641
www.cyat.org
H H H VisitWales • Bunkhouse
Aberdare
01685 873373
www.penybryncottages.co.uk
HOTEL
Tunnel Cottages
Baglan Hotel
Aberdare
www.tunnelcottages.co.uk
• Self Catering
INNS & GUESTHOUSES
Fifth Avenue House
Rhigos
01685 819914
www.fifthavenuehouse.co.uk
H H H H VisitWales • Guest Accommodation
Marquis Inn
Aberdare
01685 875822
www.aberdare-bedandbreakfast.co.uk
CARAVAN/CAMPING
Dare Valley Country Park
Aberdare
01685 874672
www.darevalleycountrypark.co.uk
Rhondda
Treherbert
01443 776111
• Hotel
Dunraven Hotel
Treherbert
01443 778222
www.dunravenhotel.co.uk
• Hotel
Heritage Park Hotel
Trehafod
01443 687057
www.heritageparkhotel.com
Miskin Hotel
Trealaw
01443 430058
• Hotel
B&B
Hendrewen Hotel
Blaencwm
01443 771679
www.hendrewenhotel.com
H H VisitWales • B&B
Ty Draw Farm
Blaencwm
01443 778028
www.tydrawfarm.com
• B&B
INNS & GUESTHOUSES
Ty Lily Mia
Trealaw
07877 687949
www.rhonddaguesthouse.co.uk
• Guest House
Ely
HOTEL
Miskin Manor Country Hotel
Nr Pontyclun
01443 224204
www.miskin-manor.co.uk
H H H H VisitWales • Country House Hotel
Premier Inn Llantrisant
Llantrisant
0871 5278640
www.premierinn.com
• Budget Hotel
Haveli Hotel
Pontyclun
01443 235 685
www.havelihotel.co.uk
• Hotel
Scotts Hotel
Llantwit Fardre
01443 217111
• Hotel
Three Saints Hotel
Llantrisant
01443 222386
www.threesaintshotel.co.uk
• Hotel
35
Places to stay
Travelodge Bridgend Pencoed
Pencoed
0871 9846049
www.travelodge.co.uk
• Budget Hotel
The Cross Keys
Llantrisant
01443 222155
www.myweb.tiscali.co.uk/cross.keys
• Hotel
B&B
Smokey Cottages
Groesfaen
www.smokeycot-bnb.co.uk
B&B
The Stables at Brook House
Cross Inn
07801 356259
www.thestablesllantrisant.co.uk
H H H H VisitWales • B&B and Self Catering
SELF CATERING
Llwynau Farm Pine Lodges
Llantrisant
01443 229021
www.llwynaufarmpinelodges.co.uk
H H / H H H VisitWales • Self Catering
Ogmore
HOTEL
Masons Arms Hotel
Bridgend
01656 720253
www.masonshotel.com
Coed y Mwstwr
Bridgend
01656 860621
www.coed-y-mwstwr.com
Court Colman Manor
Bridgend
01656 720212
www.court-colman-manor.com
Days Inn Bridgend Cardiff
Bridgend
01656 659218
www.daysinn.com
• Budget Hotel
Premier Inn Bridgend Central
Bridgend
01656 646200
www.premierinn.com
• Budget Hotel
INNS & GUESTHOUSES
SELF CATERING
The Countryman Inn
Glynogwr Lodge
Llantrisant
01443 231935
www.the-countryman-inn.co.uk
Blackmill
07905 790975
glynogw-self-catering-wales.co.uk
Miners Cottage
Bridgend
07971 950772
www.minerscottage.com
CARAVAN/CAMPING
Our Welsh Caravan & Camping
Blackmill
07800 945558
www.ourwelsh.co.uk
Garw
HOTEL
Bryngarw House
Bridgend
01656 729009
www.BridgendBites.com
Ty Maen Cottage
Maesteg
07702 740003
www.ty-maen.co.uk
Ty Tanglwyst Farm Cottages
Bridgend
01656 745635
www.tytanglwystholidaycottages.co.uk
H H H / H H H H VisitWales • Self Catering
Yr Hen Beudy Bach
Maesteg
01656 733688
INNS & GUESTHOUSES
BUNKHOUSE
Betws Eco Lodge
Bridgend
07828 917205
betwsecolodge.co.uk
H H H H VisitWales • Bunkhouse
Llynfi
SELF CATERING
Pentre Farm
Maesteg
07446 070624
• Self Catering
Swn y Nant
Bridgend
01656 723783
• Self Catering
Ty Gwyneth
Bridgend
07872 823366
glamping-holidays-wales.co.uk
Ballas Farm
Bridgend
01656 741794
www.ballasfarm.co.uk
Col-Mar Guest House
Maesteg
01656 735140
www.colmarguesthouse.plus.com
H H VisitWales • Guest House
CARAVAN/CAMPING/GLAMPING
Brynhyfryd Caravan & Camping
Bridgend
01656 740544
www.brynhyfrydcampingcaravanning.co.uk
Cwm Tawel
Maesteg
01656 730179
cwmtawel.org.uk
H H H VisitWales • Alternative Accommodation
Romany Caravan at Ty Gwyneth
Bridgend
07872 823366
glamping-holidays-wales.co.uk
• Alternative Accommodation
37
Take your pick
Introducing Wales’s Holiday Areas
The Valleys - Heart & Soul of Wales is one of the Holiday
Areas within Wales. Each area has its own distinct character.
The Isle of Anglesey
Anglesey offers unparalleled beauty,
amazing adventures, serious solitude and a
warm welcome. Easily accessible; this
unique island, with its coastline, varied
beaches and historical towns make it a
superb base for all the family. Those that
have visited need not be told. They just
return…
t : +44 (0) 1248 713177
e : [email protected]
w : visitanglesey.co.uk
w : facebook.com/visitanglesey
Llandudno & Colwyn Bay
Vibrant Llandudno, the Victorian seaside
gem with a history that goes back to the
Bronze Age. World Heritage Conwy with its
rich maritime past. Waterfront adventure in
Colwyn Bay. Year round breaks, filled with
family fun, good food, great walking, worldclass theatre and a full calendar of exciting
events. All within easy reach of Snowdonia.
t : +44 (0)1492 577577
w : visitllandudno.org.uk
w : facebook.com/visitingllandudno
twitter.com/visit_llandudno
North East Wales
Less than 20 minutes from Chester, we’re
just a short journey from the North West
and the West Midlands. From the bustling
shops and cultural events of Wrexham to
the culinary delights of the Mold Food and
Drink Festival to the world-famous
Llangollen International Eisteddfod. The area
includes Rhyl, one of the best recognized
British seaside resorts and the Clwydian
Range & Dee Valley, Area of Outstanding
Natural Beauty. We even have an 11-mile
long World Heritage Site – the Pontcysyllte
Aqueduct and Canal and you can also walk
the ancient Offa’s Dyke path running
through Chirk out to the coast at Prestatyn.
t: +44 (0) 1978 292015
e: [email protected]
t: +44 (0) 1745 355068
e: [email protected]
w: northeastwales.co.uk
Snowdonia Mountains
& Coast
Ceredigion – Cardigan Bay &
the Cambrian Mountains
The outdoor adventure playground of North
Wales that includes the
Snowdonia National Park, Llŷn Peninsula and
Cambrian Coastline. A wide choice of
quality accommodation, attractions and
activities - castles, narrow-gauge railways,
golf, cycling, walking, award-winning
beaches, country parks, Wales Coast Path,
World Heritage Site, Areas of Outstanding
Natural Beauty and Heritage Coast.
Discover the villages and harbours that
inspired Dylan Thomas and the expansive
landscapes, myths and legends depicted in
the gripping TV thriller Hinterland / Y Gwyll.
Delve into Wales’s history at Cardigan
Castle. Walk gentle or challenging sections
of Ceredigion’s coast path from promenade
strolls at Aberystwyth to hill fort climbs at
Llangrannog. Spot bottlenose dolphins and
enjoy family fun at award winning beaches.
t : +44 (0)1341 281485
w : visitsnowdonia.info
w : facebook.com/visitingsnowdonia
w : twitter.com/visit_snowdonia
w : visitsnowdonia.wordpress.com
t : +44 (0)1970 612125
w : discoverceredigion.co.uk
Facebook.com/discoverceredigion
Twitter: @visitceredigion
Mid Wales My Way
Featuring Brecon Beacons National Park,
Dyfi Biosphere, Cambrian Mountains, Lake
Vrynwy & the Berwyns and Offa’s Country.
Magnificent walks – two national trails,
waterfalls and many other breathtaking
walks besides. Muddy Wheels – cycling onand off-road. A great track record – four
years with the Tour of Britain, hometo Dyfi
Enduro and Beacons Beast. Family trafficfee routes to extreme mountain biking
await. Year round events – from Hay
Literary to Machynlleth Comedy, from
Green Man to the Royal Welsh and Winter
Shows, celebrating our agricultural heritage.
Stay in magnificent mansions to wacky
wigwams. All topped off with mouthwatering cuisine, local whiskies and
marvelous wines. That’s Mid Wales My
Way!
t : +44 (0)1874 622485
w : midwalesmyway.com
Pembrokeshire – Britain’s
Only Coastal National Park
Rated by National Geographic magazine
experts as the second best coastline in the
world. With 186 miles (299km) of
magnificent and varied coastline and over
50 beaches, there’s plenty of space for
everyone. Choose between lively Tenby and
Saundersfoot or peaceful St David’s and
Newport. Perfect for outdoor activities or
just relaxing.
To find out more about Pembrokeshire
w : visitpembrokeshire.com
Swansea Bay – Swansea,
Mumbles, & Gower
The Glamorgan Heritage
Coast and Countryside
Discover Dylan Thomas in Wales’s
Waterfront City, birthplace of our poetic
hero and playwright. Spend some time in
the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural
Beauty, the Gower Peninsula. Unwind on
award-winning beaches and explore
unspoilt countryside. Bring your board, bike
and boots and enjoy watersports, cycling
and walking.
The dramatic Heritage Coast and popular
resorts of Barry Island and Porthcawl are
fringed by lovely Vale and Bridgend
countryside and green hills. Discover the
special character of an area steeped in
history – and it’s close to Cardiff, Wales’
cosmopolitan capital.
t : +44 (0)1792 468321
w : visitswanseabay.com
Cardiff, Capital of Wales
Wales Golf
The secret’s out! More and
more players are
discovering and thoroughly
enjoying ‘Golf as it should
be’- - in Wales.
www.golfasitshouldbe.com
The capital of Wales has unique attractions,
top-class entertainment, a wide range of
accommodation to suit all needs and quality
shopping with a difference. Cardiff Castle,
the Millennium Stadium, National Museum
Cardiff, the Wales Millennium Centre and
famous Doctor Who Experience combined
with Cardiff Bay offer indoor and outdoor
entertainment for everyone all year round.
t : +44 (0)29 2087 3573
w : visitcardiff.com
Wye Valley and Vale of Usk
Fantastic scenery and high-quality food and
drink from the Brecon Beacons National
Park to the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding
Natural Beauty. Explore castles, Roman
towns and beautiful gardens; then take in
award-winning vineyards, bustling market
towns and great local pubs. With the
renowned Newport and Abergavenny Food
Festivals, celebrated restaurants and artisan
producers, discover why we’re the Food
Capital of Wales.
t : +44 (0)1291 623772
w : visitmonmouthshire.com
!
For FREE copies of any THREE brochures please tick the appropriate
boxes and send to: Visit Wales, Dept T10, PO Box 1, Cardiff CF24 2XN
The Isle of Anglesey
Carmarthenshire –
Carmarthenshire –
Carmarthen Bay
(no brochure)
Carmarthen Bay
Llandudno & Colwyn Bay
Swansea Bay – Swansea,
Carmarthenshire stretches from
Carmarthen Bay in the south to western
Beacons and the Cambrian Mountains in the
north, wondrous Gardens, awe-inspiring
Castles and Wales’s longest beach, market
towns brimming with local produce and chic
shopping.
North East Wales
Mumbles & Gower
Snowdonia Mountains &
(no brochure)
t : +44 (0)1267 231557
w : discovercarmarthenshire.com
t : +44 (0)1446 704867
t: +44 (0)1656 815338
w : visitthevale.com
w : bridgendbites.com
Coast/Eryri Mynyddoedd
Cardiff – Capital of Wales
a Môr
(no brochure)
Mid Wales My Way
Glamorgan Heritage Coast
(no brochure)
& Countryside
Ceredigion – Cardigan Bay &
Wye Valley & Vale of Usk
the Cambrian Mountains
(no brochure)
Pembrokeshire – Britain’s only
Wales Golf
Name (please print):
Address (please print):
Post Code:
Coastal National Park
39
How to find us
#
By Coach and bus
Tourist Information Centres
Traveline Cymru
Traveline Cymru provides an all Wales
information service.
T: +44 (0) 871 2002233
www.traveline-cymru.info
If you’d like some help in planning
your trip, or for information on the
local area, contact one of the Tourist
Information Centres below, where
the friendly and knowledgeable
staff will be pleased to help you.
National Express
National Express provides coach services to Newport,
Cardiff, Swansea, Merthyr Tydfil and Pontypridd with
good onward connections to The Valleys.
T: +44 (0) 8717 818180
www.nationalexpress.com
/
By Car
The M4, M5 and M50 provide easy access
to The Valleys from the South East, the Home
Counties, the Midlands and the South West.
S
By Train
Hourly services from major cities to Cardiff with
good regional railway connections to The Valleys.
National Rail Enquiries
T: +44 (0) 8457 48 49 50
www.nationalrail.co.uk
Eurotunnel
T: +44 (0) 870 535 3535
www.eurotunnel.com
By Sea
Services operating across the Irish Sea:
Fastnet Line (Cork to Swansea)
T: +44 (0) 844 576 8831
www.fastnetline.com
Stena Line (Rosslare to Fishguard)
T: +44 (0) 8447 70 70 70
www.stenaline.co.uk
Irish Ferries (Rosslare to Pembroke)
T: +44 (0) 818 300 400
www.irishferries.co.uk
Blaenavon World Heritage Centre
Church Road, Blaenavon, NP4 9AE
(closed Mondays except Bank Holidays)
T: +44 (0) 1495 742 333
E: [email protected]
www.visitblaenavon.co.uk
Visit Caerphilly
Twyn Square, Caerphilly, CF83 1JL
T: +44 (0) 29 2088 0011
Pontypridd
Museum and Tourist Information Centre,
Bridge Street, Pontypridd, CF37 4PE
T: +44 (0) 1443 490748
www.pontypriddmuseum.org.uk
Tredegar
Parc Bryn Bach Countryside Centre,
Merthyr Road, Tredegar, NP22 3AY
T: +44 (0) 1495 355920
By Air
Cardiff Airport, Bristol Airport and Birmingham
Airport handle flights into the region from the UK,
Europe and USA. For flight information:
Cardiff Airport
T:+44 (0) 8712 820661
www.tbicardiffairport.com
Bristol Airport
T: +44 (0) 871 334 4344
www.bristolairport.co.uk
Birmingham Airport
T: +44 (0) 870 733 5511
www.birminghamairport.co.uk
41
We love to talk in The Valleys
and we’d love to hear from
you. There are lots of ways to
get involved:
Sign up to our newsletter at
to find out the latest news, special offers,
competitions and exclusive events.
Email us at
[email protected]
Find LoveTheValleys on
©The Valleys Heart and Soul
This guide has been funded and produced by The Valleys
Consortium consisting of Blaenau Gwent CBC, Bridgend
CBC, Caerphilly CBC, Merthyr Tydfil CBC, Rhondda
Cynon Taff CBC, Torfaen CBC, Images throughout are
supplied by partners and Welsh Government. Copyright is
retained by the relevant partner organisation.
We’ve got singletrack, downhill and cross
country, great scenery, cafes and
accommodation - we’ve got bike shops, trail
maps and ‘hwyl’ (fun the Welsh way). You’ve got
the chance to be part of it all, so come and join
the revolution!
Check out our website for all the information you
need on mountain biking in South Wales www.cognation.co.uk - featuring Cwmcarn
Forest and BikePark Wales, as well as other ideas
for biking days such as Darren Fawr, Garwnant
Visitor Centre and the Taff Trail.
Design: www.artmattersstudio.co.uk
Important notice: Whilst every effort has been made to
ensure accuracy in this publication, the publishers cannot
accept liability whatsoever for any errors, inaccuracies or
omissions, or for any matter in any way connected with
or arising out of the publication of the information. This
brochure may not be reproduced in part or in whole
without the prior consent of the publishers.

The Valleys - Visit Wales

Transcription

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The Valleys - Southern Wales