The Valleys - Southern Wales
Transcription
The Valleys - Southern Wales
From the heart Broadcaster, raconteur and all-round Valleys man – or is that boy? Roy Noble sets the scene for our look at the ‘Heart and Soul’ of Wales. You’re making a big mistake if you stay on the M4 as it whisks you through South Wales. It’s not that I have anything against motorways, you understand. But just off the M4, things are different. It’s the land of another people, a cocktail of close communities known as The Valleys. In historical terms, Valleys people are not indigenous, coming as they did from different regions and countries to work in the iron and coal industries. Cawl is a nourishing Welsh broth of many ingredients. What a wholesome ‘cawl’ they are, the Welsh Valleys tribe, divided into rival communities, yet each standing side-by-side in a common cause and lifestyle like colourful patches on the quilt, woven and sewn together. If The Valleys region begins beside the M4, it ends at another clearly defined boundary along the A465 ‘Heads of The Valleys’ road (though the pedantic ex-schoolteacher in me has to point out that the region also includes the westerly Amman and Gwendraeth Valleys in Carmarthenshire). But the road, more or less, marks the northern edge of the Magic Kingdom. It’s dangerous to name each valley in turn, because they have all made their own historical mark. Collectively, they present an indelible image. On the other side of Offa’s Dyke it is often perceived that all Welsh people come from ‘The Valleys’. Whether you are born in Mumbles, Ceredigion, Aberystwyth or Blaenau Ffestiniog, in the minds of many you’re Welsh (correct) and from The Valleys (wrong). Genealogy is fashionable these days, and following research, my blood mix takes in deepest Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire, 2 thevalleys.co.uk Cornwall and Suffolk. That is long ago history. The recent past and present mark me down as a pure-bred Valleys boy. I love the tribe. As a species we are open, inquisitive, friendly, warm, convivial, vocal, emotional, caring… if only we could be humble we’d crack it! Alright, there are a few rough edges here and there, but deep intellect and vibrancy too. The area between those highways is a special place. Fly in a helicopter over The Valleys from east to west and you will see this place in all its wonder. It’s a vast range of rural moorland, cut at regular intervals with north to south incisions. It’s down in those deep clefts that the tribe lives, each section in its patch, still vibrant, still full of potential and still a special, special breed. It’s a great place to come from, a welcoming place to return to and a good place to be. I still have the T-shirt (a ‘manly’ size 46) stamped with ‘Valleys Boy’. I'm comfortable in it. Croeso Bienvenue Welkom Willkommen Here’s How It Works We don't go in for over-the-top flowery descriptions in this publication. We’ve presented The Valleys as simply and honestly as we can, dividing the guide into sections based on various themes, at the end of which we list detailed information on things to see and do and places to visit. We hope you’ll find it’s helpful in planning your ideal short break or holiday whether staying with family and friends or booking accommodation. Wales would be a bit flat without The Valleys More ups and downs Soul music by Jonathan Davies Industrial Evolution We know where you’re coming from Green scene A tasty part of Wales Talking heads, tall tales What’s happening It’s all in the stars Accommodation listing Attractions and activities Take your pick So easy to get to Quirky facts & Tourist Information Centres 4-5 6-7 8-9 10-11 12-13 14-15 16-17 18-19 20-21 22 23-37 38-43 44-45 46-47 48 Copy by Writerog Ltd (Roger Thomas Freelance Services) Did you know? The Coal House, BBC Wales’ living history series is filmed at Blaenavon Ironworks www.bbc.co.uk/coalhouse Wales would be a bit flat without The Valleys We’re not talking just about the scenery. The Valleys is a big-hearted part of Wales with an even bigger personality. Our story has shaped the nation – Wales simply wouldn’t be the same without us. If you’ve not visited us before you’re missing out on a big experience in the birthplace of modern Wales. Industrial heritage is just part of that story. In fact, the coal mines of old have long since gone, to be replaced by country and forest parks (yes, we know it’s a bit of a cliché, but we really are green again). What hasn’t changed is that unique Valleys character, born of a strong sense of community, pride and passion, warmth and wit. We call it the ‘Heart and Soul of Wales’. You’ll experience it everywhere – in shops, pubs and restaurants, at festivals and events, and in conversations with complete strangers (though you won’t be a stranger for long in this famously friendly part of Wales). Then there’s the way we look. With vales you get hills and mountains. In our case, lots of them, creating a restless, roller-coaster landscape of ups and downs that – to first-time visitors who don’t know us – is surprisingly green and fresh. We had our Industrial Revolution. That’s now history. The energy now lies elsewhere. The Valleys of the 21st century will inspire you to get out into the Great Outdoors, go walking, cycling and wildlife watching. So bring plenty of your own energy too. As well as those hills and mountains we have Wales’s largest concentration of country parks (they’re absolutely everywhere). Not to mention the biggest urban forest park in the UK... 4 thevalleys.co.uk Wales Valleys Walking Festival, 4-19 September 2010 You’ll have gathered that we’re pretty keen on walking – so much so that we organise a Walking Festival that gets bigger and better each year. It features a great choice of guided walks for all interests and abilities. And we do it Valleys-style, with friendly, knowledgeable guides who love to talk as well as walk. www.thevalleys.co.uk Feet first We’re talking walking. The Valleys was made for it. Our walks come in all shapes and sizes – long, point-to-point treks across mountaintops for serious walkers, easy, circular low-level paths for families. And it’s walking with a purpose. As well as those splendid views, many walks have themes based on our unique landscape and heritage. You can follow in the footsteps of ironmakers and miners (everywhere), explore a World Heritage Site (at Blaenavon) or trace the routes of tramways and the world’s first steam train (from Merthyr Tydfil). Duke’s Table Walking Afan Forest Blaenavon Bwlch Y Clawdd, Rhondda Cynon Taff Afan Forest Park ‘Urban’ is perhaps the wrong description. ‘Alpine’ better sums up the woods that clothe the steep-sided Afan Valley. We don’t need to sell the Afan Forest to mountain bikers. They already know all about its world-class offroad credentials, up there with Chamonix, California and Kathmandu according to Mountain Bike Rider magazine. Afan’s 100-plus miles of trails and swooping singletracks include The Wall (enough said) and Skyline, a 29-mile biking adventure that’s a big day out in anyone’s books. But you don’t have to be a macho MTB downhill hero. Afan also includes gentle, family-friendly trails. And for those who prefer two (or four legs) to a pair of muddy tyres, there’s also wonderfully woody walking and horse riding. And fishing. And two visitor centres with great cafés. Who said forests are boring? www.afanforestpark.co.uk More ups and downs Champion cyclist Nicole Cooke is a big fan of The Valleys – she says that our hills (quite steep in parts), vales (not steep at all) and scenery (quite breathtaking) make us one of her favourite training grounds. That’s a rock-solid recommendation from someone who has all of the Alps to choose from. Activities have always been high on our agenda. The Valleys is full of go-do activities, including all kinds of adrenaline sports, laid-back canal cruising, great golf, fishing and horse riding. And we have the facilities to match, with activity and sporting centres that extend the usual warm-hearted Valleys welcome to experts and novices. Mountain biking Cwmcarn Forest Park is just one of our many MTB hot spots. There are also miles of thrill-aPontypool Golf Course minute all-weather singletracks and downhills in Parc Bryn Bach and Gethin Woodland Park. Golf Plus endless exhilarating riding on natural The Ryder Cup will be played just a short putt terrain across our hills, moors and mountains. away from us at Celtic Manor Resort, Newport, in 2010. If you’re coming, make sure that you Fishing add on a few days to sample ‘golf as it should Gone fishing in The Valleys? Then we mightn’t be’, Valleys-style – which means golf played in friendly surroundings, convenient tee-times, see you for some time. Water isn’t in short unhurried courses and unstuffy clubhouses. supply – we have over 35 rivers, lakes, In and around The Valleys you’ll find 30-odd streams, canals and ponds. Neither are the fish. Excellent fishing is one of those unexpected courses ranging from mighty big hitters to Valleys activities. Visiting anglers are invariably intimate nine-holers, spectacular mountaintop greens to testing parkland fairways. It’s all surprised by the quality and quantity of our neatly packaged if you choose a one-stop-shop game and coarse fishing. At one time, fishing that will ‘mix and match’ golf courses and here was a ‘best-kept secret’. Not any longer... accommodation. Take a look at operators like these: www.greensofsouthernwales.com www.valleystourism.com Merthyr’s catch of the day The environmental transformation of The Valleys once again hit the headlines when Merthyr Tydfil played host to the prestigious Rivers International Fly-Fishing Championship in 2009. Nowadays, you can fish the River Taff all the way down to Cardiff Bay, helped by a £½-million fish pass for salmon and trout. It’s just one of Merthyr’s many angling assets. The Pontsticill, Dolygaer and Upper Neuadd reservoirs, beautifully set in the foothills of the Brecon Beacons, are popular and productive game and coarse fishing venues, while the town’s Cyfarthfa Park Lake is one of a number of local ponds offering good coarse catches. 6 thevalleys.co.uk Fishing at Garn Lakes Cycling in Afan Forest Caerphilly Castle Aberdulais Falls Afan Forest Park ‘I race all over Britain, but when it comes to training I have it all here right on my doorstep and think it’s about time that everyone knew what a spectacular backdrop The Valleys is for cyclists – both those interested in leisure and others a little more serious about the sport.’ Manon Carpenter, Caerphilly. Female Welsh Downhill Mountain Bike Champion Soul music What makes The Valleys so special? Ask anyone in the know and they’ll tell you that the answer lies in the people. They’re the beating heart of our ‘Heart and Soul’. Here are the thoughts of Jonathan Davies, 47, rugby legend and BBC TV sports presenter. He’s a Valleys boy through and through. But before you read any further, perhaps we should explain that, like all the locals, he aligns himself first and foremost with his home community – in his case Trimsaran, a small village in the Gwendraeth Valley, South-west Wales. ‘I’m a Trimsaran boy. If anyone asks me where I’m from I tell them that. It’s where I grew up and it’s where I’m proud of. I had a normal childhood with a great bunch of lads. We played cricket, rugby and football in the woods, in the streets and in the fields. What’s happened since is amazing. It’s now back to green again as the new Ffos Las Racecourse, a fabulous venue that’s fantastic news for the local community. When I visited for the first time the doorman on the marquee was Paul Thomas from the village, who had played rugby with my dad and me. They even named a part of the racecourse after me – the Jonathan Davies Grandstand – which I regard as a great honour. ‘Trimsaran was a typical village of about 1,500 people and four council estates. Everyone seemed to know everyone else. The village was always a great support for me and my family through good times and bad times.’ There are some beautiful parts to The Valleys. But it’s the culture and richness of the people that really counts. The camaraderie is special because you’re a close community and you go through thick and thin together. Valleys people are very generous too. That’s evident when I do charity events and things like Children in Need. The hub of the village was the rugby club. My dad, who worked in Trostre steelworks, was the captain. I played for the team too at the start of my career. If I hadn’t played first-class rugby I’d have stayed playing for them. The one regret I maybe have is that I never went back and captained the team. There was a great friendship and a great rivalry between neighbouring villages. Kidwelly was only three miles away, then you had Burry Port, Pembrey, Pontyates – they all had their rugby clubs. Most of the men in the village worked in the Cynheidre colliery, the steelworks or the local washery. I’m from a council estate that overlooked a massive open-cast coalmine. Before the open-cast came it was a big Forestry Commission plantation and I remember riding around it on my bike and sliding down the coal tips on zinc sheets. Later on, when I was about 20, I worked as a labourer on the open cast. 8 thevalleys.co.uk I’ve lived all over the place, in Liverpool, Manchester, Sydney and on the Barrier Reef. But I missed the humour and the dry wit of The Valleys. And, whoever you are, Valleys people will keep your feet firmly on the ground.’ As told to Roger Thomas Build it and they will come This famous quote, taken from the film Field of Dreams, could well be the motto of the new Ffos Las Racecourse at Trimsaran. Ffos Las is an icon for the changing face of The Valleys. It’s built on what was Europe’s largest open-cast coalmine (though you’d never know it). This fabulous 600-acre course, in a magnificent setting surrounded by rolling hills, is now a venue for top-class National Hunt and Flat racing. Opened in June 2009, its £30 million world-class track and facilities are already a big hit with competitors and spectators. www.ffoslasracecourse.com Jockies Ffos Las Racecourse Local knowledge Green Badge guides have the key to The Valleys. They know and love their local areas – and also love sharing that information with visitors. To see it all from a Valleys perspective go to www.wotga.com and click on ‘Find a Guide’. Industrial Evolution We had our revolution a few hundred years ago when The Valleys became the powerhouse of the nation. The talk nowadays is of evolution and a post-industrial age in which we are being seen in a very different light. Reminders of bygone times are still with us in the shape of compelling heritage attractions that recreate the days of coal, iron and steel. But that’s just a part of who we are and what we offer. We have attractions of all kinds – more, we guarantee, than you’ll have time to visit all in one go. Did you know, for example, that we’re home to one of Europe’s biggest and best medieval castles (it’s smack in the middle of Caerphilly – you can’t miss it)? Or a scenic narrow-gauge railway where you hop on in Merthyr Tydfil and hop off in the heart of the Brecon Beacons? Or western Europe’s largest showcaves complex, at Dan yr Ogof? Or a ‘waterfall country’ in the Vale of Neath that’s gushingly beautiful? Or one of Britain’s spookiest houses, 17th-century Llancaiach Fawr near Nelson, star of the Most Haunted TV series? Get the picture? We’re also full of family attractions, adventure parks and museums where you’ll be amused, bemused and highly entertained. Some are highbrow, others are great fun, some are family-focused, others more for the culture vultures out there. Go Ape! Release your inner Tarzan at this new treetop high-wire course in Margam Country Park. It’s an up, up and away forest adventure, involving ladders, walkways, bridges, tunnels, ropes and zip wire. You’re fully kitted out with safety equipment then set free to swing through the trees like you-know-who (leather loincloth not supplied). www.goape.com Yesterday, today and tomorrow We’re proud of our past – and like sharing its memories with our visitors. The guides at Big Pit National Coal Museum are ex-miners, so you’re in safe hands when they take you underground. Big Pit was one of the reasons why Blaenavon became a World Heritage Site, a status it shares with places like the Taj Mahal and Great Wall of China. Other must-visit reminders of our industrial past scattered across The Valleys include Aberdare’s Cynon Valley Museum, the Winding House in New Tredegar, Merthyr Tydfil’s Cyfarthfa Castle Museum and the Rhondda Heritage Park near Porth. It’s a hugely influential heritage – you can’t say you know Wales unless you’ve experienced it. And it’s an ongoing story. One place that perfectly sums up the transition from past to present and future is The Works at Ebbw Vale. It’s the new name for an historic site. The original ‘works’, a pioneering iron foundry, supplied the rails for Britain’s first railways. When its doors closed in 2002, others opened. The Works, in its 21st-century reincarnation, will again buzz with energy, innovation and spirit as a new sports village, genealogy centre (details on the following pages) and vibrant urban communities take root here. And to kick things off in a grand style, The Works has been chosen as the venue for the 2010 National Eisteddfod (31 July–7 August), Wales’s most important cultural gathering. See you there. Neath Abbey 10 thevalleys.co.uk Rhondda Heritage Park ‘I have noticed a large number of people moving from areas of England – I think people are waking up to the fact that here you can have a great work-life balance.’ Donna Jones, Ebbw Vale Go Ape! Margam Park Blaenavon Ironworks Cyfarthfa Castle Festival Park The Winding House We know where you’re coming from It’s in the blood – quite literally. We’re talking about family roots. It’s something we’re very keen on in The Valleys, which perhaps explains why genealogy is such a powerful force here. Tracing your roots opens lots of doors in this part of Wales. In the 18th and 19th centuries The Valleys was a melting pot of influences, with huge movements of population. So it’s hardly surprising that the rest of the world has strong links with the teeming communities that grew up in this area’s booming industrial towns and villages. We’ve made it surprisingly easy to track them down. There’s a whole host of helpful local organisations, offices and websites to get you started. Rhondda Cynon Taf’s www.routetoyourroots.co.uk is a good example. Trefil Quarry Workers 1800 New for 2010 – the ‘Genealogy Experience’ We’ve taken things a step further at Ebbw Vale, home of the new Genealogy and Visitor Centre, an exciting £12½-million development located at the iconic Grade II listed offices of the town’s old steelworks. Fun is a big part of the formula. The centre’s ‘Genealogy Experience’ will entertain and enlighten, allowing visitors to explore the past through all kinds of clever high-tech and interactive routes. The centre will also be the state-of-the-art home for the Gwent Archive Service and the Steelworks Archive. www.theworksebbwvale.co.uk 12 thevalleys.co.uk More famous sons and daughters The Valleys’ Fame Academy has produced world-class singers, writers, actors, entertainers, fashion designers and musicians. Are any of these on a branch of your family tree? Laura Ashley – born Laura Mountney in Dowlais, Merthyr Tydfil Sir Stanley Baker – actor from Ferndale who starred in Zulu Aneurin Bevan – Minister of Health responsible for the creation of the NHS, born in Tredegar Richard Burton – world-famous actor from Pontrhydyfen near Port Talbot John Cale – avant garde musician and founder of The Velvet Underground from Garnant Joe Calzaghe – retired champion rated one of the world’s ‘top 10’ boxers, brought up in Newbridge Petula Clark – singer with strong family roots in Abercanaid near Merthyr Tydfil Tommy Cooper – the comedian’s comedian from Caerphilly Idris Davies - poet from Rhymney Gareth Edwards – possibly the greatest rugby player of all time, from Gwaencaegurwen, near Brynaman Ioan Gruffudd – Hollywood heartthrob who hails from Aberdare Sir Anthony Hopkins – forever Hannibal Lecter, from Taibach, PortTalbot Katherine Jenkins – hugely popular crossover classical singer from Neath Neil Jenkins – Wales and Lions rugby hero from Church Village Tom Jones – ‘Jones the Voice’ from near Pontypridd. Simply the best! Neil Kinnock – politician born in Tredegar Julien MacDonald – darling of the fashion world from Merthyr Tydfil Lost Prophets – rockers from Pontypridd Manic Street Preachers – global superstars from Blackwood area Kylie Minogue – mother’s family were from Maesteg Michael Sheen – latest acting superstar to come from the Port Talbot area Stereophonics – learned how to rock in Aberdare Eddie Thomas – inspirational boxing coach from Merthyr Tydfil (see his statue in the town centre) Howard Winstone – world-champion boxer from Merthyr Tydfil ‘Apart from being steeped in the history of the industrial past there is the feeling of looking forward to a bold exciting future for the next generation.’ C. Smith, Pontardawe Valleys Homecoming 2010 is a big year for The Valleys. It sees the launch of ‘Valleys Homecoming’, a celebration of the past, present and future of one of the most fascinating parts of Wales. It’s the year when the National Eisteddfod comes to The Valleys. Well, to The Works in Ebbw Vale to be precise. An ideal place to hold Wales’s most famous festival, The Works is the new name for the site where a vast ironworks once stood, supplying steel for Britain’s first railways. Its 21st Century reincarnation is a £350 million regeneration project that will include the new Genealogy and Visitor Centre in the iconic Grade II listed building that was once the offices of the old works. The Centre’s Genealogy Experience will be entertaining and enlightening, allowing visitors to explore the past in all kinds of innovative and interactive ways. Visit valleyshomecoming.co.uk to find out what is happening as part of this celebration. Green scene Yes, we know that How Green Was My Valley is still the image that some people have of us. But the book, by Richard Llewellyn, was about The Valleys in the 19th century. Even then, the title wasn’t that accurate: all the industrial activity took place along the valley floors, away from our wild, untouched hills and mountains. If Mr Llewellyn was writing today, he would have to call it ‘How Green Is My Valley’. Over the last 50 years The Valleys has been transformed. Earlier in this guide we described the new Ffos Las Racecourse at Trimsaran, a very green venue created on what was Europe’s largest open-cast coalmine. It’s typical of our scenic renaissance. The Dare Valley Country Park, Aberdare, and Parc Bryn Bach near Tredegar, for example, are just two of many green spaces where industry once dominated. You can walk for miles on mountaintops without seeing a soul, go cycling on scenic trails where coalmines once stood, follow tranquil canal towpaths, go gorge walking in ‘Waterfall Country’, or sign up for forest adventures. Here are some more snapshots from our green scene: Water power Aberdulais Falls in the Neath Valley combines industrial heritage with great natural beauty. Man and nature work in harmony at this pioneering – and very picturesque – metalworks. It has impeccable green credentials. Europe’s largest working waterwheel makes the old furnace, now a National Trust visitor centre, entirely self sufficient. There’s also a fish pass that gives salmon and sea trout access to the upper reaches of the River Dulais. You can’t get more environmentally friendly than that. www.nationaltrust.org.uk 14 thevalleys.co.uk Farming today Local farms have always played a big part in Valleys life. And the tradition lives on. Cwmcerrig Farm at Gorslas near Cross Hands, has its own farm shop where you can buy beef, lamb, poultry and other farm-fresh produce direct. The animals are reared in the traditional way on a family-run farm, and the shop is totally integrated into the farm environment. www.cwmcerrigfarmshop.co.uk There’s strength in numbers. Cig Mynydd Cymru (Welsh Mountain Meat) is a co-operative of five farming families from The Valleys who have formed a partnership to sell their delicious, award-winning Welsh Black beef and mountain lamb. Call into their shop in Treharris in the Taff Valley. www.cigmynyddcymru.co.uk The art of cycling We’re big fans of cycling, an activity that’s about as green as you can get. In addition to world-class mountain biking there’s a great network of scenic touring routes. The Celtic Trail East, for example, is part of a long-distance, largely traffic-free cycle route that takes you across South Wales to Pembrokeshire. As it tracks through The Valleys it uses canal towpaths, old railway lines, forests and sections of the Taff Trail, taking in many sites of great historic and industrial significance, some of which are marked by striking artworks and sculptures. www.sustrans.org.uk Fair play – Fairtrade ‘Fair play’ is one of our favourite sayings. Meant as a compliment, it’s a nod to the generous nature of Valleys folk. It helps explain why the Fairtrade movement is so well represented here. Ammanford, Caerphilly, Merthyr Tydfil, Neath Port Talbot and Rhondda Cynon Taf have all signed up to a movement that supports local sustainability and fair terms of trade for people in developing countries. www.fairtrade.org.uk ‘Lots of people have the wrong idea about life here. But we aren’t only about greenness, scenery and interesting places to visit – we’ve also got great communities. There is something special about Valleys people.’’ Mavis Ashford, Pontypridd Rhymney Valley Farmers’ market Cycling competition Miners’ Museum Valley views A tasty part of Wales Places to eat in The Valleys cater for all tastes and budgets, from simple and wholesome to fine dining. Most of our towns have bistros and restaurants serving a tasty mix of traditional dishes and modern, inventive cuisine. More and more are relying on locally sourced produce that’s fresh and flavoursome, using it as the basis not just of classic favourites like Welsh lamb and beef but also for contemporary dishes and flavour combinations cooked with a lighter touch. We have our fair share of Italian restaurants. But we scoop the pool when it comes to Italian cafés – or should that be Welsh-Italian cafés? Let us explain. Over 100 years ago many Italian immigrants, mainly from the Bardi area of the Apennine Mountains, settled in The Valleys. And what did they do? They did what Italians do best and opened cafés and ice cream parlours. Many of these family-run businesses, with names like Bracchi’s, Servini’s, Conti’s, Carpanini’s, Bassini’s and – inevitably – Mario’s survive to this day. In fact, no self-respecting Valleys town makes do without one (or three) of them. These much-loved local features of our urban landscape continue to do a thriving business. So for all those trendy city-goers out there who thought that cappuccino was invented by Starbucks, we have a little secret for you – we’ve been drinking great coffee in The Valleys for well over a century. Not to mention eating the proper Italian ice cream. Two of our local specialities are cheese and whisky. The cheese comes from the Blaenafon Cheddar Company, producers of eight highly distinctive cheddars and four varieties of goat’s cheese. This award-winning specialist cheesemaker brings a strong local flavour to its products, both visually and taste-wise. Its four ‘heritage’ cheddars – Capel Newydd, Blaenafon, Pwll Ddu and Pwll Mawr – are coated in different coloured waxes with scenes of Blaenavon’s industrial heritage on the labels. What’s more, the Pwll Mawr cheddar is actually matured at the bottom of the mineshaft at the town’s Big Pit National Coal Museum. 16 thevalleys.co.uk A selection of eating out places to try in The Valleys: (visit www.thevalleys.co.uk for a full list) The Coffee Bean 01495 320333 21 Church Street, Abertillery NP13 1DB Black Mountain Centre Restaurant 01269 823400 Cwmgarw Road, Brynaman, Ammanford SSA18 1BU The Rock Inn 01495 223441 Tredegar Road, Blackwood NP12 1DD The Heritage Café 01495 742339 Blaenavon World Heritage Centre, Blaenavon NP4 9AS 01656 729009 The Harlequin Restaurant, Bryngarw House Bridgend CF32 8UU Smithy Café 01656 842685 The Square, Blackmill, Bridgend Glanmors Tearooms 02920 888355 Unit 30, Castle Crt Shopping Ctr, Caerphilly CF83 1NU The Three Blackbirds Inn 01633 483130 Llantarnam, Cwmbran NP44 3AY Tiffins Indian Buffet Restaurant 01633 480077 4 Gyndwr Road, Cwmbran NP44 1QS Caffe Sidoli 01495 309820 35, Bethcar Street, Ebbw Vale NP23 6HW Cwmcerrig Farm Shop & Grill 01269 844405 Cwmcerrig Farm, Gorslas SA14 7HU Prince of Wales Inn 01554 890522 Meinciau Road, Mynyddygarreg, Kidwelly SA17 4RP Llangeinor Arms, Llangeinor 01656 870268 O'Sullivans Brasserie 01443 237774 7 Swan Street, Llantrisant CF72 8ED Fwrrwm Ishta Restaurant & Bar 01633 440227 68 Commercial Road, Machen CF83 8PG Bellvue Pub Restaurant 01685 722568 1 Glebeland Street, Merthyr Tydfil CF47 8AU Lord Raglan Inn 01685 722512 High Street, Cefn Coed, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 2PN Truly Scrumptious Café 07854 800272 Fox Street, Merthyr Tydfil CF47 5HE Glyn Clydach Coach House 01792 816307 Longford Road, Neath SA10 7AJ La Crème Patisserie 01639 638574 Great Western Chambers, Angel St, Neath SA11 1RS The Red Lion 01685 811914 Church Road, Penderyn CF44 9JR Pen y Cae Inn 01639 730100 Brecon Road, Pen y Cae SA9 1FA The Butchers Arms 01639 641119 Alltwen Hill, Alltwen, Pontardawe SA8 3BP Café and Visitor Centre Lliw Reservoir, Felindre, Swansea Valley The Swan Inn 01639 841222 50 Gurnos Road, Ystalyfera, Swansea Valley SA9 2HY Mr Creemy Ice Cream Parlour 01443 432382 58 - 59 Tylacelyn Road, Tonypandy CF40 1JU The Mountain Air 01495 723116 Llwyn Helyg, Tredegar NP22 3SD Crown & Sceptre Inn 01639 642145 Main Road, Cadoxton, Vale of Neath SA10 8AP Bryngarw House Café Life, Pontypridd The Welsh Whisky Company Cheese and... whisky? Yes, that’s right. The Blaenafon Cheddar Company’s hand-made cheeses have another strong Valleys connection – they are flavoured with Penderyn Welsh Whisky and other local ingredients. Whisky from the Valleys has been a huge success story. The Welsh Whisky Company at Penderyn produces a single malt whisky and a range of high-quality Welsh spirits. The distillery is the only one in Wales and one of the smallest in the world. Yet its fame is global, thanks to a malt whisky that is recognised by connoisseurs as one of the finest and most delicate you can buy. Taste it and see if you agree. Better still, go along to the new Visitor Centre for a tasting and tour of the distillery. www.welsh-whisky.co.uk Talking heads, tall tales We make no secret of it. We love to talk. In The Valleys you’ll soon find yourself in conversation with the locals in shops, pubs and cafés. This love of language is part of an oral tradition that goes back over a thousand years to the time of the bards, storytellers and poets. There are thousands of tales too – of ghostly spirits and ladies of the lake, dragons and devils, Celtic myth and chivalry. Here are just a few to whet your appetite. The truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth We’ll start with one that’s 100 percent true. George Stephenson’s Rocket was the world’s first steam train, right? Wrong. In 1804, more than 20 years before the Rocket turned a wheel, engineer Richard Trevithick, ‘the father of the locomotive engine’, drove his steam-powered Penydarren 9½ miles along the Taff Valley between Merthyr Tydfil and Abercynon. You can see a replica at Merthyr’s Cyfarthfa Castle Museum. www.museums.merthyr.gov.uk The ‘Lady of the Lake’ We’re not so sure about this one. True or not, it’s worth getting off the beaten track at Ferndale in the Rhondda Fach to the undiscovered Darran Park and mysterious Llyn-y-Forwyn (the Maiden’s Lake), cupped by mountain crags. The ‘maiden’ in question was an enchantress from the bottom of the lake who married a young farmer, only to disappear back into the depths after a quarrel. Even if you don’t manage to spot her, you’ll love the surroundings. A Midsummer Night’s Dream Shakespeare’s enchanting comedy was reputedly inspired by a visit to South Wales – specifically to the dramatic Clydach Gorge near Brynmawr. Go to this magical spot on a warm summer’s evening and you’ll be convinced. It’s a National Nature Reserve famous for its thick cloak of rare beechwoods… and fairies. Llancaiach Fawr Haunted house Llancaiach Fawr near Nelson is a rare survivor, a Tudor manor house dating from 1530. It ranks amongst the top 10 most haunted houses in Britain. Strange smells –violets, lavender, even roast beef – spookily come and go, along with much ghostly activity. Paranormal researchers are sure of the existence of something strange. So is it really haunted? Decide for yourself on one of the regular evening ghost tours held in autumn and winter. If you really don’t like ghosts come when the sun is out for a spirit-free wander around this fascinating old house. www.llancaiachfawr.co.uk ‘People visiting the area are always commenting on how friendly and down to earth Valleys people are because they get such a warm welcome. Everyone talks to each other and there is a very strong community spirit.’ Gaynor Madgwick, Merthyr Tydfil 18 thevalleys.co.uk Caerphilly Castle A ghostly ‘Green Lady’, leaning tower and Doctor Who... what more do you want? These are just three of the many reasons for visiting Caerphilly Castle. It’s a big place – one of Europe’s largest and most formidable medieval fortresses. When you wander the battlements you might see the Green Lady. Modern soap operas have nothing on her medieval tale of love and betrayal. This French princess, thwarted in her love of a Welsh nobleman, is doomed forever to haunt the castle in a green robe of envy. Why envy? It’s a long story... ask someone in Caerphilly. They’ll also tell you about Caerphilly’s wonky ‘leaning tower’ (its only sign of weakness) and the role the castle played in a recent episode of Doctor Who. www.cadw.wales.gov.uk Llancaiach Fawr Cyfarthfa Castle Clydach Gorge What’s happening? We enjoy each other’s company in The Valleys. Our communities have always nurtured a strong and vibrant cultural life, born of shared experiences in the industrial days of old. The Valleys is still a place where people matter – and a place where people get together for all kinds of festivals and events. There’s a full programme, from our famous Nos Galan Road Race, which welcomes in the New Year to atmospheric Christmas festivities. In the months in between, you’re more than welcome to come along to craft fairs, heritage days and historical re-enactments, and festivals that celebrate everything from food to literature and music to walking in our great outdoors. That’s just part of our rich culture. Many Valleys towns have their own theatres and arts centres which stage big-name productions as well as local entertainment. Our male voice choirs, perhaps the purest expression of the Valleys’ collective spirit, are still in fine voice, their sweet, soaring harmonies guaranteed to touch your emotions. Catch a performance or go along to one of their midweek rehearsals. Festivals and Events in The Valleys 2010 Celtic Day Ffos Las Racecourse 8 March Gorseinon Food Festival Gorseinon 24 April World Heritage Weekend 2010 Blaenavon 26-27 June Abertillery Blues Festival Abertillery Park 15-18 July UK Triathlon Parc Bryn Bach 17 July The Big Cheese Caerphilly 23-25 July Welsh Big Bite Ynysangharad War Memorial Park, Pontypridd 31July-1 Aug. The Big V Festival Parc Taf Bargoed August Pontardawe Festival Pontardawe 13-15 August Family Fun Day Ffos Las Racecourse 25 August Walking Festival Various Valleys locations 4-19 Sept. Afan Monster Mountain Bike Endurance Challenge Afan Forest 25 September Discover Cordell Country The Big Cheese Festival 20 thevalleys.co.uk Abertillery Blues Festival Nos Galan Road Race Fireworks Skyshow Cyfarthfa Park, Merthyr Tydfil November Medieval Christmas Fayre Caerphilly 11-12 Dec. Nos Galan Road Race Mountain Ash 31 December Tonypandy 2010 www.tonypandy2010.co.uk All year We’re proud to say that in 2010 Blaenau Gwent plays host to one prestigious festival in particular – the National Eisteddfod, Wales’s most important cultural gathering, which travels to a different venue each year. In 2010 it comes with a special Valleys flavour, so don’t miss it. 27 September – 3 October 2010 Ryder Cup Wales Celtic Manor, Newport Wales is proud to be hosting one of the world’s most prestigious sporting tournaments - The Ryder Cup. The tournament will take place at The Celtic Manor Resort, Newport. As well as the main event, in the run-up to the tournament Wales will be staging a ‘Summer of Golf’ a top quality programme of events. www.golfasitshouldbe.com www.rydercupwales2010.com www.greensofsouthernwales.com 27 May – 6 June Hay Festival Hay on Wye (Mid Wales) Britain’s town of books once again hosts its annual literary festival. Bill Clinton calls it ‘Woodstock of the Mind’. An event with a laid back party atmosphere – and it’s not just about books, you’ll get music, comedy and current affairs crammed into its cosmopolitan programme. www.hayfestival.com 31 May – 5 June Urdd National Eisteddfod Ceredigion Europe’s largest youth arts festival will be held at Llanerchaeron in Ceredigion for the first time since 1999. Celebrating the best talent in song, dance, drama and design, translation are facilities available. www.urdd.org/eisteddfod July – August Cardiff Summer Festival Summer in the city can only mean one thing – the Cardiff Summer Festival. The capital comes alive with street theatre, live music, comedy, drama and not forgetting funfairs. It’s the UK’s largest free outdoor festival. www.cardiff-festival.com 6 – 11 July Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod This festival is an international gathering of singers, dancers and musicians from over 50 countries worldwide. www.llangollen2010.co.uk Tel +44 (0)1978 862000 19 – 22 July Royal Welsh Show Builth Wells Britain’s most popular agricultural show, but it’s not all about cows and sheep. Live music, stunt displays, craft stalls, food and much more come together to create a bustling mix of town and country. www.rwas.co.uk 31 July – 7 August The National Eisteddfod of Wales Ebbw Vale Its a massive moveable feast of Welsh culture and heritage, held at a different location each year. Pomp and ceremony, poetry and dance, comedy, pop and rock are all part of the mix. 0845 122 1176 www.eisteddfod.org.uk 6 – 8 August Brecon Jazz An international festival that attracts some of the world’s top musicians and performers, bringing super-cool jazz to one of Wales’s most historic country towns. The Brecon Beacons have never sounded so good. www.breconjazz.org 18 – 19 September Abergavenny Food Festival Tickle your taste buds at one of the biggest events on the UK foodie calendar. Slow food, good food, local food, celebrity chefs, masterclasses, tastings and street stalls are all on Abergavenny’s massive menu. www.abergavennyfoodfestival.com Wales is a stage both for heavyweight cultural festivals and events that are light, frothy and pure fun. So if you’re looking for an eventful 2010, here’s a small taster of what’s happening in Wales. For a full listing go to www.visitwales.com It’s all in the stars It’s a Valleys speciality. We’re renowned for our hospitality. And you’ll find a great choice of accommodation to go with that big Valleys welcome. Our B&Bs and guesthouses are famously friendly – and offer exceptional value. We have ultra-convenient town-centre hotels and comfy country house hotels surrounded by green hills and vales. There are farmhouses too – yes, we have farms in The Valleys – which give guests an unrivalled insight into rural South Wales. And if you’re in a do-it-yourself frame of mind you’ll find plenty of self-catering properties and camping and caravanning sites. All accommodation grades in this publication have been based on a new set of common quality standards agreed by Visit Wales, Visit Britain, Visit Scotland and the AA. The star ratings reflect the facilities and overall quality of the experience. A Guide to Quality Assurance All the accommodation featured in this publication has been quality graded so you can make your choice in confidence, knowing that each place to stay has been given a star grading according to the quality and facilities on offer. Star grades mean that you can be sure of standards and choose the accommodation that’s just right for you. Visit Wales/AA are the only checking agents in Wales, checking out over 5,000 places. In the case of properties handled by self-catering agencies, the frequency between visits can be longer. Occasionally, it has not been possible to visit the accommodation prior to publication. In these instances, the property is marked as ‘Awaiting Grading’. So you can safely say that we’re very accommodating. And we do it in all kinds of styles for all kinds of tastes and budgets – modern STARS are your guide to quality The Star Quality Grading Schemes apply to all types of and traditional, classic and contemporary, accommodation: serviced – hotels, guest houses, bed and luxurious and plain-and-simple. What’s more, breakfast, farm accommodation, hostel/hostel type all the accommodation – from that bijou accommodation, self-catering cottages and apartments and caravan holiday home and touring/camping parks. bolthole to bunkhouse, hotel to hostel – has been checked out by Quality Assurance Here are the quality ratings: schemes run by Visit Wales and the Automobile Simple, practical, no frills Association, so you can book in confidence. Well presented and well run Good level of quality and comfort If you’re on business it’s the same story, with a Excellent standard throughout spot-on choice of places to stay together with Exceptional, with a degree of luxury first-class conference venues. Further detailed information on grading criteria and awards Please note: All gradings and awards were correct at the time of going to press. Occasionally, it may not have been possible to undertake a grading. This situation is clearly identified by ‘Awaiting Grading’ appearing within the advertisement/entry. Grading assessments are ongoing and improvements made by establishments may have resulted in a revision since publication. Please check when booking. Further information on gradings and awards is available from: Visit Wales, Welsh Assembly Government, Rhodfa Padarn, Llanbadarn Fawr, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion SY23 3UR Tel: 0300 062 2000 Fax: 0300 062 2001 email: [email protected] Any problems? In the unfortunate event that you do encounter problems with your chosen accommodation, please refer to www.wales.gov.uk/tourism for further guidance. 22 thevalleys.co.uk can be found at www.wales.gov.uk/tourism Cycling and walking Accommodation with suitable facilities. Check first as some properties are only suitable for either cycling or walking. Booking is easy Simply choose your preferred style of accommodation and contact them direct or, where available, visit their website. For easy reference all accommodation providers are listed in different categories i.e. Hotels & Country Houses, Inns & Guest Houses, Farm Houses, Bed & Breakfasts, Self Catering, Caravan & Camping and Hostels & Bunkhouses. The listings are then sorted by alphabetical order of the nearest town, then by establishment name. For short breaks and special offers visit www.thevalleys.co.uk Accommodation is listed alpabetically firstly by town, then by establishment name. For further information on accommodation in the area please visit www.thevalleys.co.uk Hotels & Country House Hotels Premier Inn Aberdare Riverside Retail Park, Tirfounders Field, Cwmbach, Aberdare CF44 0AH 0870 850 6388 [email protected] www.premierinn.com Budget hotel Ty Newydd Country House Penderyn Road, Hirwaun, Aberdare CF44 9SX 01685 813433 [email protected] www.tynewyddcountryhotel.co.uk Afan Lodge Afan Road, Dyffryn, Afan Forest Park SA13 3ES 01639 852500 [email protected] www.afanlodge.com Awaiting Grading Maes Manor Hotel Maesrudded Lane, Blackwood NP12 0AG 01495 220011 [email protected] www.maesmanor.com Bryngarw Country House Brynmenyn, Bridgend CF32 8UU 01656 729009 [email protected] www.bridgend.gov.uk/bryngarwhouse Premier Inn Bridgend Pantuthyn Farm, Pencoed, Bridgend CF35 5HY 0870 2428000 [email protected] www.premierinn.com Budget Hotel Premier Inn Bridgend Central The Derwen, Bridgend CF32 9ST 0870 111 2930 [email protected] www.premierinn.com Budget Hotel Travelodge Pencoed Old Mill, Felindre Road, Bridgend CF35 5HU 01656 864404 [email protected] www.travelodge.co.uk Budget Hotel Bryn Meadows Golf, Hotel & Spa Maesycwmmer, Nr Ystrad Mynach, Caerphilly CF82 7SN 01495 225590 [email protected] www.brynmeadows.co.uk Premier Inn Caerphilly (Corbetts Lane) Corbetts Lane, Caerphilly CF83 3HX 02920 854530 [email protected] www.premierinn.com Budget Hotel Premier Inn Caerphilly Crossways Crossways Business Park, Pontypandy, Caerphilly CF83 3NL 08701 977046 [email protected] www.premierinn.com Budget Hotel Ty Newydd Country House Miskin Manor Bryn Meadows Golf, Hotel & Spa thevalleys.co.uk Accommodation Hotels & Country House Hotels Best Western Parkway Hotel Cwmbran Drive, Cwmbran NP44 3UW 01633 871199 [email protected] www.bw-parkwayhotel.co.uk Premier Inn Ebbw Vale Victoria Business Park Waunllwyd, Ebbw Vale NP23 8AW 0870 850 6378 [email protected] www.premierinn.com The Park Hotel Station Road, Waunlwyd, Ebbw Vale NP23 6TN 01495 371431 [email protected] www.thepark-hotel.co.uk Premier Inn Llantrisant Magden Park, Gwaun Ela, Llantrisant CF72 8XF 0870 111 2814 [email protected] www.premierinn.com Castle Hotel Castle Street, Merthyr Tydfil CF47 8BG 01685 386868 [email protected] www.castlehotelwales.com Budget Hotel Budget Hotel Imperial Hotel High Street, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tydfil CF47 8UH 01685 722555 [email protected] Nant Ddu Lodge Hotel Cwm Taf, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 2HY 01685 379111 [email protected] www.nant-ddu-lodge.co.uk Premier Inn Merthyr Tydfil Pentrebach House, Pentrebach, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 4BD 0870 2428000 [email protected] www.premierinn.com Budget Hotel Travelodge Merthyr Tydfil A470/A412 Roundabout, Rhyd y Car, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 1 UY 0871 984 6371 www.travelodge.co.uk Budget Hotel Tregenna Hotel Park Terrace, Merthyr Tydfil CF47 8RF 01685 723627 [email protected] www.tregennahotel.co.uk Miskin Manor Country Hotel Miskin, Nr Cardiff CF72 8ND 01443 224204 [email protected] www.miskin-manor.co.uk The Bluebell Hotel 14 The Parade, Neath SA11 1RA 01639 644000 [email protected] www.thebluebellneath.co.uk The Park Hotel 24 thevalleys.co.uk Bryn Meadows Golf, Hotel & Spa The Imperial Hotel The Valleys Hotels & Country House Hotels The Castle Hotel The Parade, Neath SA11 1RB 01639 641119 [email protected] www.castlehotelneath.co.uk Premier Inn Pontypool Ty'r Felin, Lower Mill Field, Pontypool NP4 0RH 0870 111 2958 [email protected] www.premierinn.com Budget Hotel Travelodge Pontypool Lower Mill Field, Pontypool NP4 0XB 0871 9846413 [email protected] www.travelodge.co.uk Budget Hotel Heritage Park Hotel Coed Cae Road, Trehafod, Pontypridd CF37 2NP 01443 687057 [email protected] Llechwen Hall Hotel Llanfabon, Cilfynydd, Pontypridd CF37 4HP 01443 742050 [email protected] www.llechwen.co.uk Guest Houses, Guest Accommodation, Inns & Restaurants with rooms Dare Valley Country Park Trecynon, Aberdare CF44 7RG 01685 874672 [email protected] www.rhondda-cynon-taff.gov.uk Fifth Avenue House Lower Halt Road, Rhigos, Aberdare CF44 9UP 01685 819914 [email protected] www.fifthavenuehouse.co.uk The Falcon Inn 1 Incline Row, Godreaman, Aberdare CF44 6LU 01685 873758 www.thefalcon.co.uk Halfway House Upper Gelligroes, Pontllanfraith, Blackwood NP12 2HT 01495 220255 www.visitcaerphilly.com The Rock Tredegar Road, Blackwood NP12 1DD 01495 223441 [email protected] www.therockblackwood.co.uk Hendrewen Hotel Hendrewen Road, Blaencwm CF42 5DR [email protected] www.hendrewenhotel.com The Rock Dare Valley Country Park thevalleys.co.uk Accommodation Guest Houses, Guest Accommodation, Inns & Restaurants with rooms Masons Arms Hotel Bryncethin Road, Bridgend CF32 9YR 01656 720253 [email protected] www.masonshotel.com The Cottage Mountain View, Pwllypant, Caerphilly CF83 3HW 02920 869160 [email protected] www.smoothhound.co.uk/hoels/cottagegh.html Ty Castell Guest House 48 St Martins Road, Caerphilly CF83 1EJ 02920 884112 [email protected] www.tycastellguesthouse.co.uk Y Fron Guest House Mountain View, Pwllypant, Caerphilly CF83 3HW 02920 882896 [email protected] www.yfron.co.uk Springfields Guest House 371 Llantarnam Road, Llantarnam, Cwmbran NP44 3BN 01633 482509 [email protected] www.springfieldsguesthouse.com Ebbw Vale Guest House Libanus Road, Ebbw Vale NP23 6EJ 01495 301044 [email protected] www.ebbwvaleguesthouse.co.uk Gronow House Llanharan Road, Llanharry CF72 9LH 01443 238608 [email protected] The Mole Inn 43 Heol Twrch, Lower Cwmtwrch SA9 2TD 01639 830067 [email protected] www.themoleinn.co.uk The Hollybush with Rooms Daraethen, Lower Machen NP10 8GB 01633 441326 [email protected] www.visitcaerphilly.com Col Mar Guest House 2 Bethania Street, Maesteg CF34 9DJ 01656 735140 [email protected] www.colmarguesthouse.plus.com Llwyn Onn Guest House Cwmtaff, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 2HT 01685 384384 [email protected] www.llwynonn.co.uk Awaiting Grading ‘The fantastic walks and the views, good environment, healthy. The community spirit is second to none.’ Mrs G Davies, Port Talbot Llwyn Onn Guest House 26 thevalleys.co.uk Ty Castell Springfields Guest House The Valleys Guest Houses, Guest Accommodation, Inns & Restaurants with rooms Mount Pleasant Inn Mount Pleasant, Merthyr Vale, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 4TD 01443 693555 [email protected] www.themountpleasantinn.co.uk Penrhadw Farm Pontsticill, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 2TU 01685 723481 [email protected] www.penrhadwfarm.co.uk Tredegar Arms Hotel Dowlais Top, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 3PW 01685 377467 [email protected] www.tredegararmsinn.co.uk Green Lanterns Guest House Hawdref Ganol Farm, Cimla, Neath SA12 9SL 01639 631884 [email protected] Tree Tops Guest House 282 Neath Road, Briton Ferry, Neath SA11 2SL 01639 812419 [email protected] www.treetopsguesthouse.net Plas-y-Coed Guesthouse Cwmffrwdoer, Pontypool NP4 6UE 01495 762505 [email protected] www.plasycoed.com Central House Guest House Stow Hill, Treforest, Pontypridd CF37 1RZ 07815 916581 [email protected] www.centralguesthouse.co.uk The Queens B&B 1 Queen Street, Glyncorrwg, Port Talbot SA13 3BL 01639 850487 [email protected] www.thequeensguesthouse.co.uk Ty Lily Mia Station Road, Trealaw, Tonypandy CF40 2PL 07877 687949 [email protected] Wern Ganol Guest House Nelson, Treharris CF46 6PS 01443 450413 [email protected] www.wernganol.co.uk Brynmorgan Villa Lower Brynmorgan Bridge, Upper Cwmtwrch SA9 2XG 01639 830480 [email protected] ‘It is a really good place to just relax and escape from everything.’ Ashley, Pontycymmer Tree Tops Guest House Penrhadw Farm Plas-Y-Coed thevalleys.co.uk Accommodation Farm Guest Houses Llwyn Iago Farm Fochriw, Bargoed CF81 9JR 01685 844085 [email protected] www.llwyn-iago.com Gelligravog Farm Upper Cwmbran, Cwmbran NP44 5AT 01633 871147 [email protected] www.gelligravog.co.uk Ty Shon Jacob Farm Tranch, Pontypool NP4 6BP 01495 757536 [email protected] www.s-h-systems.co.uk/hotels/tyshon.html Ty-Cooke Farm Mamhilad, Pontypool NP4 8QZ 01873 880382 [email protected] www.downourlane.co.uk Tir Twyn Farm Tredomen, Ystrad Mynach CF82 7BF 01443 812612 [email protected] www.tirtwynfarm.com Awaiting Grading ‘The Valleys are busting with adventure and family fun. You can have great days out with loads of local places to visit.’ Elizabeth Weed, Blackwood Bed & Breakfast Bryn Heulog 11 Bedwellty Road, Aberbargoed CF81 9AE 01443 833084 [email protected] Beili Helyg Cwm Cadlan, Penderyn, Aberdare CF44 0YJ 01685 813609 [email protected] Maesyronnen Ystradfellte, Aberdare CF44 9JE 01639 722343 Pen Y Graig Canol 69/71 Mountain Road, Brynamman, Ammanford SA18 1AN 01269 824336 Oakfield B & B 1 Oakfield Terrace, Varteg Road, Blaenafon NP4 9DS 01495 792 829 [email protected] www.oakfieldsbedandbreakfast.co.uk Gelligravog Farm 28 thevalleys.co.uk Ty Shon Jacob Farm Lugano The Valleys Bed & Breakfast Herons Brook 2 Buarthau, Blackmill, Bridgend CF35 6ER 01656 849450 www.heronsbrook.uk.com New Station House B&B Bryn Road, Brynmenyn, Bridgend CF32 9LA 01656 729116 [email protected] www.newstationhousebandb.co.uk Oakfield House Pen-Y-Bryn, Pyle, Bridgend CF33 6RA 01656 740652 [email protected] www.oakfieldbnb.com Coach House 2 Twyn Sych, Rudry, Caerphilly CF83 3EF 02920 8847723 [email protected] www.coachhouserudry.com Lugano Hillside, Mountain Road, Caerphilly CF83 1HN 02920 852672 [email protected] www.visitcaerphilly.com The Forge Lower Machen, Caerphilly NP10 8GU 01633 440226 [email protected] www.visitcaerphilly.com Ysgubor Fach Coalbrookvale, Nantyglo, Ebbw Vale NP23 4QQ 01495 290413 [email protected] www.southwalesbnb.com Highfields Tir-Y-Berth Farm, Penpedairheol, Hengoed CF82 8BS 01443 862287 www.visitcaerphilly.com Kidwelly B&B 62 Causeway Street, Kidwelly SA17 4SU 01554 890716 [email protected] www.kidwellyband.co.uk The Stables at Brook House Rhiwsaeson Road, Cross Inn, Llantrisant CF72 8NZ 01443 228526 [email protected] www.thestablesllantrisant.co.uk Island House Gwynfe Road, Loughor SA4 6TE 01792 899217 [email protected] www.evanroberts.co.uk Ty Gronfa Pontsticill, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 2UP 01685 371399 [email protected] Awaiting Grading Oakfield B&B Highfields thevalleys.co.uk Accommodation Bed & Breakfast Pentre Tai Farm Rhiwderin, Newport NP10 8RQ 01633 893284 [email protected] www.pentretaifarm.co.uk Glyn Llech Isaf Farm (Guest House) Heol Nant Y Ffyn, Pen Y Cae SA9 1FJ 01639 730205 [email protected] www.craigynos-farmhouse.com Ael-Y-Bryn Coedffaldau, Rhiwfawr, Pontardawe SA9 2RL 01639 830079 [email protected] www.welshbreaksaway.co.uk Tyn-Y-Wern B&B Pontypridd CF37 3LY 01443 790551 [email protected] www.tyn-y-wern.co.uk Bryn Teg House 9 Craig-Y-Fan, Cymmer, Port Talbot SA13 3LN 01639 851820 [email protected] www.brynteghouse.com Pentre Riding Stables (Guest House) Pen-Y-Cae, Swansea SA9 1GJ 01639 730639 [email protected] www.pentrestables.co.uk The Miskin Hotel Miskin Road, Trealaw, Tonypandy CF40 2QN 01443 430058 Fairmead Guest House 24 Gelligaer Road, Treharris CF46 6DN 01443 411174 [email protected] Ty Draw B&B Blaencwm, Treorchy CF42 5DW 01443 778028 [email protected] www.tydrawfarm.com Awaiting Grading Holtwood Neath Road, Ystradgynlais SA9 1PR 01639 849744 [email protected] www.holtwood.me.uk Pen-Pentre Neath Road, Ystradgynlais SA9 1PR 01639 843013 [email protected] www.b-n-b-in-wales.co.uk Roseland thevalleys.co.uk Awaiting Grading Roseland Dukestown Road, Dukestown, Tredegar NP22 4RE 01495 722040 [email protected] 30 Pentre Tai Farm Blaen-Nant-Groes The Valleys Self Catering & Blaen-Nant-Groes Farm Cottages Blaen-Nant-Groes Farm Cottages, Cwmbach, Aberdare CF44 0EA 01685 881457 [email protected] Ivy House 10 Craig y Fan, Afan Forest Park SA13 3LN 7979218017 [email protected] www.ivyhousewales.com Ty Afan Holiday Cottages 22 Maesteg Road, Cymmer, Afan Forest Park SA13 3HS 07866 680465 [email protected] www.ty-afan.co.uk Ty Dor 3 Alban Terrace, Abercregan, Afan Forest Park SA13 3LH 01639 852225 [email protected] www.tydorabercregan.com Windways 50 Afan Road, Duffryn, Afan Forest Park SA13 3ET 01639 687110 [email protected] www.windways.co.uk Lothlorien Cottage 49 Heol y Gors, Cwmgors, Amman Valley SA18 1PT 208364669 [email protected] www.rainbowzebra.net/lothlorien Arhosfa Cottage 19 Rhosfa Road, Brynamman, Ammanford SA18 1DF 01269 822953 [email protected] www.arhosfacottage.co.uk Pen y Graig Canol 69/71 Mountain Road, Brynamman, Ammanford SA18 1AN 01269 824336 [email protected] www.penygraigcanol.co.uk Gwern-Ty-Isaf Cottage Mill Road Deri, Bargoed CF81 9HF 01443 820123 [email protected] www.caerphillycottage.co.uk Wyrloed Holiday Cottages 3, Wyrloed Lodge Cottage, Manmoel, Blackwood NP12 0RN 01495 371198 [email protected] www.wyrloedlodge.com Ivy, Swallow, The Coach House & Granary Cottages & Tytanglwyst Farm, Pyle, Bridgend CF33 4SA 01656 745635 [email protected] www.tytanglwystholidaycottages.co.uk Miners Cottage, 4 Margam Row Kenfig Hill, Bridgend CF33 6DP 07971 950772 [email protected] www.minerscottage.com Gwern-Ty-Isaf Cottage Ivy House Ty Afan thevalleys.co.uk Accommodation Self Catering Swn Y Nant Cwm Risca Lane, Off New Road, Tondu, Bridgend CF32 0EH 01656 723783 [email protected] Ty Gwyneth Haulfryn, Ffordd Y Gyfraith, Bridgend CF32 0BS 01656 743983 [email protected] www.plushplacesinwales.co.uk Bwthyn Felgaws Gellifelgaws Farm, Tyllwyd Road, Bryncoch SA10 7DX 07971129321 [email protected] www.wales-holidays.co.uk The Courtyard Bryncenydd House, Nantgarw Road, Caerphilly CF83 3FB 02920 866666 [email protected] Valley Break 72, Hanbury Street, Glan Y NantGlan Y Nant, Caerphilly NP12 3XP 07725 540049 [email protected] www.valleybreak.co.uk Cwmcarn Holiday Let 32 Caradoc Street, Cwmcarn, Crosskeys NP11 7EF 01495 271061 [email protected] www.cwmcarnholidaylet.co.uk Safe Haven Lodges Ty Hafod Tudor, Ty Hafod Tudor Terrace, Wattsville, Crosskeys NP11 7QQ 01495 271225 [email protected] www.safehavenlodges.co.uk Drws Nesaf & Hen Stabal, Abergwrelych House Pontwalby, Glynneath SA11 5LN 01639 720035 [email protected] www.cottagessouthwales.com Blaenpant Mynydd-Y-Garreg, Kidwelly SA17 4RP 01623 490881 [email protected] Cwrt Y Cadno Heol Waun Y Clun, Trimsaran, Kidwelly SA17 4BS 01554 810397 Wren, Jay & Little Owl Cottages Parc Y Llong, Kidwelly SA17 4RN 07816 921612 [email protected] www.parcyllongcottages.co.uk ‘The way nature has reclaimed what is hers but shows tantalising glimpses of the ancient past.’ Lucy Mumford, Cwmaman Miners Cottage 32 thevalleys.co.uk Safe Haven Lodges The Valleys Self Catering 6 Pant Y Gino Trimsaran, Llanelli SA17 4DJ 01554 741582 [email protected] www.ffoslasaccomodation.co.uk Awaiting Grading Cwmbach Cottage Maesybont, Llanelli SA14 7SR 01269 842986 [email protected] The Stables at Brook House Rhiwsaeson Road, Cross Inn, Llantrisant CF72 8NZ 07801 356259 www.thestablesllantrisant.co.uk Granary Cottages Torpantau, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 2UT 01685 383358 [email protected] www.selfcateringcottagesinwales.co.uk Winch Fawr Lodge 1 Winch Fawr, Heol Gerrig, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 1RD 01685 385071 [email protected] Caer Arba 7 Brynawel, Crynant, Neath SA10 8SR 01639 750875 [email protected] Crynant Holiday Cottages Llwyn Llanc Uchaf, Crynant, Neath SA10 8SF 07966 149136 [email protected] www.crynantcottages.co.uk Cwmbach Lodges (1 & 2) Cwmbach Road, Cadoxton, Neath SA10 8AH 01639 639825 www.cwmbachcottages.co.uk Cwmnant Hir Banwen, Neath SA10 9LU 01639 722322 [email protected] www.campbyastream.co.uk Hafodwen Bryncaws Farm, Cilfrew, Neath SA10 8NF 01639 644609 [email protected] www.hafodwenholidaycottage.co.uk Meadow View, 18 Glan Gwrelych Glyn Neath, Neath SA11 5LN 01639 720767 [email protected] ‘Amercian canyons, Scottish Glens, English Dales - But The Valleys of Wales.....? Now you're talking!’ Stuart Luckwell, Risca The Courtyard The Stables thevalleys.co.uk Accommodation Self Catering Upper Grippath Farm Holiday Cottages Upper Grippath Farm, Risca, Newport NP11 6JB 01633 615000 [email protected] www.uppergrippath.co.uk Glyn Llech Isaf Farm (Self Catering) Heol Nant Y Ffyn, Pen Y Cae SA9 1FJ 01639 730205 [email protected] www.craigynosfarmhouse.com Cilhendre Fawr Farm Cottages Wern Ddu Road, Alltwen, Pontardawe SA8 3HY 01792 862210 [email protected] www.cilhendrefawrfarmcottages.co.uk Swansea Valley Holiday Cottages Plas Farm, Cilybebyll, Pontardawe SA8 3JQ 01792 864611 [email protected] www.walescottages.com The Log Cabin 59 Heol Las, Pontardawe SA8 4PR 01792 869363 [email protected] & Awaiting Grading 7 White Springs Pentrebach, Pontarddulais SA4 8QG 01792 885699 [email protected] Llwynau Farm Self Catering Pine Lodges Castellau, Llantrisant, Pontyclun CF72 8LP 01443 229021 [email protected] Vale Holiday Homes Ltd, Llwyn Nwydog Farm Cowbridge Road, Talygarn, Pontyclun CF72 9JU 01446 774144 [email protected] www.valeholidayhomes.co.uk Rhiw Ffranc Farm Holiday Apartments Pentwyn, Abersychan, Pontypool NP4 7TJ 01495 775069 [email protected] www.rhiwffrancfarmholidayapartments.co.uk Ceffyl Cottage Cefn Farmyard, Cefn Lane, Pontypridd CF37 3AL 01443 400163 [email protected] Tyn-Y-Wern Self Catering Lodges Pontypridd CF37 3LY 01443 790551 [email protected] www.tyn-y-wern.co.uk Afan Cottage Jersey Terrace, Cwmafan, Port Talbot SA12 9AS 07977 145766 [email protected] www.afancottage.co.uk Pentre Riding Stables 34 thevalleys.co.uk Ceffyl Cottage Rhiw Ffranc Farm The Valleys Self Catering Tan y Graig House 1 Macpelah, Pontrhydyfen, Port Talbot SA12 9TU 01639 896722 [email protected] The Vestry 1 Uplands Cottages, Pontrhydyfen, Port Talbot SA12 9TQ 01639 631884 [email protected] www.afanvestry.co.uk Awaiting Grading 1 + 2 Tan Yr Eglwys Cilybebyll, Pontardawe, Swansea SA8 3JR 01792 863367 [email protected] www.walescottagebreaks.co.uk Capel Cartref Lower Cwm Twrch, Heol Twrch, Swansea SA9 2TE 07825 874926 [email protected] Awaiting Grading Gerdinen Ganol Felindre, Swansea SA5 7PX 01269 592064 Pentre Riding Stables (Self Catering) Pen-Y-Cae, Swansea SA9 1GJ 01639 730639 [email protected] www.pentrestables.co.uk Ty Llwy & Fir Tree House Craig-Cefn-Parc, Swansea SA6 5TE 07793 073811 [email protected] Y Bwthyn Glyn Cynwal Isaf Farm, Cwmtwrch, Swansea SA9 2UR 01639 830737 [email protected] Ynys-Y-Coed Coedffaldau, Rhiwfawr, Swansea SA9 2RL 01639 830079 [email protected] www.welshbreaksaway.co.uk Tynewydd Farm Nant-Y-Bwch, Tredegar NP22 3BB 01495 724155 [email protected] www.beaconvalleybreaks.co.uk Y Beudy Ty Gwyn Farm, Penywern Road, Ystalyfera SA9 2NH 01656 733454 [email protected] www.ybeudy.co.uk 20 Heol Giedd Ystradgynlais SA9 1LQ 01279 303072 [email protected] Tyn-Y-Wern & & Tynewydd Farm thevalleys.co.uk Accommodation Touring Caravan & Camping Dare Valley Country Park - Camping Trecynon, Aberdare CF44 7RG 01685 874672 [email protected] www.rhondda-cynon-taff.gov.uk Glyncorrwg Ponds Campsite Ynyscorrwg Park, Glyncorrwg, Afan Forest Park SA13 3EA 01639 851900 [email protected] Pen Y Fan Caravan & Leisure Park Manmoel Road, Oakdale, Blackwood NP2 0HY 01495 226636 [email protected] www.penyfancaravanpark.co.uk Brynhyfryd Caravan & Camping Awaiting Grading Ffordd Y Gyfraith, Tondu, Bridgend CF32 0BS 01656 740544 [email protected] www.brynhyfrydcampingcaravanning.co.uk Black Lion Caravan & Camping Park 78 Black Lion Road, Gorslas, Cross Hands SA14 6RU 01269 845365 [email protected] www.caravansite.com Cwmcarn Forest Nanatarn Road, Cwmcarn, Crosskeys NP11 7FA 01492 272001 [email protected] www.cwmcarnforest.co.uk Dolygaer Outdoor Education Centre Pontsticill, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 2UR 01685 721751 [email protected] Grawen Caravan & Camping Park Cwm Taff, Cefn Coed, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 2HS 01685 723740 [email protected] www.walescaravanandcamping.com Ty Canol Farm Penyard Road, Neath Abbey, Neath SA10 7EY 01792 814172 www.tycanolfarm.co.uk Caravan Club Waters Meet Caravan & Camping Site Caravan Club Waters Meet, Rhos, Pontardawe SA8 3EY 01792 863038 [email protected] caravancampingsites.co.uk/glamorgan/watersmeet.htm Parc Bryn Bach (Bunkhouse and Caravan & Camping) Merthyr Road, Tredegar NP22 3AY 01495 711816 [email protected] www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk ‘The beauty of the waterfalls, the challenging tops and the whole magnificent pleasure of walking along them.’ Mrs Mary Galpin, Swansea Dare Valley Country Park 36 thevalleys.co.uk Grawen Farm The Valleys Bunkhouse and Group Accommodation Cynon Valley Tyle Morgrug Cottage & Bunkhouse Halt Road, Rhigos, Aberdare CF44 9UW 01903 742206 [email protected] www.cyat.org EcoDysgu Tondu Farm House, Bridgend CF32 9HF 01656 728137 [email protected] www.ecodysgu.co.uk Wern Watkin Hillside Llangattock, Crickhowell NP8 1LG 01873 812307 [email protected] www.wernwatkin.co.uk Dulwich College Field Centre Heol Callwen, Glyntawe SA9 1GR 01639 730892 [email protected] www.fieldcentre.dulwich.org.uk Dolygaer Outdoor Education Centre Pontsticill, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 2UR 01685 721751 [email protected] Absolute Adventure Ltd Rhongyr Isaf Centre, Pen Y Cae SA9 1GB 01639 730518 [email protected] Clyngwyn Bunkhouse Clyngwyn Farm, Ystradfellte Road, Pontneddfechan SA11 5US 01639 722930 Glamorgan Court University Of Glamorgan, Pontypridd CF37 1DL 01443 482002 [email protected] www.glamorganconferenceservices.co.uk Rose Cottage Craig-Y-Fan, Cymmer, Port Talbot SA13 3LN 01639 851820 [email protected] www.brynteghouse.com Call of the wild Abercraf, Swansea SA9 1XU 01639 845670 [email protected] Parc Bryn Bach (Bunkhouse and Caravan & Camping) Merthyr Road, Tredegar NP22 3AY 01495 711816 [email protected] www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk ‘Cardiff Ramblers regularly walk in The Valleys to soak in the majestic scenery that's freely available all the year round.’ Gwyn, Cardiff Cwmcarn Forest Cynon Valley Tyle Morgrug thevalleys.co.uk Attractions & Activities Activities Go Ape! High Wire Forest Adventure Margam Country Park Port Talbot 01284 852218 www.goape.co.uk Absolute Adventure Ltd Upper Swansea Valley 01639 730518 www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk Gwent Adventures Pontypool 01291 673002 www.gwent-adventures.co.uk All Terrain Services Pontardawe 01792 862669 www.allterrainservices.co.uk/ Milestone Activities Pontyclun 01443 224117 www.milestoneactivities.co.uk Amman Valley Trotting Club Ammanford 07909 698309 www.ammanvalley-trotting.co.uk Paraventure Airsports (Paragliding) Blaenavon 0845 4790635 www.paraventure.co.uk Blaenafon Mountain Tours (Cycling) Blaenavon 01495 793123 Bowlplex Cwmbran www.bowlplex.co.uk 01633 867744 Parc Bryn Bach Country Park & Activity Centre Tredegar 01495 711816 www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk Bowlplex Pontypridd www.bowlplex.co.uk 01443 844944 Pontymoile Day Boat Hire Pontypool 07981 846184 www.pontymoilemarina.co.uk Bryn Oer Tramroad Tredegar 01495 355937 http://brinore-tramroad.powys.org.uk/ Call of the Wild (Adventure Activities) Limited Neath 01639 700388 www.callofthewild.co.uk Team Force Paintball Llangyfelach www.teamforceuk.com Dynamic Rock Adventures ltd Clydach 01792 845655 www.dynamicrock.co.uk 01495 785777 38 thevalleys.co.uk 01792 824119 01792 772311 Terence Leslie Jones T/A Outdoor Ed Venture Pen Y Cae 01639 849378 The Twrch Trail (Mountain Bike) at Cwmcarn Forest Drive Cwmcarn 01495 272001 www.cwmcarnforest.co.uk Top Gun Paintball Neath 01639 700487 www.topgun-paintball.co.uk Glyncorrwg Mountain Bike Centre and Ponds Port Talbot 01639 851900 www.visitnpt.co.uk Blaenafon Mountain Tours 01443 672672 Taff Valley Quad Bike & Activity Centre Pontypridd 029 20 831658 www.adventurewales.co.uk Dulais Valley Quads & Archery Centre Neath 01639 701768 www.dulaisvalley-quads.co.uk G-Force Karting Pontypool www.g-forcekarting.co.uk Rhondda Bowl Porth South Wales 2000 Shooting Ground Blackwood 01495 201182 www.southwales2000.com Dolygaer Outdoor Education Centre Merthyr Tydfil 01685 721751 www.merthyr.gov.uk 01656 784222 01495 756955 Sbri Cymru Ltd Swansea www.sbricymru.com Dare Valley Country Park -Outdoor Aberdare 01685 874672 www.darevalleycountrypark.co.uk EcoDysgu EcoLearn Tondu, Bridgend www.ecodysgu.co.uk/ Pontypool Ski Centre Pontypool Bowlplex Parc Bryn Bach Country Park Wales Activity Breaks The Valleys Twin Dragons Archery Range Pontypool 01495 763917 www.twindragonarchery.co.uk Tickens Trekking Centre Cwmbran www.tickenstrekking.co.uk Vale of Neath Gliding Club 01685 811023 Glynneath valeofneathglidingclub.bravehost.com Tir Twyn Farm Livery Yard Ystrad Mynach 01443 812612 www.tirtwynfarm.com 07722 547084 Wales Activity Breaks Pontypridd 029 20 831658 www.walesactivitybreaks.co.uk Waun Fawr Farm Riding School Pontardawe 01792 830273 Wet and Wild Adventures Pentre www.wetwild.co.uk Visitor Attractions 07841 054205 Ynys Hywel Activity Centre Cross Keys 01495 200113 www.caerphilly.gov.uk/leisure Big Pit: National Coal Museum Blaenavon 01495 790311 www.museumwales.ac.uk Young's Activities Aberfan Blaenafon Cheddar Company Blaenavon 01495 793123 www.chunkofcheese.co.uk 01443 693536 Horse Riding Centres Cimla Trekking & Equestrian Centre Cimla Neath 01639 644944 www.cimlariding.co.uk Dinefrw Riding Centre Ammanford 01269 850042 Bridgend Designer Outlet Bridgend 01656 665700 www.bridgenddesigneroutlet.com Chocs Away Blaenavon 01495 790790 www.chocsawayparty.co.uk E K M Equestrian Bridgend 01656 743950 www.ekm-equestrian.netfirms.com/ Cwmbran Boating Lake Cwmbran www.visittorfaen.co.uk 01495 742333 Greenmeadow Riding Centre Aberdare 01685 874961 www.rhondda-cynon-taf.gov.uk Dan Yr Ogof Abercrave www.showcaves.co.uk 01639 730284 Rockwood Riding Centre Caerphilly www.visitcaerphilly.com 02920 866281 South Wales Equestrian Centre Bridgend 01656 862959 www.visitbridgend.com Sunny Bank Livery Yard Caerphilly 02920 864943 Sunny Bank Equestrian Centre Rudry 02920 864943 www.sunnybankec.com Talygarn Equestrian Centre Pontyclun 01443 225107 http://www.talygarnec.co.uk/RidingLessons/ Tickens Trekking Dan-yr-Ogof Festival Park Ebbw Vale 01495 350010 www.festivalshopping.co.uk Ffos Las Racecourse Trimsaran 01554 811092 www.ffoslasracecourse.com Garwnant Visitor Centre Merthyr Tydfil www.forestry.gov.uk 01685 723060 Greenmeadow Community Farm Cwmbran 01633 647662 www.greenmeadowcommunityfarm.org.uk Penderyn Distillery Visitor Centre thevalleys.co.uk Attractions & Activities Visitor Attractions Maesteg Town Hall Maesteg 01656 733269 www.maestegtownhall.com Margam Abbey Stones Museum Port Talbot 029 2050 0200 www.visitnpt.co.uk Margam Country Park Port Talbot www.visitnpt.co.uk 01639 881635 Mynydd Bach Trout Ponds Maesteg 01656 731367 Mynydd Mawr Woodland Upper Gwendraeth Valley 01554 747500 www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk Neath Museum Neath www.visitnpt.co.uk St John the Baptist Church, Aberdare Aberdare 01685 879999 www.gocities.com/campanologywales The Black Mountain Centre Ammanford 01269 823400 www.brynaman.org.uk The National Showcaves Centre for Wales Swansea 01639 730 284 www.showcaves.co.uk The Pit Pony Sanctuary Pontypridd www.visitpitponies.co.uk 01443 480327 Thomas Dadford Canal Trip Boat Neath www.neath-tennant-canals.org.uk 01639 645726 Country Parks Penderyn Distillery Visitor Centre Aberdare 01685 810651 www.welsh-whisky.co.uk Aberdare Park Aberdare Pontardawe Arts Centre Swansea www.visitnpt.co.uk Afan Forest Park and Visitor Centre Port Talbot 01639 850564 www.afanforestpark.co.uk 01792 863722 Pontypool & Blaenavon Railway Blaenavon 01495 792263 www.pontypool-and-blaenavon.co.uk Princess Royal Theatre Port Talbot www.visitnpt.co.uk Shell Grotto Pontypool www.visittorfaen.co.uk 01495 766754 St Elvan's Church, Aberdare Aberdare 01685 879999 www.gocities.com/campanologywales St. Illtyd's Church Abertillery http://www.illtyd.co.uk 01495 355972 Cwmbran Boating Lake thevalleys.co.uk Barry Sidings Countryside Park Pontypridd Bryngarw Country Park Brynmenyn, Bridgend www.visitbridgend.com 01656 725155 01639 760551 Roundhouse Towers Nantyglo 01495 355937 www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/leisure/8044.asp 40 St James Pond Tredegar 01495 355937 www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/leisure/7957.asp Craig-y-nos Country Park Pen Y Cae 01639 730395 www.breconbeacons.org Cwmcarn Forest Drive Cwmcarn www.cwmcarnforest.co.uk 01495 272001 Cwmcelyn Pond Blaina 07773 524418 www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/leisure/7960.asp Cwmtillery Lakes Abertillery 01495 320504 www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/leisure/7959.asp Cyfarthfa Park Merthyr Tydfil www.visitmerthyr.co.uk Blaenavon Ironworks 01685 727474 South Wales Miners Museum The Valleys Dare Valley Country Park Aberdare 01685 874672 www.darevalleycountrypark.co.uk RSPB Cwm Clydach Nature Reserve Clydach 029 2035 3000 www.rspb.org.uk Festival Park Ebbw Vale 01495 350010 www.festivalshopping.co.uk Silent Valley Nature reserve Ebbw Vale 01600 740600 www.gwentwildlife.org/reserves/SilentValley.htm Glamorgan Wildlife Trust Tondu, Bridgend www.visitbridgend.com Sirhowy Country Park Blackwood 01495 270991 www.Caerphilly.gov.uk/countryside 01656 724100 Gnoll Estate Country Park Port Talbot 01639 850564 www.visitnpt.co.uk Lakeside Farm Park Glynogwr, Blackmill 01443 676805 www.lakesidefarmpark.co.uk Llyn Llech Owain Country Park Gorslas 01269 832229 www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk Margam Country Park Port Talbot www.visitnpt.co.uk 01639 881635 Parc Bryn Bach Tredegar 01495 711816 www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/5807.asp Parc Coetir Bargoed 01495 235219 www.Caerphilly.gov.uk/countryside Parc Cwm Darran Bargoed 01443 875557 Parc Penallta Caerphilly 01443 816853 www.Caerphilly.gov.uk/countryside Parc Slip Nature Park Tondu, Bridgend www.visitbridgend.com 01656 724100 Parc Taf Bargoed Trelewis, Merthyr Tydfil www.visitmerthyr.co.uk 01685 727474 Waterfall Centre/Waterfall Country Neath 01639 721795 www.breconbeacons.org Ynysangharad War Memorial Park Pontypridd 01443 490249 Ynys Dawel Nature Park Amman Valley 01554 833913 www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk Arts and Crafts Art Gallery - Rhondda Heritage Park Trehafod 01443 682036 www.rhonddaheritagepark.com Beaufort Theatre and Ballroom Ebbw Vale 01495 355800 www.blaenaugwentvenues.com Berwyn Centre Nantymoel, Bridgend 01656 840439 www.berwynartscouncil.org Blackwood Miners Institute Blackwood 01495 227206 www.caerphilly.gov.uk/bmi Congress Theatre Cwmbran 01633 868239 www.congresstheatrecwmbran.co.uk Form Contemporary Craft Blaenavon 01495 790926 www.form-gallery.co.uk Gelligroes Mill & Candle Workshop Blackwood 01495 222322 Pen y Fan Pond & Country Park Blackwood 01495 270991 www.Caerphilly.gov.uk/countryside LLanhilleth Institute Llanhilleth 01495 212000 www.llanhillethinstitute.com Pontypool Park Pontypool www.visittorfaen.co.uk Llantarnam Grange Arts Centre Cwmbran 01633 483321 www.lgac.org.uk Afan Forest Park 01495 766754 Dare Valley Country Park Cwmcarn Forest Drive thevalleys.co.uk Attractions & Activities Arts and Crafts Market Hall Cinema 01495 310576 Brynmawr www.blaenaugwentvenues.com Muni Arts Centre Pontypridd www.rct-arts.co.uk 08000 147111 Myfanwy Theatre Merthyr Tydfil 0751 6774384 www.myfanwytheatre.co.uk Blaenavon Ironworks Blaenavon www.cadw.wales.gov.uk 01495 792615 Blaenavon World Heritage Centre Blaenavon 01495 742333 www.visitblaenavon.co.uk Odeon Cinema Bridgend www.odeon.co.uk 0870 5050 007 Blaengarw Workmen's Hall Blaengarw, Bridgend 01656 871911 www.creation.me.uk/hall.htm Parc and Dare Theatre Treorchy www.rct-arts.co.uk 08000 147111 Blaina Heritage Action Group Museum Blaina 01495 292025 www.blaina.moonfruit.com Tredegar Little Theatre Tredegar 01495 724979 www.tredegar.co.uk/littletheatre The Coliseum Theatre Aberdare www.rct-arts.co.uk 08000 147111 Brecon Mountain Railway Merthyr Tydfil 01685 722988 www.breconmountainrailway.co.uk Brynmawr Museum Brynmawr 01495 313900 www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/leisure The Grogg Shop & Museum Pontypridd 01443 405001 www.groggs.co.uk Caerphilly Castle Caerphilly www.cadw.wales.gov.uk The Met Abertillery www.the-met.co.uk Cefn Coed Viaduct Merthyr Tydfil 01495 322510 Cefn Cribwr Ironworks Bridgend www.visitbridgend.com Heritage Attractions 029 2088 3143 01685 727474 01656 725155 Aberbeeg Packhorse Bridge Aberbeeg 01495 355937 www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/8040.asp Cefn Junction Signal Box Cefn Cribwr, Bridgend Aberdulais Falls Neath www.nationaltrust.org.uk Chartists' Cave Tredegar 01495 355937 www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/leisure/8042.asp 01639 636674 Abertillery & District Museum Abertillery 01495 211140 www.abertilleryanddistrictmuseum.org.uk/ Coity Castle Bridgend www.cadw.wales.gov.uk Aneurin Bevan Memorial Stones & Trail Tredegar 01495 355937 www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/advice/13572.asp Clydach Ironworks Brynmawr 01495 355937 www.breconbeacons.org/visit-us/easy-access/placesto-visit-with-easier-and-disabled-access/clydachironworks Bedwellty House & Park Tredegar 01495 355937 www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/leisure/8048.asp Big Pit: National Coal Museum Blaenavon 01495 790311 www.museumwales.ac.uk Cordell Museum 42 Blaenafon Community Heritage & Cordell Museum Blaenavon 01495 790991 www.visitblaenavon.co.uk thevalleys.co.uk Cyfarthfa Castle 01443 336000 Cyfarthfa Castle Museum & Park Merthyr Tydfil 01685 723112 www.museums.merthyr.gov.uk Blaenavon World Heritage Centre The Valleys Cynon Valley Museum and Gallery Aberdare 01685 886729 www.cvmg.co.uk Sirhowy Ironworks Tredegar 01495 355937 www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/advice/7936.asp Ebbw Vale Works Archival Trust The Works, Ebbw Vale 01495 350941 www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/theworks Six Bells Mining Memorial Abertillery Folly Tower Pontypool www.visittorfaen.co.uk 01495 766754 Garw Valley Railway Company Ltd Sarn, Bridgend 01656 722234 www.visitbridgend.com Griffithstown Railway Museum Pontypool 01495 762908 www.visittorfaen.co.uk Joseph Parry's Ironworker's Cottage Merthyr Tydfil 01685 723112 www.museums.merthyr.gov.uk Kidwelly Castle Kidwelly www.cadw.wales.gov.uk 01554 890104 Kidwelly Industrial Museum Kidwelly 01554 891078 www.kidwellyindustrialmuseum.co.uk Llancaiach Fawr Manor Nelson www.llancaiachfawr.co.uk 01443 412248 Llanyrafon Mill Cwmbran www.visittorfaen.co.uk 01633 482780 Miners Family Statue Llwynypia 01443 490249 Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal Pontypool 01873 881069 www.mon-brec-canal-trust.org.uk Nantgarw China Works Museum Nantgarw 01443 841703 www.sallystubbings.co.uk Pontypool Museum Pontypool 01495 752036 www.pontypoolmuseum.org.uk Pontypridd Museum Pontypridd 01443 490748 Rhondda Heritage Park Pontypridd 01443 682036 www.rhonddaheritagepark.com SIrhowy Ironworks South Wales Miners Museum Port Talbot 01639 850564 www.visitnpt.co.uk Statue of Evan James and James, James, Ynysangharad War Memorial Park Pontypridd 01443 490249 St Peter's Church Pontardawe 01792 862003 The Old Bridge Pontypridd 01443 490748 The Winding House New Tredegar www.windinghouse.co.uk 01443 822666 Tredegar Town Clock Tredegar 01495 355937 www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/leisure/8049.asp Trefil Rail Road Tredegar 01495 355937 www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/leisure/8045.asp Trevithick's Tunnel Merthyr Tydfil 01685 727474 Ty Mawr Mansion & Roundhouse Towers Nantyglo 01495 355972 Ynysfach Engine House Merthyr Tydfil 01685 727474 Guides Blue Badge Guides 01286 678590 Central Enquiry Service for Wales www.wotga.com Cordell Country Official Guides www.wotga.com/cordellcountry.php Heads of the Valleys Green Badge Guides www.realvalleytour.org.uk 01873 8116525 M W Guiding Services Treharris www.mwguiding.co.uk Big Pit 01443 453494 Griffithstown Railway Museum thevalleys.co.uk Take your pick Introducing Wales’s Holiday Areas. The Valleys, ‘Heart and Soul of Wales’, is one of the Holiday Areas within Wales. Each area has its own distinct character. Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland Aberglasney, a garden lost in time The Isle of Anglesey A place like no other, Anglesey offers unparalleled beauty, amazing adventures, serious solitude and warm welcome. Easily accessible; this unique Island, with its coastline, varied beaches and historical towns make it a superb base for all the family. Thos that have visited need not be told. They just return… Tel +44 (0)1248 713177 or (0) 1407 762622 email: [email protected] www.visitanglesey.co.uk Llandudno, Colwyn Bay Vibrant Llandudno, the Victorian seaside gem. World Heritage Conwy. Waterfront adventure at Colwyn Bay. Year round breaks, filled with fun, good food, great walking and wolrd class theatre. All within easy reach of Snowdonia. Tel: +44 (0) 1492 577577 Email: [email protected] www.visitllandudno.org.uk Rhyl and Prestatyn Among the best recognised British seaside resorts. Fabulous award-winning beaches with a range of family friendly attractions, events and activities. Walk the Offa's Dyke path in Prestatyn. An hour’s drive from Merseyside and the West Midlands. Tel +44 (0)1745 344515/355068 email: [email protected] www.rhyl-prestatyn.co.uk The North Wales Borderlands Short journey: very different place. At less than 20 minutes from Chester, we’re just a hop and a skip away from the North West and the West Midlands. From the bustling shops and nightlife of Wrexham to the culinary delights of the Mold food and drink festival to the world-famous Llangollen International Eisteddfod. 100% Wales on your doorstep! Tel: 01978 292015 Email: [email protected] www.northwalesborderlands.co.uk 44 thevalleys.co.uk Llanddwyn Island Lighthouse The Brecon Beacons Snowdonia Mountains and Coast/ Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr An exciting destination 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, World Heritage Site, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Heritage Coast. Open all year…. Tel: +44 (0) 1341 281485 (24hr) email: [email protected] www.visitsnowdonia.info Mid Wales and the Brecon Beacons Step into fabulous walking country, right on your doorstep. Two National Trails and a National Park, charming spa and market towns, outdoor pursuits in outstanding scenery. Home to Hay Literary Festival and Brecon Jazz, events throughout the year make this a destination for all seasons. Tel: +44 (0)1597 825748 Email: [email protected] www.exploremidwales.com Ceredigion – Cardigan Bay Some of the UK’s finest coast and countryside. Holiday areas include Aberporth, Tresaith, Llangrannog, New Quay, Aberaeron, Aberystwyth, Borth, Cardigan, the Teifi Estuary and Valley, Devil’s Bridge and Cambrian Mountains. Popular pursuits include mountain biking, cycling, walking, sailing and angling. Tel +44 (0)1970 612125 email: [email protected] www.tourism.ceredigion.gov.uk Pembrokeshire Choose between lively Tenby and Saundersfoot or peaceful St Davids and Newport. No other county in the UK has more Blue Flag Award beaches, all set in the magnificent Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. Perfect for outdoor activities or just relaxing. Tel +44 (0) 844 888 5115 email: [email protected] www.visitpembrokeshire.com Carmarthenshire - Carmarthen Bay Stretching from Carmarthen Bay in the South to the Western Brecon Beacons in the North, discover Wales' longest beaches, the Botanic Gardens of Wales, the home of Merlin the magician plus Laugharne, Llandeilo, Carmarthen, Kidwelly, Pendine, Llandovery & the Teifi & Towy valleys. Perfect fishing, cycling & walking. Tel: +44 (0) 1267 231557 Email: [email protected] www.discovercarmarthenshire.com Swansea Bay, Mumbles, Gower, Afan and the Vale of Neath Unwind in the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, relax on award-winning beaches, and explore unspoilt countryside. Some of the UK’s best locations for walking, cycling, watersports and golf, together with Swansea, Wales’ Waterfront City. Tel +44 (0)1792 468321 email: [email protected] visitswanseabay.com Cardiff, capital of Wales The capital of Wales has unique attractions, top-class entertainment – and quality shopping with a difference. Cardiff Castle, the Millennium Stadium, National Museum Cardiff and Wales Millennium Centre combined with Cardiff Bay offer indoor and outdoor entertainment for everyone. Tel +44 (0)8701 211258 email: [email protected] www.visitcardiff.com The Most Southerly Point in Wales – The Glamorgan Heritage Coast and Countryside 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. Tel +44 (0)1446 704868 or +44 (0)1656 672928 emails: [email protected] [email protected] www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk www.visitbridgend.com The Wye Valley and Vale of Usk Food lovers flock here. Maybe it's because Monmouthshire’s officially the ‘best food destination’ in Wales. Or it could just be because there are so many ways to work up an appetite. Like the walking. We've got more than 1,000 miles of footpath to explore. The flying is good too. Take off on a tandem paragliding flight from the Blorenge Mountain, near Abergavenny, and spot the 11th century castle. From the ground it’s even more impressive. Tel +44 (0)1633 644842 email: [email protected] www.visitwyevalley.com Activities for All: Find out more with these FREE action-packed guides and take a look at the websites. Fishing: Wales’s 750-mile coastline and countless rivers and lakes all add up to a paradise for sea, game and coarse fishing. www.fishing.visitwales.com Golf Wales: The secret’s out! More and more players are discovering and thoroughly enjoying ‘Golf as it should be’ in Wales. www.golfasitshouldbe.com Visit Wales Holiday Guides For FREE copies of any THREE Holiday Area brochures please tick the appropriate boxes and send to: Visit Wales, Dept G16, PO Box 1, Cardiff CF24 2XN The Isle of Anglesey Llandudno & Colwyn Bay Rhyl & Prestatyn The North Wales Borderlands Snowdonia Mountains & Coast/ Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr Mid Wales & the Brecon Beacons Ceredigion – Cardigan Bay Pembrokeshire Carmarthenshire – the Garden of Wales Swansea Bay, Mumbles, Gower, Afan & the Vale of Neath Cardiff The Glamorgan Heritage Coast & Countryside Wye Valley & Vale of Usk Name (please print): Address (please print): Post Code: Visit Wales Activity Guides For FREE copies of any of the activity guides please tick the appropriate boxes and send to: Visit Wales, Dept H16, PO Box 1, Cardiff CF24 2XN Fishing Wales Golf Wales Name (please print): Address (please print): Post Code: So easy to get to By coach and bus Travel information Regular luxury express coach services run to Newport, Cardiff, Merthyr Tydfil and Pontypridd with good onward connections to The Valleys. For all transport information on Wales visit www.traffic-wales.com National Express T: +44 (0)870 580 8080 www.nationalexpress.com The Valleys has a comprehensive bus network serving many tourist attractions. Traveline Cymru T: +44 (0)871 200 2233 www.traveline.org.uk (also rail enquiries) For further travel information visit www.thevalleys.co.uk By rail By air There are regular services from London to Newport and Cardiff with good regional railway links (Valleys Lines) to The Valleys. Cardiff is also served hourly from major cities including Birmingham, Bristol, Manchester and many other towns in the Midlands, the West Country and Southern England. Cardiff International, Bristol and Birmingham airports offer comfort and convenience for passengers to and from Britain. National Rail Enquiries/Valley Lines T: +44 (0)845 748 4950 Bristol International Airport T: +44 (0) 87733 44444 www.bristolairport.co.uk www.thetrainline.com (for booking tickets) www.arrivatrainswales.co.uk On two wheels You can cycle to the region from the Severn Bridge on the Celtic Trail part of the Cycle ‘Network’ (map NN4B). Sustrans T: +44 (0)29 2065 0602 www.sustrans.org.uk Cardiff International Airport T: +44 (0)1446 711 111 www.cwlfly.co.uk Birmingham International Airport T: + 44(0) 84457 66000 www.bhx.co.uk By sea There are ferry connections from mainland Europe to the UK’s south and east coast and from Ireland to ports in Wales. Brittany Ferries www.brittany-ferries.com T: +44 (0)870 536 0360 The Taff Trail, dedicated cycle route, will then take you through the Valleys. T: +44 (0)1685 883880 for a map Irish Ferries www.irishferries.ie T: +44 (0)870 517 1717 By car P&O Ferries www.poferries.com T: +44 (0)871 664 6464 Stena Line www.stenaline.co.uk T: +44 (0)870 570 7070 Cork - Swansea Ferries www.fastnetline.com T: +44 (0) 844 576 8831 Via the M4, M5 and M50 The Valleys enjoy excellent motorway links with easy access from the South East, the Home Counties, the Midlands and the South West. South East and Home Counties The M4 junction 32 (Cardiff) links with the A470 or as an alternative take the scenic A40 route westwards linking with the A465 Heads of the Valleys road. From London to the centre of The Valleys it is approx 150 miles with a journey time of 3hrs. Midlands and North Use the M6, M5, M50 and A40 or use the A49 which also links with the A465 Heads of the Valleys road. From Birmingham, West Midlands, to the centre of the Valleys it is approx 106 miles with a journey time of 2hrs 25mins. For travel routes visit www.theaa.com By car 46 Local traffic, travel and weather information can be found on the following radio stations Red Dragon 103.2 and 97.4 FM Real Radio 105-106 FM BBC Radio Wales 882 and 657 AM (FM depends on location) BBC Radio Cymru 92.4-96.1 FM thevalleys.co.uk By coach Via Channel Tunnel T: +44 (0) 8432 186 186 Eurostar passenger train service www.eurostar.com Eurotunnel vehicles & passengers T: +44 (0)870 535 3535 www.eurotunnel.com Tours For tours to The Valleys SeeWales www.seewales.com By train By bike This map is only a guide to the region, when travelling please refer to the relevant O/S map. These are available from the Tourist Information Centres or www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk. Brecon Mountain Railway This guide has been funded and produced by the Valleys Consortium consisting of Blaenau Gwent CBC, Bridgend County Borough Council, Caerphilly CBC, Carmarthenshire Council, Merthyr Tydfil CBC, Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council, Powys Council, Rhondda Cynon Taff CBC, City and County of Swansea, Torfaen CBC, Visit Wales and Capital Region Tourism. Published by Vibe PR & Marketing www.vibeprandmarketing.co.uk Photographs © Crown copyright (2009) VisitWales and the Valleys Consortium members; CADW; Photolibrary Wales. Copywriter: Roger Thomas. Design: Morf Designs Ltd www.morfdesigns.com Important notice: Every effort has been made by the Valleys Consortium to ensure accuracy in this publication, but they cannot accept any liability whatsoever for any errors, inaccuracies or omissions, or of any matter arising from the publication of this material. Quirky facts The Neath Port Talbot Valleys are the birthplace of many famous talents including Richard Burton, Sir Anthony Hopkins, Michael Sheen and Katherine Jenkins. On Pontypridd Common there are two large boulders deposited on top of each other. They are know locally as the Rocking Stones. Tommy Cooper was born in Caerphilly and a life size bronzed statue of him stands proudly in the town. Tourist Information Centres Aberdulais Falls Aberdulais Falls National Trust Property, Aberdulais, Neath SA10 8EU T: +44 (0)1639 636 674 www.visitnpt.co.uk E: [email protected] Blaenavon World Heritage Centre and TIC Church Road, Blaenavon NP4 9AS T: +44(0) 1495 742333 visitblaenavon.co.uk E: [email protected] (closed Mondays except Bank Holidays) Bridgend Tourist Information Centre at Bridgend Designer Outlet, The Derwen, Bridgend CF32 9SU T: +44(0) 1656 654906 E: [email protected] Visit Caerphilly Twyn Square, Caerphilly CF83 1JL T: +44(0) 29 2088 0011 E: [email protected] The National Showcave Centre at Dan-yr-Ogof in the upper Tawe Valley is western Europe’s largest showcaves complex Merthyr Tydfil, the former ‘iron and steel capital of the world’, was once far bigger than Cardiff You can hop on a boat at Pontypool and get off 35 miles later in the heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park when you cruise the beautiful Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal The rare native beechwoods in the Clydach Gorge, a National Nature Reserve, are some of the finest in the west of Britain The Pontypool & Blaenavon Railway is the 'highest standard gauge railway in Wales' and runs through Blaenavon’s World Heritage site landscape. West Monmouthshire Golf Club at Nantyglo is the highest golf course in the UK, according to the Guinness Book of Records (so it must be true) Carmarthen 113 Lammas St, Carmarthen SA31 3AQ T: +44 (0) 1267 231 557 visit.carmarthenshire.gov.uk E:[email protected] Llanelli, Millennium Coastal Park Discovery Centre, Millennium Coastal Park, North Dock, Llanelli, Carmarthenshire SA15 2LF T: +44 (0) 1554 777 744 E: [email protected] Merthyr Tydfil 14a Glebeland Street, Merthyr Tydfil CF47 8AU T: +44(0) 1685 727474 E: [email protected] Pontypridd Museum & Tourist Information Centre, Bridge Street, Pontypridd CF37 4PE T: +44(0) 1443 490748 E: [email protected] Visit Swansea Bay Tourist Information Centre, Plymouth St, Swansea SA1 3QG T: +44 (0)1792 468 321 E: [email protected] visitswanseabay.com Tredegar Parc Bryn Bach Countryside Centre, Merthyr Road, Tredegar NP22 3AY T: +44(0) 1495 711816 E: [email protected] thevalleys.co.uk
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