Visit wales valleys by Jonmark198

The Valleys of South Wales Stunning landscapes

Exhilarating activities

Rich heritage

www.thevalleys.co.uk

thevalleys.co.uk

Contents

Cover: Blaenrhondda by Alan Young

Above: Blaenafon Ironworks 1 by Pete Monaghan

Right bottom: Maesycwmmer Viaduct by Phillip Watkins

Small images: Parc Cwm Darran

Right top: Waterfall Country by Gareth Hugh Davies

Ogmore Vale — Late Afternoon by Harry Robertson

The Big Cheese, Caerphilly by Robert Macdonald

Far right: Tredegar by Becky Adams

Mountain biking at Afan Forest New interpretation at Blaenavon Ironworks

Discover The Valleys this year

In 2013 ten artists were commissioned to go out and explore The Valleys and to create their own unique views of the area. The result was ten very individual collections of images — some picked out the stunning views, others the colourful communities and a few explored the areas industrial past. The artists all discovered an area that is filled with surprises and experiences — why not share them this year? The Valleys are very real — towering castles to climb, deep mines to explore with an experienced guide and local stories. Then there’s the beautiful green landscape where you can do so many activities. How about

walking across the hillsides, or cycling along over 400km of off road paths — both great for the whole family. Or for the more adventurous — how about mountain biking (we have 3 great mountain bike parks), climbing, caving or gorge walking — there are brilliant experienced leaders to make sure you get the best from your visit. And after a busy day — how about a meal with the locals! There are great pubs and eateries across The Valleys — local beers, cheese and luscious ice creams. You can even discover how to make Welsh Whiskey.

04 How green are our

Valleys?… VERY! Explore by car, by foot, by bike.

08 Valleys stories

Explore the past.

16 Events

Plan your weekend adventures.

18 Take your pick... A look at the rest of Wales’ regions.

12 People & heroes

20 Making the grade Helping you make sense of our gradings.

14 Get out… Get dirty! Ideas for active weekends.

21 Accommodation listings Places to stay across The Valleys.

Real people — real stories.

36 Attractions and activities listings From heritage attractions to golf clubs you’ll find it all here. 42

How to find us Take a look at the map — The Valleys are really accessible.

With so much to explore — make this the year that you discover The Valleys.

thevalleys.co.uk

Main image: Blaencwm, Rhondda Below: Relaxing by Glyncorrwg Ponds Bottom: Walking along Bwlch y Clawdd

How green are our Valleys?… VERY! If your view of The Valleys is an area of coal mines and scarred landscapes — then take another look. The Valleys are green — with forests, country parks, unspoilt hillsides, open common land, clear rivers and crisp lakes together providing a wonderful backdrop to the traditional Valley communities.

Getting out into The Valleys is all about refreshing your spirit — a great way to help cope with the everyday pressures of life. All you need to do is to pull on your walking boots and follow some of the inspired routes that link communities and hillsides — how about exploring Twmbarlwm, our very own Bronze Age hill fort with spectacular views across The Bristol Channel, or discover the native residents of Swiss Valley near Llanelli. There are also great circular routes around Pontypridd and for the really adventurous, how about stepping out from the north to the south of The Valleys on the Taff Trail, Rhymney or Sirhowy Valley Trails. You could choose a different route each weekend and still have new ones to discover at the end of 2014! Check out www.thevalleys.co.uk for plenty of walk ideas.

“This is spectacular countryside. Buzzards wheeling around overhead, air so fresh it feels restorative, and vast open space where you can quickly lose yourself in your thoughts. If you’re into walking there’s a multitude of routes you can take depending on how long you’ve got or how challenging you want to make your adventure. Plus there’s a few pubs dotted around that are worth factoring in to your itinerary.” — Gareth Johnson, Gay Star News

The Valleys Walking Festival This well established Walking Festival provides walkers of all abilities with new walk routes led by knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides right across The Valleys. With walks of all length and difficulty, you can also choose the subject that interests you — whether that’s discovering the hidden heritage of caves near Trefil or paths across the hillsides of Blaenavon, or enjoying

the slowly changing autumnal colours near Caerphilly or the birds flying above Aberdare. Running annually over two weeks, why not come and stay in The Valleys and enjoy more than one of these brilliant routes.

Tenth Valleys Walking Festival 6-21 September 2014 www.walesvalleyswalking.co.uk

thevalleys.co.uk

Waterfall Country

Main image: Sgwd Ddwli Isaf Below: Walking behind Sgwd yr Eira

“I cannot call to mind a single valley that in the same extent of country comprises so much beautiful and picturesque scenery and so many interesting and special features as the Vale of Neath.”

Get on your bike — away from the cars!

Taff Tales is an audio-treasure hunt adventure for the Taff Trail using mobile phones and your imagination.

The Valleys has over 400kms of safe, off road, family friendly routes, ideal for cycling, ‘scooting’, walking or even running. Many of the routes used to be railways, tram lines or canal towpaths and so they have an easy gradient and link together communities and some of the area’s brilliant attractions as they wind their way through the beautiful Valleys landscape.

Listen with all your senses and discover the magical world that awaits you on the trails!

Taff Tales will launch on Easter weekend and run until the end of August: www.sustrans.org.uk/tafftales

Explore The Valleys the people-powered way! Check out www.sustrans.org.uk/walesroutes to get the best from the National Cycle Network — here are a couple of routes to try in 2014.

That’s what the famous 19th Century naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace wrote when he first experienced the Vale of Neath. He summed it up pretty well. Waterfall Country is a hidden treasure, a sequence of striking waterfalls that ensure that walks in this area are truly memorable — especially if you are able to venture behind Sgwd yr Eira — and experience the noise and power of water forming a living curtain in front of you!

“We walked across some very beautiful landscape and then down a steep incline, as we got closer we could hear the sound of the water falling… and suddenly there it was in front of us — this amazing piece of natural beauty — I was literally blown away! The guides told us to get water-proofed up and then lead us behind the waterfall, it was an amazing experience and one that I can honestly say goes down as one of my favourite sights of all time.” — Jess Contomichalos, thatsyummymummy.net

Llynfi Valley

Ebbw Valley

A traffic free art trail between Maesteg and Afan Forest Park, this trail has wonderful views across The Valleys and down to the coast. On the former site of the Maesteg Washery, a brand new artwork has been installed by Sustrans — it is based around an impressive stone structure with wetlands and an area of tree planning which will bring new birds, insects and mammals into the area.

This route links Brynmawr, Nantyglo, Abertillery and Six Bells — all former industrial towns. As the trail winds through the Valley, you can imagine being a Chartist marching to Newport in 1839 or a miner walking to work at Six Bells Colliery. Like many of the routes, you can enjoy the wonderful green landscape and the rich heritage stories.

Green Flag Country Parks

Explore on horse back

You have probably heard of Blue Flag Beaches — but have you heard of Green Flag Parks? These are wonderful green spaces where the environment is well managed and the facilities for visitors are the best. The Valleys have over 50 Green Flag Country and Community Parks.

With acres of common land and miles of bridleways, The Valleys has loads of opportunities for enthusiastic horse riders. There are riding schools and trekking centres which can all help you to get out and about.

Top: Cycling on the Taff Trail

There is also a new safe riding path linking Dare Valley Country Park, near Aberdare, with Barry Sidings Country Park, north of Pontypridd.

Bottom left: Enjoying the view at Parc Cwm Darran

For a full list take a look at www.greenflagaward.org • Parc Taf Bargoed, Merthyr Tydfil • Ynysangharad War Memorial Park, Pontypridd • Garn Lakes Local Nature Reserve, Blaenavon • Gnoll Park, Neath • Maesteg Welfare Park • The Garden Festival Parklands, Ebbw Vale • Parc Cwm Darran, Bargoed • Bedwellty Park, Tredegar

Coming soon: Taff Tales

Left: Llynfi Valley Middle: Cycling in The Valleys Right: Guardian, Six Bells

Bottom right: Riding in The Valleys

The 14 mile route meanders through St Gwynno and Gelliwion Forests — affording great views and dappled shade — a comfortable journey for riders and horses alike! thevalleys.co.uk

Valleys stories

Impressive castles Opposite page:

You might associate The Valleys with industry – but did you know that we have some of the most impressive castles in the UK?

The Valleys have a rich heritage that you can explore — how about Twmbarlwm, an Ironage Hill Fort that sits high on the ridge above Cwmbran and Cwmcarn, or the incredible archaeological remains on Gelligaer Common.

Top: Big Pit, National Coal Museum Left: St Illtyd’s Church, near Abertillery

Right: Inscribed stone on Gelligaer Common Bottom: World Heritage Centre

There are churches that date back as for as 13th century like St Illtyd’s above Abertillery, and others with unique stories such as Ebenezer United Reformed Church, Pontnewynydd which was built by Rev Edmond Jones using funds from selling his book collection — he was also known as ‘the Old Prophet’ due to his seemingly genuine gift of prophecy. Each community in The Valleys has a unique story to tell – so if you are interested in history then make sure you visit – there are more than enough Valleys Stories to keep you interested!

Kidwelly is on a par with the other great castles of Wales — and catching sight of it shrouded in early morning mist is spine-tingling stuff. The story of Princess Gwenllian, who died in battle in 1136, is also fascinatng.

World Heritage Site, Blaenavon This town and surrounding landscape embodies the role that The Valleys played in the industrial revolution — when innovation, skills and determination meant that we lead the world. Here the town’s exciting and turbulent history can be explored as you go underground at Big Pit: National Coal Museum, ‘feel the heat’ as you discover the story of iron at Blaenavon Ironworks, and marvel at the creative use of gravity and water with the

tramways and canals that took the iron to Newport. The Blaenavon World Heritage Centre has interactive exhibitions telling the story of the whole area and its residents through history — it should be your first port of call to understand the World Heritage Landscape before visiting the other great attractions. For more information visit: www.visitblaenavon.co.uk

Carreg Cennan clings to a sheer cliff-face on all sides — a great defensive position — which makes it even more incredible that it fell into Welsh and English hands during the troubled medieval period. It even became a Lancastrian hideout!

Above: Kidwelly Castle Middle: Carreg Cennan Below: Caerphilly Castle

The best known of our castles is probably Caerphilly — the largest in Wales with its concentric ‘walls within walls’ system of defence. The most dramatic feature has to be the tower that ‘out leans’ Pisa — continually challenging the laws of gravity! Our castles are great places to visit — fantastic views, lots of towers to climb, and opportunities to step back in time — indeed, you might also come across film crews using these spectacular scenes as the backdrop for programmes like Dr Who and Da Vinci’s Demons.

thevalleys.co.uk

Real people – Real stories As people flowed into The Valleys to work in the new iron, coal and copper industries, so new communities were established. The strong character of individuals ensured that the hard work and living conditions could be endured – and now you can discover many of these real stories. Coal mining employed many thousands, and you can still meet real miners to find out what life under ground was like. Each coal museum brings to life the challenges of the local geology — so Cefn Coed Colliery Museum focuses on the deepest anthracite mine, whilst the South Wales Miners Museum looks at the Afan Forest story (an area that is now famed for Mountain Biking). As we move east we come to probably the most famous mining area — The Rhondda — and Rhondda Heritage Park recreates the life of local miners with tours and extensive pit head buildings. On the eastern most edge of the coalfield you’ll find Big Pit: National Coal Museum with the unique underground tours.

The production of metals pre dates the coal industry. In the west you can discover the mysteries of early tinplate manufacture at Kidwelly Industrial Museum or the National Trust’s Aberdulais Tinworks & Waterfall. You can then visit some of the ironworks — maybe Cefn Cribwr near Bridgend or Sirhowy, Tredegar. We are all interested in seeing how people lived — and across The Valleys there are some inspired sites — you can visit Joseph Parry’s Cottage in Merthyr Tydfil, Stack Square at Blaenavon Ironworks or Bute Town near Rhymney.

Imposing estates

Much of The Valleys was agricultural and so there are imposing farm houses. In Cwmbran you’ll find Llanyrafon Manor, where you can discover the part that this farm played in WW2. Near Nelson is Llancaiach Fawr Manor where visitors are taken back to 1645 to discover how this area was involved in the Civil War; this along with Margam are deemed to be some of the most haunted buildings in UK — perfect to visit in October! More recently, the wealth iron and coal masters wanted to impress with imposing homes. Cyfarthfa Castle in Merthyr Tydfil has to be considered one of the best as it sits high on the hill, overlooking Crawshay’s ironworks. Now it houses a museum and sits in perfect parkland. In nearby Tredegar is Bedwellty House and Park — the home of Samuel Homfray, and later where Aneurin Bevan started his political career before going on to Parliament and setting up the National Health Service.

Right: Cefn Coed Colliery Museum

Bottom left: Wales National Mining Memorial, Senghenydd Bottom right: Guardian, Six Bells

Going local Local museums are the ideal starting point for exploring a communities heritage – here are just a few:

Across The Valleys there are imposing houses and estates that date back before the industrial revolution. Margam Park has over 4000 years of history — reminders of pre historic man, the Romans and a 19th century Castle, as well as the Abbey, all sit in this 850 acre country estate. Nearby The Gnoll might only date back to Elizabeth 1, but there is more than enough to explore with the Cascades, Ivy Tower and the great open spaces.

Left: Rhondda Heritage Park

• Brynmawr — great collection of Brynmawr Furniture that was sold in the very best stores during the 1930’s www.brynmawrmuseum.co.uk • Cynon Valley — explores how the lives of local people have changed www.cvmg.co.uk

Above: Margam Castle & Country Park Middle: Llancaiach Fawr Manor Below: Cyfarthfa Castle and Park

Reminders of past disasters Working in industry has always been hard — many have lost their lives. Across The Valleys there are memorials to the spirit and determination of the families that moved to the area in search of work — two of the most recent are well worth a visit. Senghenydd — where 439 men died in a mining disaster in 1913 — is now home to the National Mining Memorial. At Six Bells, near Abertillery, one of the most imposing sculptures, Guardian, marks the site where 45 men died in 1960.

Both of these imposing memorials also have community museums where you can find out about the people who helped and the impact upon the community. For more information visit: Aber Valley your.caerphilly.gov.uk/ abervalleyheritage/ Ty Ebbw Fach www.tyebbwfach.co.uk

• Winding House, New Tredegar — tells the story of Caerphilly County www.windinghouse.co.uk • Pontypool — with a unique collection of Japanware www.pontypoolmuseum.org.uk • Pontypridd — right next to the historic bridge in the town centre www.pontypriddmuseum.org.uk There are also some brilliant specialist museums – such as Welsh Area Fire Engine Restoration Society (WAFERS) www.wafersmuseum.org.uk and the Blaina Chartist Visitor Centre www.chartistvisitorcentre.org.uk

thevalleys.co.uk

People & heroes Stunning scenery, a rich heritage and people who welcome visitors with enthusiasm and are passionate about the area they call home — this is The Valleys! The people of The Valleys really are ‘the icing on the cake’ — that makes this area very special. As you explore The Valleys you will meet the locals — many with a quick wit and a unique turn of phrase that can be traced back to our own dialect — Wenglish — a combination of Welsh and the English accents that workers drawn to the area during the Industrial Revolution brought with them. Some words to look out for – ‘cwtch’ — a special cuddle — ‘daps’ — plimsoll — and ‘belonging’ — related to. The people of The Valleys have stories to tell — whether it’s the miner guides at Big Pit: National Coal Museum or Rhondda Heritage Park with their stories of camaraderie and hard work, or the Welsh with Italian backgrounds who serve some of the best ice creams and coffees as did their forefathers over 100 years ago — so make sure you take the opportunity to chat to the locals — wherever you are visiting!

Above: Bedwellty House, where Nye Bevan started his political career Far left: Reminders of miners past Left: Chartist leader, Zephania Williams

Valley heroes and heroines

Remembering ‘The Great War’

Our mineral wealth spurred on entrepreneurs and engineers who helped make Wales the world’s first industrial nation. Our tight knit coal communities raised sons and daughters with heart, young men and women like Aneurin Bevan and Elizabeth Andrews who believed in a better future, a different way of doing things.

Across The Valleys communities will be telling their own stories — the men who went to the front, those who stayed behind to mine the essential ‘black gold’, the women who took on the roles vacated by young men and the families who waited for news. Call into any of the local museums and you’ll discover unique stories. St Elvans Church in Aberdare are exploring the stories behind the names on the War Memorial whilst the Winding House, New Tredegar will be highlighting the stories of local residents.

We nurtured fighters for justice, like the Chartists, who 175 years ago were prepared to die so that everyone could have the right to vote. And of course, as we remember the start of the Great War, so there will be many opportunities to uncover the stories of how the war impacted upon the lives of men, women and children across the area. If you’d like to find out more about some of the Heroes and Heroines of The Valleys — uncovering how their actions impacted upon others in The Valleys and across the whole world, then take a look at www.thevalleys.co.uk/heroes — and let us know who’s actions you feel should also be recognised.

A champion of The Valleys heritage 2014 is the 100th anniversary of the birth of Alexander Cordell — the writer who captured the stories of the people of The Valleys in books like “Rape of the Fair Country”. Whilst he was born in Ceylon, he was never happier than when he was ‘at home’ in Wales. His books really captured the essence of Wales — the First Industrial Nation.

You can find out more at Blaenafon Community Heritage and Cordell Museum in the Blaenavon Heritage Town. Above: Rob Brydon in the Afan Valley Above left: Local food stall holder Above right: Four generations of Sidoli’s ice-cream makers in Ebbw Vale Left: Cordell’s desk — at Blaenafon Community Heritage and Cordell Museum

Campaigning for the vote In 1839, 175 years ago, men and women of The Valleys were part of a campaign to secure the vote for all men — this was known as Chartism. The march Newport on 4 November ended in over 20 men dying — others were transported to Australia and many were sentenced to terms in prison — yet, nowadays, we all take the vote for granted. To explore the long journey it took to achieve this ‘right’ how about visiting The Gwent Archives in Ebbw Vale or the Blaina Chartist Visitor Centre.

Left: Sergeant Jack Williams from Ebbw Vale — the most decorated Welsh non commissioned officer, (The Regimental Museum of The Royal Welsh, Brecon)

thevalleys.co.uk

Mountain biking The Valleys have great facilities for Mountain Bikers — with Afan Forest, Cwmcarn and BikePark Wales, Merthyr Tydfil all offering exhilarating routes through forests and across rocky terrains — even the youngest and least experienced bikers can find routes to challenge. For the adventurous (and fit) riders, there are numerous tracks and trails across the hill tops linking together various communities, allowing you to create your very own route. www.cognation.co.uk For those with thinner tyres the roads across the hilltops are great training routes — or you could join the Wiggle Dragon Ride — take the challenge to ‘race’ up to 300km, climbing over 3,400m — now that’s a ride!! www.humanrace.co.uk/events/cycling/dragon-ride

“…as soon as I set off any lingering concerns swiftly vanished in the sheer exhilaration — and occasional moments of terror — of the ride, which snaked through forests, rocky sections and even a tunnel. There are also stunning views across the countryside of South Wales…”

Get out… Get dirty!

— Rough Guides writer Shafik Meghji

The hills… The valleys… The rivers… The cliffs… together these mean that The Valleys are a great outdoor playground for people looking for adventure, activities and sports.

Written on his visit to BikePark Wales

Adventure

Opposite page:

The natural landscape means that The Valleys are great for watersports like kayaking, gorge walking and canyoning, as well as drier activities like climbing, caving, orienteering and even paragliding.

Middle: A tight squeeze!

As well as the space and the landscape we also have some of the very best adventure guides who can introduce you to the skills and the excitement in a safe environment — a must have for trying new adventures. Even the youngest members of the family can have a go at some of the purpose built centres — how about Segway Trekking at Mountain View Ranch, Tree Top Adventure at Go Ape, Margam or a bit of Bouldering at The Rock UK Summit Centre, Trelewis. Check out www.thevalleys.co.uk for more ideas.

Top: Go Ape

Bottom: Gorge walking in the Vale of Neath

“…try canyoning in the rivers and waterfalls around Ystradfellte! Slide down rapids, float down fast-flowing chutes and waves, jump of 20ft waterfalls…”

Above: Cycling along Llangeinor Common Left: Wiggle Dragon Ride (© Human Race Ltd) Top right: Mountain biking at Cwmcarn

— Families South East Magazine

Middle right: BikePark Wales

Buoyancy aids, wet suits, helmets and skilled instructors are essential.

Bottom right: Afan Argoed

“…Afan Valley has undergone a transformation in the last few decades would be an extreme understatement. What was once grim, coal-mining country is now a pristine mecca for outdoor sports, with mountain biking being the obvious draw. It’s rare to discover a ‘new’ destination in the UK, but this is exactly what Afan Valley — and The Valleys in general — have become.” — Will Jones, www.mydestination.com

thevalleys.co.uk

Events Throughout the year there are events taking place across The Valleys — great opportunities to get out an about with your whole family The programme develops throughout the year — so it is always worth checking the website www.thevalleys.co.uk or call into one of the brilliant Valleys Tourist Information Centres.

Coming soon… REDHOUSE

Top: The Big Cheese Left: World Heritage Day, Blaenavon Right: Father Christmas

Just a few of the events planned for 2014 APRIL

JUNE

International Festival of Orienteering 2014 www.thejk.org.uk

Cwmbran Big Event Family events around The Boating Lake www.torfaen.gov.uk

MAY

Wiggle Dragon Ride Explore The Valleys by cycle including The Rhigos and Devil’s Elbow www.humanrace.co.uk/events/cycling/ dragon-ride

The Queen’s Baton Run Across The Valleys Aberdare Festival Fun for all the family www.rctcbc.gov.uk/whatson Global Village A festival celebrating the cultural diversity of Merthyr Tydfil www.merthyrtydfilglobalvillage.org.uk Margam Kite Festival Everybody can join the experts in flying kites is this beautiful setting www.margamcountrypark.co.uk

Blaenavon World Heritage Day Festival, street party, Victorian funfair, music and the annual heritage costume parade www.visitblaenavon.co.uk Valley 100 100 miles walk over a weekend — a real adventure www.ldwa.org.uk/2014Hundred

An arts complex in the Old Town Hall, Merthyr Tydfil will officially open on 1 March. Definitely worth a visit. Exhibitions, café and theatre space. www.redhousecymru.com

JULY Steelhouse Festival Rock music and spectacular views www.steelhousefestival.com Other images: Details of the Redhouse architecture

The Big Cheese ‘Joyful Silliness’ around Caerphilly Castle www.your.caerphilly.gov.uk/bigcheese SEPTEMBER The Valleys Walking Festival Guided walks around the beautiful Valleys www.walesvalleyswalking.co.uk DECEMBER Father Christmas Father Christmas is really busy at loads of events across The Valleys Nos Galan Road Race A unique run commemorate the Welsh runner Guto Nyth Bran www.nosgalan.co.uk

Left: The Old Town Hall in its heyday

Arts & crafts venues Pontardawe Arts Centre www.pontardaweartscentre.com

The Valleys inspires many artists and makers — and we are lucky to have a variety of great galleries where you can see (and buy) delightful reminders of the area.

Art Gallery, Rhondda Heritage Park www.rhonddaheritagepark.com /level-one-gallery

Here are a few of the best galleries — which have an ever changing programme of displays.

Cynon Valley Museum & Gallery www.cvmg.co.uk

Llantrisant Gallery www.llantrisantgallery.com

Llantarnam Grange Arts Centre www.lgac.org.uk

Y Galeri, Caerphilly www.ygaleri.co.uk

Lemon Blues Gallery www.lemonblues.co.uk

thevalleys.co.uk

Take your pick…

ACTIVITIES FOR ALL Wales is the UK’s activity capital. Find out more with the help of these FREE action-packed guides — and take a look at the websites.

Introducing Wales’ Holiday Areas

The Valleys Heart and Soul of Wales is one of the Holiday Areas within Wales. Each area has its own distinct character. The Isle of Anglesey

Snowdonia Mountains and Coast

Anglesey offers unparalleled beauty, amazing adventures, serious solitude and a warm welcome. Easily accessible; this unique island, with its coastline, varied beaches and historical towns make it a superb base for all the family. Those that have visited need not be told. They just return…

The outdoor adventure playground of North Wales that includes the Snowdonia National Park, Llˆyn Peninsula and Cambrian Coastline.

T : +44 (0)1248 713177 E : anglesey@nwtic.com www.facebook.com/visitanglesey www.visitanglesey.co.uk

Llandudno and Colwyn Bay Vibrant Llandudno, the Victorian seaside gem with a history that goes back to the Bronze Age. World Heritage Conwy with its rich maritime past. Waterfront adventure in Colwyn Bay. Year round breaks, filled with family fun, good food, great walking, world-class theatre and a full calendar of exciting events. All within easy reach of Snowdonia. T : +44 (0)1492 577577 E : llandudnotic@conwy.gov.uk www.facebook.com/visitingllandudno www.visitllandudno.org.uk

North East Wales Less than 20 minutes from Chester, we’re just a short journey from the North West and the West Midlands. From the bustling shops and cultural events of Wrexham to the culinary delights of the Mold Food and Drink Festival to the world-famous Llangollen International Eisteddfod. The areas includes Rhyl, one of the best recognized British seaside resorts and the Clwydian Range & Dee Valley, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. We even have an 11-mile long World Heritage Site — the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Canal and you can also walk the ancient Offa’s Dyke path running through Chirk out to the coast at Prestatyn. T : +44 (0)1978 29201 E : tourism@wrexham.gov.uk T : +44 (0)1745 355068 E : rhyltic@denbighshire.gov.uk www.northeastwales.co.uk

A wide choice of quality accommodation, attractions and activities — castles, narrowgauge railways, golf, cycling, walking, award winning beaches, country parks, coastal path, World Heritage Site, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Heritage Coast. T : +44 (0)1341 281485 E : tourism@gwynedd.gov.uk www.facebook.com/visitingsnowdonia www.twitter.com/visit_snowdonia www.visitsnowdonia.info www.visitsnowdonia.wordpress.com

Mid Wales My Way Featuring Brecon Beacons National Park, Dyfi Biosphere, Cambrian Mountains, Lake Vrynwy & the Berwyns and Offa’s Country. Magnificent walks — two national trails, waterfalls and many other breathtaking walks besides. Muddy Wheels — cycling on- and off-road. A great track record — four years with the Tour of Britain, home to Dyfi Enduro and Beacons Beast. Family traffic-fee routes to extreme mountain biking await. Year round events — from Hay Literary to Machynlleth Comedy, from Green Man to the Royal Welsh and Winter Shows, celebrating our agricultural heritage. Stay in magnificent mansions to wacky wigwams. All topped off with mouth-watering cuisine, local whiskies and marvelous wines. That’s Mid Wales My Way! T : +44 (0)1874 622485 E : tourism@powys.gov.uk www.midwalesmyway.com

Fishing

Ceredigion — Cardigan Bay & the Cambrian Mountains Discover the landscape, villages and harbours that inspired Dylan Thomas and delve into Wales’s history at Cardigan Castle. Walk gentle or challenging sections of Ceredigion’s coast path from a promenade stroll at Aberystwyth to hill fort climbs at Llangrannog. Spot dolphins and birds; enjoy family fun at award-winning beaches and all sorts of events; relax and savour Cardigan Bay seafood to Cambrian Mountain lamb.

With endless coastline and countless rivers and lakes it’s no wonder Wales is an angler’s paradise.

Swansea Bay - Mumbles, Gower, Afan and the Vale of Neath

Glamorgan Heritage Coast and Countryside

Discover Dylan Thomas in Wales’s Waterfront City, birthplace of our poetic hero and playwright. Be a part of his centenary celebrations throughout 2014. Spend some time in the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Unwind on award-winning beaches and explore unspoilt countryside. Bring your board, bike and boots and enjoy watersports, cycling and walking.

The dramatic Heritage Coast and popular resorts of Barry Island and Porthcawl are fringed by lovely Vale and Bridgend countryside and green hills. Discover the special character of an area steeped in history — and it’s close to Cardiff, Wales’ cosmopolitan capital.

www.fishing.visitwales.com

T : +44 (0)1792 468321 E : tourism@swansea.gov.uk www.visitswanseabay.com

Golf Wales

Cardiff, Capital of Wales

The secret’s out! More and more players are discovering — and thoroughly enjoying — ‘Golf as it should be’ in Wales.

The capital of Wales has unique attractions, top-class entertainment, a wide range of accommodation to suit all needs and quality shopping with a difference. Cardiff Castle, the Millennium Stadium, National Museum Cardiff, the Wales Millennium Centre and famous Doctor Who Experience combined with Cardiff Bay offer indoor and outdoor entertainment for everyone all year round.

www.golfasitshouldbe.com

T : +44 (0)1970 612125 E : brochure@ceredigion.gov.uk www.facebook.com/discoverceredigion www.discoverceredigion.co.uk

T : +44 (0)29 2087 3573 E : visitor@cardiff.gov.uk www.visitcardiff.com

Pembrokeshire — Britain’s Only Coastal National Park

Get your free brochures and activity guides Holiday Area Brochures

Carmarthenshire — Carmarthen Bay The last place that Dylan Thomas called home and the best place to be to celebrate and capture his centenary celebrations in 2014. Carmarthenshire stretches from Carmarthen Bay in the south to western Brecon Beacons and the Cambrian Mountains in the north, wondrous Gardens, awe-inspiring Castles and Wales’s longest beach, market towns brimming with local produce and chic shopping. T : +44 (0)1267 231557 E : marketing@carmarthenshire.gov.uk www.discovercarmarthenshire.com

Wye Valley & Vale of Usk Fantastic scenery and high-quality food and drink from the Brecon Beacons National Park to the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Explore castles, Roman towns and beautiful gardens; then take in award-winning vineyards, bustling market towns and great local pubs. With the renowned Newport and Abergavenny Food Festivals, celebrated restaurants and artisan producers, discover why we’re the Food Capital of Wales. T : +44 (0)1291 623772 E : tourism@monmouthshire.gov.uk www.visitwyevalley.com

Rated by National Geographic magazine experts as the second best coastline in the world. With 186 miles of magnificent and varied coastline and over 50 beaches, there’s plenty of space for everyone. Choose between lively Tenby and Saundersfoot or peaceful St Davids and Newport. Perfect for outdoor activities or just relaxing. To find out more about Pembrokeshire www.visitpembrokeshire.com

T : +44 (0)1446 704867 T : +44 (0)1656 815338 E : tourism@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk E : tourism@bridgend.gov.uk www.visitthevale.com www.bridgendbites.com

The Isle of Anglesey Llandudno & Colwyn Bay

Cardiff — Capital of Wales Glamorgan Heritage Coast & Countryside Wye Valley & Vale of Usk (no brochure)

Mid Wales My Way (no brochure) Ceredigion — Cardigan Bay and the Cambrian Mountains Pembrokeshire — Britain’s only Coastal National Park (no brochure) Carmarthenshire — Carmarthen Bay Swansea Bay, Mumbles, Gower, Afan & the Vale of Neath

Visit Wales, Freepost CF1550, Dept R10, PO Box 1, Cardiff CF24 2XN Name (print please): Address (print please):

North East Wales Snowdonia Mountains & Coast/ Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

For FREE copies of any THREE Holiday Area brochures please tick the appropriate boxes and send to:

Activity Guides Fishing Wales

Postcode:

Golf Wales For FREE copies of any of the activity guides please tick the appropriate boxes and send to: Visit Wales, Freepost CF1550, Dept S10, PO Box 1, Cardiff CF24 2XN Name (print please): Address (print please):

Postcode:

thevalleys.co.uk

Making the grade

A Guide to Quality Assurance These ratings 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.

All the accommodation featured in this publication has been independently assessed so you can make your choice in confidence, knowing that each place to stay has been given a rating according to the quality and facilities on offer. The advice is to always check with an establishment before booking to check that the accommodation offers the services and facilities that meet your needs – they will only be too pleased to help.

All accommodation grades are based on a set of common quality standards agreed by Visit Wales, Visit England, Visit Scotland and the AA. The star ratings reflect the facilities and overall quality of the experience. What do our star ratings mean? Accommodation operators are graded between one and five stars (with 5 stars being the highest) based on the overall quality of the experience and the facilities available. Accommodation differs in style and therefore different rating schemes apply to different types and styles of business. To help you make your choice, each star rated business will also be given a designator to describe the style of accommodation you can expect. Does a lower star rating equal less quality? Many lower star rated accommodations may still offer high quality but do not meet all of the facility and service expectations for the higher star ratings. Is it particularly important not to compare Guest Accommodation ratings against Hotel ratings as different criteria are used when assessing.

Look out for these symbols: Access improved for mobility impaired people. Access improved for visually impaired people.

Gold Logo STARS are your guide to quality. The Star Quality Grading Schemes apply to all types of accommodation: serviced – hotels, guest houses, bed and breakfast, farm accommodation, hostel/ hostel type accommodation, self-catering cottages and apartments and caravan holiday home and touring/camping parks.

Accommodation listings

Also look out for that extra-special property that has been awarded Visit Wales’ Gold Award, given for exceptional standards of hospitality, comfort and food in serviced accommodation. Occasionally, it has not been possible to visit the accommodation prior to publication. In these instances, the property is marked as ‘Awaiting Grading’.

Access improved for hearing impaired people. 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.

Verified Logo Some accommodation operators have chosen not to be star rated, but they have been checked out to ensure that they provide an acceptable level of services and facilities appropriate to their type of business. They are identified as either ‘Verified’ or ‘Listed’. A Warm Welsh Welcome Croeso Logo Watch out for this sign as these places have achieved a Croeso Award in recognition of their exceptional Warm Welsh Welcome. Accommodating visitors with disabilities All Visit Wales graded properties have an Access Statement. This statement tells visitors in a clear, accurate and honest way how the property can meet their particular needs.

Grading assessments are on-going 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 T : 0845 010 8020 E : quality.tourism@wales.gsi.gov.uk www.wales.gov.uk/tourism

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.

Accommodation is grouped by Valley and then by type. For further information on accommodation in the area please visit www.thevalleys.co.uk and contact the establishment directly for specific requirements. Hotel

Self-Catering

Guest House

Camping/Caravan

B&B

Farm

Three symbols have been introduced to help visitors with physical impairments find the Access Statements of most relevance to them. Accommodation providers have selected the one symbol which best describes the improvements that they have made to their properties. 20

thevalleys.co.uk

Afan Valley Afan Lodge Afan Road, Duffryn Rhondda, Port Talbot, SA13 3ES 01639 852500 info@afanlodge.com www.afanlodge.com 

Guest Accommodation

Tyn y Coed No 10, Ten Acre Wood, Margam, SA13 2SU 01639 885500 llewelyn37@talktalk.net Bed & Breakfast



Depot Road New Methodist Church, Cwmafan, Port Talbot, SA12 9DF 07974 437885 info@depotrd.co.uk www.depotrd.co.uk 

Self-Catering

Whites Level House Green Lanterns Guest House Hawdref Ganol Farm, Cimla, Neath, SA12 9SL 01639 631884 info@greenlanterns.co.uk www.greenlanterns.co.uk 

1 Norton Terrace, Glyncorwg, Port Talbot, SA13 3AN 07701 099331 info@whiteslevelhouse.co.uk www.whiteslevelhouse.co.uk 

Self-Catering

Guest House

Windways The Queens Queen Street, Glyncorrwg, Port Talbot, SA13 3BL 01639 850487 rentonad@tiscali.co.uk www.thequeensguesthouse.co.uk 

The Grange Goytre, Port Talbot, SA13 2YR 01639 888705 enquiries@hafodgrange.com www.hafodgrange.com Guest House

The Barn B&B Ty’n Cellar Farm, Water Street, Margam, SA13 2PD 01656 748644 relax@tyncellarfarm.co.uk www.tyncellarfarm.co.uk 

Self-Catering



Guest House

Hafod Grange



50 Afan Road, Duffryn Rhondda, Port Talbot, SA13 3ET 07973 615893 gary@neuadd-afan.com www.windways.co.uk

Bed & Breakfast

9 Craig-y-Fan, Cymmer, Port Talbot, SA13 3LN 01639 851820 jwilliams@brynteghouse.com www.brynteghouse.com 

Bed & Breakfast

Tyle’r Fedwen Farm, Bwlch Road, Cwmafan Port Talbot, SA12 9YA 07974 656124 info@fedwenfawr.co.uk www.fedwenfawr.co.uk

FSC Margam Discovery Centre Margam Park, Port Talbot, SA13 2UA 01639 895636 enquiries.mp@field-studies-council.org www.field-studies-council.org/centres/ margamdiscoverycentre 

Group Accommodation

Afan Valley Cottage 27 Beatrice Street, Blaengwynfi, Port Talbot, SA13 3TS 07958 928096 info@afanvalleycottage.co.uk www.afanvalleycottage.co.uk 

Self-Catering

Afan Cottage Jersey Terrace, Cwmafan, SA12 9AS 07977 145766 www.afancottage.co.uk 

Self-Catering

Above: Afan Lodge

Afon Lwyd valley

Approved Alternative Accommodation

Ivy House 10 Craig Y Fan, Cymmer, Port Talbot, SA13 3LN 07979 218017 www.ivyhousewales.com

Best Western Parkway Hotel and Spa Ty Coch Lane, Llantarnam Park Way, Cwmbran, NP44 3UW 01633 871199 enquiries@parkwayhotel.co.uk www.bw-parkwayhotel.co.uk 

Hotel

Awaiting Grading Self Catering

Bryn Teg House

Fedwen Fawr

Rose Cottage Craig-Y-Fan, Cymmer, Port Talbot, SA13 3LN 01639 851820 jwilliams@brynteghouse.com www.brynteghouse.com/rosecottage 

Bunkhouse

Afan House 3 Blaenant Street, Duffryn Rhondda, Port Talbot, SA13 3HB 01256 351815 bookings@afan-house.co.uk www.afan-house.co.uk 

Self-Catering

Glyncorrwg Ponds Ynyscorrwg Park, Glyncorrwg, Port Talbot, SA13 3EA 01639 851900 glyncorrwgcampsite@hotmail.com glyncorrwgpondsvisitorcentre.co.uk 

Oakfield B&B 1 Oakfield Terrace, Varteg Road, Blaenavon, NP4 9DS 01495 792829 enquiries@oakfieldbnb.com www.oakfieldbnb.com

Jenny’s Cottage 17 Park Street, Blaenavon, NP4 9AB 01874 676446 enquiries@breconcottages.com www.breconcottages.com 

Self-Catering

    Bed & Breakfast

Premier Inn Cwmbran Avondale Road, Pontrhydrun, Cwmbran, NP44 1DE 0871 5278284 www.premierinn.com Budget Hotel

Premier Inn Pontypool Lower Mill Field, Pontypool, NP4 0RH 0870 5278890 www.premierinn.com Budget Hotel

Best Western Pontypool Metro Hotel Lower Mill Field, Pontypool, NP4 0XB 0844 5767676 

Metro Hotel

Gelligravog Farm B&B Gelligravog Farm, Cwmbran, NP44 5AT 01633 871147 gelligravog@gmail.com www.gelligravog.co.uk

Greenway House Ty Shon Jacob Farm Tranch, Pontypool, NP4 6BP 01495 757536 tyshonfarm@aol.com www.accommodationinpontypool.co.uk 

1 Greenway, Talywain, Pontypool NP4 7RD 01633 861119 cbasolutions@talktalk.net 

Self-Catering

Farmhouse

Pwll Du Adventure Centre Ty-Cooke Farm Mamhilad, Pontypool, NP4 8QZ 01873 880382 tycookefarm@hotmail.com www.tycookefarm.co.uk 

Farmhouse

Holme View Cottage Yew Tree Farm, Mountain Road Upper Cwmbran NP44 5AA 01874 676446 enquiries@breconcottages.com www.breconcottages.com Self-Catering

Pen-y-Galchen Farm, Pwll Du, Blaenavon, NP4 9SS 01495 791577 info@pwlldu.org.uk www.pwllduadventurecentre.co.uk 

Bunkhouse

Blackthorne Lodge Whitehall Lane, Coed y Paen, Pontypool, NP4 0SY 07909 636202 julia.rice@ntlworld.com www.blackthornelodge.co.uk 

Self-Catering

    Farmhouse

Touring and Camping Park

thevalleys.co.uk

Amman valley

Cynon valley

Glynhir Mansion & Estate

Penbryn Cottages

Glynhir Road, Llandybie, Ammanford, SA18 2TD 01269 850438 enquiries@theglynhirestate.com www.theglynhirestate.com

Cwmbach, Aberdare, CF44 0ED 01685 873373 pittard@btopenworld.com www.penybryncottages.co.uk 

Self-Catering

   Guest House

Ty Newydd Country Hotel Lothlorien Cottage 49 Heol y Gors, Cwmgors, Ammanford, SA18 1PT 0208 3720264 merry@lothloriencottage.com www.lothloriencottage.com

Penderyn Road, Hirwaun, Aberdare, CF44 9SX 01685 813433 relax@tynewyddcountryhotel.co.uk www.tynewyddcountryhotel.co.uk

    Self-Catering



River View Touring Park The Dingle, Llanedi, Pontarddulais, SA4 0FH 01269 844876 info@riverviewtouringpark.com www.riverviewtouringpark.com 

Touring & Camping Park

DULAIS valley

Country House Hotel

Premier Inn Aberdare

Beili Helyg

Riverside Retail Park, Tirfounder Field, Cwmbach, Aberdare, CF44 0AH 0871 5278002 www.premierinn.com

Cwm Cadlan, Penderyn, Aberdare, CF44 0YJ 01685 813609 willow.walks@hotmail.co.uk www.walkingwalesholidays.co.uk

Budget Hotel



Bed & Breakfast

Crynant Cottages Llwyn Llanc Uchaf Farm, Crynant, Neath, SA10 8SF 07966 149136 crynantcottages@btconnect.com www.crynantcottages.co.uk      Self-Catering

Bryncoch Farm Camping Llandyfan, Ammanford, SA18 2TY 01269 850005 enquiries@bryncochfarm.co.uk www.bryncochfarm.co.uk Camping and Log Pods

Fifth Avenue House Lower Halt Road, Rhigos, Aberdare, CF44 9UP 01685 819914 bookings@fifthavenuehouse.co.uk www.fifthavenuehouse.co.uk 

Guest Accommodation

Dare Valley Country Park Trecynon, Aberdare, CF44 7RG 01685 874672 darevalleycountrypark@rctcbc.gov.uk www.darevalleycountrypark.co.uk 

Guest Accommodation

Marquis Inn Bute Villa, Aberdare, CF44 7EN 01685 875822 info@themarquisinn.co.uk www.aberdare-bedandbreakfast.co.uk 

Inn

Maesyronnen Ystradfellte, Aberdare, CF44 9JE 01639 722343 

Bed & Breakfast

Cynon Valley Activity Centre Halt Road, Rhigos, Aberdare, CF44 9UW 01403 264641 info@cyat.org www.cyat.org 

Bunkhouse

Dare Valley Country Park Trecynon, Aberdare, CF44 7RG 01685 874672 darevalleycountrypark@rctcbc.gov.uk www.darevalleycountrypark.co.uk 

Touring & Camping Park

Caer Arba 7 Brynawel Road, Crynant, Neath, SA10 8SR 01639 750875 www.caer-arba.co.uk 

Self-Catering

Nant y Ffin Rhos Common, Crynant, Neath, SA10 8PP 01874 676446 enquiries@breconcottages.com www.breconcottages.com 

Self-Catering

EBBW valley The Newbridge Hotel High Street, Newbridge, NP11 4FH 01495 248536 thenewbridgehotel@yahoo.co.uk www.thenewbridgehotel.co.uk

32 Caradoc Street, Crosskeys, NP11 7EF 07925 380517 enquiry@cwmcarnholidaylet.co.uk www.cwmcarnholidaylet.co.uk

Inn





Premier Inn Ebbw Vale

123A Newport Road, Cwmcarn, NP11 7LZ 01633 615900 enquiry@cwmcarnholidayapartments.co.uk cwmcarnholidayapartments.co.uk

Budget Hotel

The Kings Arms



Newchurch Road, Newtown, Ebbw Vale, NP23 5BD 01495 352822 / 07816 558536 paul@paulbowen1.wanadoo.co.uk

Glendene 9 Gelli Avenue, Risca, NP11 6QR 01633 612138 enquiries@holidayletsouthwales.co.uk www.holidayletsouthwales.co.uk

Westwood Villa Guest House



59 Risca Road, Crosskeys, NP11 7BT 01495 272650 westwoodvillaguesthouse.co.uk Guest House

Cwmcarn Forest Campsite Nantcarn Road, Cwmcarn, Crosskeys, NP11 7FA 01495 272001 cwmcarn-vc@caerphilly.gov.uk www.cwmcarnforest.co.uk Touring & Camping Park Alternative Accommodation

Self-Catering

Upper Grippath Farm Holiday Cottages

reception@westwoodvillaguesthouse.co.uk 

Self-Catering

Glendene Garden Annex

Inn



Self-Catering

Cwmcarn Holiday Apartments

Victoria Business Park, Waunlwyd, Ebbw Vale, NP23 8AN 0871 5278356 www.premierinn.com



Cwmcarn Holiday Let

Risca, Caerphilly, NP11 6JB 01633 615000 holidaycottages@uppergrippath.co.uk www.uppergrippath.co.uk 

Self-Catering

Far left: Ty Newydd Country Hotel

Right: Cwmcarn Forest Campsite Pods

thevalleys.co.uk

ELY VALLEY Miskin Manor Country House Pendoylan Road, Miskin, Pontyclun, CF72 8ND 01443 224204 reservations@miskin-manor.co.uk www.miskin-manor.co.uk 

Country House Hotel & Self-Catering

Gwendraeth Valley Travelodge Bridgend Pencoed Old Mill, Felindre Road, Pencoed, Nr. Bridgend CF35 5HU 0871 9846049 www.travelodge.co.uk Budget Hotel

The Stables at Brook House Rhiwsaeson Road, Cross Inn, Pontyclun, Llantrisant, CF72 8NZ 07801 356259 info@thestablesllantrisant.co.uk www.thestablesllantrisant.co.uk 

Premier Inn Llantrisant

The Countryman Inn

Gwaun Elai, Magden Park, Llantrisant, CF72 8XF 0871 5278640 www.premierinn.com

Tri-nant Fishery, Llantrisant, CF72 8LQ 01443 231935 trinantfarm@aol.com www.the-countryman-inn.co.uk

Budget Hotel

    Inn

Bed & Breakfast

Llwynau Farm Pine Lodges Llantrisant, Pontyclun, CF72 8LP 01443 229021 llwynaufarmlodges@hotmail.com www.llwynaufarmpinelodges.co.uk   &    Self-Catering

Garw valley Bryngarw House Brynmenyn, Bridgend, CF32 8UU 01656 729009 bryngarwhouse@bridgend.gov.uk www.bryngarwhouse.co.uk     Guest Accommodation

Betws Eco Lodge

Brynhyfryd Camping & Caravanning

Heol Dewi Sant, Betws, Bridgend, CF32 8TA 01656 729569 ecolodge@btinternet.com www.betwsecolodge.co.uk

Ffordd-Y-Gyfraith, Cefn Cribwr, Bridgend, CF32 0BS 01656 740544 brynhyfrydcampsite@hotmail.co.uk www.brynhyfrydcampingcaravanning.co.uk

    Group Accommodation

   Touring & Camping Park

Tyn-y-Cwm Guest House Nazareth Road, Pontyates, Llanelli, SA15 5TB 01269 861145 tynycwm@btinternet.com www.pontyatesguesthouse.co.uk

    Hotel

    Guest House

The Lodge Penyfai Lane, Llanelli, SA15 4EH 01554 773790 info@bedandbreakfastllanelli.co.uk www.bedandbreakfastllanelli.co.uk     Bed & Breakfast

Ffynnon Rhosfa Farm Felinfoel, Llanelli, SA15 3PJ 01554 756156 reservations@diplomat-hotel-wales.com www.diplomat-hotel-wales.com

Heol Dwr Llangyndeyrn, Kidwelly, SA17 5EN 01269 870879 www.lletymaelog.co.uk     Bed & Breakfast

   AA stars Hotel

Kidwelly Bed & Breakfast Llanelli Cross Hands Travelodge Cross Hands, Llanelli, SA14 6RD 0871 9846230 www.travelodge.co.uk

62 Causeway Street, Kidwelly, SA17 4SU 01554 890716 kidwellybandb@yahoo.co.uk www.stayinkidwelly.com

Budget Hotel

    Bed & Breakfast

Blaenpant Mynydd y Garreg, Kidwelly, SA17 4RP 01623 490881 meynonfreeman@yahoo.com 

Self-Catering

Llwynteg, Llannon, Llanelli, SA14 8JN 01269 845874 ffynnon.rhosfa@virgin.net www.ffynnon-rhosfa.co.uk    Bed & Breakfast     Self-Catering

The Old Dairy Ystrad Fach, Llandyfaelog, Kidwelly, SA17 5NY 01269 861170 info@theolddairywales.co.uk www.theolddairywales.co.uk      Bed & Breakfast

Dan-y-Cwarre Five Roads, Llanelli, SA15 5JA 01269 860187 jackierawlings@fsmail.net www.dan-y-cwarre.co.uk    Self-Catering

    &      Self-Catering

Cwmbach Cottage 4 Silver Terrace Burry Port, SA16 0NA 01554 891260 www.ger-y-mor.co.uk

Maesybont, Llanelli, SA14 7SR 01269 842986 info@cwmbachcottage.co.uk www.cwmbachcottage.co.uk

    Self-Catering

Llwydcoed Fach Llannon, Llanelli, SA14 6DF 01792 511345 thegwilyms@btinternet.com     Self-Catering

The Coach House Llygad yr Haul

Maesachddu Cottage

Meinciau, Kidwelly, SA17 5LB 07718 897495 info@eyeofthesunwales.co.uk www.eyeofthesunwales.co.uk

Porthyrhyd, Carmarthen, SA32 8PX 01267 275563 mail@maesachddufarm.co.uk www.maesachddufarm.co.uk

     Self-Catering



Self-Catering

The East Barn, Felinfoel, Llanelli, SA14 8LZ 01554 899838 robert.east4@btopenworld.com www.gowerchalets.co.uk     Self-Catering

Y Felin & Ty Gwyn 6 Silver Terrace Burry Port, SA16 0NA 01554 891221 www.silverterrace.co.uk Self-Catering

Pantymeillion Cottages Furnace, Llanelli, SA15 4YB 01554 775593 mail@pantymeillioncottages.co.uk www.pantymeillioncottages.co.uk     Self-Catering

Furnace, Llanelli, SA15 4HA 01554 758171 reservations@stradeyparkhotel.com www.stradeyparkhotel.com

Diplomat Hotel

5 Avalon Court, Kidwelly, SA17 5EJ 07966 696673 info@burnsholidayhomes.com www.burnsholidayhomes.com



Gwendraeth Valley Stradey Park Hotel

Rhydwen & Ty Rhosyn

Sea View Chalet

Penlan Isaf Farm, Kidwelly, SA17 5JR 01554 890266 kidwellyfarmcottage@live.co.uk www.kidwellyfarmcottages.co.uk     Self-Catering

Llwynifan Farm Caravan Site Tanylan Farm Holidays

Carmarthen Bay Holiday Park, Kidwelly, SA17 5HQ 01554 891737 enquiries@seaviewchalet.co.uk www.seaviewchalet.co.uk

Tanylan Farm, Kidwelly, SA17 5HJ 01267 267306 www.tanylanfarmholidays.co.uk

Listed Self-Catering



Llangennech, Llanelli, SA14 8AX 01554 820420 www.llwynifan-farm.co.uk     Touring & Camping Park

Self- Catering & Touring & Camping Park

Carmarthen Bay Holiday Park Capel Sion Heol Llansaint, Kidwelly, SA17 5JD 01267 267955 info@chapelapartmentswales.co.uk www.chapelapartmentswales.co.uk 

Self-Catering

Garnffrwd Mynyddcerrig, Llanelli, SA15 5BB 01269 870539 garnffrwd@btinternet.com www.garnffrwdflyfishing.co.uk    &     Self-Catering

Carmarthen Bay Holiday Park, Port Way, Kidwelly, SA17 5HQ 08433 092591 www.park-resorts.com 

Holiday Park

Fferm Glanyrynys Farm

Parc y Llong, Kidwelly, SA17 4RN 08454 174082

Porthyrhyd, Carmarthen, SA32 8PX 01267 275226 Glanyrynysfarm@btconnect.com www.glanyrynys-farm.co.uk

   &     Self-Catering



2,3,4 Parc y Llong

Farmhouse

thevalleys.co.uk

Left: The Bluebell Hotel

Llynfi valley

Middle: Coes Y Mwstwr Hotel Right: Miners Cottage Below: Heritage Park Hotel

Col-Mar Guest House 2 Bethania Street, Maesteg, Bridgend, CF34 9DJ 01656 735140 marlene@colmarguesthouse.plus.com www.colmarguesthouse.plus.com 

Guest House

Hafod Grange

Above: Cwm Tawel Yurts Below: Castle Hotel

Vale of Neath Castle Hotel The Parade, Neath, SA11 1RB 01639 641119 info@castlehotelneath.co.uk www.castlehotelneath.co.uk 

Hotel

The Bluebell Hotel The Parade, Neath, SA11 1RA 01639 644000 info@thebluebellneath.co.uk www.thebluebellneath.co.uk 

Hotel

Cwmbach Lodge Cwmbach Road, Cadoxton, Neath, SA10 8AH 01639 639825 l.morgan5@btinternet.com www.cwmbachcottages.co.uk 

Self-Catering

Meadow View 18 Glan Gwrelych, Glynneath, SA11 5LN 01639 720767 holidaysinthecountry@hotmail.co.uk www.holidaysinthecountry.co.uk 

Self-Catering

The Grange, Goytre, Port Talbot, SA13 2YR 01639 888705 enquiries@hafodgrange.com www.hafodgrange.com 

Colliers Cottage 2 Yeo Street, Resolven, Neath, SA11 4HS 01639 711208 collierscottageneath@aol.co.uk collierscottageneath.wix.com /collierscottageneath 

Self-Catering

Neath Valley View Aberdulais, Neath, SA10 8HL 01639 633150 enquiries@neathvalleyview.com www.neathvalleyview.com 

Self-Catering

Guest House

Cwm Tawel Yurts Cwmcedfyw Farm, Llangynwyd, Maesteg, Bridgend, CF34 0EB 01656 730179 cwmtawel@gmail.com www.cwmtawel.org.uk www.tygwyneth.co.uk Approved Alternative Accommodation

Ty Tanglwyst Farm Cottages Ty Tanglwyst Farm, Pyle, Bridgend, CF33 4SA 01656 745635 info@tytanglwystholidaycottages.co.uk www.tytanglwystholidaycottages.co.uk &

Self-Catering

Yr Hen Stabl Abergwrelych House, Pontwalby, Glynneath, SA11 5LN 01639 720035 magandmerf@gmail.com www.cottagessouthwales.com 

Self-Catering

Clyngwyn Bunkhouse Ystradfellte Road, Pontneddfechan, SA11 5US 01639 722930 enquiries@bunkhouse-south-wales.co.uk www.bunkhouse-south-wales.co.uk 

Bunkhouse

Ty Maen Cottage Llangynwyd, Maesteg, CF34 0EH 01656 730171 www.ty-maen.co.uk 

Self-Catering

Ogmore valley Coed y Mwstwr Hotel Coychurch, Bridgend, CF35 6AF 01656 860621 hotel@coed-y-mwstwr.com www.coed-y-mwstwr.com 

Country House Hotel

Days Inn Bridgend Cardiff Sarn Park Services, M4 Junction 36, Bridgend, CF32 9RW www.days-inn-bridgend-cardiff.co.uk Budget Hotel

Premier Inn Bridgend Central The Derwen, Bridgend, CF32 9ST 0871 5278146 www.premierinn.com Budget Hotel

Court Colman Manor Pen-y-Fai, Bridgend, CF31 4NG 01656 720212 experience@court-colman-manor.com www.court-colman-manor.com 

Country House Hotel

Our Welsh Caravan & Camping Hendre Ifan Goch Farm, Glynogwr, Blackmill, Bridgend, CF35 6EN 01443 670194 www.ourwelsh.co.uk 

Rhondda valley Hazelwood Guest House Tondu Road, Bridgend, CF31 4LJ 01656 647780 info@hazelwood-house.co.uk www.hazelwood-house.co.uk

Heritage Park Hotel

    Guest House

Coed Cae Road, Trehafod, Pontypridd, CF37 2NP 01443 687057 reservations@heritageparkhotel.co.uk www.heritageparkhotel.co.uk



Heronston Barn Cottage Heronston Lane, Ewenny, Bridgend, CF31 3AX 01656 655997 holiday@heronston.co.uk www.heronston.co.uk 

Self-Catering

Hotel

Henderwen Hotel Hendrewen Road, Blaencwm, Treherbert, CF42 5DR 01443 771679 mail@hendrewenhotel.com www.hendrewenhotel.com 

Inn

Miners Cottage Margam Row, Kenfig Hill, Bridgend, CF33 6DP 07971 950772 cottage@minerscottage.com www.minerscottage.com     Self-Catering

Glynogwr Lodge Ty Pen-twyn, Glynogwr, Blackmill, Bridgend, CF35 6EL 01656 841008 glynogwr-self-catering-wales.co.uk     Self-Catering

Touring & Camping Park

thevalleys.co.uk

Rhymney valley Bryn Meadows Golf, Hotel & Spa Maesycwmmer, Near Ystrad Mynach, CF82 7SN 01495 225590 reception@brynmeadows.co.uk www.brynmeadows.co.uk 

Hotel

The Wingfield Hotel

Valley Break

Wingfield Terrace, Llanbradach, CF83 3NT 02920 889199 manager@wingfieldhotel.co.uk www.wingfieldhotel.co.uk 

72 Hanbury Street, Glan y Nant, Bargoed, NP12 3XP 07725 540049 jan@valleybreak.co.uk www.valleybreak.co.uk

Inn

Self-Catering



Premier Inn Caerphilly North

Bryn Heulog

Corbetts Lane, Caerphilly, CF83 3HX 0871 5278182 www.premierinn.com

11 Bedwellty Road, Aberbargoed, CF81 9AE 01443 833084 www.visitcaerphilly.com

Budget Hotel



Premier Inn Crossways Crossways Business Park, Pontypandy, Caerphilly, CF83 3NL 0871 5278184 www.premierinn.com Budget Hotel

Travelodge Caerphilly 1 Beddau Way, Caerphilly, CF83 2AX 0871 9846364 www.travelodge.co.uk Budget Hotel

Ty Castell Guest House 48 St Martins Road, Caerphilly, CF83 1EJ 02920 884112 tycastellguesthouse@yahoo.co.uk www.tycastellguesthouse.co.uk

The Courtyard Bryncenydd House, Nantgarw Road, Caerphilly, CF83 3FB 02920 866666 nigelwphillips@aol.com www.visitcaerphilly.com

Bed & Breakfast

The Coach House Guest House



2 Twyn Sych, Rudry, Caerphilly, CF83 3EF 02920 884772 enquiries@coachhouserudry.co.uk www.coachhouserudry.com 

Llwyn Iago Farm Guest House Fochriw, Nr Bargoed, CF81 9JR 01685 844085 www.llwyn-iago.com mheadworth@sky.com

Bed & Breakfast

Gwern-Ty-Isaf Cottage



Guest Accommodation

Pentre Tai Farm B&B

Mill Road, Deri, Bargoed, CF81 9HF 01443 820123 lidog166@aol.com www.caerphillycottage.co.uk     Self Catering

Self-Catering

Rhiwderin, Near Newport, NP10 8RQ 01633 893284 enquiries@pentretaifarm.co.uk www.pentretaifarm.co.uk 

Farmhouse

    Guest House

Wern Ganol Guest House Caerphilly Road, Nelson, Caerphilly, CF46 6PS 01443 450413 mail@wernganol.co.uk www.wernganol.co.uk 

Guest House

Cottage Guest House Mountain View, Pwllypant, Caerphilly, CF83 3SA 02920 869160 cottageguesthouse@tiscali.co.uk www.visitcaerphilly.com 

Guest House

Top: Bryn Meadows Golf, Hotel & Spa Middle left: Blas Restaurant at Bryn Meadows Golf, Hotel & Spa Middle right: Gwern-Ty-Isaf Cottage Bottom: Wern Ganol Guest House

thevalleys.co.uk

Sirhowy valley The Rock Inn Tredegar Road, Blackwood, NP12 1DD 01495 223441 info@therockblackwood.co.uk www.therockblackwood.co.uk 

Inn

swansea valley and mawr Clockwise from Left:

Safe Haven Lodges

Safe Haven Lodges Cwmshon Cottages Cilhendre Fawr Cottages The Rock

Ty Hafod Tudor, Wattsville, Caerphilly, NP11 7QQ 01495 271225 enquiries@safehavenlodges.co.uk www.safehavenlodges.co.uk  & 

Self-Catering

The Railway Tavern Dukestown Road, Tredegar, NP22 4QD 01495 725225 mhum2150@hotmail.com www.ivymayrestaurantsandhotels.co.uk Applied

The Cambrian Castle Street, Tredegar, NP22 3PS 01495 723319 info@cambriantredegar.co.uk www.cambriantredegar.co.uk 

Inn

Roseland B&B Dukestown Road, Dukestown, Tredegar, NP22 4RE 01495 722040 susy@roselandbnb.co.uk www.roselandbnb.co.uk 

Parc Bryn Bach Caravan Site Countryside Centre, Merthyr Road, Tredegar, NP22 3AY 01495 355920 parcbrynbach@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk www.parcbrynbach.co.uk 

Touring & Camping Park

Pen y Fan Caravan Park Manmoel Road, Near Oakdale, Blackwood, NP12 OHY 01495 226636 caroline@penyfancaravanpark.co.uk www.penyfancaravanpark.co.uk    Holiday, Touring & Camping Park

Cwmshon Cottages 8 & 9 Old Road, Pontardawe, Port Talbot, SA8 4PN 01792 865237 cwmshon@rickson.idps.co.uk www.cwmshoncottages.co.uk

Bed & Breakfast

     Self-Catering

Tan Yr Eglwys Holiday Cottages Cilybebyll, Pontardawe, Neath Port Talbot, SA8 3JR 01792 863367 info@walescottagebreaks.co.uk www.walescottagebreaks.co.uk 

Valley View Craigcefnparc, Swansea, SA6 5TE 07793 073811 cartrefholidays@fsmail.net www.cartrefholidays.co.uk     Self-Catering

Self-Catering

Gellifelgaws Farm Tyllwyd Road, Bryncoch, Neath, SA10 7DX 01490 440970 walesholidaysdirect@live.co.uk www.walesholidaysdirect.com     &      Self-Catering

Swansea Valley Holiday Cottages Cilybebyll, Pontardawe, Swansea, SA8 3JQ 01792 864611 enquiries@walescottages.com www.walescottages.com Above: Roseland B&B

    &      Self-Catering

Cilhendre Fawr Cottages Wernddu Road, Alltwen, Pontardawe, Neath Port Talbot, SA8 3HY 01792 862210 info@holiday-cottages-south-wales.co.uk www.holiday-cottages-south-wales.co.uk     Self-Catering

Rose Cottage 40 Pen y Bryn, Cwmllynfell, Neath Port Talbot, SA9 2FL 01686 628200 info@wales-holidays.co.uk www.wales-holidays.co.uk 

Self-Catering

thevalleys.co.uk

Taff valley Left: Nant Ddu Lodge Hotel © Merthyr Tydfil Camera Club. Dolygaer Outdoor Education Centre. Right: Nant Ddu Lodge Hotel © Merthyr Tydfil Camera Club. Below: Butchers Arms © Merthyr Tydfil Camera Club.

Castle Hotel Castle Street, Merthyr Tydfil, CF47 8BG 01685 386868 castleinfo@castlehotelwales.com www.castlehotelwales.com 

Hotel

Travelodge Merthyr Tydfil Merthyr Tydfil Leisure Village, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 1UT 0871 9846371 www.travelodge.co.uk Budget Hotel

Llechwen Hall Hotel Cilfynydd, Pontypridd, CF37 4HP 01443 742050 enquiries@llechwenhall.co.uk www.llechwen.co.uk 

Country House Hotel

Nant Ddu Lodge Hotel Cwmtaf, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 2HY 01685 379111 enquiries@nant-ddu-lodge.co.uk www.nant-ddu-lodge.co.uk 

Country House Hotel

The Imperial Hotel High Street, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tydfil, CF47 8UH 01685 722555 info@imperialhotelmerthyrtydfil.co.uk www.imperialhotelmerthyrtydfil.co.uk 

Metro Hotel

Premier Inn Merthyr Tydfil Pentrebach, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 4BD 0871 5878768 www.premierinn.com Budget Hotel

Ceffyl Cottage Cefn Farmyard, Cefn Lane, Pontypridd, CF37 3AL 01443 400163 enquiry@ceffylcottage.co.uk www.ceffylcottage.co.uk

Pontsticill, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 2UE 01685 723544 info@butchersarmspontsticill.co.uk www.butchersarmspontsticill.co.uk

    Self-Catering



Hostel

Central Guest House Granary Cottages

Stow Hill, Treforest, Pontypridd, CF37 1RZ 07815 916581 help@centralguesthouse.co.uk www.centralguesthouse.co.uk

Ystradgynwyn, Torpantau, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 2UT 01685 383358 sian@granary-cottages.co.uk www.granary-cottages.co.uk

    Guest House

    Self-Catering

Llwyn Onn Guest House Llwyn Onn, Cwmtaf, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 2HT 01685 384384 reception@llwynonn.co.uk www.llwynonn.co.uk     Guest House

Pleasant Inn Mount Pleasant Inn Mount Pleasant, Merthyr Vale, CF48 4TD 01443 693555 enquiries@themountpleasantinn.co.uk www.themountpleasantinn.co.uk     Inn

Pleasant

Bwthyn Pen-Y-Fan 24 Cardiff Road, Merthyr Vale, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 4RX 07505 370835 info@cottageholidaysinwales.com www.cottageholidaysinwales.com 

Self Catering

Coedowen Bunkhouse Cwmtaf, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 2HY 01685 722628 info@breconbeaconsbunkhouse.co.uk www.breconbeaconsbunkhouse.co.uk     Bunk House

Winch Fawr Lodge C1 Winch Fawr, Heolgerrig, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 1RD 01685 385071 nigel@winchfawrlodge.com www.winchfawrlodge.co.uk 

The Butchers Arms

University of South Wales Glamorgan Conference Centre, University of South Wales, Treforest, CF37 1DL 01443 482002 events@southwales.ac.uk www.glamorganconferenceservices.co.uk  &

Campus

Dolygaer Outdoor Education Centre Pontsticill, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 2UR 01685 721751 dolygaer@merthyr.gov.uk www.dolygaer.co.uk   Group Accommodation

Gethin Lodge 1 Chapel Street, Abercanaid, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 1RX 07976 709703 gethinlodge@gmail.com www.gethinlodge.com 

Self-Catering

Rock UK Summit Centre The Old Drift Mine, Trelewis, Treharris CF46 6RD 01443 710090 summit.centre@rockuk.org www.adventures.rockuk.org/centres /summit-centre   Activity Accommodation

Lakeside Lodge Ty Taf Fechan, Dolygaer, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 2UR 01685 371176 tytaffechan@gmail.com www.lakesidelodgebrecons.com 

Self-Catering

Studios At Glenthorne The Grove, Merthyr Tydfil, CF47 8YR 01685 722205 claire@studiosatglenthorne.co.uk www.studiosatglenthorne.co.uk 

Self-Catering & Serviced Apartments

Penrhadw Farm Pontsticill Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 2TU 01685 723485 info@penrhadwfarm.co.uk www.penrhadwfarm.co.uk 

Grawen Caravan & Camping Park Cwmtaf, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 2HS 01685 723740 grawen.touring@virgin.net www.walescaravanandcamping.com 

Touring & Camping Park

Ty Gronfa Pontsticill, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 2UP 01685 371399 bookings@tygronfa.co.uk www.tygronfa.co.uk     Bed & Breakfast

Ty Taf Fechan B&B Dolygaer, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 2UR 01685 371176 tytaffechan@gmail.com www.tytaffechan.com     Bed & Breakfast

Fairmead Guest House 24 Gelligaer Road, Trelewis, Treharris, CF46 6DN 01443 411174     Bed & Breakfast

AA Self-Catering

Self-Catering thevalleys.co.uk

Attractions listings ACTIVITIES Absolute Adventures Ltd Afan Forest Safari Amman Valley Riverside Cycle Path All Terrain Services Battlefields Live BikePark Wales Blaenafon Mountain Tours Bowlplex Bowlplex BMX at Parc Bryn Bach Bryn Oer Tramroad Call of the Wild Ltd Combatzone Live County Cycles Cwmcarn Mountain Bike Trails Cwmdown Mountain Bike Uplift Service Dare Valley Country Park Dolygaer Outdoor Education Centre Dulais Valley Quads & Archery Centre Dynamic Rock Indoor Climbing Centre Eco Explore Ebbw Fach Trail Ecology Cymru G-Force Karting Glyncorrwg Mountain Bike Centre & Ponds Go Ape! High Wire Forest Adventure Gwent Adventures Liquidfriction Adventure Mountain View Ranch Outdoor Ed Venture Paraventure Airsports Parc Bryn Bach Activity Centre Pontymoile Day Boat Hire Pontypool Ski Centre Ps Cycles Quad Challenge Rock UK Sbri Cymru Ltd South Wales 2000 Shooting Ground Supertubing at Festival Park Surfschool Wales Swiss Valley Cycle Route Taff Valley Quad Bike & Activity Centre Team Force Paintball Top Gun Paintball Twin Dragons Archery Range Twrch Trwyth Walking Trail Vale of Neath Gliding Club Wales Activity Breaks Wet and Wild Adventures

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HORSE RIDING CENTRES Amman Valley Trotting Club Cimla Trekking & Equestrian Centre Dinefwr Riding Centre E K M Equestrian Greenmeadow Riding Centre 36

Amman Valley www.ammanvalleytrotting.co.uk Cimla Neath www.cimlariding.co.uk Ammanford www.dinefwrridingcentre.co.uk Bridgend Aberdare www.greenmeadow-ridingcentre.co.uk

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Rockwood Riding Centre Sunny Bank Equestrian Centre Talygarn Equestrian Centre Tickens Trekking Centre Tir Twyn Farm Yard Ty Draw Riding Stables Waun Fawr Farm Riding School

Nantgarw Rudry www.sunnybankec.com Pontyclun www.talygarnec.co.uk Cwmbran Ystrad Mynach Blaencwm www.tydrawfarm.com Pontardawe

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Ammanford Trehafod Ebbw Vale Cwmllynfell Blackwood Ammanford Brynaman Merthyr Tydfil Cwmbran Cross Hands Cwmaman Aberdare Ebbw Vale Pentre Llanhilleth Cwmbran Llantrisant Brynmawr Pontypridd Merthyr Tydfil Treorchy Llanelli Pontardawe Merthyr Tydfil Nantgarw Tredegar Aberdare Porth Pontypridd Abertillery Cwmbran Caerphilly

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ARTS AND CRAFTS Ammanford Miners Theatre Art Gallery - Rhondda Heritage Park Beaufort Theatre and Ballroom Black Mountain Gallery Blackwood Miners Institute Bro Aman Museum Brynaman Public Hall Cinema Canolfan Soar Congress Theatre Crosshands Cinema Cwmaman Institute Cynon Valley Museum and Gallery Ebbw Vale Institute Lemon Blues Gallery Llanhilleth Miners Institute Llantarnam Grange Arts Centre Llantrisant Gallery Market Hall Cinema Muni Arts Centre Myfanwy Theatre Park and Dare Theatres Parc Howard Museum and Art Gallery Pontardawe Arts Centre REDHOUSE Showcase Cinema Tredegar Little Theatre The Coliseum Theatre The Factory The Grogg Shop & Museum The Met Vue Cinema Y Galeri

www.carmarthenshiretheatres.co.uk www.rhonddaheritagepark.com www.blaenaugwentvenues.com www.blackmountaingallery.com www.blackwoodminersinstitute.co.uk www.discovercarmarthenshire.com www.bp-hall.co.uk www.theatrsoar.com www.congresstheatrecwmbran.co.uk www.crosshands-cinema.co.uk www.cwmamantheatre.co.uk www.cvmg.co.uk www.ebbwvaleinstitute.org www.lemonblues.co.uk www.llanhillethinstitute.com www.lgac.org.uk www.llantrisantgallery.com ww.markethallcinema.co.uk www.muni.rct-arts.org www.merthyr.ac.uk/myfanwy www.parkdare.rct-arts.org www.parchoward.org.uk www.pontardaweartscentre.com www.redhousecymru.com www.showcasecinemas.co.uk www.tredegar.co.uk/littletheatre www.coliseum.rct-arts.org www.factoryporth.com www.groggs.co.uk www.the-met.co.uk www.myvue.com www.ygaleri.co.uk

0871 2201000 01495 724979 08000 147111 01443 687080 01443 405001 01495 322510 08712 240240 02920 861433

GOLF CLUBS Aberdare Golf Club Bargoed Golf Club Blackwood Golf Club Bryn Meadows Golf, Hotel & Spa Caerphilly Golf Club Corus Golf Club Earlswood Golf Club Garnant Golf Club Glyn Abbey Golf Club Glynhir Golf Club Greenmeadow Golf & Country Club Lakeside Golf Club Llantrisant & Pontyclun Golf Club Llanyrafon Golf Course Maesteg Golf Club Merthyr Tydfil (Cilsanws) Golf Club

Aberdare www.aberdaregolfclub.co.uk Bargoed www.bargoedgolfclub.co.uk Blackwood www.blackwoodgolf.co.uk Blackwood www.brynmeadows.co.uk Caerphilly www.caerphillygolfclub.com Port Talbot Neath Ammanford www.garnantgolfclub.co.uk Trimsaran www.glynabbey.co.uk Ammanford www.glynhirgolfclub.co.uk Cwmbran www.greenmeadowgolf.com Port Talbot Llantrisant www.llantrisantgolfclub.com Cwmbran Maesteg www.maesteg-golf.co.uk Merthyr Tydfil

01685 871188 01443 830143 01495 223152 01495 225590 02920 863441 01639 871111 01792 812198 01269 823365 01554 810278 01269 851365 01633 869321 01639 899959 01443 224601 01633 874636 01656 734106 01685 723308 thevalleys.co.uk

Morlais Castle Golf Mountain Ash Golf Club Neath Golf Club Oakdale Golf Course Parc Bryn Bach Golf Course Pontardawe Golf Club Pontnewydd Golf Club Pontypool Golf Club Pontypridd Golf Club Rhondda Golf Club Ridgeway Golf Club Tredegar & Rhymney Golf Club Tycroes Golf Centre Virginia Park Golf Club & Driving Range West Monmouthshire Golf Club Whitehall Golf Club Woodlake Park Golf & Country Club

Merthyr Tydfil www.morlaiscastlegolf.co.uk Mountain Ash www.mountainashgc.co.uk Neath www.neathgolfclub.co.uk Oakdale Tredegar www.parcbrynbach.co.uk Pontardawe www.pontardawegolfclub.co.uk Cwmbran www.pontnewyddgolf.co.uk Pontypool www.pontypoolgolf.co.uk Pontypridd www.pontypriddgolfclub.co.uk Pontygwaith www.rhonddagolf.co.uk Caerphilly Rhymney www.tandrgc.co.uk Ammanford www.tycroesgolfcentre.weebly.com Caerphilly www.virginiaparkgolfclub.co.uk Brynmawr www.westmongolfclub.co.uk Treharris www.whitehallgolfclub1922.co.uk Pontypool www.woodlake.co.uk

01685 722822 01443 479459 01639 643615 01495 220044 01495 355920 01792 863118 01633 482170 01495 763655 01443 409904 01443 441384 02920 882255 01685 840743 01269 596555 02920 863919 01495 310233 01443 740245 01291 673933

VISITOR ATTRACTIONS Bedwellty House and Park Tredegar www.bedwelltyhouseandpark.co.uk 01495 353370 Big Pit: National Coal Museum Blaenavon www.museumwales.ac.uk/en/bigpit 02920 573650 Blaenafon Cheddar Company Blaenavon www.chunkofcheese.co.uk 01495 793123 Blaenavon Heritage Railway Blaenavon www.pontypool-and-blaenavon.co.uk 01495 792263 Brecon Mountain Railway Merthyr Tydfil www.breconmountainrailway.co.uk 01685 722988 Cwmbran Boating Lake Cwmbran www.visittorfaen.co.uk 01495 742333 Canolfan Cyfarthfa and Splashpad Merthyr Tydfil www.cyfarthfa.com 01685 727371 Festival Park Ebbw Vale www.festivalshopping.co.uk 01495 350010 Ffos Las Racecourse Trimsaran www.ffoslasracecourse.com 01554 811092 Garwnant Visitor Centre Merthyr Tydfil www.naturalresourceswales.gov.uk 01685 722481 /out-and-about Greenmeadow Community Farm Cwmbran www.greenmeadowcommunityfarm.org.uk 01633 647662 Llantarnam Abbey Cwmbran 01633 867317 Maesteg Town Hall Maesteg www.maestegtownhall.com 01656 733269 Margam Abbey Stones Museum Port Talbot www.visitnpt.co.uk 01443 336000 Margam Country Park Port Talbot www.margamcountrypark.co.uk 01639 881635 Mynydd Mawr Woodland Park Upper Gwendraeth Valley www.discovercarmarthenshire.com 01269 843911 Penderyn Whiskey Visitor Centre Hirwaun www.welsh-whisky.co.uk 01685 810651 Pontardawe Arts Centre Swansea www.pontardaweartscentre.com 01792 863722 Princess Royal Theatre Port Talbot www.nptartsandents.co.uk/en/princessroyal 01639 763214 Rhymney Brewery Visitor Centre Blaenavon www.rhymneybreweryltd.com 01685 722253 Roundhouse Towers Nantyglo www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk 01495 355937 Shell Grotto Pontypool www.visittorfaen.co.uk 01495 766754 St. Elvan’s Church Aberdare www.stelvansbells.weebly.com 01685 881335 St. James Pond Tredegar www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk 01495 355937 St. John the Baptist Church Aberdare www.tourism.rctcbc.gov.uk 01685 879999 The Black Mountain Centre Brynaman www.brynaman.org.uk 01269 823400 The Pit Pony Sanctuary Pontypridd www.pitponies.co.uk 01443 480327 Thomas Dadford Canal Trip Boat Neath www.neath-tennant-canals.org.uk Wiggley’s Fun Farm Bridgend www.wiggleysfunfarm.co.uk 01656 743246

HERITAGE ATTRACTIONS Aber Valley Heritage Museum Aberbeeg Packhorse Bridge Aberdare Heritage Trail Aberdulais Tinworks & Waterfall Abertillery & District Museum Aneurin Bevan Trail Bedwellty House & Park

Senghenydd Aberbeeg Aberdare Neath Abertillery Tredegar Tredegar

www.your.caerphilly.gov.uk/abervalleyheritage 02920 830445 www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk 01495 355937 www.heritagetrailsrct.co.uk 01443 424052 www.nationaltrust.org.uk 01639 636674 www.abertilleryanddistrictmuseum.org.uk 01495 211140 www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk 01495 355937 www.bedwelltyhouseandpark.co.uk 01495 353370

Big Pit: National Coal Museum Blaenafon Community Heritage & Cordell Museum Blaenavon Ironworks Blaenavon World Heritage Centre Blaengarw Workmen’s Hall Blaina Heritage Action Group Museum Brecon Mountain Railway Brynmawr Museum Butetown Heritage Trail Caerphilly Castle Carreg Cennan Castle Cefn Coed Viaduct Cefn Coed Colliery Museum Cefn Cribwr Ironworks Cefn Golau Cholera Cemetery Chartists’ Cave Chartist Exhibition and Information Centre Clydach Ironworks Cyfarthfa Castle Museum & Park Cynon Valley Museum and Gallery Ebbw Vale Works Archival Trust Folly Tower Garw Valley Railway Company Ltd Gelligaer Roman Fort Groeswen Chapel Guardian Gwent Archives Joseph Parry’s Ironworker’s Cottage Kidwelly Castle Kidwelly Industrial Museum Lady of Penrhys Llantrisant Heritage Trail Llancaiach Fawr Manor Llanwonno Church Llanyrafon Manor Llanyrafon Mill Miners Family Statue Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal Nantgarw China Works Museum Nye Bevan Memorial Stones Pontypool Museum Pontypridd Heritage Trail Pontypridd Museum Rhondda Heritage Park Rocking Stones Ruperra Castle (Preservation Trust) Senghenydd Memorial Garden Sirhowy Ironworks South Wales Miners’ Museum St. Illtyd’s Church St. Illtyd’s Church St. Peter’s Church Taff’s Well Thermal Spring The Old Bridge The General Offices Tredegar Town Clock Tredegar Museum Trefil Rail Road

Blaenavon www.museumwales.ac.uk/en/bigpit 02920 573650 Blaenavon www.visitblaenavon.co.uk 01495 790991 Blaenavon www.cadw.wales.gov.uk 01495 792615 Blaenavon www.visitblaenavon.co.uk 01495 742333 Blaengarw, Bridgend 01656 871911 Blaina www.blaina.moonfruit.com 01495 292025 Merthyr Tydfil www.breconmountainrailway.co.uk 01685 722988 Brynmawr www.brynmawrmuseum.co.uk 01495 313900 Butetown, Rhymney www.butetownhistory.info Caerphilly www.cadw.wales.gov.uk 02920 883143 Llandeilo www.cadw.wales.gov.uk 01558 822291 Merthyr Tydfil 01685 727474 Neath www.visitnpt.co.uk 01639 750556 Bridgend www.bridgendbites.co.uk 01656 725155 Tredegar www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk 01495 355937 Tredegar www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk 01495 355937 Blaina www.chartistvisitorcentre.org.uk 01495 292817 Brynmawr www.breconbeacons.org Merthyr Tydfil www.visitmerthyr.co.uk 01685 727371 Aberdare www.cvmg.co.uk 01685 886729 Ebbw Vale www.evwat.co.uk 01495 350941 Pontypool www.visittorfaen.co.uk 01495 766754 Sarn, Bridgend www.garw-railway.co.uk Gelligaer www.romangelligaer.org Caerphilly www.visitcaerphilly.com 02920 882245 Abertillery www.tyebbwfach.co.uk 01495 211732 Ebbw Vale www.gwentarchives.gov.uk 01495 353363 Merthyr Tydfil www.visitmerthyr.co.uk 01685 727371 Kidwelly www.cadw.wales.gov.uk 01554 890104 Kidwelly www.kidwellyindustrialmuseum.co.uk 01554 891078 Penrhys www.visitrct.co.uk Llantrisant www.heritagetrailsrct.co.uk 01443 424052 Nelson www.llancaiachfawr.co.uk 01443 412248 Llanwonno www.visitrct.co.uk Cwmbran www.llanyrafonmanor.org 01633 648562 Cwmbran www.visittorfaen.co.uk 01633 482780 Llwynypia 01443 490249 Pontypool www.mbact.org.uk 01633 892167 Nantgarw www.nantgarwchinaworksmuseum.co.uk 01443 841703 Tredegar www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk 01495 355937 Pontypool www.pontypoolmuseum.org.uk 01495 752036 Pontypridd www.heritagetrailsrct.co.uk 01443 424052 Pontypridd www.pontypriddmuseum.org.uk 01443 490748 Pontypridd www.rhonddaheritagepark.com 01433 682036 Pontypridd www.visitrct.co.uk Machen www.ruperratrust.co.uk Caerphilly www.your.caerphilly.gov.uk/abervalleyheritage 02920 830445 Tredegar www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk 01495 355937 Port Talbot www.swmm.co.uk 01639 851833 Abertillery www.illtyd.co.uk 01495 355972 Llanharan www.llanharryparishchurch.org.uk Pontardawe 01792 862003 Taff’s Well www.rctcbc.gov.uk 01443 400563 Pontypridd www.pontytown.co.uk 01443 490748 Ebbw Vale www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk 01495 356055 Tredegar www.tredegartowncouncil.co.uk 01495 722352 Tredegar www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk 01495 357869 Tredegar www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk 01495 355937

thevalleys.co.uk

Trevithickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tunnel Ty Ebbw Fach Ty Mawr Mansion & Roundhouse Towers Winding House Ynysangharad War Memorial Park Ynysfach Engine House

Merthyr Tydfil Abertilllery www.tyebbwfach.co.uk Nantyglo www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk New Tredegar www.windinghouse.co.uk Pontypridd Merthyr Tydfil

01685 727474 01495 211732 01495 355972 01443 822666 01443 404699 01685 727474

Aberbargoed Aberdare Port Talbot Port Talbot Ammanford Pontypridd Ebbw Vale Bridgend Llandybie Clydach Vale Pen y Cae Cwmcarn Blaina Abertillery Merthyr Tydfil Aberdare Ebbw Vale Blaenavon Gelli Aur Port Talbot Kidwelly Cross Hands Port Talbot Tumble Tredegar Bargoed Bargoed Ebbw Vale / Brynmawr Ystrad Mynach Tondu, Bridgend Trelewis, Merthyr Tydfil Blackwood Pontypool Clydach Ebbw Vale Nr Crosskeys Tredegar Pontypridd Brynaman

www.caerphilly.gov.uk/countryside www.rctcbc.gov.uk www.afanforestsafari.co.uk www.afanforestpark.co.uk www.discovercarmarthenshire.com www.visitrct.co.uk www.beauforthillwoodlands.org.uk www.bryngarwhouse.co.uk www.discovercarmarthenshire.com www.cwmclydach.org www.breconbeacons.org www.cwmcarnforest.co.uk www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk www.cyfarthfa.com www.darevalleycountrypark.co.uk www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk www.visitblaenavon.co.uk www.discovercarmarthenshire.com www.visitnpt.co.uk www.discovercarmarthenshire.com www.discovercarmarthenshire.com www.margamcountrypark.co.uk www.discovercarmarthenshire.com www.parcbrynbach.co.uk www.caerphilly.gov.uk/countryside www.caerphilly.gov.uk/countryside www.parcnantywaun.org.uk www.caerphilly.gov.uk/countryside www.welshwildlife.org www.visitmerthyr.co.uk/ptb www.caerphilly.gov.uk/countryside www.visittorfaen.co.uk www.rspb.org.uk www.gwentwildlife.com www.caerphilly.gov.uk/countryside www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk www.visitrct.co.uk www.discovercarmarthenshire.com

01443 834317 01443 400563 07758 466114 01639 850564 01267 231557

www.wotga.com www.eco-explore.co.uk www.ecologycymru.co.uk www.griffinguiding-wales.co.uk www.realvalleytours.org.uk www.mwguiding.co.uk www.martinswalks.co.uk www.roamwales.com

02920 401430 07749 548457 07530 627034 07974 678405

COUNTRY PARKS Aberbargoed Grasslands National Nature Reserve Education Centre Aberdare Park Afan Forest Safari Afan Forest Park & Visitor Centre Allt Nant Y Ci Recreational Park Barry Sidings Country Park Beaufort Hill Woodlands Bryngarw Country Park Carmel Woods Nature Reserve Clydach Vale Countryside Park Craig-y-nos Country Park Cwmcarn Forest Cwmcelyn Pond Cwmtillery Lakes Cyfarthfa Park Dare Valley Country Park Festival Park Garn Lakes Local Nature Reserve Gelli Aur Country Park Gnoll Estate Country Park Kidwelly Quay & Glan Yr Afon Nature Reserve Llyn Llech Owain Country Park Margam Country Park Mynydd Mawr Woodland Park Parc Bryn Bach Parc Coetir Bargoed Parc Cwm Darran Parc Nant y Waun Parc Penallta Parc Slip Nature Park Parc Taf Bargoed Pen y Fan Pond & Country Park Pontypool Park RSPB Cwm Clydach Nature Reserve Silent Valley Nature Reserve Sirhowy Country Park St James Reservior Ynysangharad War Memorial Park Ynys Dawela Nature Reserve

01656 729009 01267 231557 01443 442705 01639 730395 01495 272001 07773 524418 01495 320504 01685 727371 01685 874672 01495 305353 01495 742333 01558 668885 01639 635808 01267 231557 01269 832229 01639 881635 01269 843911 01495 355920 01443 875557 01443 875557

Top: Bryngarw House and Country Park Left: Penderyn Whisky Right Neath Canal Below: Llanyrafon Manor

01443 816853 01656 724100 01685 724952 01495 270991 01495 766754 02920 353000 01495 270991 01495 355937 01443 404699 01267 231557

GUIDES Green and Blue Badge Guides Eco Explore Walking Tours Machen Ecology Cymru Caerphilly Griffin Guiding Heads of the Valleys Tour Guide Network M W Guiding Services Treharris Martins Walks Roam Wales

01443 453494 01685 811949 01443 209203

thevalleys.co.uk

How to find us By Coach and bus Traveline Cymru Traveline Cymru provides an all Wales information service. T: +44 (0) 871 2002233 www.traveline-cymru.info National Express National Express provides coach services to Newport, Cardiff, Swansea, Merthyr Tydfil and Pontypridd with good onward connections to The Valleys. T: +44 (0) 8717 818180 www.nationalexpress.com

By Car The M4, M5 and M50 provide easy access to The Valleys from the South East, the Home Counties, the Midlands and the South West.

By Train Hourly services from major cities to Cardiff with good regional railway connections to The Valleys. National Rail Enquiries T: +44 (0) 8457 48 49 50 www.nationalrail.co.uk Eurotunnel T: +44 (0) 870 535 3535 www.eurotunnel.com

By Sea Services operating across the Irish Sea: Fastnet Line (Cork to Swansea) T: +44 (0) 844 576 8831 www.fastnetline.com Stena Line (Rosslare to Fishguard) T: +44 (0) 8447 70 70 70 www.stenaline.co.uk Irish Ferries (Rosslare to Pembroke) T: +44 (0) 818 300 400 www.irishferries.co.uk

By Air Cardiff Airport, Bristol Airport and Birmingham Airport handle flights into the region from the UK, Europe and USA. For flight information: Cardiff Airport T:+44 (0) 8712 820661 www.tbicardiffairport.com Bristol Airport T: +44 (0) 871 334 4344 www.bristolairport.co.uk Birmingham Airport T: +44 (0) 870 733 5511 www.birminghamairport.co.uk

Tourist Information Centres

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like some help in planning your trip or for information on the local area, contact one of the Tourist Information Centres below, where the friendly and knowledgable staff will be pleased to help you.

Aberdulais Falls

Llanelli

Aberdulais Falls National Trust Property, Aberdulais, Neath, SA10 8EU T: +44 (0) 1639 636 674 E: aberdulaistic@nationaltrust.org.uk www.visitnpt.co.uk

Millennium Coastal Park Discovery Centre, Millennium Coastal Park, North Dock, Llanelli, SA15 2LF T: +44 (0) 1554 777 744 E: discoverycentre@ carmarthenshire.gov.uk www.discovercarmarthenshire.com

Blaenavon World Heritage Centre and TIC

Merthyr Tydfil

Church Road, Blaenavon, NP4 9AE (closed Mondays except Bank Holidays) T: +44 (0) 1495 742 333 E: blaenavon.tic@torfaen.gov.uk www.visitblaenavon.co.uk

14a Glebeland Street, Merthyr Tydfil, CF47 8AU T: +44 (0) 1685 727 474 E: tic@merthyr.gov.uk www.visitmerthyr.co.uk

Pontypridd Visit Caerphilly Twyn Square, Caerphilly, CF83 1JL T: +44 (0) 29 2088 0011 E: visitcaerphilly@caerphilly.gov.uk www.visitcaerphilly.com

Museum and Tourist Information Centre, Bridge Street, Pontypridd, CF37 4PE T: +44 (0) 1443 490748 E: enquiries@pontypriddmuseum.org.uk www.pontypriddmuseum.org.uk

Visit Swansea Bay Carmarthen Castle House, Adj to County Hall, Carmarthen, SA31 1JP T: +44 (0) 1267 231 557 E: carmarthentic@ carmarthenshire.gov.uk www.discovercarmarthenshire.com

Plymouth Street, Swansea, SA1 3QG T: +44 (0) 1792 468 321 E: tourism@swansea.gov.uk www.visitswanseabay.com

Tredegar Parc Bryn Bach Countryside Centre, Merthyr Road, Tredegar, NP22 3AY T: +44 (0) 1495 711 816 E: parcbrynbach@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk

thevalleys.co.uk

We love to talk in The Valleys and we’d love to hear from you. There are lots of ways to get involved: Sign up to our newsletter at www.thevalleys.co.uk to find out the latest news, special offers, competitions and exclusive events. Email us at contactus@thevalleys.co.uk Find LoveTheValleys on , and

www.thevalleys.co.uk Top: Bryngarw House and Country Park — Japanese Garden Middle: Llantarnam Grange Right: Go Ape

©The Valleys Heart and Soul This guide has been funded and produced by The Valleys Consortium consisting of Blaenau Gwent CBC, Bridgend CBC, Caerphilly CBC, Carmarthenshire CC, Merthyr Tydfil CBC, Neath Port Talbot CBC, Rhondda Cynon Taff CBC, Torfaen CBC, Welsh Government and Capital Region Tourism with the assistance of European Regional Development Funding. Images throughout are supplied by partners and Welsh Government. Copyright is retained by the relevant partner organisation. Important notice: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy in this publication, the publishers cannot accept liability whatsoever for any errors, inaccuracies or omissions, or for any matter in any way connected with or arising out of the publication of the information. This brochure may not be reproduced in part or in whole without the prior consent of the publishers.

We’ve got singletrack, downhill and cross country, great scenery, cafes and accommodation — we’ve got bike shops, trail maps and ‘hwyl’ (fun the Welsh way). You’ve got the chance to be part of it all, so come and join the revolution! Check out our website for all the information you need on mountain biking in South Wales — www.cognation.co.uk — everything you need to know about biking at Afan Forest, Cwmcarn Forest and BikePark Wales.

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