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Feet First
These hills and vales are made for walking!
There are sheltered riverside paths and highland trails with big, boundless views, waymarked forest walks and green routes through country parks. Walking here is as gentle or adventurous as you want to make it. And it’s all easily accessible.
The tourism authorities in this part of Wales have recognised - and embraced - the importance of walking, creating countless trails and paths, many with special themes based on our unique landscape and heritage.
To whet your appetite we have featured below 'Loops and Links' one of many themed walks. Take a journey of discovery and view other walks by clicking on the 'Themed Walks' tab. Many have specifically designed maps/leaflets.
If you are passionate about the pleasures and benefits of walking come along and join us at our annual walking festival in September. It is a two week celebration with guided and non-guided walks.
Loops and Links
 This varied series of trails cover around 200 miles in the area of Rhondda Cynon Taf and Merthyr Tydfil. They ‘loop and link’ together creating a network designed not just for walkers. Mountain bikers and horse riders are welcome too. There are 18 trails in all with something for all abilities and levels of enthusiasm, taking in heritage sites, wonderful waterfalls and areas of great natural beauty. The trails have been designed for quick and easy access from major transport hubs, and are either circular or end at a convenient point - for example, a train station - that’s only a short ride back to the start.
Order your pack now from the website.
www.loopsandlinks.co.uk
Here are a list of walks you might like to look at, some for all types of walkers, from an easy stroll on a warm day to a long trek over rolling vales - and back again!:
This 35-mile route takes in the whole of the Torfaen district of the Valleys, from Cwmbran in the south to Blaenavon in the north. Don’t worry - you don’t have to walk it all in one go! It has been broken down into nine linear sections varying in distance from 2 to 9 miles. The route runs through a variety of landscapes including ancient woodland, forestry, mountaintops, canal towpaths and stretches of old Roman Road. The trail’s main starting point is the Active Living Centre at Pontypool.
We could simply have called it the Caerphilly and Rudry Ridge Walk, but we think the chosen title does better justice to this dramatic, exhilarating trail. The circular walk begins on a high, starting at Caerphilly Mountain car park. Soon, you’ll be surrounded by far-reaching views of the South Wales landscape all the way from Cardiff and the Bristol Channel in the south to Merthyr Tydfil and the Brecon Beacons in the north. There’s also a bird’s-eye view of Caerphilly Castle, one of Europe’s finest medieval monuments.
This is a series of guided walking tours in the Blaenau Gwent district of the Valleys, taking place Saturday 21st to Sunday 29th June 2008. The walks have historical themes, following in the footsteps of ironmakers along old tram roads and pathways - trails of discovery revealing the history of Blaenau Gwent’s towns, ironworks, mansions, quarries and the people who have given this area such a rich industrial and cultural heritage. It’s a week-long festival taking in two full weekends, with lots of midweek activity too.
There are fascinating urban walks too. This trail is a walk in time as well as in town. During its iron and steel heyday Merthyr Tydfil was a staunch chapel-going, non-conformist community. But it was also home to vast numbers of immigrants who brought their own religion with them. This religious mix reveals itself along the trail, which takes in such sites as St Mary’s Catholic Church (founded by Irish immigrants), the former Jewish Synagogue, Zoar Independent Chapel (built in 1803), and the gothic Church of St David’s. The trail ends at St Tydfil’s Parish Church, built on the site of the saint’s legendary martyrdom.
| Distance: |
2 miles (3km) |
| Level: |
Easy walking |
| Maps: |
O/S Explorer 166 |
This walk winds its way across the hills encircling the entire area and offering spectacular scenery over the Rhymney Valley and panoramic mountain vistas. At 362m above sea level, Mynydd Machen is the highest point on the walk and on a good day you can see across Cardiff Bay to the hills of Somerset. To the north, the Brecon Beacons can be seen in the distance. It is a serious one day challenge for the experienced walker but can be completed by anyone in four stages – Parc Penallta to Eglwysilan, Eglwysilan to Cefn Onn, Cefn Onn to Mynydd y Grug, Mynydd y Grug to Parc Penallta.
| Distance: |
2 miles (3km) |
| Level: |
Easy walking |
| Maps: |
O/S 24 1:25 Series |
This walk will take you through the very heart of a small town that played a big part in the Industrial Revolution and to sample some of the most important historic sites in the South Wales Valleys. This includes the best preserved 18th century ironworks in Europe. The town, awarded World Heritage Status has many fine places of worship, including the traditional Welsh Chapels so synonymous with the steep streets of this area.
One of the most interesting churches is St Peter’s Church which was built by the town’s Ironmasters in 1804, it has a cast iron font, a gallery supported on iron pillars and iron tomb covers.
| Distance: |
2 miles (3km) |
| Level: |
Easy walking |
| Maps: |
O/S 24 1:25 Series |
The trail takes you through some of the Valleys’ most scenic and historic countryside. Stretching from Cardiff, the capital city, to the Brecon Beacons National Park. It is a network of linking paths, alternative routes and circular walks which allow plenty of opportunity to explore many sites of interest and heritage, including Dare Valley Country Park in the Cynon Valley, once a thriving mining centre, now reclaimed to its former natural glory.
| Distance: |
55 miles (89km) |
| Level: |
All Levels |
| Maps: |
National Cycle Network 4 & 47 |
This walk features spectacular mountain scenery, lowland and upland farms, woodlands, disused railway lines and tramroads, large lakes and tumbling rivers. It also takes you through the heart of a former steelworking community that can trace its roots back to the Industrial Revolution. The walk commences at the Aneurin Bevan Memorial Stones at Tredegar and can be completed in seven stages.
| Distance: |
26 miles (42km) |
| Level: |
All Levels |
| Maps: |
National Cycle Network 4 & 47 |
The striking hills and mountains of Caerphilly Borough, combined with a wealth of heritage, provide the backdrop for six classic circular walks. Ramblers Groups and Countryside Rangers, all of whom are passionate about walking and the countryside, have created these walks. One walk titled ‘Coal, Celts and Contrasts’ was voted third in the Ramblers’ competition of Wales’ top ten walks. The ‘Medieval Magic and Magnificent Mountains’ walk provides breathtaking views of the wonderful Caerphilly Castle, Wales’ largest castle, and its 30-acre site. Guided walks are also available throughout the year.
The southern fringe of the Brecon Beacons National Park consists of a long belt of outcrop lime stone which has created a highly distinctive environment characterised by wooded gorges, caves, swallow holes and waterfalls. This intriguing landform is most distinct in the locality known as Coed Y Rhaeadr which translates as ‘wood of the water falls’ but is referred locally simply as Waterfall Country. It is situated in a triangle formed by the villages of Hirwaun, Ystradfellte and Pontneddfechan.
Parc Cwm Darran and the Darran Valley
An 8.5 mile, 5 hour walk from Parc Cwm Darran, Deri, taking in the beautiful Darran Valley crossing wild commons and passing places of historical intrigue.
For a copy of the Classic Circular Walks pack (6 walks) contact Caerphilly Visitor Centre on 029 2088 0011 or email
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Pen y Fan Pond Country Park to Manmoel
A 7.5 mile, 4 hour walk from Pen y Fan Pond Country Park taking in the peaceful hamlet of Manmoel.
For a copy of the Classic Circular Walks pack (6 walks) contact Caerphilly Visitor Centre on 029 2088 0011 or email
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Blaenau Gwent is enriched with heritage, with every town and village having many stories to tell of their past.
There are a number of trails available covering the width and breadth of the Borough, incorporating local history, places of interest and local facts.
The trails are not only of great interest to history enthusiasts but also to tourists and local people who take pleasure in knowing their background and the place they reside.
W:http://www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/leisure/5928.asp
The Iron Mountain Trail is a circular walk that can either be treated as a separate walk or can be combined with part two to give a 18km, 12 mile circuit of the major sites of the Blaenavon Industrial Landscape World Heritage Site.
The trail is a unique opportunity to explore the wonderful landscape of the World Heritage Site which is situated between the towns of Blaenavon and Abergavenny in the South East corner of the Brecon Beacons National Park in South Wales.
This spectacular trail follows the routes of former tramways, inclines and footpaths linking many of the historic features which make this landscape of world significance.
T: (0)1495 792615
W: http://www.countryside.torfaen.gov.uk
This 2 mile walk will take you through the very heart of a small town that played a big part in the Industrial Revolution and to sample some of the most important historic sites in the South Wales Valleys. This includes the best preserved 18th century ironworks in Europe.
The town, awarded World Heritage Status has many fine places of worship, including the traditional Welsh Chapels so synonymous with the steep streets of this area.
One of the most interesting churches is St Peter’s Church which was built by the town’s Ironmasters in 1804, it has a cast iron font, a gallery supported on iron pillars and iron tomb covers.
T: (0)1495 792615
W: http://www.countryside.torfaen.gov.uk
A 4 mile walk from Llangeinor village, climbing to Bryn-y-wrach.
For more information contact the Rhondda Cynon Taf Tourism Unit on 01443 490238 or email
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www.visitrct.co.uk
Caerphilly and Rudry Ridgeway Walk
A 6.5 mile, 4 hour walk from Caerphilly Common. Views of Caerphilly Castle and the Bristol Channel.
For a copy of the Classic Circular Walks pack (6 walks) contact Caerphilly Visitor Centre on 029 2088 0011 or email
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The Celtic Trail forms part of the National Cycle Network (NCN) which is a national strategy to construct 6500 miles of signed, safe and cyclist friendly routes throughout the United Kingdom. The Celtic Trail cycle route takes you across 220 miles of the most beautiful and diverse scenery in south and west Wales, from Chepstow to the Pembrokeshire National Park.
W:http://www.caerphilly.gov.uk/leisure/cycling/celtictrail.htm
A 6.5 mile circular walk around in Cosmeston lakes and beyond.
For more information contact the Rhondda Cynon Taf Tourism Unit:
T: 01443 490238
E:
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W: http://www.visitrct.co.uk
Twmbarlwm and Cwmcarn Walk
A 6.5 mile, 4.5 hour walk from Cwmcarn Forest Drive Visitor Centre. Taking in contrasts of woodland, forestry and open common.
For a copy of the Classic Circular Walks pack (6 walks) contact Caerphilly Visitor Centre on 029 2088 0011 or email
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A four mile medium guided walk with stunning views as far as the Vale of Glamorgan.
For more information contact the Rhondda Cynon Taf Tourism Unit:
T: +44 (0)1443 490238
E:
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W: http://www.visitrct.co.uk
A two mile non guided easy walk around the village of Llwynypia taking in local community artwork, historical buildings and statues.
For more information contact the Rhondda Cynon Taf Tourism Unit on:
T: +44 (0)1443 490238
E:
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W: http://www.visitrct.co.uk
All walks are led by trained walk leaders. The walks are generally between 40 minutes to an hour in duration around the community of Llwynypia. No special equipment is necessary, just sensible footwear.
For more information contact the Rhondda Cynon Taf Tourism Unit on:
T: +44 (0)1443 490238
E:
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W: http://www.visitrct.co.uk
Sirhowy Valley Country Park to Mynydd Machen
A 5 mile, 3 hour walk from Sirhowy Valley Country Park, providing some stunning views across South Wales.
For a copy of the Classic Circular Walks pack (6 walks) contact Caerphilly Visitor Centre on 029 2088 0011 or email
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A planned route due to be fully completed in March 2008 following the historic route of the Penydarren Locomotive.
T: +44 (0)1685 725227
E:
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Taking St. Tydfil’s Town Trail, some 2 miles in circuit, is quite a religious experience, not to mention a pleasing architectural revelation.
During its heyday, Merthyr Tydfil was home to vast numbers of immigrants who brought their
own religion with them and also a centre of non-conformist activity. This religious diversity is still visible today.
St Mary’s Catholic Church was established by 19th century Irish immigrants. Zoar Independent Chapel was built in 1803, then later reconstructed by the Rev. Benjamin Owen (known as Mighty Owen of Zoar). Hope Presbyterian Church and St David’s Church are both representative of the popular Gothic style of architecture. Shiloh Welsh Wesleyan Chapel is now derelict and the Jewish Synagogue is a health club.
The trail ends at St Tydfil’s Parish Church, built on the site of the saint’s legendary martyrdom.
Contact Merthyr Tydfil Tourist Information for further info on:
T: + 44 (0)1685 379884
E:
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A seven mile guided medium rated walk meandering through the pleasant countryside and woodlands around Miskin and Llantrisant in Rhondda Cynon Taf.
For more information contact the Rhondda Cynon Taf Tourism Unit on :
T: + 44 (0)1443 490238
E:
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WEB: http://www.visitrct.co.uk
The southern fringe of the Brecon Beacons National Park consists of a long belt of outcrop lime stone which has created a highly distinctive environment characterised by wooded gorges, caves, swallow holes and waterfalls.
This intriguing landform is most distinct in the locality known as Coed Y Rhaeadr which translates as ‘wood of the water falls’ but is referred locally simply as Waterfall Country.
It is situated in a triangle formed by the villages of Hirwaun, Ystradfellte and Pontneddfechan.
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There are 18 varied trails covering 200 miles around the area of Rhondda Cynon Taff and Merthyr Tydfil.
These trails are looped and linked together, and are designed for walkers, mountain bikers and horse riders.
For more information contact the Rhondda Cynon Taf Tourism Unit on:
T: +44 (0)1443 490238
E:
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W: http://www.visitrct.co.uk
Stride out on the Rhymney Valley Ridgeway walk. 28 miles.
The walk follows a mixture of footpaths, bridleways and cycleways and is waymarked with the distinctive blue and green ridgeway walk logo. Walking the route in one day will about 10 - 12 hours or you can choose one of four sections taking 2 - 4 hours.
Starting from Parc Penallta, and taking in Nelson, Eglwysilan, Caerphilly mountain, Groeswen, Rudry, Machen and Maesycwmmer.
Fantastic views and stunning scenery along the way.
For a copy of the Rhymney Valley Rideway Walk to be mailed to you contact Caerphilly Visitor Centre on 029 2088 0011 or email
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This walk features spectacular mountain scenery, lowland and upland farms, woodlands, disused railway lines and tramroads, large lakes and tumbling rivers.
It also takes you through the heart of a former steelworking community that can trace its roots back to the Industrial Revolution.
The walk commences at the Aneurin Bevan Memorial Stones at Tredegar and can be completed in seven stages.
W:http://www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/leisure/5928.asp
This 35 mile route takes in the whole of Torfaen, from Cwmbran in the south, through Pontypool to Blaenavon in the north.
It has been broken down into nine linear sections, which vary in distance from 2 miles to 9 miles.
Walkers of all ages and abilities will find something to suit them, from an enjoyable stroll to the full 35 mile challenge!
This scenic walk takes in ancient woodlands; forestry; country lanes and open mountain top.
T: +44 (0)1495 792615
W: http://www.countryside.torfaen.gov.uk
The Taff Trail is a multi-purpose route between the Cardiff waterfront at Cardiff Bay in the South and the Market Town of Brecon in the North. 55 miles (88km) in length, it passes close to Pontypridd and Merthyr Tydfil and through a wide variety of urban and suburban landscapes of those towns and the open moorland of the Brecon Beacons.
There are also many "green fingers" where the Taff Trail itself appears to bring the countryside into the town. The area is also rich in industrial archeology.
T: +44 (0)1685 883880
W: http://www.tafftrail.org.uk/
This is a circular walk linking directly with the urban areas of Henllys, Coed Eva and Fairwater, Cwmbran.
The walk proceeds up on to Mynydd Henllys and returns via farmland to the south.
The route is approximately 7km (4.5 miles) and will take about 2.5 hours to complete.
T: (0)1495 792615
W: http://www.countryside.torfaen.gov.uk
Begin at Capel Newydd viewpoint parking area and picnic site, on Llanover Road about 1.5 miles outside Blaenavon.
This walk should take approximately 3 hours.
T: (0)1495 792615
W: http://www.countryside.torfaen.gov.uk
This is a circular walk, which takes you through the ancient woodland at Lasgarn Wood and the surrounding area, giving you the opportunity to explore the unspoiled woodland, varied countryside and history of Cwm Lasgarn.
This walk should take approximately 3 hours.
T: (0)1495 792615
W: http://www.countryside.torfaen.gov.uk
This walk highlights the industry of the Race area and the community that grew up around it. The 'Race' probably got its name from the mining ore, one of the many industries that developed in this area.
Ore lay close to the surface so was worked by scouring away the topsoil by using water that 'raced' through channels to carry away the soil to expose the minerals beneath. The Welsh word Rass or Rhas can refer to this process.
This walk should take approximately one and a half hours.
T: (0)1495 792615
W: http://www.countryside.torfaen.gov.uk
A mile and a quarter non guided circular walk following the River Taff from Barry Sidings Country Park through the village of Trehafod to the Rhondda Heritage Park Attraction.
Guided walk every Fri 10:30am from entrance to Rhondda Heritage Park
For more information contact the Rhondda Cynon Taf Tourism Unit on:
T: +44 (0)1443 490238
E:
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W: http://www.visitrct.co.uk
A two mile non guided strenuous circular walk along the River Taff to the Rhondda Heritage Park attraction and up the mountainside into Llwyncelyn.
Whilst leading back into Trehafod Village you pass a waterfall and great views up and down the Rhondda Valley.
Guided walk every Fri 10:30am from entrance to Rhondda Heritage Park
For more information contact the Rhondda Cynon Taf Tourism Unit on:
T: +44 (0)1443 490238
E:
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W: http://www.visitrct.co.uk
New trail 2004. Trail across the Sirhowy, Ebbw Fach and Ebbw Fawr Valleys. 37 miles, 6 hours, total climb 1037 metres. O/S Explorer 152 & 166 or Outdoor Leisure 13
T: +44 (0)1495 711816
W: http://www.ytrichwm.co.uk
Parc Penallta to Eglwysilan
An 8 mile, 4 hour walk from Parc Penallta crossing the Eglwysilan Common giving views into the Rhymney Valley, the Aber Valley and across the Taff Vale.
For a copy of the Classic Circular Walks pack (6 walks) contact Caerphilly Visitor Centre on 029 2088 0011 or email
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Aberdare Park is in Trecynon, towards the north end of Aberdare. There are entrances to the park off Hirwaun Road (B4275), top entrance to the park via Park Lane or from Glan Road for disabled car access. Alternatively the main gates to the park via the lodge at the junction of Glan Road and Gadlys Road. History Aberdare park is a well preserved Victorian public park.
The park was laid out on part of Hirwaun common on the instigation of R.H. Rhys, chair of the local board of health. In 1863 he informed the board that the 'Pleasure Grounds' of nearly fifty acres (20.25ha) would soon be given to the overseers of the parish so that a pleasant place for the dust begrimed inhabitants of Aberdare could be constructed.
The park opened on 27th July 1869 and in 1870 the local board of health borrowed £5000 to wall, drain and plant the park. The landscaping and planting of the park was carried out by William Barron (1805-1891) a nurseryman who laid out many public parks in England from 1860 onwards. It was during the period 1860-1870 that the main phase of construction of the park was carried out with such features as fish ponds, circular walk and the building of the boundary wall.
In 1911 Lord Merthyr donated to the inhabitants of Aberdare an elaborate cast iron fountain to commemorate the coronation of King George V and Mary in 1911. This is one of only three fountains of its type and period in the country. In 1954 the National Eisteddfod was held in the park and a fine Gorsedd circle was erected to commemorate this event. Aberdare Park has many facilities making it a great place for a family trip.
The wide open spaces make it an ideal place for the kids to play and when they have tired of that how about taking them to feed the ducks and geese on the lake. For the adults and older children there is plenty to do and see, There are two bowling greens, tennis courts and in the summer local bands can be heard and seen playing music from the bandstand. For the ultimate adrenalin rush visit the park during July and watch the motorcycle races. Where in the past such greats as Jeff Duke, John Surtees and Mike Hailwood showed their excellence and skill as they raced around the National Road Racing circuit consisting of the circular walk of the park. http://www.aberdare-park-road-races.co.uk
For the keen horticulturalist there is plenty to see with many fine mature specimen trees such as the Metasequioia glyptostroboides (Dawn Redwoods) and Fagus heterophylla laciniata (Fern Leaf Beech). The spring and summer bedding displays provide splashes of vivid colour while in the spring the Rhododedrons and azaleas brighten the Falls area. Opening Times A rough guide would be 16:30 in the depth of winter and 22:00 at the height of summer. Times are displayed at the park; if you are unsure about the closing time of the park please contact us using the details above.
created from land ravaged by industry it provides a fascinating insight into man’s influence over our landscape Impressive views, lakes and streams, mature upland woodlands and a network of waymarked footpaths.
The hotel accommodation situated within the Country park caters for the needs of recreational visitors and educational groups and is WTB 2 star graded. Also on offer are caravan and camping facilities – which are WTB 3 ticks graded. How to find Dare Valley Signed on the B4275 in Trecynon/ Aberdare. Alternative: Once you are in Aberdare - Town Centre, the A 4233 (Monk Street), turn right to Highland Street and follow the signs to the Caravan Park. Contact Dare Valley Country Park Trecynon Aberdare CF44 7RG Telephone: 01685 874672
1,000 acres of woodland and meadows with waymarked walks, the Celtic Trail and picnic sites.
Tel: +44(0) 1495 270991
www.caerphilly.gov.uk/countryside
Open all year, dawn til dusk
Wales' best preserved reservoir now tranquil country park, ideal for family picnics and gentle walking. Children's activity trail and seasonal refreshment kiosk.
Tel: +44(0) 1495 270991
www.caerphilly.gov.uk/countryside
Open all year, dawn til dusk
A great base for exploring the South Wales Valleys, with tailor-made activities suited to your requirements. The centre also offers high quality hostel style accommodation.
Tel: +44(0) 1495 200113
www.caerphilly.gov.uk/leisure
A peaceful country park with walks and cycle routes, picnic areas, adventure playground, visitor centre and seasonal coffee shop.
Tel: +44(0) 1443 875557
www.caerphilly.gov.uk/countryside
The Park is open all year, with the Lakeside Coffee Shop open Easter to October, 12pm - 5pm daily.
160 acres of parkland surrounding Cyfarthfa Castle built by Ironmaster William Crawshay in 1824. Admire The extenstive art collections or stroll through the social and industrial history galleries.
www.museums.merthyr.gov.uk
Ynysangharad War Memorial Park is located in the centre of Pontypridd it is ideally placed to visit if you a shopping in or visiting Pontypridd. The main entrance to the park is on Bridge Street just off the A470 interchange roundabout. There is a convenient entrance to the park via a bridge across the Taff River from the main shopping area of Taff Street.
History Ynysangharad Park is a public park laid out in the 1920's in the Edwardian style. Field Marshal Viscount Allenby opened the park as a war memorial park on The 6th August 1923. The park was laid out on a triangular area of land between Ynysangharad House and the Brown Lennox Chain and Anchor works and made up of fields, allotment gardens and an orchard. In 1893 a huge pavilion had been erected on the site for the National Eisteddfod of that year. And in 1919 thirty-three acres of the site was bought 'for providing enjoyment and pleasure for it inhabitants'.
The original ideas for the layout of the park was for a formal design of tree lined walks around various sports facilities, but when it was laid out a less formal approach was used with the major sporting facilities located at the southern end of the park. Over the last year Ynysangharad Park has achieved many awards notably gaining its Green Flag and Green Dragon Award. The Park has many notable features such as the Band Stand located in a formal circular sunken area, which is a favourite place for people to come and sit during the summer months with its colourful displays of summer flowers. Local Bands sometimes perform at the bandstand during the summer months and these events are always very popular, with refreshments at hand from kiosks in the park selling ice cream and drinks.
The sporting facilities are first class in the park with a county class cricket square and two bowling greens located in the park as well as two football pitches. And if you fancy a round of golf there is an 18-hole pitch and putt course. Opening Times April to September Monday to Sunday - 8.30am to 9.00pm October to December Monday to Sunday - 8.30am to 7.00pm January, February & March Monday to Friday - 8.30am to 7.00pm Saturday & Sunday - 8.30am to 6.00pm
A 400 arce country park with woodland, meadows surrounding a lake.
Nestling lakeside you will find the visitor centre with licensed bar and restaurant, tourist information and gift shop, and bunkhouse. Alongside the visitor centre lies a 3 star caravanning and campsite and scout camp.
There are a great number of things to enjoy from a round of golf, a cycle or stroll to adventure activities.
Tel: +44 (0)1495 711816
Web: http://www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk
stands in a local nature reserve with wonderful views over the Rhondda
Bronwydd Park is Porth's only public park.
The park is reached either from the Caemawr Road entrance or off High Street past Bronwydd House to the main entrance consisting of concrete pillars with scrolled wrought iron gates protected as a grade II listed structure.
History Bronwydd Park was gifted to Rhondda District Council in 1921 by William Evans (1864-1934), philanthropist and founding director of Thomas & Evans Ltd, the Porth based industrial and commercial giant which produced hop bitter, ginger beer, football stout, lemonade and, of course, the famous 'Corona' brand soft drink.
The Park was not officially opened until 1924. Prior to this grants totalling £6000 were received from the Miner's Welfare Fund, which was used to provide pathways and two ornate entrances to the park. Also the monies received from the welfare fund provided benches and a collection of specimen trees and shrubs.
A grade II listed bronze bust of William Evans can be seen in the park. On a hot sunny afternoon what could be better than taking a stroll around the leafy walks and pathways of Bronwydd Park. In the late spring early summer there are dazzling displays of colour from the azaleas and rhododendrons growing below the canopy of mature trees. For the more energetic visitor the park caters for their needs in the provision of a bowling green and three tennis courts.
Opening Times
Monday to Saturday:
January - 9:00 – 17:00
February - 9:00 – 17:30
March - 9:00 – 18:30
April - 9:00 – 20:00
May: 9:00 – 21:00
June - 9:00 – 21:00
July - 9:00 – 21:00
August - 9:00 – 21:00
September - 9:00 – 20:00
October - 9:00 – 18:30
November - 9:00 – 17:30
December - 9:00 – 17:00
On Sundays opening time of the park is 9:30
Contact Us Telephone: 01443 494700 Email:
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 Take time to visit these recommended viewing points, they are well worth the effort!
There are breathtaking 360 degree views, from this Iron Age Hill Fort, spanning South Wales and the Severn Estuary. It was originally a Bronze Age burial mound where the Iron Age community was thought to have settled between 500BC and 150BC.
From this Tower, originally built in 1765, you will experience some of the best views in Torfaen County. The seven counties are visible on a clear day.
Near the ancient parish of Llanwynno lies the expanse of St Gwynno Forest. Within this forest, a hill known locally as the Dduallt, offers spectacular views of almost the entire length of the Cynon and Taff Valleys. Green hills and woods stretch as far as the eye can see towards the visible Brecon Beacons to the north and the Bristol Channel to the south.
This road leads off the A465 Heads of the Valleys road near Ebbw Vale. The route divides Mynydd Llangynidr from Mynydd Llangatwg. Travelling northwards you are rewarded with panoramic views of the Brecon Beacons and the Black Mountains. Travelling southwards visitors get the stunning views across the Sirhowy, Ebbw Fach and Ebbw Fawr valleys. The route may be familiar to many as it is often featured in motor car commercials.
Maps
Take an Ordnance Survey map with you on your walk. These can be purchased from the Tourist Information Centres.
Websites
www.walking.visitwales.com
www.ccw.gov.uk
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
www.ramblers.org.uk
www.welshwalks.info
www.thingstodo.org.uk
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Always check the level of the route suits your experience and fitness.
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Use an Ordnance Survey map.
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Wear walking boots/shoes and bring waterproofs – denim jeans are NOT suitable.
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Tell someone where you are walking and call them on your return.
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Keep your dogs under control.
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Keep to public footpaths across farmland.
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Guard against all risk of fire.
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Take your litter home.
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Link to coalcelts.pdf
SVWalkingFestival.pdf
