Some posts on this website include affiliate hyperlinks. Should you ebook or purchase one thing via these hyperlinks, I earn a small fee (at no further price to you). Check out my privateness coverage for extra info.
Journey, industrial heritage, and epic landscapes… uncover the Dramatic Coronary heart of Wales with these high issues to do in Neath Port Talbot!
The sensible nickname, the “Dramatic Coronary heart of Wales”, tells you precisely what you possibly can count on from this fabulous hidden gem in South Wales.
Combining miles of shoreline with a lush inside laced with speeding rivers and plunging valleys… this actually is a land of journey. Crashing waterfalls, dense forests, fairytale castles, and sweeping sandy seashores present an ideal backdrop for every kind of out of doors pursuits.
Underrated, and all too usually skipped by guests flocking to larger cities like Cardiff and Swansea, Neath Port Talbot nonetheless feels very a lot a hidden gem. Which implies you’ll usually have these superb trails and sweeping landscapes all to your self.
And when you’ve worn your self out with all of the climbing, biking, browsing, horse driving, and journey you possibly can handle, there are cosy nation pubs to unwind in, cute villages to discover, native historical past to absorb, and tranquil glamping websites for nights of stargazing.
Uncover South Wales’ coal mining historical past on the oldest mining museum within the nation, wander via ruined abbeys, and take in the valley views from a historic aqueduct.
On this put up, I’ve shared my choose of the high issues to do in Neath Port Talbot that will help you take advantage of the Dramatic Coronary heart of Wales. No matter you stand up to, you’re positive to take pleasure in exploring this unbelievable hidden gem.
This put up was created as a part of a sponsored journey supported by Dramatic Coronary heart of Wales. As at all times, all phrases and opinions are my very own.
The place is Neath Port Talbot?
Neath Port Talbot is a borough within the county of Glamorgan in South Wales. The area sits on Swansea Bay, simply east of Swansea and about 35 miles west of Cardiff, and is bordered to the north by the Brecon Beacons Nationwide Park.
The principle cities are Port Talbot and Neath. Coastal Port Talbot feels a little bit industrial, dominated by the Port Talbot Steelworks, however the space round Aberavon (particularly the lengthy, sandy Aberavon Seaside) is gorgeous. Somewhat methods north, Neath is a bustling market city clustered across the River Neath.
Past these two hubs, the remainder of the area is essentially rural – with a scattering of smaller cities and villages, and LOTS of countryside for having fun with the good open air!
High Issues to Do in Neath Port Talbot
No matter time of 12 months you go to, there are many out of doors adventures to get your adrenaline pumping in Neath Port Talbot!
Absorb the superb views on countryside hikes (with routes to go well with all ranges) or attempt the thrills of mountain bike trails and coastal surf. There’s loads of native historical past and tradition to find at varied museums and historic buildings, too.
1. Glamping in Neath Port Talbot
There’s no higher solution to take in the abundance of pure magnificence in Neath Port Talbot than by staying proper within the midst of it at one of many many glamping websites within the space.
I headed to Willow Springs Campsite for an in a single day keep at first of Autumn – and was completely spellbound! This family-run, eco-friendly campsite is perched on a hillside inside Afan Forest Park, with sensational views throughout the valley. Simply getting there felt like a little bit of an journey: winding up the hillside via the forest actually gave the sense of leaving the world behind!
There are a handful of rustic shepherd’s huts on the campsite. They’re small and pretty easy, however very cosy, with electrical heaters and a snug double mattress. Good for a back-to-basics keep utterly immersed in nature.
However the most effective half? Renting the campsite’s non-public, wood-fired sauna, which is tucked into an remoted spot beside a waterfall and a spring-fed plunge pool. These had been fairly icy in late October – although I’m unsure they’re ever very warm! The thought is to heat up within the sauna, then courageous the chilly waters of the waterfall or plunge pool, then again to the sauna, and repeat.
Should you’re on the lookout for a well-priced, quiet, cosy place to spend a number of days utterly getting away from all of it – Willow Springs Campsite is JUST the place!
2. Afan Forest Park: Woodland Trails and Valley Views
Afan Forest Park is the jewel in Neath Port Talbot’s crown. This 48-square-mile forest park within the superb Afan Valley is the area’s premier out of doors exercise vacation spot.
With lush forest crowding the valley slopes on both aspect of the winding Afan River, this stunning Forest Park is the proper place to flee into nature. The best setting for adventures resembling climbing, biking, fishing, path working, tenting and glamping.
The park is finest identified for its mountain biking trails (see the subsequent part), nevertheless it’s not all about adventures on two wheels. There are quite a few way-marked strolling trails, starting from a delicate one-mile stroll via the woods to longer and extra strenuous hikes. Many of those begin from Afan Forest Park Customer Centre, so head there first for more information.
By evening, you possibly can search one other journey in Afan Forest Park: stargazing. The agricultural location and restricted mild air pollution make this an awesome place to marvel on the evening skies. Ebook a keep at one of many campsites across the park, like Willow Springs (above), for an evening of stargazing.
3. Mountain Biking: Get the Adrenaline Pumping
As talked about above, Afan Forest Park is the most important vacation spot for mountain biking in Neath Port Talbot. With 130km of biking trails and extra all-weather single tracks than some other mountain biking centre in Wales, this actually is an journey playground for bikers.
In addition to the six trails ranging in size from 7km to over 40km, there’s additionally an extreme-graded bike park, the place superior riders can check their abilities on a number of shorter, extremely technical runs.
I’m extra of a flat, paved-trail biker myself, so I didn’t give mountain biking a go! However I did have enjoyable watching others hitting the paths, which regarded in nice situation and had been effectively signposted. And I can completely attest to the fantastic thing about the Afan Valley, particularly on sunny autumn days when the sunshine catches the gentle golden colors of the forest.
The place to Lease Bikes in Afan Forest Park
- Afan Valley Bike Shed – on the Afan Forest Park Customer Centre.
- Afan A Blast – at Glyncorrwg Mountain Bike Centre close to the highest of the valley.
- Campbell Teaching presents classes and coached rides for learners (or skilled riders trying to hone their abilities).
4. Go Chasing Waterfalls in Neath Port Talbot (Melincwrt Waterfall & Extra)
With all its mountains, rivers, and rolling hills (to not point out all that Nice British rainfall) Wales is solely riddled with waterfalls! And Neath Port Talbot is not any exception.
Melincwrt (or Melincourt) Waterfall is likely one of the finest within the space. Like most of the sights in Neath Port Talbot, it’s a little bit of a hidden gem – which is stunning because it’s simply downriver from the favored Waterfall Nation space within the south of the Brecon Beacons.
It is a spectacular, 80ft waterfall sweeping down a sheer rock face in a steep-sided wooded valley. From the carpark, it’s a nice, 15-minute stroll alongside a river to achieve the falls, and it’s a reasonably simple stroll. Simply keep in mind that the path might be slippery in moist climate!
The encompassing valley types the Melincourt Nature Reserve, dwelling to an abundance of wildlife. The humidity created across the falls permits for a various array of uncommon ferns, whereas the tranquil woodland is a good place to identify birds and butterflies.
Extra Waterfalls in Neath Port Talbot
- Aberdulais Waterfall within the Dulais Valley (northeast of Neath)
- Rhyd y Fro Waterfall in Cwm du Glen gorge, Pontardawe
5. Go to the Fort and Abbey at Margam Nation Park
In addition to waterfalls, the opposite factor Wales is legendary for is castles! With greater than 600 of them, the nation apparently has extra castles per sq. mile than wherever else.
Margam Fort is the one to see in Neath Port Talbot. It’s truly a Nineteenth-century Tudor-style Gothic mansion; a dramatic, fairytale-esque affair constructed from native sandstone in 1830.
The 850-acre nation property on which it stands was initially dwelling to a putting Norman Abbey till the dissolution, when the abbey was destroyed and the land handed to totally different house owners. Many ruins of the previous abbey nonetheless stand on the grounds, together with the twelve-sided chapter home and a part of the undercroft. Discover contained in the evocative ruins for a glimpse of a long-lost previous.
Immediately, the fort and surrounding parkland type Margam Nation Park – a beautiful space for walks, bike rides, and different out of doors adventures. There’s additionally a Go Ape treetop path, and in summer season you possibly can kayak and paddleboard on the lake with Margam Park Journey.
The property can also be dwelling to a big herd of deer, which roam freely throughout the parkland. To see them, I extremely advocate taking one of many signposted walks into the broader property. I cherished the two.25-mile Pulpit Path, which climbs the hill alongside Margam Fort for distinctive views of the Neath Port Talbot shoreline.
6. Go Horse Using in Cimla
Fancy making an attempt one thing a little bit totally different in your journey to Neath Port Talbot? Horse driving presents a little bit of mild journey and a brand new approach of seeing the area’s attractive landscapes.
I can HIGHLY advocate Cimla Equestrian Centre. Based mostly simply exterior of Neath, they provide horse driving classes for all ages and skills.
Should you’ve by no means ridden earlier than, Neath Port Talbot could possibly be the proper place to provide it a go. There’s actually nothing higher to do in your travels than attempt one thing new and get out of your consolation zone a little bit. And who is aware of, it could possibly be the beginning of a brand new lifelong ardour!
Extra skilled riders can contact the Centre to rearrange guided horse trekking or hacking across the farm and surrounds – for some unbelievable views of the rolling hills and wooded valleys. My information, Megan, was superior (and really forgiving of my extremely rusty method). Our hack via the woods was simply one of many highlights of my journey to Neath Port Talbot.
7. Absorb the Views from Pontrhydyfen Aqueduct
Nestled close to the doorway to the Afan Forest Park, the tiny village of Pontrhydyfen is clustered throughout the steep sides of a valley, with the River Afan working via its centre.
And connecting the higher “cabinets” of the village, the historic, Grade-II-listed Pontrhydyfen Aqueduct affords improbable views of the Afan Valley.
Actor Richard Burton CBE was born in Pontrhydyfen – his start dwelling lies only a stone’s throw from the aqueduct – and a photograph of him crossing the bridge within the Fifties gave the village a blast of fame.
The aqueduct was in-built 1827 to hold water to a close-by ironworks. It was later transformed right into a viaduct, and at present it types a much-used foot and cycle path which is a part of the Sustrans Nationwide Cycle Community.
High Tip: Observe the Richard Burton Path to discover the aqueduct, village, and surrounding valley. Info panels alongside the stroll spotlight factors of curiosity linked with the actor and his childhood within the space.
8. Swimming, Browsing, and Seaside Walks at Aberavon Seaside
It’s not all concerning the countryside in Neath Port Talbot – there’s additionally a improbable shoreline! Head to Aberavnon Seaside to take advantage of it: this 3-mile-long stretch of golden sand is right for seaside days!
Sitting on Swansea Bay, it’s a hub for browsing and different watersports resembling windsurfing, kite browsing and kayaking. The seaside is a browsing hotspot all 12 months spherical. Take a category, or on blustery days merely stroll alongside the seaside and watch the surfers driving the waves.
As you could have seen from my images, I used to be visiting Neath Port Talbot in autumn, so it wasn’t precisely seaside climate! However Aberavon seafront is a good place for a stroll regardless of the time of 12 months, particularly due to the fab eateries alongside the promenade. Absorb the ocean views from well-liked indie bar-restaurant The Entrance while having fun with some native food and drinks.
9. Take a Tour on the South Wales Miner’s Museum
South Wales was formed by the mining trade – each actually and metaphorically – significantly the thriving coal mining trade of the Nineteenth and early twentieth century. The handfuls of mines left a mark not solely on the panorama, but additionally on the folks, cities, and on the nation as a complete.
In reality, a Medical Assist Society arrange by the South Wales Miners even impressed the creation of the NHS!
Tucked inside the beautiful Afan Forest Park, the South Wales Miner’s Museum is the primary mining museum in Wales. This small, volunteer-led museum provides a superb perception into the coal mining trade with some sensible displays – together with an immersive “underground tour” designed to provide the feeling of strolling via a mine.
Should you’re provided a guided tour, take it! Lots of the guides are former miners, to allow them to give a first-hand account of what working life as a miner was like.
Data: Tickets price £3 (£2 youngsters and seniors, beneath 5’s free). The museum opens Tuesday to Saturday and opening hours differ, so test their web site earlier than visiting.
10. Neath Abbey & Ironworks: Uncover Native Historical past
Neath’s energetic city centre hides a number of stunning secrets and techniques. First, the ruins of the Twelfth-century Neath Abbey, which lend their identify to a neighbourhood of the city.
The abbey ruins are hid on the sting of that neighbourhood, surrounded by industrial buildings. It feels very a lot a hidden gem, tucked away behind some industrial estates alongside the Tennant Canal.
However what appears like much more of a hidden gem is the stroll alongside the River Clydach, on the foot of a small, tree-lined gorge working straight via the city between two housing estates.
This river is dotted with traces of the previous Neath Abbey Ironworks. First established in 1792, these ironworks had been one of many nation’s largest and most necessary iron-making websites throughout the Industrial Revolution.
Immediately, the ghostly ruins of those industrial buildings, with their eerie empty home windows and overgrown pink brick partitions, are a scheduled monument. Strolling upriver from the Ironworks leads via a tranquil pocket of woodland to a small, fairly waterfall, the place it’s simple to neglect that you simply’re in a city centre!
Data: Trying to find Neath Abbey on Google Maps usually brings up the neighbourhood as a substitute, so click on right here for the precise location. For Neath Abbey Ironworks, there’s a small quantity of free parking within the lane close by (click on right here for the Google Maps location) – or park on Penyard Street which is reverse the footpath right down to the river.
11. Stroll via Cwm Du Glen and Glanrhyd Plantation
Nature lovers received’t need to miss the beautiful stroll via Cwm du Glen gorge to the Glanrhyd Plantation. It is a comparatively simple stroll that may be accomplished in round an hour – taking in some attractive sights alongside the way in which.
First, you’ll comply with the picturesque Higher Clydach River via a slender gorge carved by Ice Age glaciers. It’s price extending the stroll to cease off at Rhyd y Fro waterfall on the finish of the gorge, earlier than climbing as much as the Glanrhyd Plantation.
Perched above the gorge, the plantation lies on the grounds of the now-demolished Nineteenth-century Glanrhyd Home.
Immediately, it’s an area nature reserve the place the tranquil woods are dotted with unique timber planted on the previous property. There’s even a Big Coastal Redwood and a towering Monkey Puzzle tree. Observe the round path via the woods and look out for the indicators which establish these historic specimens.
Data: Click on right here for stroll directions. The path begins at Herbert Sq. in Pontardawe (reverse the Dillwyn Arms). The closest carpark and public bathrooms are at Herbert Road Higher Automobile Park (SA8 4EB). Entry to the character reserve is free.
When to Go to Neath Port Talbot?
There’s actually no unsuitable time of 12 months to go to Neath Port Talbot!
Summer season is your finest likelihood of excellent climate (although within the UK there aren’t any ensures). That is additionally the busy season, particularly throughout the faculty holidays (July and August) and any financial institution vacation weekends. You would possibly discover lodging extra booked up and costs a little bit greater throughout this time.
Autumn is a good time of 12 months for climbing, biking, and journey sports activities – with cooler climate and swathes of golden colors throughout the countryside. That is once I took my glamping journey to Neath Port Talbot and I can affirm it’s a shocking time of 12 months.
Spring can imply delicate climate (once more nice for climbing and biking), in addition to vibrant wildflowers within the forests and valleys. Winter climate might be moist, windy, and chilly, and plenty of sights shut from October – Easter, however you’ll profit from fewer crowds and decrease costs. Plus, there are many cosy, conventional pubs the place you possibly can gap up by the hearth with a glass of wine to heat up!
Simply bear in mind, moist climate (particularly in Autumn and Winter) could make trails slippery and trigger rivers to swell. Take care while exploring – and keep away from swimming in rivers & waterfalls because the water ranges and currents might be unpredictable.
Greatest time of Yr to Surf in Neath Port Talbot
For surfers, there are waves year-round, although spring and autumn are maybe finest (in response to Surf Atlas). Summer season’s heat temperatures and tame waves are nice for learners, whereas the large swells of the cruel winters are just for skilled surfers (with excellent keep-warm gear!).
Locations to Eat in Neath (and Close by)
Brew & Co – nice little artisan espresso store in Neath with pleasant service and actually good desserts. Good for fast lunches and lightweight bites. I LOVED their brownies!
Dyffryn Arms – cosy nation pub on the highway between Neath and Pontardawe, with a heat and welcoming ambiance. The numerous menu mixes international flavours with elevated pub classics.
The Welsh Home – unbiased regional chain of restaurant-bars primarily based in Neath, Swansea and Cardiff with a concentrate on supporting Welsh suppliers. The Neath department is a stunning area with basic wooden panelling and deep blue partitions. Anticipate a healthful, seasonal menu filled with conventional Welsh dishes made utilizing top-notch native elements.Â
Are there any extra nice locations to eat in Neath (and past)? Tell us within the feedback beneath!
How Many Days in Neath Port Talbot?
I spent two days exploring Neath Port Talbot, which was sufficient time to pack in quite a bit. It’s fairly a small space, so that you don’t must drive too far between the totally different sights and actions.
Nonetheless, I’d say not less than two nights could be the perfect size for a go to. Particularly if you’d like the journey to have a extra relaxed tempo. I’ve shared an instance itinerary beneath to indicate how a lot you possibly can match into two days:
Neath Port Talbot 2 Day Itinerary Suggestion
Day 1
- Margam Nation Park. Go to the abbey and chateau, take a stroll on the grounds, then cease for lunch on the cafe. Time wanted: 2-3 hours (minimal).
- Swing by Pontrhydyfen Aqueduct on the way in which to Melincwrt Waterfall. You’ll want round 15-20 minutes for the aqueduct (until you do the Richard Burton Path) and about an hour for the waterfall.
- Go to Neath Abbey and Ironwalks, or take a stroll alongside the seafront at Aberavon. Both possibility will take about an hour.
- Dinner at Dyffryn Arms
Day 2
- Climbing or biking in Afan Forest Park (enable 2-3 hours). Alternatively, attempt horse driving at Cimla Equestrian Centre (1-2 hours).
- Don’t miss the South Wales Miner’s Museum in case you’re visiting Afan Forest Park – you’ll need not less than half-hour for this (longer you probably have extra time).
- Lunch at The Welsh Home in Neath
- Cwm Du Glen & Glanrhyd Plantation Stroll (about an hour).
So, that’s my information to the finest issues to see and do in Neath Port Talbot.
Discover the picturesque countryside, wealthy mining historical past, and out of doors adventures of this beautiful nook of South Wales. This actually is certainly one of Wales’ high hidden gems!
Should you’ve acquired a query – or a advice of your personal – please depart a remark on the finish of this put up.