Brecon Beacons Tourism

The Brecon Beacons National Park - Croeso i'r Bannau Brycheiniog!

Merthyr Tydfil & the Heads of the valleys

Merthyr Tydfil & The Heads of the Valleys

As one of the towns forming the Heads of the Valleys, Merthyr Tydfil is rich in culture, landscape and scenery. Once the Iron capital of the world, Merthyr Tydfil breathes life into its history with Cyfarthfa Castle Museum & Art Gallery, Joseph Parry’s Cottage and Brecon Mountain Railway to name but a few.

For those interested in the 'great outdoors' there are many activities available from guided walks along the famous Taff Trail to Climbing in the Summit Centre. For those who want to relax and absorb the more tranquil aspects of Merthyr Tydfil, there are numerous parks such as Parc Taf Bargoed, Taff Fechan Nature Reserve and Gethin Woodland Park.

Walkers will find an endless choice of both challenging and gentler routes including the long distance Taff Trail, which links the capital city of Cardiff to the historic market town of Brecon. The Trail passes through some of the Taff valley's most spectacular countryside and incorporates many interesting features within the local area such as the Penydarren Tramroad which carried Trevithick's famous engine down to Abercynon in 1804 - a world first.

Within Merthyr Tydfil itself, there are a variety of local heritage trails which highlight the Town's historic sites and places of interest. These range in length and terrain to suit all needs and abilities. Merthyr Tydfil's Ramblers Association also arranges a programme of guided walks throughout the local area.

A wide range of sporting facilities are also available within the County Borough including excellent fishing, pony trekking, sailing, windsurfing, cycling and golf as well as indoor sports at the many leisure/community centres.

Brecon Mountain Railway (01685 722988)

Travel in one of our all-weather observation coaches behind a vintage steam locomotive through beautiful scenery into the Brecon Beacons National Park along the full length of the Taf Fechan Reservoir to Dol-y-Gaer on one of the most popular railways in Wales.

Merthyr Tydfil Golf Club (01685 723308)

Cyfarthfa Castle Museum, Art Gallery and Joseph Parry's cottage (01685 723112) – open daily April to Sept and Tuesday to Sunday Oct to March

Merthyr Tydfil Leisure Centre (01685 727476)

Enterprising Art Gallery (01685 377141‎)

Parc Bryn Bach – Set in 340 acres of grass and woodlands with a picturesque lake in the centre, Parc Bryn Bach is an ideal location for families, couples and groups

Ynysfach Engine House (01685 382356) - This restored industrial building once housed the beam engine for the blast furnaces of Cyfarthfa Ironworks. The fascinating building is now the base of Merthyr Tydfil Heritage Trust and 'Herian - Heritage in Action' (an organisation promoting and aiding development in South Wales). Ynysfach Engine House now holds new interactive interpretation displays which have recently been installed, along with an information kiosk providing information on local history, attractions, accommodation, events and lots more.

20 minutes away
Dolygaer Outdoor Education Centre, (01685 721751)
the Taff Fechan Nature Reserve
Gethin Woodland Park

Garwnant Forest Visitor Centre (01685 384060)

The Summit Centre, Trelewis (01443 710749) - one of the largest indoor climbing walls in Europe

Blackwood Miners Institute (01495 224425) - Good venue with a wide variety of events providing auditorium, bar and restaurant.

Candle Workshop at Gelligroes Mill, Blackwood (01495 222322) - Gelligroes 17th century watermill is guaranteed to be highly interesting, steeped in history it has supplied hand-made candles for many films including Braveheart and Harry Potter. With its array of candles on sale, you too might be able to have an original world-famous Gelligroes Mill candle lighting up your home.

Beaufort Theatre, Ebbw Vale (01495 350360) - drama to dance, from live music to children's events.

Dare Valley Country Park, Trecynon, Aberdare, CF44 7RG (01685) 874672
Dare Valley Country Park has regenerating woodlands, lakes, streams and a profusion of wildlife and wild flowers. Riding centre, trout fishing and walking routes that takes you high above the valley to the summit of Tarren y Bwllfa with spectacular views.

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