Compare and book 3 Star hotels in Merthyr Tydfil, Wales

Merthyr Tydfil is a town full of fascinating facts and secret stories and was world famous for its iron production. Several generations on, it is now capitalising on its industrial heritage and has become a major tourist attraction thanks to its scenic location between Cardiff and the Brecon Beacons National Park.

There is an excellent choice of three star hotels in the town centre close to public transport links and the main shopping areas. Alternatively you can opt for a quieter residential area like Dowlais Valley for a glimpse of “old Merthyr” around Ifor Park and the former ironworks at Pen-y-Darren. Dowlais Valley is just 10 miles from the Brecon Beacons so wherever you choose to stay, you aren’t far from stunning scenery and a rich industrial heritage that draws in thousands of visitors every year.

The Iron Town of the Industrial Revolution

Thanks to a rich landscape of iron, coal, limestone and wood, Merthyr grew to be the largest town in Wales providing employment during the Industrial Revolution. At its peak in the 19th century it had four ironworks set up by two local families - the Guests and Crawshays, who, rivalries aside, provided an education for the workers by starting up local schools. You can still see the huge remains of six blast furnaces at the Cyfarthfa Works, and these are just a small part of the original site.

Scenic Walks

Start with Cyfarthfa Park in the centre of town, a 158-acre park which was once home to William Crawshay II. With its mock castle, steam railway, museum and art gallery with paintings and artefacts, there’s plenty for a day out. Immerse yourself in some local history in the morning followed by an afternoon walking and picnicking in the formal gardens.

Cycling Breaks

It’s easy to travel by train with a bike these days and hotel staff will also be able to advise on cycle hire options in town. If you’re up for a challenge you could start your cycling holiday along the Taff Trail from Cardiff Bay through to Brecon crossing open moorland, railway bridges and a reservoir at Pontsticill. National Cycle Route 8 also runs through the middle of town as a gentle introduction.

Merthyr also has the UK’s first purpose-built mountain biking centre, BikePark Wales, in Gethin Woods on the outskirts of the town.

Cultural Events

As with the rest of Wales Merthyr has a rich cultural scene with live literature, music festivals at Cyfarthfa Castle and commercial art venues - Canolfan Soar and Theatr Soar. Welsh choirs are famous worldwide so it’s not unusual to hear impromptu singing in one of the local pubs. If alternative music is more your thing check out the Merthyr Rock Festival, which pulls in a huge crowd each year. Nearby Aberdare also has a thriving music scene. For local listings ask at your hotel or pick up a local paper or listings magazine in town.

For an affordable, relaxing family break book one of the many three star hotels in Merthyr via Expedia today. Most are centrally located near to shops, bars and cafes, and to get a sense of “old Merthyr” look for accommodation near to the former ironworks in Dowlais Valley.