Compare and book 4 Star hotels in Pontypool, Cardiff

four star hotels in Pontypool are located in the town centre close to the main shops, restaurants and local attractions like the Big Pit National Coal Museum. If you fancy a country retreat you can enjoy a rural retreat in style just outside of town with fabulous views, woodland walks, health spas and restaurants.

Heritage and History

Pontypool is an industrial town in Torfaen County close to Monmouthshire in South Wales. Afon Lwyd River runs alongside the town bordering the South Wales coalfields. It has a rich industrial history as one of the earliest industrial towns to make use of its landscape - iron, coal and limestone and played a part in steel production, coal mining and railway development. The fortunes of Pontypool were sealed by the Hanburys - a local family who set about developing the town and building a new park for all to enjoy.

In the 19th century Pontypool continued to grow with new houses and buildings, as did the surrounding suburbs. Churches were built along with new civic buildings and a town hall in 1856, created by Capel Hanbury Leigh. Shops, hotels, pubs and a new library quickly followed.

Thanks to the development of the railways, canals and the discovery of new metals, Pontypool continued to attract new inhabitants from surrounding areas.

Things to See and Do

For a sense of the history and heritage that Pontypool was built on take a trip to the Big Pit National Coal Museum in the centre of town. This is an industrial heritage museum that was a working coal mine from 1860 to 1980. Its aim is to preserve Welsh heritage and highlight the importance of the Industrial Revolution.

Pontypool is best known for its famous park, which was created by the Hanbury family and came under public ownership in 1920. As well as enjoying the glorious gardens and wildlife there’s also a tennis court, bowling green, rugby ground, the largest artificial ski slope and a leisure centre. So plenty to do for an active break. Pontypool Park House also has a fascinating history. Enjoy a day here and unwind.

Walking Festivals

Pontypool has some annual walking festivals which require early booking if you’re planning to participate. The Blaenavon Walking Festival takes place in April with walks to suit all abilities. The Wales Valley Walking Festival is in September and offers walks from Blaenavon to explore the Torfaen region.

Shopping in Pontypool

Pontypool has a good selection of chain stores and independent shops around Commercial Street, Crane Street and Market Street. If shopping is high on the agenda look for a four star hotel around these areas. There are plenty of local pubs, bars and restaurants nearby too.

Day Trips Around Pontypool

If you have a car go explore some of the wonderful sites around Pontypool - you’re not far from the Brecon Beacons National Park, the Blaenavon World Heritage Site and the Pontypool and Blaenavon Heritage Railway. It is well connected via public transport so a day trip to Cardiff is an option too, and from there you can enjoy many cultural attractions including the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff University, Cardiff Castle, Motorpoint Arena, and Cardiff City Hall.