Merthyr Tydfil wasonce a powerhouse of the Industrial Revolution and the iron capital of theworld. Today it has reinvented itself as a welcoming place for touristsvisiting South Wales.
With the fascinating history explore - packed withearly Christian martyrs, popular insurrections and industrial heritage - and alocation half-way between the cultural attractions of Cardiff and the naturalbeauty of the BreconBeacons National Park, the town has plenty to offer the growingnumber choosing to stay here.
Historical Attractions
Cyfarthfa Park is 158 acresof landscaped grounds situated in the very heart of the town. Once the home of thehistorical ironmasters of the area, the Crawshay family, today it is open forall to enjoy. With its commanding view over the valley, and the imposingstately home known as Cyfartha Castle at itscentre, the park offers something for everyone.
You can see how the other half lived in the statelypile that thinks it’s a castle explore the grounds on one of its many stunningwalks, learn about the industrial heritage of the town in the fascinating Regencyrooms that house the museum and take a trip on the miniature steam railway.
There’s more natural beauty and industrial heritageto see if you follow the Taff Trail, a cycling and walking route that takes youthrough the beautiful countryside of the valleys and the open moorland of BreconBeacon.
You can choose to cover as much, or as little, ofthe trail as you fancy: it runs all the way from Cardiff Bay in the south to Breconin the north. Pick up the trail on the western edge of town and follow the TaffRiver as you cross the impressive railway viaducts of Cefn Coed and Pontsarnbefore heading towards the splendours of Pontsticill Reservoir.
Get Active
As well as opportunities to walk through thevalleys and into Brecon Beacon National Park, MerthyrTydfil is also a great place to enjoy many otheractivities.
For those with a head for heights there is climbingin the Rock UK Summit Centre, built on the site ofthe former Trelewis drift mine.
Closer to the ground there is also BikeParkWales, the UK's first purpose-built mountain biking centre, thatcan be found in Gethin Woods, just off the A470 onthe outskirts of Merthyr Tydfil.
Less strenuous activities can be enjoyed by thoselooking to relax and absorb the more tranquil aspects of Merthyr Tydfilin Parc Taf Bargoed and Taf FechanNature Reserve.
Get Carried Away
From Pant Station you can take a scenic tour thattakes you back to the great age of steam trains. With the unmistakable atmospherecreated by a steam-driven Iron Horse you will enjoy a gentle trip through the nearbymountains and woodland, passing breathtaking views of reservoirs.
Visit Merthyr Tydfil
With the delights of Cardiff and the sublime beautyof the Brecon Beacons at its doorstep, and plentyof activities and history to explore, Merthyr Tydfilmay no longer be the iron capital of the world but it is a delightful touristcentre in SouthWales.
Comesee for yourself.
