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Check AvailabilityBwythyn Cerrig is a 3 bedroom self catering holiday accommodation that sleeps 6 and is located in Neath, Wales. This property does not allow pets. Prices range from £449 to £5409 per week. Local to Aberdulais, Pontardawe, Pontrhydyfen, Ystalyfera
Shared indoor heated pool / Hot tub / Sauna & gym
Situated within the heart of the Dulais Valley at the edge of the village of Crynant, these semi-detached barns have been converted to a good standard, with splendid views of March Hywel Mountain and numerous walks directly onto the mountain behind. Cefn Coed Coal Museum, Aberdulais Waterfalls, and activities such as golfing, driving ranges, archery, paint balling and quad biking are all available within a three mile radius. The famous Dan Yr Ogof Caves, and Craig y Nos Country Park are just 10 miles. The magnificent Gower Coast is approximately 18 miles and the Brecon Beacons are within 35 miles. Swansea town centre and Cardiff, both with excellent shopping, bars and clubs are within driving distance. An ideal holiday base. Shop, pub and restaurant 1.5 miles.
Ground floor: Living room with patio doors. Dining room/kitchen. Utility room. Wet room with toilet. First floor: 3 bedrooms: 1 double with en-suite shower room and toilet, 2 twin. Bathroom with toilet. Beams and wooden floors throughout.
Woodburner in living room included. Underfloor CH, elec, bed linen and towels included. Travel Cot. Highchair. Satellite TV. Video and small library. DVD and small library. CD. Aga. Microwave. Washer/dryer. Dishwasher. Freezer. Lawned garden with patio and furniture. Portable BBQ. Ample parking. Shared, indoor heated swimming pool, sauna and hot tub.
Rock and Fountain Inn is located in the charming and quaint village of Penhow, it is a family run traditional village inn and restaurant. The Inn has a warm and welcoming atmosphere and enjoys a traditional decor that is cosy and relaxing. The philosophy here is to provide quality honest food that is affordable to all especially families. The menu is varied and offers a good selection of meals and you can choose two courses for ₤10. Their speciality is steak on a stone as well as fresh seafood together with their well known Sunday roast. The food is cooked to perfection and the presentation is very good. They are open daily and food is served daily from lunch time through to the evening. The staff are friendly and attentive and the customer service was very good. Rock and Fountain Inn offers excellent food, value and atmosphere, the perfect venue for a meal out.
Pump up the excitement with a session or two at Top Gun Paintball and Clay Shooting! This exciting local attraction provides a wooded area to prove your skills in battle. Hone your hand-eye coordination with clay shooting or hide away in a massive 30 acre green space while dodging paintballs.
Located in the lovely Brecon Beacons National Park area of South Wales. The Park has been officially designated as a Geopark because of its unique geological formations.
Once Upon a Playtime is an indoor centre of fun and play where children can come and have a fantastic time in a safe and nurturing environment. The centre is kept clean and is well monitored by staff. There are different areas and activities depending on age ranging from toddlers upwards. There are soft play areas, ball pools, car tracks, sports court, play frames and creative tables so there is lots to keep the little ones entertained. There is a cafe that serves a good selection of drinks and hot and cold foods. They are open daily and the prices are reasonable.
The Llandaff Cardiff Ghost Walk is an excellent guided tour that takes you through the interesting and compelling history of Llandaff as you travel through the fields and pathways by torch light. It is suitable for those aged 12 and over and is a fun, informative and scary experience all at once. The knowledgeable and friendly guides are adept storytellers and tell sinister tales of death and history, as you are in local cemetery, your imagination can run away with you! There is lots of added extras, from smells, orbs, temperature drops and rustling noises, you are continually on alert. You might be lucky and see a ghost, you will certainly hear lots of screams. Even without a sighting it is a fun and quite scary and definitely worth experiencing. The guides are fantastic and really make the evening if you are in the area don't hesitate to make a booking a great night with friends or family.
The park is set in 25 acres of parkland and has over 200 species of birds including eagles, owls, hawks, falcons and buzzards. Visitors can watch flying demonstrations and feed the farmyard animals. The park also has an adventure playground, cafe and gift shop.
Try your hand at paintballing, archery, team building activities, laser tag and clay pigeon shooting at Task Force Paintball.
This west facing sand and pebble beach is backed by farmland. Popular for surfing, canoeing and bathing, it also has some rockpools. It is joined to the heritage coast path which leads to a castle along the cliffs.
An 8 mile stretch of sandy beach backed by sand dunes - designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. There are nature trails throughout Pembrey Country Park. Visitors can enjoy clear views across Carmarthen Bay to Tenby and the Gower.(Dogs not allowed onto the beach between May and September)
Most of this cycle trail running from Cardiff Bay to the market town of Brecon has been designated as traffic-free. It runs along the former tramways, railways and canals of great historical interest and significance. Look out for the points of industrial archaeology along the way.
Located in a National Nature Reserve, this walk will take you between half an hour to an hour to complete. The reserve has one of the richest varieties of coastal habitats in Britain, and is a favourite location for bird watchers.
Walking from Nash Point to Monknash is a fairly easy, mostly level walk of about 5 miles. There are two nature reserves en route and the Plough and Narrow pub at the half way point serves meals. Alternatively, stop for refreshments at Nash Point in the summer months.
Southerndown Golf Club is a championship golf course that is unusual in that owing to its position it is one of the driest courses in the country, it is a course of contrasts being part sandy links and part acid-heathland. The course attracts many players and has had some major players play here, who have found the course to be challenging and demanding. With many natural obstacles including gorse, bracken and winds you are in for a tough game. The greens and fairways are well maintained and in good condition. As you walk around the course you can enjoy the lovely views that include, the North Devon coast, Swansea Bay and Gower peninsula and the surrounding valleys and hills of South Wales. The clubhouse is warm and cosy with a welcoming atmosphere, it too benefits from the stunning views, they have a good menu with lots of choice and is very good quality, Throughout you will find the staff to be helpful and friendly. They may not be able to guarantee you the weather but you are assured a warm and hospitable Welsh welcome.
Great if you fancy a swim or a game of squash, this leisure centre offers a wide range of activities for all ages.
Taff Valley Quad Bike and Activity Centre is located in 340 acres of farmland in the lovely Taff Valley. The landscape provides an excellent cross country trail to experience the fun and excitement of these bikes, as you travel over bumps and hills, through fields, woodland and streams. They have bikes available for children (aged 7 and over) and adults so the whole family can get involved. They have a circuit that is specifically for the children only, and others that range from easy to difficult. There are other activities available here you are not just restricted to quad biking, you can try your hand at archery, laser shooting, clay pigeon shooting as well as being able to organise gorge walking in the beautiful waterfall region of the Brecon Beacons. Before taking part in any activity you are given a safety brief by the friendly and professional staff. You are assured to get muddy on the quad bikes but that is all part of the fun, they do supply waterproofs and wellies. If you are looking for a rugged and natural outdoor adventure on a working farm then Taff Valley Quad Bike and Activity Centre is the place to go, great fun and excitement, friendly staff and reasonable prices, as well as the chance to try something new.
Cardiff Golf Club is a fantastic golf club on the outskirts of Cardiff City, it is a course that offers many challenges and will test all levels of golfer. The course is picturesque and well maintained with lovely facilities, the Clubhouse is modern and the staff are warm and friendly. The pro's here are very helpful and approachable in offering advise and guidance. The course itself has many interesting and challenging features, with numerous trees, meandering brooks and tight fairways. The atmosphere in the Clubhouse is warm and inviting and the choice and quality food on offer here is excellent and value for money. The Golf Shop is well stocked and has all the usual items you would expect to see. The golf fees are very reasonable here for the quality you get. Cardiff Golf Club should definitely be on your list of courses to play you will not be disappointed.
RSPB Cwm Clydach Reserve is an ancient woodland retreat that is located on the outskirts of the city. It is a place of peace and tranquillity that allows you to escape the stresses of everyday life. There are two main trails, both start at the car park, one being suitable for pushchairs, this is the Nixon trail and extends to about 2.2 km. The other trail is more rugged in areas and longer at 4.7 km and is known as the Trussler trail. As you take a lazy walk through the reserve you can look out for the many species of bird who have made their home here, including, spotted flycatchers, redstarts and buzzards as well as many animals, insects and butterflies. The Lower Clydach River passes through the heart of the reserve. The reserve is open throughout the year and each season brings its own delights from the colourful spring woodland flowers to the beautiful autumnal colours of the leaves in Autumn. There is no charge for entry although the society does rely on donations to keep up the excellent work they do. It is the perfect location for a pleasant stroll through the lovely natural surroundings, whilst listening to the glorious sounds of the birds, totally relaxing.
Tucked away in the Darran Valley, this tranquil country park is only 2 miles north of Bargoed. Take a stroll through the Cwmllwydrew wild flower meadows or cycle along 5 1/2 km of well-maintained cycle tracks. If you're feeling energetic, try the assault course along the lakeside. There is also the opportunity to fish in the lake.
Howardian Local Nature Reserve is tucked away in the Rhymney valley and despite its size, over 500 species of wildlife have been recorded here. 25,000 trees have been planted in the three areas that make up the nature reserve. Some examples of the types of wildlife to be seen are grass snakes, frogs, toads, butterflies, herons and kingfishers.
Pembrey Nature Reserve is part of Pembrey Forest. It covers 1000 hectares and contains 35 species of butterfly and birds of prey such as sparrowhawks and goshawks. Pembrey forest also forms part of a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
The Brecon Beacons look fantastic when they're experienced from the saddle of your bike - whether you want the more energetic experience of charging up the mountains or casually cruising from pub to pub, there's something here for everyone. The national park authority organise guided walks and events for all the family.
Located in the stunning Tywi valley of Carmarthenshire, this fine house has a garden that has been described as one of the finest in Wales. Often cited as inspiration for poetry for over 500 years, this beautiful site is as magical as it is mysterious.
Pembrey County Park offers a spacious 202 hectares of lush parkland for visitors to explore. Enjoy some of the cleanest beaches in Wales and admire the view of the Gower Peninsula and Carmarthenshire Bay. The area boasts a wide range of exciting outdoor activities, including cycling, horseback riding, skiing, hiking and much more!
The National Botanic Garden is one of the most visited gardens in Wales and is home to some of the rarest plants in world. Voted 'number 1 wonder of Wales', it has become one of the most popular gardens in the UK.
Drffyn Gardens and Arboretum are a prime example of majestic Edwardian gardens that extend to more than fifty five acres that comprise of a selection of intimate garden rooms including a rose garden, Pompeian garden and a number of ponds. In addition there is an enormous lawn that is edged by seasonal bedding and a croquet lawn. Also found on the glorious grounds are a substantial glasshouse, statuary collection and an arboretum that holds a collection of trees from across the world. The gardens were designed by the renowned landscape architect Thomas Mawson and date back to 1906. All the trees are labelled so you can tell what they are. These impressive gardens are stunning, beautifully maintained and offer delightful walks around them, where you can admire all the plants and trees from all over, when in full bloom they are a riot of colour and have the most amazing aromas. The gardens are open daily throughout the year from 10.00am and in Summer the hours are longer. There is a charge for enry. There is a welcoming cafe that serves a nice selection of beverages, lunches and snacks. Drffyn Gardens and Arboretum offer so much to see and are delightful to both gardeners and non gardeners, even children will love the open spaces and places to explore, a lovely day out.
A peaceful woodland with plentiful streams and beautiful wildlife. There is a pebbled beach where you can stop off for a picnic and let the children run around on the playground while you take in the fantastic views from the cliff above.
Bute Park is a 56 hectare area of mature parkland in the heart of the city. It is bordered by the River Taff, Sophia Gardens, Pontcanna Fields and Cardiff Castle. The park is currently undergoing a major restoration project to further enhance the facilities available here. Bute Park is classified as a historic landscape and is rich with history and wildlife, and was the site of a former Blackfriars Friary. A main feature of the park is the Arboretum, it was built in 1947 and consists of a blend of interesting, rare and ornamental trees. With over 2000 trees, many of them are champion trees, the largest types of their kind in the UK. An esteemed herbaceous border grows beside the River Taff. Other features include stunning floral displays, sports pitches, woodland balance trail, sculpture trail, fitness trail, Millennium Footbridge and Education Centre. You can choose from either the Summerhouse Cafe or Secret Garden Cafe are both warm and cosy with relaxed atmospheres, they serve a variety of high quality hot and cold dishes and lovely coffee. The park holds a number of major cultural events throughout the year including, the annual Cardiff RHS show, Cardiff Mardi Gras and Sparks in the Park, a firework display, other community events also take place so it is definitely worth checking to see what events are taking place. Bute Place is wonderful place for everyone, it is tranquil and serene with lovely walks, lots to see, you will be amazed by what is on offer here. You can even take an aquabus boat from here to the Bay area.
Black Mountain Centre is a community initiative and is found in Brynaman, a charming village positioned at the foot of the Black Mountain of Carmarthenshire. It is housed in an an old school but has all the amenities needed to benefit visitors and business customers. You will find tourist information on the local area, free Internet access, a Gallery that shows local artists works that can be bought, intriguing heritage displays of local history and culture, that are continually changing. In addition there is the Black Mountain cafe area where you can get tasty home cooked food, that is excellently priced throughout the day, they also serve cakes and beverages. If you want to meet members of the community and get to know the locals then this is the place to come.
This cinema has a structure unchanged since the 1930's but boasts all comforts and modern facilities inside. It regularly plays host to live performances and the latest films.
Penderyn Distillery is a unique place for whiskey lovers. The landmark is rich in Arthurian legend, with a pair of Brecon Beacons peaks recognised as "Arthur's Seat". UNESCO has deemed the area one of historic significance. The distillery produces a single cask each day of some of the finest spirits in the world.
Myddfai Community Hall and Visitor Centre has become an important addition to the community here in Myddfai, an area that is enveloped by the glorious scenery of the Brecon Beacons National Park. The centre is newly constructed using the latest energy efficient tools and has become one of the nicest and best equipped venues in the area. The purpose of the centre was to serve as a focal point in the community and a place where locals could gather. Since its opening the centre has hosted many events and these are aimed at families and getting people together so keep an eye on the website for upcoming events. The centre is open daily and you will find a shop that sells a nice selection of locally produced and crafted foods, gifts, cards, books and artwork. Many of the items on sale are only found here and there is a nice range of quality and unique items as well as a delicious selection of chutneys, jams chocolates and much more. There is also a cafe that is warm and welcoming and on its walls are information boards detailing the history of Myddfai. They serve a good selection of beverages, snacks and light lunches as well as heavenly home-made cakes. The centre is run by volunteers who are really welcoming and friendly and happy to stop and have a chat. Myddfai is a superb community project that every village should have a great place to stop and meet with the locals and enjoy a coffee, do some shopping and learn about the local area.
Cowbridge is an elegant market town famous for its arts & crafts and antiques. The high street is lined with fashionable shops, bars, restaurants and chic boutiques.
High quality seasonal produce which has been reared and grown or made within the area of a 30 mile radius. Open to visit every second Saturday in a month. Refreshments and live music too.
Gower Herbal Walks will take you through the Gower woodlands or along the costal paths or perhaps both where you will collect wild herbs and then turn them into medicines, under the guidance of a professional herbalist. Your walk will last approximately two hours and covers about 3 miles, you veer off the beaten track in search of plants and herbs in season, you will see breathtaking scenery, and will be taught to recognise local plants, how to harvest them and change them into a healing medicine that you take home with you. During your time you gain substantial knowledge about the plants you see and are given a booklet to take home, to further explain the plants and herbs that are safe to use and how to yield them. You also learn about the healing properties of the plants, correct dosages and the intriguing myths and traditions behind them. Depending on your route you might stop to enjoy some tasty homemade herbal teas and scrumptious brownies, or delicious fish and chips. You should ensure to wear suitable foot wear and comfortable clothes as well as taking drinking water, suncream/waterproofs depending on the time of year. Gower Herbal Walks are thoroughly enjoyable and interesting, you get so much from them as well as having the satisfaction of having made your own medicine, that you take home. Gower Herbal Walks are a different and fun alternative and suitable to all those who are mobile, a great activity, with family or friends or as part of a group or party.
Battlefield Live Caerphilly allows you the opportunity to experience a realistic combat entertainment experience using advanced gaming guns, it is the most realistic battle experience you will have, in this purpose built site. It is located in seven acres of woods and green fields that offer lots of natural coverage and hiding options. On arrival you don your coveralls, put on your face paint, get your weapon, your mission is explained and you are ready to go following a safety briefing. The equipment is of the highest standard and well maintained. It is an exhilarating and fun experience for all so people of all ages (six upwards) can get involved. The game lasts about two and a half hours and is excellent value for money. The staff are friendly and helpful and the overall it is very professional, well organised and well run. Battlefield Live is an awesome experience, full of energy, excitement and loads of shouting a fantastic outdoor event that everyone can get involved in.
The Welsh National Opera is housed in a magnificent building, a former stately home with interesting architecture. It hosts a number of productions, covering everything from concerts, solo performances to full scale operas, with both professional and amateur productions. They are sometimes bold in the productions they stage favouring the less well known operas in addition to the usual favourites. At the Welsh National Opera they want to share their passion for Opera and try to make the it available to all individuals and break the consensus that it is something that can be enjoyed by only the affluent. The atmosphere is vibrant but relaxed allowing you to make the most of your experience here. Ticket prices are extremely reasonable and represent great value for money, you certainly could not see the standard of productions for the same money anywhere else in the country. The facilities here are excellent, and all seats offer good views of the stage. There is plenty of access to bars and refreshments, the staff are friendly and approachable. The Welsh National Opera has got it so right here, stunning venue, amazing productions and superb value. If you have not yet experienced an Opera then this is definitely the place to start, you will be mesmerised by the whole experience.
The Culinary Cottage caters to all cooking abilities, from absolute beginners to seasoned cooks, it allows everyone to learn new skills that can be put to use once you get home. They run a range of courses under the watchful and professional eye of Penny. All classes are restricted to keep them small so all students get the opportunity to get involved during the course. They run a range of courses from one day through to five day courses. During the course you will be given useful tips and hints that you can put to use back in your own kitchen, in addition you will receive a complete portfolio of recipes and menu ideas on completion of the course. All courses take place in Penny's kitchen providing a relaxed and informal atmosphere that puts you at ease and allows you to relax and get the most from your time here. There is lots of hands on involvement so your confidence grows and you leave feeling much more confident and ready to try things at home. You will soon be marinating, flambeing and sauteing and there will be no stopping you in the kitchen, you will be more adventurous and confident. If you are looking for an alternative activity whilst on holiday this is definitely one to try, fun and you also come away with a new skill. The courses are reasonable and Penny is lovely, friendly, helpful and patient.
Millennium Stadium is a great place to visit whether you are a sports fan or not, you can't help but be impressed with the sheer size and atmosphere of the stadium. With so many famous people having performed or played here it is like walking into a hall of fame. It has been the venue for numerous concerts and major sporting events and has evoked many emotions and great excitement amongst its spectators. During your guided tour you will have an experienced, friendly and informative guide who will take you around this dramatic structure and introduce you to the many areas and places of interest, including the Press Conference Suite, the Dragon's Lair, the dressing room for Wales team, you can imagine the apprehension and excitement of the players before a match. Experience the walk through the players tunnel and how it feels the moment you enter the pitch, to the screams of thousands of fans. See the pitch from a different perspective in one of the VIP hospitality suites and also the President's Box, an area that is usually maintained for royalty. You also get to learn about the sole palletised pitch system and totally retractable roof in the UK, this permits the whole playing surface to be taken away to create one of the world's biggest indoor arenas. There are special Santa Claus tours in December and they also operate Rugby Legend Tours where you will be taken around by a famous rugby host who will recount his experiences, answer questions and much more. Millennium Stadium is an interesting and exciting tour that will appeal to all ages and is suitable to everyone, informative and fun, highly recommended.
Experience the panoramic views of the black mountain and the colourful Welsh countryside from the craggy hilltop where this fantastic castle lies.
The reconstructed village street and three period shops give visitors a taste of life over the last 150 years. The art gallery contains displays of contemporary jewellery and unique gift ideas. Stop for something to eat in the restaurant and enjoy the views of the lower Rhondda Valleys.
Llancaiach Fawr Manor has a long history that can be dated back to 1550 and is in a prime position with views over the Glamorgan Uplands. It is an excellent example of a semi-fortified Manor house and was occupied by the Prichard family. Once you step through the doors you are immediately transported back to another era, the house has been returned and furnished to what it would have been like in 1645, the furnishings within the rooms are exact replicas of items that would have been in the house during this period. Many pieces of the original furniture are on show at the Museum of Welsh Life. There are a number of interesting characters who you might meet as you wander through the house, it could be the master or one of the servants, all are dressed in traditional costume and talk in old English language! The house is operated as if it is occupied so you get a true feel of what it would have been like back then. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable and happy to answer any questions you might have, it is a fun and informative way to learn the history of the house and members. The house is considered to have a number of ghostly residents and they operate a Ghost Tour where, you might get to meet one of them. The house is open daily Tuesday to Sunday and is only closed over the Christmas period. The gardens are pretty and worth taking the time to see. The cafe and gift shop have lots to offer and are a nice place to stop at the end of your visit. With interactive, costumed guides Llancaiach Fawr is an unusual and interesting concept, it is fun for all ages and definitely worth visiting, you will not be disappointed.
A wonderful, little museum. Established in 1928 by the Brecknock Society it is now run by Powys County Council. Set in a delightful historic building it offers a glimpse of the area over time.
Brecon Cathedral has a long and varied history, today it stands as the Mother Church of a large Diocese and is a centre of welcome and worship for all. The Cathedral is quiet unassuming and small in relation to other Cathedrals but, what is unusual about this building is that it is positioned in a walled close. The remnants of the former monastic buildings serve as the administrative centre for the Diocese in addition to housing the Cathedral clergy and a Heritage Centre and Restaurant. The grounds that surround the Cathedral are lovely, so peaceful and quiet. Inside is lovely too, it is not very big but has some great features and architecture, unusual wooden vaulted ceilings, commemorative plaques, a stunning antique font, stained glass windows and more. Within the Cathedral is the regimental chapel worth a visit, it has connections with the Zulu War/ Rorkes Drift, it has a collection of interesting military and historic flags and a war memorial book. There are some descriptive guide sheets available that provide all the information on the Cathedral. What strikes you most about the Cathedral is the calmness and peacefulness of it here.
The Winding House is the museum for Caerphilly County Borough, and is located in an impressive and modern glass building that is in total contrast to the exhibits it houses. Stepping through the glass doors you are immersed in the history of the borough, you can explore the local history, culture and heritage through the ages, numerous collections including Edwardian and the Great War, hands on activities, delve into your family's past or see the imposing and immense Victorian winding engine, that operates at certain times. There is lots to keep the children occupied too with activities and the opportunity to dress up in historic costumes. It is an intimate museum and is well designed, the displays are excellent and there is lots of information available. In addition they run a number of events during the year so it is worth keeping an eye out for these. The museum is open daily throughout the year and there is no admission charge but do have donation boxes. There is a lovely coffee shop that is bright and airy where you can relax in the welcoming atmosphere and enjoy a tea or coffee accompanied by one of their delicious cakes. Also onsite is a gift shop that has a nice selection of quality gifts, goods, books and other items. The staff are terrific very friendly and helpful and happy to answer any questions. The Winding House is a gem of a museum, lots of interesting items and information that will appeal to all ages, making for a great day out, a must if you are in the area.
Old Beaupre was a medieval castle and later a Tudor manor house, built around two courtyards. Etched in a panel above the doorway is the Bassett family motto 'Better death than dishonour'. The impressive three-storey outer gatehouse was the result of the great Tudor rebuilding, when the family lived here.
This fortress was built in 1283 and amazingly, its inner walls and towers still stand almost to their full height. Its best feature is the stairway that plunges 200ft down to the foot of the castle rock. Don't miss the views over the sand dunes below to the Lleyn Peninsula and Snowdonia.
Dolaucothi Gold Mines are located in the heart of a 2,500 acre estate and positioned on a wooded hillside that oversees the stunning Cothi Valley. Mining here dates back more than 2000 years to the Romans and some of their methods are still evident. But it is the Roman, Victorian and 1930's and the harsh conditions that the miners endured that are focused on here. The mines here continued to be mined until 1938 when they eventually closed. The tour takes you into the actual working mines, and suitable foot wear is recommended owing to the uneven surface and steep slopes, and you must have a certain degree of mobility to be able to do the tour, children in push chairs can do the Victorian tour. You get to wear a miners lamp and when you enter these dark caverns, you will get to see first hand the dark, dank and cramped conditions the miners worked in, with so much effort for little reward, see and hear the mine in operation as well as seeing the actual mine machinery. There is the choice of a free guided tour which, you book on arrival or you can take a self-guided tour, there is the Roman tour and Victorian tour to choose from. The guides are friendly, engaging and very knowledgeable and impart the history in a lively and interesting way with lots of anecdotes You can try your own hand at panning for gold and see how successful you will be, or take one of the many walks around the area, that vary in length and difficulty. There is also an exhibition that you can look around. The mine is open is open from April through to October and there is a charge for entry. There is a nice little gift shop where you can buy some pretty Welsh gold jewellery and other souvenirs and gifts. The tea shop is pleasant and cosy and serves a nice selection of beverages and hot and cold food at reasonable prices. Dolaucothi Mines offers an intriguing insight into a working mine and will interest all ages, the tour is pitched to cater to everyone and with activity sheets and trails the children can get involved, highly recommended if you are in the area.
Castell Coch is an embodiment of High Gothic, during Victorian ages there was a real interest in these times and the wonderfully talented and imaginative William Burges was given free licence by his client, John Patrick Crichton Stuart, to make for him and his family a country residence that was comparable in opulence to his main home, Cardiff Castle. There certainly was no constraint here, the house itself portrays immense wealth and the interior continues this tone, with sensational ceilings, glorious furnishings and furniture, it is a fairy tale castle. What is amazing is that the detailed architectural drawings are still in existence to this day. Following Burges death in 1881, his colleagues continued with his work on the inside of the house for a further ten years. The castle was not meant to be nor was it suitable for use as a permanent home, the family did not stay here often. Stepping through the doors here is like being transported back in time to a bygone era. There is an audio guide to take you around and give you the information on the castle, although not very big, if you take time to look at the intricate work and features of this house you can pass many an enjoyable hour here. The guide is informative, you will come away knowing all about the castle, having heard stories of the family and information on the building of the castle. There are stunning views from the Castell Coch and the rooms are truly amazing. The staff are friendly, helpful and knowledgeable and will answer any questions you may have. Outside the woodlands offer some walking trails and good picnic areas, a great place for the children to explore and run around. Castell Coach is small in size but huge in detail and grandeur, a truly unforgettable castle with lots of amazing details, it offers a lovely day out for everyone.
Caerphilly Castle is a dominant feature in the town, this impressive structure has a long and interesting history and is considered to be in biggest castle in Wales. It was a strong defence being encircled by a number of moats and watery islands together with its concentric walls within walls that made it difficult to attack. It was also built to be a residence with large and comfortable rooms. It is a huge and formidable structure but inside feels smaller and not as imposing. The views from the top of the tower are wonderful. An intriguing feature of the castle is the leaning tower, it leans even more than Pisa, a wonderful sight. There are many rooms that are still intact, fireplaces and toilets, the Great Hall is wonderful and displays a number of Coats of Arms. One of the rooms contains a mini documentary with another room that gives a brief insight into the history of Caerphilly Castle. The grounds are beautiful and worth taking the time to walk around. Staff are friendly and welcoming, they are knowledgeable and will answer any questions you have on the castle or local area. At certain times they have medieval reenactments and these are fun, and give a good insight into the history of the time. Other events take place throughout the year so worth checking to see what is on. Caerphilly Castle is certainly worth visiting, huge, interesting and lovely views.
Big Pit is one of Britain's best mining museums with educational exhibits. Experience the famous underground tour, meet a genuine miner and wear the real clothes. Big Pit will amuse and inform visitors of all ages, a great day out for all the family!
Llandaff Cathedral is located on one of the oldest Christian sites in Britain, it is in a lovely tranquil and pretty area, near to the banks of the River Taff, an area of preservation. The actual Cathedral can be dated back to 1107, with some parts of the church still remaining from that era, including, the High Altar and doorway that takes you to the St David Chapel. The new West front was constructed around 1220, and is considered to be an important and notable medieval work of art in Wales. There were further additions in the 13th Century namely the Chapter House and Lady Chapel, with further additions and improvements over the years that blend well together. There are elements of the cathedral that can be dated to each century, it is a true architectural delight. Inside there are many lovely architectural features too, a particular highlight is the "Christ in Majesty" statue, equally impressive are the paintings and windows, it is certainly worth taking the time to visit and is open daily. There are volunteers who are happy to take you around and explain the history or you can wander by yourself. Today it continues to act as the main place of worship and service in the Diocese of Llandaff, and with regular services you might get to take part whilst here, or hear the brilliant choir rehearsing. Llandaff Cathedral is certainly worth a visit.
This impressively sited castle overlooking the Tywi estuary has been in the hands of both the Normans and Welsh. Admission is free. Pass a couple of hours in the castle before visiting Llansteffan village for a coffee or a wander around the shops.
Tretower Castle and Court is a largely intact medieval manor house with a ruined castle attached, it has stood here in the gorgeous Cwmdu Valley for more than 900 years, and it has underwent numerous alterations over the years to adapt to the times and changes. It was originally owned by wealthy and prominent families the Picards and Vaughans and then became a working farm for a number of years. The manor house is set around a courtyard and outside there are grounds and beautiful gardens that are well tended and maintained. Today this historic manor house serves as a reminder of times gone past and represents what life would have been like in 1470, there is a suite of rooms where you can see the luxurious and sumptuous furnishings of this time and when there was a vast comparison in wealth and lifestyle between the rich and the poor. You will get a true representation of the way of life in this period from the intricate carved furniture in the great hall, through to the working kitchen that comes complete with pots and pans and you are free to touch and wander round at your own leisure. From Tretower you have the most amazing views of the surrounding countryside. The staff are really friendly and helpful and will answer your questions and show you around the main areas, if you want more information there is a guidebook for sale with all the information you need to know the the property, it is very interesting and informative. For the most part the castle is accessible by all although the cobbled entrance may not be suitable for all. The castle is open most days throughout the year although best to check the website for full details, there is a small entry charge to see the castle but it is reasonable. There is a small gift shop with some nice souvenirs, books, cards and gifts. Tretower Castle and Court is a lovely historic building that everyone will enjoy exploring, definitely worth a visit you will not be disappointed.
Cardiff today is a modern and cosmopolitan city but its beginnings were much different, at The Cardiff Story, you will learn about the city's humble beginnings as a small market town and its growth to a port and the city we see today. Located in the lovely and historic Old Library building you will find a variety of temporary exhibitions that are abundant with stories, artefacts, photographs and descriptive films that narrate the rich history of Cardiff, as well as individuals talking about their works and lives here. There are also interactive features like the Time screen and the rotating Victorian house, 3D map of important buildings, dressing up clothes for the younger children. It is not a large exhibit but, the information here is informative and interesting you will be surprised by what you will learn during your time here. The Story of Cardiff is definitely worth a visit and entry is free, it will appeal to all ages.
Fonmon Castle is one of the few medieval castles still inhabited. It was built in the early 13th century, and has many areas open to the public including the gardens, hall, drawing room, library and kitchen.
St John the Baptist Church has a long history and is one of the oldest churches in Cardiff and next to Cardiff Castle the oldest medieval building in the city. It is a beautiful church with some interesting architectural features, and other items of interest in particular the unusual tomb with statues of the two Herbert brothers, the Willis Organ, the pretty decorated windows, the perpendicular tower and nave. During the summer months you can gain access to the tower where you are afforded views of Cardiff. There is a lovely cafe that is very reasonable and serves great coffee and a selection of light refreshments and cakes, the proceeds being used for the restoration of the church. They hold a number of concerts here at various times so you might be lucky to catch one of these. St John the Baptist Church is worth taking the time to visit if not to enjoy the many features and history but to take in the peace and tranquillity here.
Bronllys Castle is a former Norman fortress that dates back to the thirteenth century and constitutes a round stone keep that is surrounded by a twelfth century motte. The tower is eighty foot tall and contains three floors, if you climb the steep steps you are awarded with superb views over the surrounding countryside. It sits in a prime location that overlooks the junction of two rivers, the Llynfi and Dulais, within a small wood. The purpose of the tower was to protect the main route into the Welsh territory. Bronllys Castle offers a lovely spot to enjoy some nice walks and a picnic on this quiet and tranquil site.
White Castle is actually part of a group of three castles but is the best maintained out of them, the others include Skenfrith and Grosmont. The centre of this castle is enclosed by strong round towers and has a good dry moat. Generally the three castles are referred to together, as at one stage they were all under control of a single lord, Hubert de Burgh. Although the other castles were constructed to serve as residences this is not the case for White Castle, it appears to have been purely for military work. Inside the castle there was a chapel, hall and kitchen but was in no way sumptuous. White Castle is located in a remote setting and offers a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, it is not the easiest place to find though. Entrance is over a bridge and there are fabulous views of the surrounding countryside from the towers and gatehouse, please be aware access is by steps so might not be suitable for everyone. Also please note the castle is not open Monday or Tuesday. There is plenty of information available illustrating the castle's history and available to buy is a booklet on all of the three castles. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable and the introductory talk that the custodian gives is very informative, admission is nominal and only payable in the summer. There are plenty of picnic benches within and outside the castle walls and loads of room for smaller visitors to run around.
Cardiff Castle is a medieval castle and Victorian Gothic renaissance mansion that is positioned in the heart of Cardiff on eight acres, this impressive structure dominates the city's skyline. It was first constructed in the 11th century as a motte and bailey castle. Standing for more than 2000 years it has a long and interesting history that you get to learn about during your time here. Your journey starts at the Interpretation Centre, here you can view the exhibit and watch a film that introduces you to the immense history of the castle. From here you can take your own audio tour, you will get to see the grounds, battlements, wartime tunnels that were used as air raid shelters during World War II, Norman Keep, 15th century Undercroft and the sumptuous Victorian apartments. Or take a guided tour with a friendly and knowledgeable guide, they will talk you through the many fine features, excellent craftsmanship in the plaster and woodwork and opulent murals, stained glass, gilding, furniture and furnishings and much more. The castle is fun for all the family, the children can get involved in the family trail and the younger ones can enjoy dressing up in costumes in the dressing up corner, the Education Centre is interesting and informative. Also here is the Cardiff castle of the Welsh Soldier, get to learn all about the history of these brave soldiers who protected the people of Wales, see lots of memorabilia, such as military uniforms, weapons, medals and much more. There are wonderful views from the Keep and worth the climb up the many steps, beware in some places it is narrow and steep. The cafe is good value and serves a great selection of tasty hot and cold meals and drinks. Throughout the year there are a host of events that take place from medieval Jousting, Shakespeare midsummer evenings and reminiscent Victorian Christmas's, it is worth checking the calendar of events to see what is taking place. Cardiff Castle provides an excellent base to learn history in an interesting and informative way, fun for all ages, it makes for a lovely family day out, take a picnic and enjoy the castle grounds.
Firing line, Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier is hugely inventive and interactive in allowing access to the long and illustrious history of the honoured and outstanding service of the 1st Queens Dragoon Guards and The Royal Welsh, these noble soldiers continue to serve to this day. They were involved in many notable battles including, the Battle of Waterloo 1815, Rorke's Drift against the Zulu's 1879, in addition to recent ones in Iraq and Afghanistan. During the exhibit you will be introduced to these brave and normal people who made the decision to serve and protect the Crown and Country, many carrying out acts of immense bravery. The museum is suitable to all ages and abilities and has wheelchair access. On show here is a fine collection of military uniforms, weapons, medals etc, you can search for past soldiers on their database. There are lots of text on the displays to explain what they are, it is very informative. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable and will answer your questions happily. They have a number of temporary exhibits too, that are frequently changing, so always worth coming back to see what is new. The Firing Line is an interesting and informative exhibition that all ages should find interesting, admission is included with price of the ticket to Cardiff Castle.
St David's Cathedral has a long history and the construction of the original church started in 1839 and finished in 1872, unfortunately, during the air raids in 1941 the Cathedral was destroyed however, it was painstakingly restored and was reopened to its former splendour in 1959. This spectacular Cathedral is in an idyllic setting, with glimpses of Pembroke Bay and approached through a medieval gate. The interior has lots of interesting features and lovely architecture, sloping floor, tombs, little ante rooms, a library and the roof itself is stunning. The Bishop's Castle contains electronic information centres, that provide lots of details on the Cathedral and local area, very informative and interesting. There is lots to explore from the lookout towers, cellars and grand rooms, you could easily pass several hours admiring the Cathedral and grounds, it is lovely and peaceful here. The choir is amazing and not to be missed is Evensong. You might even get to hear the choir practising, a joyous sound. The gift shop has some unusual items and is worth taking time to look around. The St David's Cathedral is definitely worth a visit, it will be interesting to all ages, it is a true historic gem.
