New Tredegar City Guide

About New Tredegar – History and Culture

New Tredegar is a historic mining town located in the Sirhowy Valley of South Wales. It was developed during the 19th century as a direct result of the booming coal and iron industries that transformed the region. The town's layout consists of long rows of terraced housing built for workers, and its streets still echo the industrial heritage.

The community is known for its strong Welsh identity and resilience. Despite the decline of mining, the town has adapted with small businesses and tourism. Cultural traditions such as male voice choirs and rugby remain central to local life. The Welsh language is taught in schools, and the annual Eisteddfodau celebrations showcase local talent.

Today, New Tredegar is a gateway to outdoor adventures in the Brecon Beacons and a symbol of Welsh industrial history. The town’s museums and heritage centres preserve memories of the coal era, while new generations are embracing sustainable tourism and local crafts.

• Elliot Colliery – a former deep mine with a memorial garden.
• Sirhowy Valley Country Park – green space with walking trails.
• Twmbarlwm Hillfort – Iron Age site with spectacular views.
• New Tredegar Library – a community hub with local history archives.
• St. Dingat’s Church – historic place of worship.
• Market Square – traditional town centre with shops and cafes.
• Welsh National Mining Memorial – honoring fallen miners.
• Local heritage trail – self-guided walks through mining history.

Did You Know? – Facts about New Tredegar

New Tredegar is a town of contrasts: steep hills, tight-knit communities, and a proud legacy of hard work. The town sits in the shadow of the Brecon Beacons, offering residents and visitors a unique blend of industrial heritage and natural beauty.

The town has a deep connection to the Rhymney Valley and the wider South Wales coalfield. It was once served by the Rhymney Railway, which connected the valley to Cardiff for export. Despite its small size, New Tredegar has produced notable sportspeople, artists, and musicians.

• New Tredegar is part of the Caerphilly County Borough.
• The town is about 12 miles north of Caerphilly town.
• It lies at an elevation of around 250 metres above sea level.
• The Sirhowy River is a tributary of the Ebbw River.
• Nearby woodlands are home to red kites and peregrine falcons.
• The local rugby club is a focal point for the community.
• Famous former residents include Welsh international rugby players.
• The town has a microbrewery that produces traditional ales.
• Annual carnival attracts thousands of visitors.
• The area is popular for mountain biking and hiking.
• New Tredegar has a vibrant community arts scene.
• The town has a strong tradition of male voice choirs.
• Local church bells ring out on special occasions.
• The mining memorial is visited by families from across Wales.
• New Tredegar was once a terminus for the Rhymney Railway branch.

Geography and Climate of New Tredegar

New Tredegar is situated in the Sirhowy Valley, one of the many valleys radiating from the South Wales coalfield. The town is flanked by steep hillsides, with the Sirhowy River flowing through its centre. The landscape is a mix of urban settlement, reclaimed colliery sites, and wooded slopes. The larger Brecon Beacons National Park lies to the north, offering dramatic scenery.

Climate in New Tredegar is temperate maritime, with cool summers and mild winters. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed, though the valley can be wetter than nearby lowlands. Snowfall is occasional but can cause disruption on steep roads. The area’s elevation results in slightly cooler temperatures than Cardiff. Spring and autumn are the best seasons for outdoor activities, with clear skies and mild temperatures.

• Elevation: approx. 250 m (820 ft) above sea level
• Average summer high: 19°C (66°F)
• Average winter low: 2°C (36°F)
• Annual rainfall: about 1,200 mm (47 inches)
• Nearest major city: Cardiff, 25 miles south
• Surrounding hills: Twmbarlwm, Mynydd y Lan, Cefn yr Ystrad
• Nearby forests: Sirhowy Valley Country Park, Cwmcarn Forest
• The Sirhowy River is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for its wildlife.

Things to Do in New Tredegar

Though small, New Tredegar offers a range of activities that appeal to history buffs, nature lovers, and families. The town’s location makes it a perfect base for exploring the wider Welsh countryside.

Food & Dining

New Tredegar has a selection of traditional pubs, cafes, and takeaways serving classic British and Welsh dishes. Local specialities include Welsh cakes, cawl (lamb stew), and fresh seafood from the coast. Many establishments source ingredients from local farms.

In recent years, a small artisan food scene has emerged, with a bakery and a deli offering local cheeses and charcuterie. The town also hosts occasional food markets and street food events in summer.

• Welsh rarebit at the local pub
• Bara brith (fruit loaf) at the bakery
• Cawl (lamb and leek stew) – a valley tradition
• Glamorgan sausages (cheese and leek) – vegetarian option
• Fresh trout from nearby rivers
• Real ales from local microbreweries
• Afternoon tea at the community cafe
• Sunday roast at the Tredegar Arms
• Fish and chips from the local chippy
• Welsh cakes with butter
• Laverbread (seaweed) – for adventurous eaters
• Local lamb and mint sauce
• Artisan Welsh cheeses at the deli

Festivals & Events

New Tredegar’s calendar is filled with community events that celebrate its heritage and Welsh culture. The annual summer carnival is the highlight, featuring parades, live music, and family activities. Smaller events include the local Eisteddfod, a festival of poetry, music, and performance.

Other events include the Christmas lights switch-on with a festive market, the St. David’s Day parade in March, and the Sirhowy Valley walking festival in spring. The rugby club also hosts social events throughout the year.

• New Tredegar Carnival (July) – floats, stalls, fireworks
• Eisteddfod local (various dates) – arts competition
• St. David’s Day celebrations (1st March) – parade and concerts
• Sirhowy Valley Walking Festival (May) – guided walks
• Christmas market and lights switch-on (December)
• Remembrance Day parade – honouring fallen miners
• Rugby club open days and tournaments
• Summer music nights at local pubs
• Harvest festival at St. Dingat’s Church
• New Year’s Eve ceilidh at the community centre

Cultural Attractions

New Tredegar has several sites that showcase its industrial past and Welsh identity. The local heritage centre holds artefacts from the mining era, including tools, photographs, and personal stories. The town also has a small art gallery featuring work by local artists.

A short drive away, you can visit the Big Pit National Coal Museum in Blaenavon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or the recreated Victorian village at Rhymney. Back in town, you can explore the mining memorial and the Sirhowy Valley Country Park, which includes a sculpture trail.

• New Tredegar Heritage Centre – photos and mining relics
• Sirhowy Valley Country Park – sculptures and nature trails
• Elliot Colliery Memorial Garden – peaceful reflection
• Twmbarlwm hillfort – ancient history and views
• St. Dingat’s Church – 19th-century architecture
• Local library – regular exhibitions on local history
• Nearby Cwmcarn Forest – mountain biking and activities

Outdoor Activities

The hills and forests around New Tredegar are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Walking, hiking, and mountain biking are the most popular activities, with well-marked trails ranging from easy riverside strolls to challenging climbs. The Sirhowy Valley Country Park offers circular routes, while the nearby Brecon Beacons provide more strenuous hikes.

For cyclists, the Cwmcarn Forest downhill trails are famous across the UK. Fishing is available on the Sirhowy River (with permits), and the area is also good for birdwatching. In winter, the higher ground occasionally gets snow, attracting sledging and snowshoeing.

• Sirhowy Valley Walk – 6-mile riverside trail
• Twmbarlwm climb – steep ascent with Roman hillfort
• Brecon Beacons day hikes – Pen y Fan, Corn Du
• Cwmcarn Forest bike trails – green, red, and black routes
• Fishing on the Sirhowy – permits at local tackle shop
• Horse riding at local stables
• Birdwatching at Sirhowy Valley Country Park – red kites, buzzards
• Geocaching – several caches around the town
• Mountain biking at Bryn Bach Park (5 miles)
• Kayaking on the Sirhowy (when water levels allow)
• Orienteering events in the valley
• Hill running – popular among local athletes

Economy and Key Industries

Historically, New Tredegar’s economy was dominated by coal mining and heavy industry. The closure of the last deep mine in the late 20th century led to significant unemployment and a need for diversification. Today, the economy is largely based on small businesses, retail, tourism, and public services. Many residents commute to larger towns like Caerphilly, Newport, and Cardiff for work.

The service sector is the largest employer, including healthcare, education, and local government. There is a growing tourism sector, leveraging the area’s natural beauty and industrial heritage. Small-scale manufacturing and construction also provide jobs. The town has a modest retail offering, with convenience stores, a pharmacy, and a supermarket.

Key challenges include a relatively low average wage and limited high-skilled employment opportunities. However, regeneration projects and remote working trends are bringing new life. The town is part of the Caerphilly County Borough’s economic development plan, which focuses on tourism, green energy, and digital connectivity.

• Public sector: local council, NHS, schools – major employers
• Tourism: heritage trails, accommodations, and outdoor activity providers
• Retail: small shops, supermarket, bakery, butchers
• Construction: local building firms and property maintenance
• Healthcare: GP surgery, dental practice, community health centre
• Education: primary schools, secondary school in nearby Rhymney
• Transport: bus services, taxi firms
• Creative industries: local artists and craftspeople
• Remote work: increasing number of home-based professionals
• Farming: sheep and cattle farming in surrounding hills

Where to Live in New Tredegar

New Tredegar offers a mix of terraced houses, semi-detached homes, and some ex-council properties. The town centre is compact, with most amenities within walking distance. The surrounding hills provide scenic views, and many homes have gardens or access to green space. The housing stock is generally Victorian or Edwardian, with modern builds on the periphery.

Popular residential areas include the ‘Top Town’ around Commercial Street and the lower part of the valley near the Sirhowy River. The area is quiet and family-friendly, with low crime rates compared to larger towns. Community spirit is strong, and neighbours often know each other.

For those who prefer a more rural setting, there are outlying hamlets and farms within a few miles. Commuting is common to Cardiff, Newport, or Cwmbran, where job opportunities are more plentiful. House prices in New Tredegar are significantly lower than the Welsh average, making it an attractive option for first-time buyers.

• Commercial Street area: central, close to shops and bus stop
• Woodfieldside: newer development with larger homes
• Deri Road: terraced houses with mountain views
• Highfields: quiet residential street near park
• Ynysddu: adjacent village with additional amenities
• Pontllanfraith: nearby village with leisure facilities
• Rural lanes: farms and isolated cottages for privacy
• River frontage: homes along the Sirhowy (rare)
• New Tredegar village centre: flats above shops
• Top Town vs. Bottom Town: different elevations have distinct character
• New builds at Brynawel: modern 3-bed semi-detached
• Ex-council houses: often larger rooms and gardens
• Victorian terraces: high ceilings, original features

Formalities and Visas in New Tredegar

For those moving to New Tredegar from outside the UK, visa requirements depend on nationality. Citizens of the EU, EEA, and Switzerland need to apply under the UK’s points-based immigration system. Non-EEA nationals typically require a visa for work, study, or family reunion. The Home Office website provides full details.

International visitors to New Tredegar can enter for up to 6 months without a visa if they are from visa-exempt countries (e.g., UK, Canada, Australia, Japan). For stays longer than 6 months, a visa is required. It’s advisable to check current rules as they can change.

Settling in New Tredegar requires registration with the local council for council tax and utilities. EU nationals who were resident before 31 December 2020 should have applied for the EU Settlement Scheme. Biometric Residence Permits are issued for non-EEA long-term visas. The nearest visa application centres are in Cardiff or Newport.

• EU/EEA nationals: EU Settlement Scheme – deadline passed but later applications may be accepted in some cases
• Skilled Worker visa: job offer from UK employer required
• Student visa: for full-time courses at registered institutions
• Family visa: for spouses, children, dependent relatives
• Visitor visa: for up to 6 months (no work allowed)
• Youth Mobility Scheme: for some young Commonwealth citizens
• Indefinite Leave to Remain: after 5 years of residence (subject to criteria)
• British citizenship: after ILR and meeting residence requirements
• Biometric residence permit: collected at designated post office
• Contact: Caerphilly County Borough Council for local registration
• nearest UKVI office: Cardiff (by appointment)

Working in New Tredegar

The job market in New Tredegar is limited in range, but opportunities exist in healthcare, education, retail, and tourism. Many residents work in the public sector, including the local hospital, GP surgeries, and schools. The local council employs administrative and social care staff. There are also jobs in construction and trades, especially in property renovation and small building projects.

For professional careers, commuting to Cardiff or Newport is common. Cardiff offers a diverse job market in finance, media, technology, and government. The M4 corridor provides access to many corporate headquarters. Remote work has become more prevalent, allowing some people to stay in the valleys while working for companies based elsewhere.

The average salary in the area is slightly below the UK average, but the cost of living is also lower. Self-employment is not uncommon, especially among tradespeople and artists. The town has a small but supportive business community.

• Healthcare jobs: nurses, care workers, admin – NHS/private
• Education: teaching assistants, teachers (limited local schools)
• Retail: shop assistants, managers – local stores
• Hospitality: pub staff, cafe workers, B&B owners
• Construction: builders, electricians, plumbers
• Professional services: accounting, law – mostly in Cardiff
• Remote/IT: digital marketing, software development, customer support
• Tourism: guides, activity instructors, accommodation hosts
• Transport: bus drivers, taxi drivers
• Voluntary sector: charities and community groups (sometimes paid)
• Average salary (full-time): around £25,000–£30,000
• Working culture: friendly, informal, strong community ties

Studying in New Tredegar

New Tredegar has a primary school (Ysgol Gymraeg Tredegar Newydd) and a secondary school in nearby Rhymney (Rhymney Comprehensive). For further education, learners travel to colleges in Caerphilly, Merthyr Tydfil, or Crosskeys. The University of South Wales, Cardiff University, and Cardiff Metropolitan University are within commuting distance for higher education.

The town itself has a library and a community centre offering adult education classes, including Welsh language courses, computer skills, and arts and crafts. Vocational training in construction and care is available at local colleges.

Student life in the wider area is vibrant, with Cardiff known for its nightlife and student culture. Many students choose to live in Cardiff during term time, but some commute from the valleys to save money.

• Primary school: Ysgol Gymraeg Tredegar Newydd (Welsh medium) and English medium options
• Secondary school: Rhymney Comprehensive School (approx. 2 miles)
• Further education: Coleg y Cymoedd (Ynysddu campus), Merthyr Tydfil College
• Higher education: University of South Wales (Pontypridd/Cardiff), Cardiff University, Cardiff Met
• Adult learning: community classes in IT, languages, crafts
• Welsh language classes: available at community centre and online
• Library: study space, free Wi-Fi, access to resources
• Distance learning: many students study with Open University
• School term dates: consistent with Caerphilly LEA
• Bursaries: some support for low-income students (via colleges)
• Public transport: buses connect to colleges; train from nearby stations
• Student accommodation: mainly private rented in Cardiff; limited in New Tredegar
• Part-time work: students often find jobs in retail or hospitality

Finance and Banks in New Tredegar

Banking services in New Tredegar are limited. There is no high-street bank branch in the town. The nearest branches are in Bargoed (3 miles) or Caerphilly (8 miles). ATM machines are available at local shops and a small bank hub operates part-time. Many residents use online banking or travel to nearby towns for in-person services.

Digital payment methods are widely accepted in most shops and cafes. For international transfers, services like Wise or Revolut are popular. The currency is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). Taxation is handled by HMRC, and local council tax is collected by Caerphilly County Borough Council.

• Banks: no branch in town; nearest Barclays, HSBC, NatWest in Bargoed or Caerphilly
• Cash points: 2 ATMs (one at post office, one at convenience store)
• Online banking: widely used – mobile apps preferred
• Digital wallets: Apple Pay, Google Pay accepted in most places
• Currencies: GBP only – exchange at airports or banks in Cardiff
• Tax system: Income tax, NI, VAT – typical UK rates
• Council tax: bands A to I, average band D about £1,600 per year
• Housing costs: mortgage or rent – typical rent £400–£700 per month
• Insurance: home, car, travel – available online or via brokers
• Investment/wealth: limited local advice; use Cardiff advisors
• Remittance: Wise, Revolut, Western Union for international sending
• Local credit union: possibly Caerphilly & District Credit Union

Health Care in New Tredegar

Healthcare in New Tredegar is provided by the National Health Service (NHS) Wales. There is one GP surgery in the town: New Tredegar Health Centre, offering medical consultations, nursing services, and minor treatments. For more serious issues, patients are referred to Ysbyty Ystrad Fawr (hospital in Ystrad Mynach) or the Royal Glamorgan Hospital in Llantrisant.

Dental services are available in nearby towns; there are no NHS dentists currently accepting new patients in New Tredegar itself. A pharmacy in the town centre provides prescriptions and over-the-counter advice. For emergencies, dial 999 for ambulance. The local health board is Aneurin Bevan University Health Board.

• GP surgery: New Tredegar Health Centre (NHS) – book appointments online
• Hospital: Ysbyty Ystrad Fawr (7 miles) – A&E, maternity, outpatient
• Dentist: limited NHS capacity – try Bargoed or Caerphilly
• Pharmacy: Rowlands Pharmacy on Commercial Street
• Optician: branch in Bargoed (Specsavers, Vision Express)
• Mental health: community mental health team (via GP referral)
• Emergency: call 999 for ambulance; nearest A&E at Royal Glamorgan (13 miles)
• Sexual health: clinic in Caerphilly
• Vaccinations: at GP surgery or local health centre
• Private healthcare: available in Cardiff or Newport
• Health insurance: many take private for faster access (e.g., Bupa, AXA)
• Health board: Aneurin Bevan University Health Board

Accommodation in New Tredegar

Accommodation in New Tredegar consists mainly of traditional terraced houses built for miners, plus some semi-detached and detached homes. There are a few flats above shops. For visitors, there are no large hotels, but several bed and breakfasts and self-catering cottages operate. A new holiday let has opened near the country park.

Renting is common, with monthly rents for a 2-bedroom terraced house ranging from £350 to £600. Buying is affordable, with average house prices around £80,000–£120,000. The market is slower than Cardiff, so bargaining may be possible.

• Renting: private landlords; agency fees capped at 1 month rent
• Buying: cheap compared to UK average; mortgage from local banks
• Social housing: limited supply – apply via Caerphilly Council
• Short-term: holiday lets (Airbnb) available – about £50-80 per night
• B&Bs: 2-3 in town; one on Commercial Street

Planning Your Move to New Tredegar

Moving to New Tredegar requires preparation, especially if coming from abroad. It’s essential to arrange housing before arrival, as the rental market moves quickly. Schools should be contacted in advance for school places. The local council provides information on waste services, parking permits, and council tax.

Healthcare registration with a GP is straightforward but can take a few weeks. Bank accounts can be opened with proof of address (utility bill or rental agreement). Setting up utilities (electricity, gas, water) is easy through comparison websites. Internet speeds are decent, with fibre available in most areas.

• Housing: search Rightmove, Zoopla, or local estate agents
• Schools: contact Caerphilly LEA for place allocations
• Utilities: choose from national suppliers (British Gas, Scottish Power, etc.)
• Broadband: Openreach fibre to cabinet (FTTC) – speeds up to 80 Mbps
• TV licence: required for live TV – about £159 per year
• Council tax: register with Caerphilly CBC within 21 days
• GP registration: visit surgery with proof of address and NHS number if already held
• Bank account: some banks need a UK address; Monzo and Starling are good online options
• Driving licence: exchange foreign licence for UK one within 12 months
• Visa: must be sorted before arrival
• Insurance: home, contents, and health insurance – compare online
• Community: join local Facebook groups for advice and events
• Pets: microchipping and registration with local vet

Leisure in New Tredegar

Leisure activities in New Tredegar are centred on the outdoors, community, and pubs. The town has a few pubs and a social club that host live music, quiz nights, and karaoke. For shopping, the town has a Co-op supermarket, a butcher, a baker, and a greengrocer. For a wider selection, Bargoed or Caerphilly are within a short drive.

Nightlife is quiet; there are no nightclubs. However, the area is popular for stargazing due to low light pollution. The Sirhowy Valley Country Park is a great spot for a evening walk. Several community groups organise film screenings, bingo, and craft fairs.

• Pubs: The Tredegar Arms, The Sirhowy Hotel, The Railway Inn
• Social club: New Tredegar Workingmen's Club
• Restaurants: Indian and Chinese takeaways, fish and chips, pizza
• Shopping: Co-op, Spar, Sunday market monthly
• Entertainment: community cinema at the hall (occasional)
• Outdoor leisure: walking, cycling, fishing, golf (nearby Bargoed)

Transportation Options in New Tredegar

New Tredegar is a car-dependent town, though there are bus services connecting it to nearby towns. The main bus service is Stagecoach’s number 48/49 to Bargoed and Caerphilly, with connections to Cardiff. The town has no rail station; the nearest station is in Bargoed (3 miles) for trains to Cardiff and Rhymney. Cardiff Airport is about 35 miles away, with flights to UK and European destinations.

Roads in the valley are winding and narrow in places. The A4049 runs through the town, linking to the A469 and A470 trunk roads. Parking is mostly on-street, with a small car park near the health centre. Cycling is becoming more popular, but dedicated cycle lanes are limited.

• Bus: Stagecoach routes 48/49 (every 30 min daytime) – to Bargoed, Caerphilly, Cardiff
• Train: Bargoed station (3 miles) – Valley Lines to Cardiff Central (45 min)
• Airport: Cardiff Airport (CWL) – 1 hour by car; also Bristol Airport (1.5 hr)
• Roads: A4049, A469, A470 – M4 junction 28 is 17 miles via A467
• Taxi: Silver Kabs, Valley Cabs – book by phone
• Cycling: limited infrastructure but quiet lanes suitable
• Walking: Good for walking in town; pavements on main roads

Everyday Life in New Tredegar

Life in New Tredegar is slow-paced and community-oriented. The streets are generally safe, and people are friendly. Shops close by 5:30 pm except the Co-op which is open later. The town has a strong sense of identity, with many residents born and raised in the valley. Welsh culture is evident in the language use and community events.

Public services include a library, a post office, a community centre, and a leisure centre in nearby Rhymney. The cost of living is low, but amenities are basic. For more diverse entertainment, one must travel to larger towns. The surrounding natural beauty is a major advantage, with many opportunities for outdoor recreation.

• Safety: very low crime; predominantly residential
• Community: active Facebook groups, Neighborhood Watch
• Shops: basic essentials – larger supermarkets in Bargoed
• Post office: on Commercial Street (open Mon-Sat)
• Library: small but with internet access, events
• Wi-Fi: free at library; home broadband widely available
• Mobile coverage: 4G on main networks (EE, O2, Vodafone, Three)
• Weekly routine: weekend trips to Cardiff or coast is common

Cost of Living in New Tredegar

The cost of living in New Tredegar is significantly lower than the UK average. Housing is the biggest saving: a 3-bed terraced house might cost only £85,000. Rent for a similar property is around £450-£550 per month. Utility bills, including gas, electricity, and water, are typical for the UK, but older homes may need more heating.

Groceries are affordable, with local supermarkets often cheaper than big chains. Transport costs are reasonable if you drive, but bus fares to Cardiff are about £5 return. Council tax is relatively low. Overall, a single person can live comfortably on £1,200 per month, excluding rent.

• Housing: rent £350-£700 pcm; buy £70k-£150k
• Utilities: £150-£250 pcm (gas/electric/water)
• Council tax: band D approx. £1,600 per year
• Groceries: £200-£300 pcm for one person
• Transport: bus pass £60 per month; car expenses (fuel, insurance, tax) about £150-£250 per month
• Dining out: main meal in pub £10-£15
• Healthcare: free at point of use (NHS)
• Childcare: typical £50-£60 per day
• Full-time minimum wage: approx. £1,600 net per month

Places to Visit in New Tredegar

New Tredegar may be small, but its surroundings are packed with attractions. The town itself offers the Sirhowy Valley Country Park, a beautiful green space with sculptures and a river walk. The Elliot Colliery memorial is a poignant reminder of the town’s mining past. For panoramic views, climb Twmbarlwm, an Iron Age hillfort with breathtaking 360-degree vistas.

A short drive away, the Big Pit National Coal Museum in Blaenavon lets you descend into a real underground mine. The Blaenavon World Heritage Site also includes ironworks and a historic landscape. For family fun, Bryn Bach Park in Tredegar has a lake, watersports, and a miniature railway.

Further afield, the Brecon Beacons National Park offers hiking, waterfalls, and caves. The market town of Abergavenny is famous for its food festival and castle. Caerphilly Castle, the largest castle in Wales, is just 8 miles south and is a must-see.

Cardiff, the Welsh capital, is 25 miles away, with its cultural venues, Cardiff Bay, and shopping. The Gower Peninsula and the Welsh coast are reachable for day trips. New Tredegar’s central location in South Wales makes it a great base for exploration.

• Sirhowy Valley Country Park – free entry, walking trails, sculptures
• Twmbarlwm Hillfort – parking at base, steep but rewarding hike
• Elliot Colliery Memorial – poignant mining history site
• Big Pit National Coal Museum (Blaenavon, 10 miles) – underground tour, free entry
• Blaenavon World Heritage Site – ironworks, heritage railway
• Bryn Bach Park (Tredegar, 4 miles) – lake, cycling, miniature train
• Caerphilly Castle (8 miles) – largest castle in Wales, moat, leaning tower
• Brecon Beacons National Park (15 miles) – Pen y Fan, waterfalls
• Cyfarthfa Castle (Merthyr Tydfil, 10 miles) – museum and park
• St Fagans National Museum of History (near Cardiff, 20 miles) – open-air museum
• Cardiff Bay (25 miles)