You’re making a big mistake if you stay on theM4 as it whisks you through South Wales. It’snot that I have anything against motorways,you understand. But just off the M4, thingsare different. It’s the land of another people, acocktail of close communities known as TheValleys.

In historical terms, Valleys people are notindigenous, coming as they did from differentregions and countries to work in the iron andcoal industries. Cawl is a nourishing Welsh brothof many ingredients. What a wholesome ‘cawl’they are, the Welsh Valleys tribe, divided intorival communities, yet each standing side-by-sidein a common cause and lifestyle like colourfulpatches on the quilt, woven and sewn together.

If The Valleys region begins beside the M4, itends at another clearly defined boundary alongthe A465 ‘Heads of The Valleys’ road (thoughthe pedantic ex-schoolteacher in me has topoint out that the region also includes thewesterly Amman and Gwendraeth Valleys inCarmarthenshire). But the road, more or less,marks the northern edge of theMagic Kingdom.

It’s dangerous to name each valley in turn,because they have all made their own historicalmark. Collectively, they present an indelibleimage. On the other side of Offa’s Dyke it isoften perceived that all Welsh people comefrom ‘The Valleys’. Whether you are born inMumbles, Ceredigion, Aberystwyth or BlaenauFfestiniog, in the minds of many you’re Welsh(correct) and from The Valleys (wrong).

Genealogy is fashionable these days, andfollowing research, my blood mix takes indeepest Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire,

Cornwall and Suffolk. That is long ago history.The recent past and present mark me down asa pure-bred Valleys boy. I love the tribe. As aspecies we are open, inquisitive, friendly,warm, convivial, vocal, emotional, caring… ifonly we could be humble we’d crack it! Alright,there are a few rough edges here and there,but deep intellect and vibrancy too.

The area between those highways is a specialplace. Fly in a helicopter over The Valleys fromeast to west and you will see this place in allits wonder. It’s a vast range of rural moorland,cut at regular intervals with north to southincisions. It’s down in those deep clefts thatthe tribe lives, each section in its patch, stillvibrant, still full of potential and still a special,special breed. It’s a great place to come from,a welcoming place to return to and a goodplace to be.

I still have the T-shirt (a ‘manly’ size 46)stamped with ‘Valleys Boy’. I'm comfortablein it.

From the heart

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Broadcaster, raconteur and all-round Valleys man – or is that boy?Roy Noble sets the scene for our look at the ‘Heart and Soul’ of Wales.

Did you know?The Coal House, BBC Wales’living history series is filmedat Blaenavon Ironworkswww.bbc.co.uk/coalhouse

Here’s How It WorksWe don't go in for over-the-top flowery descriptions in this publication. We’ve presented TheValleys as simply and honestly as we can, dividing the guide into sections based on variousthemes, at the end of which we list detailed information on things to see and do and places tovisit. We hope you’ll find it’s helpful in planning your ideal short break or holiday whether stayingwith family and friends or booking accommodation.

Croeso Bienvenue Welkom Willkommen

Wales would be a bit flat without The Valleys 4-5More ups and downs 6-7Soul music by Jonathan Davies 8-9Industrial Evolution 10-11We know where you’re coming from 12-13Green scene 14-15A tasty part of Wales 16-17Talking heads, tall tales 18-19What’s happening 20-21It’s all in the stars 22Accommodation listing 23-37Attractions and activities 38-43Take your pick 44-45So easy to get to 46-47Quirky facts & Tourist Information Centres 48

Copy by Writerog Ltd (Roger Thomas Freelance Services)

We’re not talking just about the scenery. TheValleys is a big-hearted part of Wales with aneven bigger personality. Our story has shapedthe nation – Wales simply wouldn’t be thesame without us. If you’ve not visited us beforeyou’re missing out on a big experience in thebirthplace of modern Wales.

Industrial heritage is just part of that story.In fact, the coal mines of old have long sincegone, to be replaced by country and forestparks (yes, we know it’s a bit of a cliché, butwe really are green again).

What hasn’t changed is that unique Valleyscharacter, born of a strong sense of community,pride and passion, warmth and wit. We call itthe ‘Heart and Soul of Wales’. You’ll experienceit everywhere – in shops, pubs and restaurants,at festivals and events, and in conversationswith complete strangers (though you won’t bea stranger for long in this famously friendlypart of Wales).

Then there’s the way we look. With vales youget hills and mountains. In our case, lots ofthem, creating a restless, roller-coasterlandscape of ups and downs that – to first-timevisitors who don’t know us – is surprisinglygreen and fresh. We had our IndustrialRevolution. That’s now history. The energynow lies elsewhere. The Valleys of the 21stcentury will inspire you to get out into theGreat Outdoors, go walking, cycling andwildlife watching. So bring plenty of your ownenergy too. As well as those hills and mountainswe have Wales’s largest concentration ofcountry parks (they’re absolutely everywhere).

Not to mention the biggest urban forest parkin the UK...

Feet firstWe’re talking walking. The Valleys was madefor it. Our walks come in all shapes and sizes –long, point-to-point treks across mountaintopsfor serious walkers, easy, circular low-levelpaths for families. And it’s walking with apurpose. As well as those splendid views,many walks have themes based on our uniquelandscape and heritage. You can follow in thefootsteps of ironmakers and miners(everywhere), explore a World Heritage Site(at Blaenavon) or trace the routes oftramways and the world’s first steam train(from Merthyr Tydfil).

Wales would be a bit flatwithout The Valleys

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Wales Valleys Walking Festival,4-19 September 2010You’ll have gathered that we’re pretty keenon walking – so much so that we organise aWalking Festival that gets bigger and bettereach year. It features a great choice ofguided walks for all interests and abilities.And we do it Valleys-style, with friendly,knowledgeable guides who love to talk aswell as walk. www.thevalleys.co.uk

Duke’s Table Walking

Afan Forest Blaenavon

Afan Forest Park‘Urban’ is perhaps the wrong description. ‘Alpine’ better sums up the woods that clothe thesteep-sided Afan Valley. We don’t need to sell the Afan Forest to mountain bikers. They alreadyknow all about its world-class offroad credentials, up there with Chamonix, California andKathmandu according to Mountain Bike Rider magazine. Afan’s 100-plus miles of trails andswooping singletracks include The Wall (enough said) and Skyline, a 29-mile biking adventurethat’s a big day out in anyone’s books. But you don’t have to be a macho MTB downhill hero.Afan also includes gentle, family-friendly trails. And for those who prefer two (or four legs)to a pair of muddy tyres, there’s also wonderfully woody walking and horse riding. And fishing.And two visitor centres with great cafés. Who said forests are boring? www.afanforestpark.co.uk

Bwlch Y Clawdd, Rhondda Cynon Taff

More ups and downs

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Champion cyclist Nicole Cooke is a big fan of The Valleys – she says that our hills (quite steep inparts), vales (not steep at all) and scenery (quite breathtaking) make us one of her favouritetraining grounds. That’s a rock-solid recommendation from someone who has all of the Alps tochoose from.Activities have always been high on ouragenda. The Valleys is full of go-do activities,including all kinds of adrenaline sports, laid-backcanal cruising, great golf, fishing and horseriding. And we have the facilities to match,with activity and sporting centres that extendthe usual warm-hearted Valleys welcome toexperts and novices.

Mountain bikingCwmcarn Forest Park is just one of our manyMTB hot spots. There are also miles of thrill-a-minute all-weather singletracks and downhillsin Parc Bryn Bach and Gethin Woodland Park.Plus endless exhilarating riding on naturalterrain across our hills, moors and mountains.

FishingGone fishing in The Valleys? Then we mightn’tsee you for some time. Water isn’t in shortsupply – we have over 35 rivers, lakes,streams, canals and ponds. Neither are thefish. Excellent fishing is one of those unexpectedValleys activities. Visiting anglers are invariablysurprised by the quality and quantity of ourgame and coarse fishing. At one time, fishinghere was a ‘best-kept secret’. Not any longer...

GolfThe Ryder Cup will be played just a short puttaway from us at Celtic Manor Resort, Newport,in 2010. If you’re coming, make sure that youadd on a few days to sample ‘golf as it shouldbe’, Valleys-style – which means golf playedin friendly surroundings, convenient tee-times,unhurried courses and unstuffy clubhouses.In and around The Valleys you’ll find 30-oddcourses ranging from mighty big hitters tointimate nine-holers, spectacular mountaintopgreens to testing parkland fairways. It’s allneatly packaged if you choose a one-stop-shopthat will ‘mix and match’ golf courses andaccommodation. Take a look at operators likethese: www.greensofsouthernwales.comwww.valleystourism.com

Merthyr’s catch of the dayThe environmental transformation of The Valleys once again hit the headlines whenMerthyr Tydfil played host to the prestigious Rivers International Fly-Fishing Championshipin 2009. Nowadays, you can fish the River Taff all the way down to Cardiff Bay, helped bya £½-million fish pass for salmon and trout. It’s just one of Merthyr’s many angling assets.The Pontsticill, Dolygaer and Upper Neuadd reservoirs, beautifully set in the foothills of theBrecon Beacons, are popular and productive game and coarse fishing venues, while thetown’s Cyfarthfa Park Lake is one of a number of local ponds offering good coarse catches.

Pontypool Golf Course

‘I race all over Britain, but when it comes to training I have itall here right on my doorstep and think it’s about time thateveryone knew what a spectacular backdrop The Valleys isfor cyclists – both those interested in leisure and others alittle more serious about the sport.’Manon Carpenter, Caerphilly.Female Welsh Downhill Mountain Bike Champion

Afan Forest Park

Fishing at Garn Lakes Cycling in Afan Forest Caerphilly Castle Aberdulais Falls

Soul music

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What makes The Valleys so special? Ask anyone in the know and they’ll tell you that the answerlies in the people. They’re the beating heart of our ‘Heart and Soul’. Here are the thoughts ofJonathan Davies, 47, rugby legend and BBC TV sports presenter. He’s a Valleys boy throughand through. But before you read any further, perhaps we should explain that, like all the locals,he aligns himself first and foremost with his home community – in his case Trimsaran, a smallvillage in the Gwendraeth Valley, South-west Wales.

‘I’m a Trimsaran boy.If anyone asks mewhere I’m from I tellthem that. It’s where Igrew up and it’s whereI’m proud of. I had anormal childhood witha great bunch of lads.

We played cricket, rugby and football in thewoods, in the streets and in the fields.

‘Trimsaran was a typical village of about 1,500people and four council estates. Everyoneseemed to know everyone else. The villagewas always a great support for me and myfamily through good times and bad times.’

The hub of the village was the rugby club. Mydad, who worked in Trostre steelworks, wasthe captain. I played for the team too at thestart of my career. If I hadn’t played first-classrugby I’d have stayed playing for them. Theone regret I maybe have is that I never wentback and captained the team. There was agreat friendship and a great rivalry betweenneighbouring villages. Kidwelly was only threemiles away, then you had Burry Port, Pembrey,Pontyates – they all had their rugby clubs.

Most of the men in the village worked in theCynheidre colliery, the steelworks or the localwashery. I’m from a council estate that over-looked a massive open-cast coalmine. Beforethe open-cast came it was a big ForestryCommission plantation and I remember ridingaround it on my bike and sliding down the coaltips on zinc sheets. Later on, when I was about20, I worked as a labourer on the open cast.

What’s happened since is amazing. It’s nowback to green again as the new Ffos LasRacecourse, a fabulous venue that’s fantasticnews for the local community. When I visitedfor the first time the doorman on the marqueewas Paul Thomas from the village, who hadplayed rugby with my dad and me. They evennamed a part of the racecourse after me –the Jonathan Davies Grandstand – which Iregard as a great honour.

There are some beautiful parts to The Valleys.But it’s the culture and richness of the peoplethat really counts. The camaraderie is specialbecause you’re a close community and you gothrough thick and thin together. Valleys peopleare very generous too. That’s evident when I docharity events and things like Children in Need.

I’ve lived all over the place, in Liverpool,Manchester, Sydney and on the Barrier Reef.But I missed the humour and the dry wit ofThe Valleys. And, whoever you are, Valleyspeople will keep your feet firmly on the ground.’

As told to Roger Thomas

Build it and they will comeThis famous quote, taken from the film Fieldof Dreams, could well be the motto of thenew Ffos Las Racecourse at Trimsaran. FfosLas is an icon for the changing face of TheValleys. It’s built on what was Europe’s largestopen-cast coalmine (though you’d neverknow it). This fabulous 600-acre course, in amagnificent setting surrounded by rolling hills,is now a venue for top-class National Huntand Flat racing. Opened in June 2009, its£30 million world-class track and facilitiesare already a big hit with competitors andspectators.

www.ffoslasracecourse.com Jockies

Local knowledgeGreen Badge guides have the key to The Valleys. They know and love their local areas –and also love sharing that information with visitors. To see it all from a Valleysperspective go to www.wotga.com and click on ‘Find a Guide’.

Ffos Las Racecourse

We had our revolution a few hundred yearsago when The Valleys became the powerhouseof the nation. The talk nowadays is of evolutionand a post-industrial age in which we are beingseen in a very different light. Reminders ofbygone times are still with us in the shape ofcompelling heritage attractions that recreatethe days of coal, iron and steel. But that’s justa part of who we are and what we offer.

We have attractions of all kinds – more, weguarantee, than you’ll have time to visit all inone go. Did you know, for example, that we’rehome to one of Europe’s biggest and bestmedieval castles (it’s smack in the middle ofCaerphilly – you can’t miss it)? Or a scenicnarrow-gauge railway where you hop on inMerthyr Tydfil and hop off in the heart of theBrecon Beacons? Or western Europe’s largestshowcaves complex, at Dan yr Ogof? Or a‘waterfall country’ in the Vale of Neath that’sgushingly beautiful? Or one of Britain’sspookiest houses, 17th-century LlancaiachFawr near Nelson, star of the Most HauntedTV series?

Get the picture? We’re also full of familyattractions, adventure parks and museumswhere you’ll be amused, bemused and highlyentertained. Some are highbrow, others aregreat fun, some are family-focused, othersmore for the culture vultures out there.

Yesterday, today and tomorrowWe’re proud of our past – and like sharing itsmemories with our visitors. The guides at BigPit National Coal Museum are ex-miners, soyou’re in safe hands when they take youunderground. Big Pit was one of the reasonswhy Blaenavon became a World Heritage Site,a status it shares with places like the Taj Mahaland Great Wall of China.

Other must-visit reminders of our industrialpast scattered across The Valleys includeAberdare’s Cynon Valley Museum, the WindingHouse in New Tredegar, Merthyr Tydfil’sCyfarthfa Castle Museum and the RhonddaHeritage Park near Porth. It’s a hugely influentialheritage – you can’t say you knowWales unlessyou’ve experienced it.

And it’s an ongoing story. One place thatperfectly sums up the transition from past topresent and future is The Works at Ebbw Vale.It’s the new name for an historic site. Theoriginal ‘works’, a pioneering iron foundry,supplied the rails for Britain’s first railways.When its doors closed in 2002, others opened.The Works, in its 21st-century reincarnation,will again buzz with energy, innovation andspirit as a new sports village, genealogy centre(details on the following pages) and vibranturban communities take root here. And tokick things off in a grand style, The Workshas been chosen as the venue for the 2010National Eisteddfod (31 July–7 August),Wales’s most important cultural gathering.See you there.

Industrial Evolution

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Go Ape!Release your inner Tarzan at this newtreetop high-wire course in MargamCountry Park. It’s an up, up and awayforest adventure, involving ladders,walkways, bridges, tunnels, ropes andzip wire. You’re fully kitted out withsafety equipment then set free to swingthrough the trees like you-know-who(leather loincloth not supplied).www.goape.com

Neath Abbey Rhondda Heritage Park

‘I have noticed a large numberof people moving from areasof England – I think people arewaking up to the fact that hereyou can have a great work-lifebalance.’Donna Jones, Ebbw Vale

Go Ape! Margam Park

Blaenavon Ironworks Cyfarthfa Castle Festival Park The Winding House

We know whereyou’re coming from

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It’s in the blood – quite literally. We’re talkingabout family roots. It’s something we’re verykeen on in The Valleys, which perhaps explainswhy genealogy is such a powerful force here.Tracing your roots opens lots of doors in thispart of Wales. In the 18th and 19th centuriesThe Valleys was a melting pot of influences,with huge movements of population. So it’shardly surprising that the rest of the world hasstrong links with the teeming communitiesthat grew up in this area’s booming industrialtowns and villages. We’ve made it surprisinglyeasy to track them down. There’s a whole hostof helpful local organisations, offices andwebsites to get you started. Rhondda CynonTaf’s www.routetoyourroots.co.uk is a goodexample.

New for 2010 –the ‘Genealogy Experience’We’ve taken things a step further at EbbwVale, home of the new Genealogy andVisitor Centre, an exciting £12½-milliondevelopment located at the iconic Grade IIlisted offices of the town’s old steelworks.Fun is a big part of the formula.The centre’s ‘Genealogy Experience’ willentertain and enlighten, allowing visitorsto explore the past through all kinds ofclever high-tech and interactive routes.The centre will also be the state-of-the-arthome for the Gwent Archive Service andthe Steelworks Archive.www.theworksebbwvale.co.uk

More famous sons and daughtersThe Valleys’ Fame Academy has producedworld-class singers, writers, actors, entertainers,fashion designers and musicians. Are any ofthese on a branch of your family tree?Laura Ashley – born Laura Mountney in Dowlais,Merthyr TydfilSir Stanley Baker – actor from Ferndale whostarred in ZuluAneurin Bevan – Minister of Health responsible forthe creation of the NHS, born in TredegarRichard Burton – world-famous actor fromPontrhydyfen near Port TalbotJohn Cale – avant garde musician and founder ofThe Velvet Underground from GarnantJoe Calzaghe – retired champion rated one of theworld’s ‘top 10’ boxers, brought up in NewbridgePetula Clark – singer with strong family roots inAbercanaid near Merthyr TydfilTommy Cooper – the comedian’s comedian fromCaerphillyIdris Davies - poet from RhymneyGareth Edwards – possibly the greatest rugby playerof all time, from Gwaencaegurwen, near BrynamanIoan Gruffudd – Hollywood heartthrob who hailsfrom AberdareSir Anthony Hopkins – forever Hannibal Lecter,from Taibach, PortTalbotKatherine Jenkins – hugely popular crossoverclassical singer from NeathNeil Jenkins – Wales and Lions rugby hero fromChurch VillageTom Jones – ‘Jones the Voice’ from nearPontypridd. Simply the best!Neil Kinnock – politician born in TredegarJulien MacDonald – darling of the fashion worldfrom Merthyr TydfilLost Prophets – rockers from PontypriddManic Street Preachers – global superstars fromBlackwood areaKylie Minogue –mother’s family were fromMaestegMichael Sheen – latest acting superstar to comefrom the Port Talbot areaStereophonics – learned how to rock in AberdareEddie Thomas – inspirational boxing coach fromMerthyr Tydfil (see his statue in the town centre)Howard Winstone – world-champion boxer fromMerthyr Tydfil

Trefil Quarry Workers 1800

‘Apart from being steeped in the history of theindustrial past there is the feeling of looking forwardto a bold exciting future for the next generation.’C. Smith, Pontardawe

Valleys Homecoming2010 is a big year for The Valleys. It sees the launch of ‘Valleys Homecoming’, a celebration

of the past, present and future of one of the most fascinating parts ofWales. It’s the year when the National Eisteddfod comes to The Valleys.Well, to The Works in Ebbw Vale to be precise.An ideal place to hold Wales’s most famous festival, The Works is thenew name for the site where a vast ironworks once stood, supplyingsteel for Britain’s first railways. Its 21st Century reincarnation is a£350 million regeneration project that will include the new Genealogy

and Visitor Centre in the iconic Grade II listed building that was once the offices of the oldworks. The Centre’s Genealogy Experience will be entertaining and enlightening, allowingvisitors to explore the past in all kinds of innovative and interactive ways.Visit valleyshomecoming.co.uk to find out what is happening as part of this celebration.

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Green sceneYes, we know that How Green Was My Valleyis still the image that some people have of us.But the book, by Richard Llewellyn, was aboutThe Valleys in the 19th century. Even then,the title wasn’t that accurate: all the industrialactivity took place along the valley floors, awayfrom our wild, untouched hills and mountains.

If Mr Llewellyn was writing today, he wouldhave to call it ‘How Green Is My Valley’. Over thelast 50 years The Valleys has been transformed.Earlier in this guide we described the new FfosLas Racecourse at Trimsaran, a very greenvenue created on what was Europe’s largestopen-cast coalmine.

It’s typical of our scenic renaissance. The DareValley Country Park, Aberdare, and Parc BrynBach near Tredegar, for example, are justtwo of many green spaces where industryonce dominated. You can walk for miles onmountaintops without seeing a soul, go cyclingon scenic trails where coalmines once stood,follow tranquil canal towpaths, go gorge walkingin ‘Waterfall Country’, or sign up for forestadventures.

Here are some more snapshots from our greenscene:

Water powerAberdulais Falls in the Neath Valley combinesindustrial heritage with great natural beauty.Man and nature work in harmony at thispioneering – and very picturesque –metalworks.It has impeccable green credentials. Europe’slargest working waterwheel makes the oldfurnace, now a National Trust visitor centre,entirely self sufficient. There’s also a fish passthat gives salmon and sea trout access to theupper reaches of the River Dulais. You can’tget more environmentally friendly than that.www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Farming todayLocal farms have always played a big part inValleys life. And the tradition lives on. CwmcerrigFarm at Gorslas near Cross Hands, has its ownfarm shop where you can buy beef, lamb,poultry and other farm-fresh produce direct.The animals are reared in the traditional wayon a family-run farm, and the shop is totallyintegrated into the farm environment.www.cwmcerrigfarmshop.co.uk

There’s strength in numbers. Cig Mynydd Cymru(Welsh Mountain Meat) is a co-operative offive farming families from The Valleys who haveformed a partnership to sell their delicious,award-winning Welsh Black beef and mountainlamb. Call into their shop in Treharris in theTaff Valley. www.cigmynyddcymru.co.uk

The art of cyclingWe’re big fans of cycling, an activity that’sabout as green as you can get. In addition toworld-class mountain biking there’s a greatnetwork of scenic touring routes. The CelticTrail East, for example, is part of a long-distance,largely traffic-free cycle route that takes youacross SouthWales to Pembrokeshire. As it tracksthrough The Valleys it uses canal towpaths,old railway lines, forests and sections of theTaff Trail, taking in many sites of great historicand industrial significance, some of which aremarked by striking artworks and sculptures.www.sustrans.org.uk

Fair play – Fairtrade‘Fair play’ is one of our favourite sayings.Meant as a compliment, it’s a nod to thegenerous nature of Valleys folk. It helps explainwhy the Fairtrade movement is so wellrepresented here. Ammanford, Caerphilly,Merthyr Tydfil, Neath Port Talbot and RhonddaCynon Taf have all signed up to a movementthat supports local sustainability and fair termsof trade for people in developing countries.www.fairtrade.org.uk

‘Lots of people have the wrong idea aboutlife here. But we aren’t only about greenness,scenery and interesting places to visit –we’ve also got great communities. There issomething special about Valleys people.’’Mavis Ashford, Pontypridd

Rhymney Valley

Farmers’ market Cycling competition Miners’ Museum Valley views

We have our fair share of Italian restaurants.But we scoop the pool when it comes to Italiancafés – or should that be Welsh-Italian cafés?Let us explain. Over 100 years ago many Italianimmigrants, mainly from the Bardi area of theApennine Mountains, settled in The Valleys.And what did they do? They did what Italians dobest and opened cafés and ice cream parlours.

Many of these family-run businesses, withnames like Bracchi’s, Servini’s, Conti’s,Carpanini’s, Bassini’s and – inevitably – Mario’ssurvive to this day. In fact, no self-respectingValleys town makes do without one (or three)of them. These much-loved local features ofour urban landscape continue to do a thrivingbusiness. So for all those trendy city-goersout there who thought that cappuccino wasinvented by Starbucks, we have a little secretfor you – we’ve been drinking great coffee inThe Valleys for well over a century. Not tomention eating the proper Italian ice cream.

Two of our local specialities are cheese andwhisky. The cheese comes from the BlaenafonCheddar Company, producers of eight highlydistinctive cheddars and four varieties ofgoat’s cheese. This award-winning specialistcheesemaker brings a strong local flavour toits products, both visually and taste-wise. Itsfour ‘heritage’ cheddars – Capel Newydd,Blaenafon, Pwll Ddu and Pwll Mawr – arecoated in different coloured waxes with scenesof Blaenavon’s industrial heritage on the labels.What’s more, the Pwll Mawr cheddar is actuallymatured at the bottom of the mineshaft at thetown’s Big Pit National Coal Museum.

A tasty part of Wales

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Places to eat in The Valleys cater for all tastesand budgets, from simple and wholesome tofine dining. Most of our towns have bistros andrestaurants serving a tasty mix of traditionaldishes and modern, inventive cuisine. More andmore are relying on locally sourced producethat’s fresh and flavoursome, using it as thebasis not just of classic favourites like Welshlamb and beef but also for contemporarydishes and flavour combinations cooked with alighter touch.

A selection of eating out places to try inThe Valleys: (visit www.thevalleys.co.uk for a full list)The Coffee Bean 01495 32033321 Church Street, Abertillery NP13 1DBBlack Mountain Centre Restaurant 01269 823400Cwmgarw Road, Brynaman, Ammanford SSA18 1BUThe Rock Inn 01495 223441Tredegar Road, Blackwood NP12 1DDThe Heritage Café 01495 742339Blaenavon World Heritage Centre, Blaenavon NP4 9ASThe Harlequin Restaurant, 01656 729009Bryngarw House Bridgend CF32 8UUSmithy Café 01656 842685The Square, Blackmill, BridgendGlanmors Tearooms 02920 888355Unit 30, Castle Crt Shopping Ctr, Caerphilly CF83 1NUThe Three Blackbirds Inn 01633 483130Llantarnam, Cwmbran NP44 3AYTiffins Indian Buffet Restaurant 01633 4800774 Gyndwr Road, Cwmbran NP44 1QSCaffe Sidoli 01495 30982035, Bethcar Street, Ebbw Vale NP23 6HWCwmcerrig Farm Shop & Grill 01269 844405Cwmcerrig Farm, Gorslas SA14 7HUPrince of Wales Inn 01554 890522Meinciau Road, Mynyddygarreg, Kidwelly SA17 4RPLlangeinor Arms, Llangeinor 01656 870268O'Sullivans Brasserie 01443 2377747 Swan Street, Llantrisant CF72 8EDFwrrwm Ishta Restaurant & Bar 01633 44022768 Commercial Road, Machen CF83 8PGBellvue Pub Restaurant 01685 7225681 Glebeland Street, Merthyr Tydfil CF47 8AULord Raglan Inn 01685 722512High Street, Cefn Coed, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 2PNTruly Scrumptious Café 07854 800272Fox Street, Merthyr Tydfil CF47 5HEGlyn Clydach Coach House 01792 816307Longford Road, Neath SA10 7AJLa Crème Patisserie 01639 638574Great Western Chambers, Angel St, Neath SA11 1RSThe Red Lion 01685 811914Church Road, Penderyn CF44 9JRPen y Cae Inn 01639 730100Brecon Road, Pen y Cae SA9 1FAThe Butchers Arms 01639 641119Alltwen Hill, Alltwen, Pontardawe SA8 3BPCafé and Visitor CentreLliw Reservoir, Felindre, Swansea ValleyThe Swan Inn 01639 84122250 Gurnos Road, Ystalyfera, Swansea Valley SA9 2HYMr Creemy Ice Cream Parlour 01443 43238258 - 59 Tylacelyn Road, Tonypandy CF40 1JUThe Mountain Air 01495 723116Llwyn Helyg, Tredegar NP22 3SDCrown & Sceptre Inn 01639 642145Main Road, Cadoxton, Vale of Neath SA10 8AP

Cheese and... whisky?Yes, that’s right. The Blaenafon Cheddar Company’s hand-made cheeses have another strongValleys connection – they are flavoured with PenderynWelshWhisky and other local ingredients.Whisky from the Valleys has been a huge success story. TheWelshWhisky Company at Penderynproduces a single malt whisky and a range of high-quality Welsh spirits. The distillery is theonly one in Wales and one of the smallest in the world. Yet its fame is global, thanks to a maltwhisky that is recognised by connoisseurs as one of the finest and most delicate you can buy.Taste it and see if you agree. Better still, go along to the new Visitor Centre for a tasting andtour of the distillery. www.welsh-whisky.co.uk

Bryngarw House

Café Life, Pontypridd

The Welsh Whisky Company

Wemake no secret of it. We love to talk. In TheValleys you’ll soon find yourself in conversationwith the locals in shops, pubs and cafés. Thislove of language is part of an oral traditionthat goes back over a thousand years to thetime of the bards, storytellers and poets.There are thousands of tales too – of ghostlyspirits and ladies of the lake, dragons and devils,Celtic myth and chivalry. Here are just a fewto whet your appetite.

The truth, the whole truth, and nothingbut the truthWe’ll start with one that’s 100 percent true.George Stephenson’s Rocket was the world’sfirst steam train, right? Wrong. In 1804, morethan 20 years before the Rocket turned a wheel,engineer Richard Trevithick, ‘the father of thelocomotive engine’, drove his steam-poweredPenydarren 9½ miles along the Taff Valleybetween Merthyr Tydfil and Abercynon. Youcan see a replica at Merthyr’s Cyfarthfa CastleMuseum.www.museums.merthyr.gov.uk

The ‘Lady of the Lake’We’re not so sure about this one. True or not, it’sworth getting off the beaten track at Ferndalein the Rhondda Fach to the undiscovered DarranPark and mysterious Llyn-y-Forwyn (theMaiden’s Lake), cupped by mountain crags.The ‘maiden’ in question was an enchantressfrom the bottom of the lake who married ayoung farmer, only to disappear back into thedepths after a quarrel. Even if you don’t manageto spot her, you’ll love the surroundings.

A Midsummer Night’s DreamShakespeare’s enchanting comedy was reputedlyinspired by a visit to South Wales – specificallyto the dramatic Clydach Gorge near Brynmawr.Go to this magical spot on a warm summer’sevening and you’ll be convinced. It’s a NationalNature Reserve famous for its thick cloak ofrare beechwoods… and fairies.

Haunted houseLlancaiach Fawr near Nelson is a rare survivor,a Tudor manor house dating from 1530. Itranks amongst the top 10 most hauntedhouses in Britain. Strange smells –violets,lavender, even roast beef – spookily come andgo, along with much ghostly activity. Paranormalresearchers are sure of the existence ofsomething strange. So is it really haunted?Decide for yourself on one of the regularevening ghost tours held in autumn and winter.If you really don’t like ghosts come when thesun is out for a spirit-free wander around thisfascinating old house.www.llancaiachfawr.co.uk

Talking heads, tall tales

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‘People visiting the area are always commenting on howfriendly and down to earth Valleys people are becausethey get such a warm welcome. Everyone talks to eachother and there is a very strong community spirit.’Gaynor Madgwick, Merthyr Tydfil

Llancaiach Fawr

A ghostly ‘Green Lady’, leaning tower and Doctor Who... what more do you want?These are just three of the many reasons for visiting Caerphilly Castle. It’s a big place –one of Europe’s largest and most formidable medieval fortresses. When you wander thebattlements you might see the Green Lady. Modern soap operas have nothing on hermedieval tale of love and betrayal. This French princess, thwarted in her love of a Welshnobleman, is doomed forever to haunt the castle in a green robe of envy. Why envy?It’s a long story... ask someone in Caerphilly. They’ll also tell you about Caerphilly’s wonky‘leaning tower’ (its only sign of weakness) and the role the castle played in a recentepisode of Doctor Who. www.cadw.wales.gov.uk

Caerphilly Castle

Llancaiach Fawr Cyfarthfa Castle Clydach Gorge

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What’s happening?We enjoy each other’s company in The Valleys.Our communities have always nurtured astrong and vibrant cultural life, born of sharedexperiences in the industrial days of old.

The Valleys is still a place where people matter– and a place where people get together forall kinds of festivals and events. There’s a fullprogramme, from our famous Nos Galan RoadRace, which welcomes in the New Year toatmospheric Christmas festivities. In themonths in between, you’re more than welcometo come along to craft fairs, heritage days andhistorical re-enactments, and festivals thatcelebrate everything from food to literatureand music to walking in our great outdoors.

That’s just part of our rich culture. Many Valleystowns have their own theatres and arts centreswhich stage big-name productions as well aslocal entertainment. Our male voice choirs,perhaps the purest expression of the Valleys’collective spirit, are still in fine voice, theirsweet, soaring harmonies guaranteed to touchyour emotions. Catch a performance or goalong to one of their midweek rehearsals.

Festivals and Events inThe Valleys 2010Celtic DayFfos Las Racecourse 8 March

Gorseinon Food FestivalGorseinon 24 April

World Heritage Weekend 2010Blaenavon 26-27 June

Abertillery Blues FestivalAbertillery Park 15-18 July

UK TriathlonParc Bryn Bach 17 July

The Big CheeseCaerphilly 23-25 July

Welsh Big BiteYnysangharad War Memorial Park, 31July-1 Aug.Pontypridd

The Big V FestivalParc Taf Bargoed August

Pontardawe FestivalPontardawe 13-15 August

Family Fun DayFfos Las Racecourse 25 August

Walking FestivalVarious Valleys locations 4-19 Sept.

Afan Monster Mountain Bike Endurance ChallengeAfan Forest 25 September

Fireworks SkyshowCyfarthfa Park, Merthyr Tydfil November

Medieval Christmas FayreCaerphilly 11-12 Dec.

Nos Galan Road RaceMountain Ash 31 December

Tonypandy 2010www.tonypandy2010.co.uk All year

We’re proud to say that in 2010 BlaenauGwent plays host to one prestigious festivalin particular – the National Eisteddfod,Wales’s most important cultural gathering,which travels to a different venue each year.In 2010 it comes with a special Valleysflavour, so don’t miss it.

The Big Cheese Festival Nos Galan Road Race

Discover Cordell Country Abertillery Blues Festival

27 May – 6 JuneHay FestivalHay on Wye (Mid Wales)Britain’s town of books once again hosts its annualliterary festival. Bill Clinton calls it ‘Woodstock of theMind’. An event with a laid back party atmosphere –and it’s not just about books, you’ll get music, comedyand current affairs crammed into its cosmopolitanprogramme. www.hayfestival.com

31 May – 5 JuneUrdd National EisteddfodCeredigionEurope’s largest youth arts festival will be held atLlanerchaeron in Ceredigion for the first time since1999. Celebrating the best talent in song, dance,drama and design, translation are facilities available.www.urdd.org/eisteddfod

July – AugustCardiff Summer FestivalSummer in the city can only mean one thing – theCardiff Summer Festival. The capital comes alive withstreet theatre, live music, comedy, drama and notforgetting funfairs. It’s the UK’s largest free outdoorfestival. www.cardiff-festival.com

6 – 11 JulyLlangollen International Musical EisteddfodThis festival is an international gathering of singers,dancers and musicians from over 50 countriesworldwide.www.llangollen2010.co.ukTel +44 (0)1978 862000

19 – 22 JulyRoyal Welsh ShowBuilth WellsBritain’s most popular agricultural show, but it’s notall about cows and sheep. Live music, stunt displays,craft stalls, food and much more come together tocreate a bustling mix of town and country.www.rwas.co.uk

31 July – 7 AugustThe National Eisteddfod of WalesEbbw ValeIts a massive moveable feast of Welsh culture andheritage, held at a different location each year. Pompand ceremony, poetry and dance, comedy, pop androck are all part of the mix.0845 122 1176 www.eisteddfod.org.uk

6 – 8 AugustBrecon JazzAn international festival that attracts some of theworld’s top musicians and performers, bringingsuper-cool jazz to one of Wales’s most historiccountry towns. The Brecon Beacons have neversounded so good. www.breconjazz.org

18 – 19 SeptemberAbergavenny Food FestivalTickle your taste buds at one of the biggest events onthe UK foodie calendar. Slow food, good food, localfood, celebrity chefs, masterclasses, tastings andstreet stalls are all on Abergavenny’s massive menu.www.abergavennyfoodfestival.com

27 September – 3 October2010 Ryder Cup Wales Celtic Manor, Newport

Wales is proud to be hosting one of the world’s most prestigious sportingtournaments - The Ryder Cup. The tournament will take place atThe Celtic Manor Resort, Newport. As well as the main event, in therun-up to the tournament Wales will be staging a ‘Summer of Golf’ atop quality programme of events.

www.golfasitshouldbe.com www.rydercupwales2010.comwww.greensofsouthernwales.com

Wales is a stage both for heavyweight cultural festivals and eventsthat are light, frothy and pure fun. So if you’re looking for aneventful 2010, here’s a small taster of what’s happening in Wales.For a full listing go to www.visitwales.com

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It’s all in the starsIt’s a Valleys speciality. We’re renowned forour hospitality. And you’ll find a great choiceof accommodation to go with that big Valleyswelcome. Our B&Bs and guesthouses arefamously friendly – and offer exceptionalvalue. We have ultra-convenient town-centrehotels and comfy country house hotelssurrounded by green hills and vales. There arefarmhouses too – yes, we have farms in TheValleys – which give guests an unrivalledinsight into rural South Wales. And if you’rein a do-it-yourself frame of mind you’ll findplenty of self-catering properties and campingand caravanning sites.

So you can safely say that we’re veryaccommodating. And we do it in all kinds ofstyles for all kinds of tastes and budgets –modernand traditional, classic and contemporary,luxurious and plain-and-simple. What’s more,all the accommodation – from that bijoubolthole to bunkhouse, hotel to hostel – hasbeen checked out by Quality Assuranceschemes run by Visit Wales and the AutomobileAssociation, so you can book in confidence.If you’re on business it’s the same story, with aspot-on choice of places to stay together withfirst-class conference venues.

Please note: All gradings and awards were correctat the time of going to press.Occasionally, it may not have been possible to undertakea grading. This situation is clearly identified by ‘AwaitingGrading’ appearing within the advertisement/entry.Grading assessments are ongoing and improvementsmade by establishments may have resulted in a revisionsince publication. Please check when booking.

Further information on gradings and awards isavailable from:Visit Wales, Welsh Assembly Government,Rhodfa Padarn, Llanbadarn Fawr, Aberystwyth,Ceredigion SY23 3URTel: 0300 062 2000 Fax: 0300 062 2001email: quality.tourism@wales.gsi.gov.uk

Any problems? In the unfortunate event that you doencounter problems with your chosen accommodation,please refer to www.wales.gov.uk/tourismfor further guidance.

All accommodation grades in this publication have been basedon a new set of common quality standards agreed by VisitWales, Visit Britain, Visit Scotland and the AA. The star ratingsreflect the facilities and overall quality of the experience.

A Guide to Quality AssuranceAll the accommodation featured in this publication has beenquality graded so you can make your choice in confidence,knowing that each place to stay has been given a star gradingaccording to the quality and facilities on offer. Star gradesmean that you can be sure of standards and choose theaccommodation that’s just right for you.

Visit Wales/AA are the only checking agents in Wales, checkingout over 5,000 places. In the case of properties handled byself-catering agencies, the frequency between visits canbe longer.

Occasionally, it has not been possible to visit the accommodationprior to publication. In these instances, the property is markedas ‘Awaiting Grading’.

STARS are your guide to qualityThe Star Quality Grading Schemes apply to all types ofaccommodation: serviced – hotels, guest houses, bed andbreakfast, farm accommodation, hostel/hostel typeaccommodation, self-catering cottages and apartments andcaravan holiday home and touring/camping parks.

Here are the quality ratings:� Simple, practical, no frills�� Well presented and well run��� Good level of quality and comfort���� Excellent standard throughout����� Exceptional, with a degree of luxury

Further detailed information on grading criteria and awardscan be found at www.wales.gov.uk/tourism

Cycling and walkingAccommodation with suitable facilities.Check first as some properties are only suitable foreither cycling or walking.

Booking is easySimply choose your preferred style of accommodation andcontact them direct or, where available, visit their website.

For easy reference all accommodation providers are listed indifferent categories i.e. Hotels & Country Houses, Inns & GuestHouses, Farm Houses, Bed & Breakfasts, Self Catering,Caravan & Camping and Hostels & Bunkhouses. The listingsare then sorted by alphabetical order of the nearest town,then by establishment name.

For short breaks and special offers visitwww.thevalleys.co.uk

thevalleys.co.uk

HHootteellss && CCoouunnttrryy HHoouussee HHootteellssPremier Inn Aberdare Budget hotelRiverside Retail Park, Tirfounders Field, Cwmbach, Aberdare CF44 0AH0870 850 6388 enquiries@premiertravelinn.com www.premierinn.com

Ty Newydd Country House ���Penderyn Road, Hirwaun, Aberdare CF44 9SX01685 813433 eddie@tynewyddcountryhotel.co.uk www.tynewyddcountryhotel.co.uk

Afan Lodge Awaiting GradingAfan Road, Dyffryn, Afan Forest Park SA13 3ES01639 852500 info@afanlodge.com www.afanlodge.com

Maes Manor Hotel ���Maesrudded Lane, Blackwood NP12 0AG01495 220011 info@maesmanor.com www.maesmanor.com

Bryngarw Country House ����Brynmenyn, Bridgend CF32 8UU01656 729009 bryngarwhouse@bridgend.gov.uk www.bridgend.gov.uk/bryngarwhouse

Premier Inn Bridgend Budget HotelPantuthyn Farm, Pencoed, Bridgend CF35 5HY0870 2428000 enquiries@premierinn.com www.premierinn.com

Premier Inn Bridgend Central Budget HotelThe Derwen, Bridgend CF32 9ST0870 111 2930 enquiries@premierinn.com www.premierinn.com

Travelodge Pencoed Budget HotelOld Mill, Felindre Road, Bridgend CF35 5HU01656 864404 info@travelodge.co.uk www.travelodge.co.uk

Bryn Meadows Golf, Hotel & Spa ����Maesycwmmer, Nr Ystrad Mynach, Caerphilly CF82 7SN01495 225590 reception@brynmeadows.co.uk www.brynmeadows.co.uk

Premier Inn Caerphilly (Corbetts Lane) Budget HotelCorbetts Lane, Caerphilly CF83 3HX02920 854530 caerphillynorth.pi@whitbread.com www.premierinn.com

Premier Inn Caerphilly Crossways Budget HotelCrossways Business Park, Pontypandy, Caerphilly CF83 3NL08701 977046 caerphillycrossways.pi@whitbread.com www.premierinn.com

Accommodation is listed alpabetically firstly by town, then by establishment name.For further information on accommodation in the area please visit www.thevalleys.co.uk

Ty Newydd Country House Miskin Manor Bryn Meadows Golf, Hotel & Spa

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AccommodationHHootteellss && CCoouunnttrryy HHoouussee HHootteellssBest Western Parkway Hotel ����Cwmbran Drive, Cwmbran NP44 3UW01633 871199 enquiries@parkwayhotel.co.uk www.bw-parkwayhotel.co.uk

Premier Inn Ebbw Vale Budget HotelVictoria Business Park Waunllwyd, Ebbw Vale NP23 8AW0870 850 6378 enquiries@premierinn.com www.premierinn.com

The Park Hotel ���Station Road, Waunlwyd, Ebbw Vale NP23 6TN01495 371431 mthepark@aol.com www.thepark-hotel.co.uk

Premier Inn Llantrisant Budget HotelMagden Park, Gwaun Ela, Llantrisant CF72 8XF0870 111 2814 enquiries@premierinn.com www.premierinn.com

Castle Hotel ���Castle Street, Merthyr Tydfil CF47 8BG01685 386868 castleinfo@castlehotelwales.com www.castlehotelwales.com

Imperial Hotel ��High Street, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tydfil CF47 8UH01685 722555 imperialhotel@btinternet.com

Nant Ddu Lodge Hotel ���Cwm Taf, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 2HY01685 379111 enquiries@nant-ddu-lodge.co.uk www.nant-ddu-lodge.co.uk

Premier Inn Merthyr Tydfil Budget HotelPentrebach House, Pentrebach, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 4BD0870 2428000 enquiries@premiertravelinn.com www.premierinn.com

Travelodge Merthyr Tydfil Budget HotelA470/A412 Roundabout, Rhyd y Car, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 1 UY0871 984 6371 www.travelodge.co.uk

Tregenna Hotel ��Park Terrace, Merthyr Tydfil CF47 8RF01685 723627 reception@tregennahotel.co.uk www.tregennahotel.co.uk

Miskin Manor Country Hotel ����Miskin, Nr Cardiff CF72 8ND01443 224204 info@miskin-manor.co.uk www.miskin-manor.co.uk

The Bluebell Hotel ����14 The Parade, Neath SA11 1RA01639 644000 info@thebluebellneath.co.uk www.thebluebellneath.co.uk

The Park Hotel The Imperial HotelBryn Meadows Golf, Hotel & Spa

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The ValleysHHootteellss && CCoouunnttrryy HHoouussee HHootteellssThe Castle Hotel ���The Parade, Neath SA11 1RB01639 641119 info@castlehotelneath.co.uk www.castlehotelneath.co.uk

Premier Inn Pontypool Budget HotelTy'r Felin, Lower Mill Field, Pontypool NP4 0RH0870 111 2958 Pontypool.pi@premierinn.com www.premierinn.com

Travelodge Pontypool Budget HotelLower Mill Field, Pontypool NP4 0XB0871 9846413 info@travelodge.co.uk www.travelodge.co.uk

Heritage Park Hotel ���Coed Cae Road, Trehafod, Pontypridd CF37 2NP01443 687057 Victoriascullen@heritageparkhotel.co.uk

Llechwen Hall Hotel ���Llanfabon, Cilfynydd, Pontypridd CF37 4HP01443 742050 reservations@llechwen.co.uk www.llechwen.co.uk

GGuueesstt HHoouusseess,, GGuueesstt AAccccoommmmooddaattiioonn,, IInnnnss && RReessttaauurraannttss wwiitthh rroooommssDare Valley Country Park ���Trecynon, Aberdare CF44 7RG01685 874672 darevalleycp@rhondda-cynon-taff.gov.uk www.rhondda-cynon-taff.gov.uk

Fifth Avenue House ����Lower Halt Road, Rhigos, Aberdare CF44 9UP01685 819914 bookings@fifthavenuehouse.co.uk www.fifthavenuehouse.co.uk

The Falcon Inn ���1 Incline Row, Godreaman, Aberdare CF44 6LU01685 873758 www.thefalcon.co.uk

Halfway House ���Upper Gelligroes, Pontllanfraith, Blackwood NP12 2HT01495 220255 www.visitcaerphilly.com

The Rock ����Tredegar Road, Blackwood NP12 1DD01495 223441 therocktavern@tiscali.co.uk www.therockblackwood.co.uk

Hendrewen Hotel ���Hendrewen Road, Blaencwm CF42 5DRmail@hendrewenhotel.com www.hendrewenhotel.com

Dare Valley Country ParkThe Rock

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AccommodationGGuueesstt HHoouusseess,, GGuueesstt AAccccoommmmooddaattiioonn,, IInnnnss && RReessttaauurraannttss wwiitthh rroooommssMasons Arms Hotel ����Bryncethin Road, Bridgend CF32 9YR01656 720253 info@masonsarms.co.uk www.masonshotel.com

The Cottage ���Mountain View, Pwllypant, Caerphilly CF83 3HW02920 869160 cottageguesthouse@tiscali.co.uk www.smoothhound.co.uk/hoels/cottagegh.html

Ty Castell Guest House ����48 St Martins Road, Caerphilly CF83 1EJ02920 884112 tycastellguesthouse@yahoo.co.uk www.tycastellguesthouse.co.uk

Y Fron Guest House ���Mountain View, Pwllypant, Caerphilly CF83 3HW02920 882896 cwmdu@hotmail.co.uk www.yfron.co.uk

Springfields Guest House ���371 Llantarnam Road, Llantarnam, Cwmbran NP44 3BN01633 482509 springfields@webster.uk.net www.springfieldsguesthouse.com

Ebbw Vale Guest House ��Libanus Road, Ebbw Vale NP23 6EJ01495 301044 info@ebbwvaleguesthouse.co.uk www.ebbwvaleguesthouse.co.uk

Gronow HouseLlanharan Road, Llanharry CF72 9LH01443 238608 laraine.cecil@btinternet.com

The Mole Inn ����43 Heol Twrch, Lower Cwmtwrch SA9 2TD01639 830067 llinos@themoleinn.co.uk www.themoleinn.co.uk

The Hollybush with Rooms Awaiting GradingDaraethen, Lower Machen NP10 8GB01633 441326 jacky@thehollybush.com www.visitcaerphilly.com

Col Mar Guest House ��2 Bethania Street, Maesteg CF34 9DJ01656 735140 marlene@colmarguesthouse.plus.com www.colmarguesthouse.plus.com

Llwyn Onn Guest House ����Cwmtaff, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 2HT01685 384384 reception@llwynonn.co.uk www.llwynonn.co.uk

Llwyn Onn Guest House Ty Castell Springfields Guest House

‘The fantastic walks and the views, good environment, healthy. The community spirit is second to none.’ Mrs G Davies, Port Talbot

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The ValleysGGuueesstt HHoouusseess,, GGuueesstt AAccccoommmmooddaattiioonn,, IInnnnss && RReessttaauurraannttss wwiitthh rroooommssMount Pleasant Inn ����Mount Pleasant, Merthyr Vale, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 4TD01443 693555 enquiries@themountpleasantinn.co.uk www.themountpleasantinn.co.uk

Penrhadw Farm ����Pontsticill, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 2TU01685 723481 treghotel@aol.com www.penrhadwfarm.co.uk

Tredegar Arms Hotel �Dowlais Top, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 3PW01685 377467 bookings@tredegararmsinn.co.uk www.tredegararmsinn.co.uk

Green Lanterns Guest House ����Hawdref Ganol Farm, Cimla, Neath SA12 9SL01639 631884 caren.jones@btinternet.com

Tree Tops Guest House ����282 Neath Road, Briton Ferry, Neath SA11 2SL01639 812419 info@treetopsguesthouse.net www.treetopsguesthouse.net

Plas-y-Coed Guesthouse ����Cwmffrwdoer, Pontypool NP4 6UE01495 762505 joann.piddin@btconnect.com www.plasycoed.com

Central House Guest House ����Stow Hill, Treforest, Pontypridd CF37 1RZ07815 916581 centralhousewales@gmail.com www.centralguesthouse.co.uk

The Queens B&B ����1 Queen Street, Glyncorrwg, Port Talbot SA13 3BL01639 850487 rentonad@tiscali.co.uk www.thequeensguesthouse.co.uk

Ty Lily Mia ���Station Road, Trealaw, Tonypandy CF40 2PL07877 687949 alun.price@sky.com

Wern Ganol Guest House ����Nelson, Treharris CF46 6PS01443 450413 mail@wernganol.co.uk www.wernganol.co.uk

Brynmorgan Villa ����Lower Brynmorgan Bridge, Upper Cwmtwrch SA9 2XG01639 830480 clubbe1@aol.com

Tree Tops Guest House Penrhadw Farm Plas-Y-Coed

‘It is a really good place to just relax and escape from everything.’Ashley, Pontycymmer

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AccommodationFFaarrmm GGuueesstt HHoouusseessLlwyn Iago Farm ����Fochriw, Bargoed CF81 9JR01685 844085 Llwyn.iago@lineone.net www.llwyn-iago.com

Gelligravog Farm ����Upper Cwmbran, Cwmbran NP44 5AT01633 871147 charmandchris@btinternet.com www.gelligravog.co.uk

Ty Shon Jacob Farm ����Tranch, Pontypool NP4 6BP01495 757536 tyshonfarm@aol.com www.s-h-systems.co.uk/hotels/tyshon.html

Ty-Cooke Farm ����Mamhilad, Pontypool NP4 8QZ01873 880382 tycookefarm@hotmail.com www.downourlane.co.uk

Tir Twyn Farm Awaiting GradingTredomen, Ystrad Mynach CF82 7BF01443 812612 saltkidd@aol.com www.tirtwynfarm.com

BBeedd && BBrreeaakkffaassttBryn Heulog ����11 Bedwellty Road, Aberbargoed CF81 9AE01443 833084 brynheulogguesthouse.bb@googlemail.com

Beili Helyg ����Cwm Cadlan, Penderyn, Aberdare CF44 0YJ01685 813609 willow.walks@hotmail.co.uk

Maesyronnen ����Ystradfellte, Aberdare CF44 9JE01639 722343

Pen Y Graig Canol ��69/71 Mountain Road, Brynamman, Ammanford SA18 1AN01269 824336

Oakfield B & B ����1 Oakfield Terrace, Varteg Road, Blaenafon NP4 9DS01495 792 829 enquiries@oakfieldbnb.com www.oakfieldsbedandbreakfast.co.uk

Gelligravog Farm Ty Shon Jacob Farm Lugano

‘The Valleys are busting with adventure and family fun. You can havegreat days out with loads of local places to visit.’ Elizabeth Weed, Blackwood

thevalleys.co.uk

The ValleysBBeedd && BBrreeaakkffaassttHerons Brook ����2 Buarthau, Blackmill, Bridgend CF35 6ER01656 849450 www.heronsbrook.uk.com

New Station House B&B ��Bryn Road, Brynmenyn, Bridgend CF32 9LA01656 729116 j.treharne@homecall.co.uk www.newstationhousebandb.co.uk

Oakfield House ����Pen-Y-Bryn, Pyle, Bridgend CF33 6RA01656 740652 oakfieldbanb@aol.com www.oakfieldbnb.com

Coach House ���2 Twyn Sych, Rudry, Caerphilly CF83 3EF02920 8847723 coachhouserudry@yahoo.co.uk www.coachhouserudry.com

Lugano ���Hillside, Mountain Road, Caerphilly CF83 1HN02920 852672 citrus_67@hotmail.com www.visitcaerphilly.com

The Forge ��Lower Machen, Caerphilly NP10 8GU01633 440226 visitcaerphilly@caerphilly.gov.uk www.visitcaerphilly.com

Ysgubor Fach ����Coalbrookvale, Nantyglo, Ebbw Vale NP23 4QQ01495 290413 joe_pat@btinternet.com www.southwalesbnb.com

Highfields ����Tir-Y-Berth Farm, Penpedairheol, Hengoed CF82 8BS01443 862287 www.visitcaerphilly.com

Kidwelly B&B ����62 Causeway Street, Kidwelly SA17 4SU01554 890716 kidwellybandb@yahoo.co.uk www.kidwellyband.co.uk

The Stables at Brook HouseRhiwsaeson Road, Cross Inn, Llantrisant CF72 8NZ01443 228526 info@thestablesllantrisant.co.uk www.thestablesllantrisant.co.uk

Island House ��Gwynfe Road, Loughor SA4 6TE01792 899217 gordon.9@gordon9.plus.com www.evanroberts.co.uk

Ty Gronfa Awaiting GradingPontsticill, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 2UP01685 371399 yvonnejones8@aol.com

Oakfield B&B Highfields

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AccommodationBBeedd && BBrreeaakkffaassttPentre Tai Farm ���Rhiwderin, Newport NP10 8RQ01633 893284 enquiries@pentretailfarm.co.uk www.pentretaifarm.co.uk

Glyn Llech Isaf Farm (Guest House) ��Heol Nant Y Ffyn, Pen Y Cae SA9 1FJ01639 730205 sandeep.marketing@craigynoscastle.com www.craigynos-farmhouse.com

Ael-Y-Bryn ����Coedffaldau, Rhiwfawr, Pontardawe SA9 2RL01639 830079 info@welshbreaksaway.co.uk www.welshbreaksaway.co.uk

Tyn-Y-Wern B&B ���Pontypridd CF37 3LY01443 790551 tynywern2002@yahoo.co.uk www.tyn-y-wern.co.uk

Bryn Teg House ���9 Craig-Y-Fan, Cymmer, Port Talbot SA13 3LN01639 851820 jennie@brynteghouse.com www.brynteghouse.com

Pentre Riding Stables (Guest House) ����Pen-Y-Cae, Swansea SA9 1GJ01639 730639 enquiries@pentrestables.co.uk www.pentrestables.co.uk

The Miskin Hotel Awaiting GradingMiskin Road, Trealaw, Tonypandy CF40 2QN01443 430058

Roseland ����Dukestown Road, Dukestown, Tredegar NP22 4RE01495 722040 susanroseland@aol.com

Fairmead Guest House ����24 Gelligaer Road, Treharris CF46 6DN01443 411174 fairmead@aol.com

Ty Draw B&B Awaiting GradingBlaencwm, Treorchy CF42 5DW01443 778028 tydrawfarm@yahoo.com www.tydrawfarm.com

Holtwood ����Neath Road, Ystradgynlais SA9 1PR01639 849744 jemwood@btinternet.com www.holtwood.me.uk

Pen-Pentre ����Neath Road, Ystradgynlais SA9 1PR01639 843013 penpentre@btinternet.com www.b-n-b-in-wales.co.uk

Roseland Blaen-Nant-GroesPentre Tai Farm

thevalleys.co.uk

The ValleysSSeellff CCaatteerriinnggBlaen-Nant-Groes Farm Cottages ��� & ����Blaen-Nant-Groes Farm Cottages, Cwmbach, Aberdare CF44 0EA01685 881457 harpers@runbox.com

Ivy House ����10 Craig y Fan, Afan Forest Park SA13 3LN7979218017 enquiries@ivyhousewales.com www.ivyhousewales.com

Ty Afan Holiday Cottages ��22 Maesteg Road, Cymmer, Afan Forest Park SA13 3HS07866 680465 enquiries@ty-afan.co.uk www.ty-afan.co.uk

Ty Dor ���3 Alban Terrace, Abercregan, Afan Forest Park SA13 3LH01639 852225 mrpetergibbs@hotmail.co.uk www.tydorabercregan.com

Windways ����50 Afan Road, Duffryn, Afan Forest Park SA13 3ET01639 687110 gary@neuadd-afan.com www.windways.co.uk

Lothlorien Cottage ����49 Heol y Gors, Cwmgors, Amman Valley SA18 1PT208364669 lothlorien@rainbowzebra.com www.rainbowzebra.net/lothlorien

Arhosfa Cottage ����19 Rhosfa Road, Brynamman, Ammanford SA18 1DF01269 822953 julia.terry@ukonline.co.uk www.arhosfacottage.co.uk

Pen y Graig Canol ����69/71 Mountain Road, Brynamman, Ammanford SA18 1AN01269 824336 terriinwales@yahoo.co.uk www.penygraigcanol.co.uk

Gwern-Ty-Isaf Cottage ����Mill Road Deri, Bargoed CF81 9HF01443 820123 lidog166@aol.com www.caerphillycottage.co.uk

Wyrloed Holiday Cottages ���3, Wyrloed Lodge Cottage, Manmoel, Blackwood NP12 0RN01495 371198 norma.james@btinternet.com www.wyrloedlodge.com

Ivy, Swallow, The Coach House & Granary Cottages ��� & ����Tytanglwyst Farm, Pyle, Bridgend CF33 4SA01656 745635 info@tytanglwystholidaycottages.co.uk www.tytanglwystholidaycottages.co.uk

Miners Cottage, 4 Margam Row ����Kenfig Hill, Bridgend CF33 6DP07971 950772 ruth@ruthdavid.com www.minerscottage.com

Ty AfanGwern-Ty-Isaf Cottage Ivy House

thevalleys.co.uk32

AccommodationSSeellff CCaatteerriinnggSwn Y Nant ����Cwm Risca Lane, Off New Road, Tondu, Bridgend CF32 0EH01656 723783 aclswnynant@hotmail.co.uk

Ty Gwyneth ����Haulfryn, Ffordd Y Gyfraith, Bridgend CF32 0BS01656 743983 gaina@gainamorganmedia.co.uk www.plushplacesinwales.co.uk

Bwthyn Felgaws �����Gellifelgaws Farm, Tyllwyd Road, Bryncoch SA10 7DX07971129321 briandavies@aol.com www.wales-holidays.co.uk

The Courtyard ���Bryncenydd House, Nantgarw Road, Caerphilly CF83 3FB02920 866666 nigelwphillips@aol.com

Valley Break ����72, Hanbury Street, Glan Y NantGlan Y Nant, Caerphilly NP12 3XP07725 540049 jan@valleybreak.co.uk www.valleybreak.co.uk

Cwmcarn Holiday Let ����32 Caradoc Street, Cwmcarn, Crosskeys NP11 7EF01495 271061 enquiry@cwmcarnholidaylet.co.uk www.cwmcarnholidaylet.co.uk

Safe Haven Lodges ����Ty Hafod Tudor, Ty Hafod Tudor Terrace, Wattsville, Crosskeys NP11 7QQ01495 271225 enquiries@safehavenlodges.co.uk www.safehavenlodges.co.uk

Drws Nesaf & Hen Stabal, Abergwrelych House ����Pontwalby, Glynneath SA11 5LN01639 720035 margaret@cottagessouthwales.com www.cottagessouthwales.com

Blaenpant ����Mynydd-Y-Garreg, Kidwelly SA17 4RP01623 490881 meynonfreeman@yahoo.com

Cwrt Y Cadno ����Heol Waun Y Clun, Trimsaran, Kidwelly SA17 4BS01554 810397

Wren, Jay & Little Owl Cottages ���Parc Y Llong, Kidwelly SA17 4RN07816 921612 shezling@hotmail.co.uk www.parcyllongcottages.co.uk

Safe Haven LodgesMiners Cottage

‘The way nature has reclaimed what is hers but shows tantalisingglimpses of the ancient past.’ Lucy Mumford, Cwmaman

thevalleys.co.uk

The ValleysSSeellff CCaatteerriinngg6 Pant Y Gino Awaiting GradingTrimsaran, Llanelli SA17 4DJ01554 741582 dbs.walesltd@yahoo.co.uk www.ffoslasaccomodation.co.uk

Cwmbach Cottage ����Maesybont, Llanelli SA14 7SR01269 842986 lletycoed@aol.com

The Stables at Brook HouseRhiwsaeson Road, Cross Inn, Llantrisant CF72 8NZ07801 356259 www.thestablesllantrisant.co.uk

Granary Cottages ����Torpantau, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 2UT01685 383358 sian@selfcateringcottagesinwales.co.uk www.selfcateringcottagesinwales.co.uk

Winch Fawr Lodge ����1 Winch Fawr, Heol Gerrig, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 1RD01685 385071 nigel@winchfawrlodge.co.uk

Caer Arba ����7 Brynawel, Crynant, Neath SA10 8SR01639 750875 sueplasypentre@aol.com

Crynant Holiday Cottages �����Llwyn Llanc Uchaf, Crynant, Neath SA10 8SF07966 149136 crynantcottages@btconnect.com www.crynantcottages.co.uk

Cwmbach Lodges (1 & 2) ����Cwmbach Road, Cadoxton, Neath SA10 8AH01639 639825 www.cwmbachcottages.co.uk

Cwmnant Hir ��Banwen, Neath SA10 9LU01639 722322 camping@pearlmedical.co.uk www.campbyastream.co.uk

Hafodwen ����Bryncaws Farm, Cilfrew, Neath SA10 8NF01639 644609 bryncaws@btinternet.com www.hafodwenholidaycottage.co.uk

Meadow View, 18 Glan Gwrelych ����Glyn Neath, Neath SA11 5LN01639 720767 val@holidaysinthecountry.co.uk

The StablesThe Courtyard

‘Amercian canyons, Scottish Glens, English Dales - But The Valleys ofWales.....? Now you're talking!’ Stuart Luckwell, Risca

thevalleys.co.uk34

AccommodationSSeellff CCaatteerriinnggUpper Grippath Farm Holiday Cottages ����Upper Grippath Farm, Risca, Newport NP11 6JB01633 615000 holidaycottaes@uppergrippath.co.uk www.uppergrippath.co.uk

Glyn Llech Isaf Farm (Self Catering) ����Heol Nant Y Ffyn, Pen Y Cae SA9 1FJ01639 730205 sandeep.marketing@craigynoscastle.com www.craigynosfarmhouse.com

Cilhendre Fawr Farm Cottages ����Wern Ddu Road, Alltwen, Pontardawe SA8 3HY01792 862210 roderickl@aol.com www.cilhendrefawrfarmcottages.co.uk

Swansea Valley Holiday Cottages ���� & �����Plas Farm, Cilybebyll, Pontardawe SA8 3JQ01792 864611 enquries@walescottages.com www.walescottages.com

The Log Cabin Awaiting Grading59 Heol Las, Pontardawe SA8 4PR01792 869363 sara_harris@hotmail.co.uk

7 White Springs ���Pentrebach, Pontarddulais SA4 8QG01792 885699 edward_lloyd@btconnect.com

Llwynau Farm Self Catering Pine Lodges ��Castellau, Llantrisant, Pontyclun CF72 8LP01443 229021 llwynaufarmlodges@hotmail.com

Vale Holiday Homes Ltd, Llwyn Nwydog Farm ����Cowbridge Road, Talygarn, Pontyclun CF72 9JU01446 774144 info@valeholidayhomes.co.uk www.valeholidayhomes.co.uk

Rhiw Ffranc Farm Holiday Apartments ���Pentwyn, Abersychan, Pontypool NP4 7TJ01495 775069 rhiwffrancfarm@aol.com www.rhiwffrancfarmholidayapartments.co.uk

Ceffyl Cottage ����Cefn Farmyard, Cefn Lane, Pontypridd CF37 3AL01443 400163 ceffylcottage@btinternet.com

Tyn-Y-Wern Self Catering Lodges ����Pontypridd CF37 3LY01443 790551 tynywern2002@yahoo.co.uk www.tyn-y-wern.co.uk

Afan Cottage ����Jersey Terrace, Cwmafan, Port Talbot SA12 9AS07977 145766 taverninns@yahoo.co.uk www.afancottage.co.uk

Rhiw Ffranc FarmCeffyl CottagePentre Riding Stables

thevalleys.co.uk

The ValleysSSeellff CCaatteerriinnggTan y Graig House1 Macpelah, Pontrhydyfen, Port Talbot SA12 9TU01639 896722 tanygraig09@yahoo.co.uk

The Vestry Awaiting Grading1 Uplands Cottages, Pontrhydyfen, Port Talbot SA12 9TQ01639 631884 info@afanvestry.co.uk www.afanvestry.co.uk

1 + 2 Tan Yr EglwysCilybebyll, Pontardawe, Swansea SA8 3JR01792 863367 rees.lloyd@btinternet.com www.walescottagebreaks.co.uk

Capel Cartref Awaiting GradingLower Cwm Twrch, Heol Twrch, Swansea SA9 2TE07825 874926 marnie.slade@sky.com

Gerdinen Ganol ���Felindre, Swansea SA5 7PX01269 592064

Pentre Riding Stables (Self Catering) ����Pen-Y-Cae, Swansea SA9 1GJ01639 730639 enquiries@pentrestables.co.uk www.pentrestables.co.uk

Ty Llwy & Fir Tree House ��� & ���� Craig-Cefn-Parc, Swansea SA6 5TE07793 073811 cartrefholidays@fsmail.net

Y Bwthyn �����Glyn Cynwal Isaf Farm, Cwmtwrch, Swansea SA9 2UR01639 830737 craig.mali@gmail.com

Ynys-Y-Coed ���Coedffaldau, Rhiwfawr, Swansea SA9 2RL01639 830079 info@welshbreaksaway.co.uk www.welshbreaksaway.co.uk

Tynewydd Farm ��� & ����Nant-Y-Bwch, Tredegar NP22 3BB01495 724155 connieprunell@btinternet.com www.beaconvalleybreaks.co.uk

Y Beudy ����Ty Gwyn Farm, Penywern Road, Ystalyfera SA9 2NH01656 733454 joanna.id@tiscali.co.uk www.ybeudy.co.uk

20 Heol Giedd ����Ystradgynlais SA9 1LQ01279 303072 wandj.morgan@btinternet.com

Tynewydd FarmTyn-Y-Wern

thevalleys.co.uk36

Accommodation

Grawen FarmDare Valley Country Park

TToouurriinngg CCaarraavvaann && CCaammppiinnggDare Valley Country Park - Camping ���Trecynon, Aberdare CF44 7RG01685 874672 darevalleycp@rhondda-cynon-taff.gov.uk www.rhondda-cynon-taff.gov.uk

Glyncorrwg Ponds Campsite ���Ynyscorrwg Park, Glyncorrwg, Afan Forest Park SA13 3EA01639 851900 actesonleigh@hotmail.com

Pen Y Fan Caravan & Leisure Park ���Manmoel Road, Oakdale, Blackwood NP2 0HY01495 226636 info@penyfancaravanpark.co.uk www.penyfancaravanpark.co.uk

Brynhyfryd Caravan & Camping Awaiting GradingFfordd Y Gyfraith, Tondu, Bridgend CF32 0BS01656 740544 yellow-bus@hotmail.co.uk www.brynhyfrydcampingcaravanning.co.uk

Black Lion Caravan & Camping Park ����78 Black Lion Road, Gorslas, Cross Hands SA14 6RU01269 845365 blacklionsite@aol.com www.caravansite.com

Cwmcarn Forest ���Nanatarn Road, Cwmcarn, Crosskeys NP11 7FA01492 272001 cwmcarn-vc@caerphilly.gov.uk www.cwmcarnforest.co.uk

Dolygaer Outdoor Education Centre ��Pontsticill, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 2UR01685 721751 dolygaer@merthyr.gov.uk

Grawen Caravan & Camping Park ���Cwm Taff, Cefn Coed, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 2HS01685 723740 grawen.touring@virgin.net www.walescaravanandcamping.com

Ty Canol Farm Caravan ClubPenyard Road, Neath Abbey, Neath SA10 7EY01792 814172 www.tycanolfarm.co.uk

Waters Meet Caravan & Camping Site Caravan ClubWaters Meet, Rhos, Pontardawe SA8 3EY01792 863038 kenliz@watersmeet.wanadoo.co.uk caravancampingsites.co.uk/glamorgan/watersmeet.htm

Parc Bryn Bach (Bunkhouse and Caravan & Camping) ��Merthyr Road, Tredegar NP22 3AY01495 711816 parcbrynbach@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk

‘The beauty of the waterfalls, the challenging tops and the wholemagnificent pleasure of walking along them.’ Mrs Mary Galpin, Swansea

thevalleys.co.uk

The ValleysBBuunnkkhhoouussee aanndd GGrroouupp AAccccoommmmooddaattiioonnCynon Valley Tyle Morgrug Cottage & Bunkhouse ���Halt Road, Rhigos, Aberdare CF44 9UW01903 742206 jcrobbins44@aol.com www.cyat.org

EcoDysgu ����Tondu Farm House, Bridgend CF32 9HF01656 728137 ecodysguecolearn@aol.com www.ecodysgu.co.uk

Wern Watkin Hillside �����Llangattock, Crickhowell NP8 1LG01873 812307 andrew@wernwatkin.co.uk www.wernwatkin.co.uk

Dulwich College Field Centre ���Heol Callwen, Glyntawe SA9 1GR01639 730892 fieldcentre@dulwich.org.uk www.fieldcentre.dulwich.org.uk

Dolygaer Outdoor Education Centre ��Pontsticill, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 2UR01685 721751 dolygaer@merthyr.gov.uk

Absolute Adventure Ltd ��Rhongyr Isaf Centre, Pen Y Cae SA9 1GB01639 730518 enquiries@absoluteadventure.co.uk

Clyngwyn Bunkhouse ����Clyngwyn Farm, Ystradfellte Road, Pontneddfechan SA11 5US01639 722930

Glamorgan Court ���University Of Glamorgan, Pontypridd CF37 1DL01443 482002 events@glam.ac.uk www.glamorganconferenceservices.co.uk

Rose Cottage ����Craig-Y-Fan, Cymmer, Port Talbot SA13 3LN01639 851820 jennie@brynteghouse.com www.brynteghouse.com

Call of the wild ���Abercraf, Swansea SA9 1XU01639 845670 mark@callofthewild.co.uk

Parc Bryn Bach (Bunkhouse and Caravan & Camping) ��Merthyr Road, Tredegar NP22 3AY01495 711816 parcbrynbach@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk

Cynon Valley Tyle MorgrugCwmcarn Forest

‘Cardiff Ramblers regularly walk in The Valleys to soak in the majesticscenery that's freely available all the year round.’ Gwyn, Cardiff

thevalleys.co.uk38

Attractions & ActivitiesActivities

Absolute Adventure LtdUpper Swansea Valley 01639 730518www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk

All Terrain ServicesPontardawe 01792 862669www.allterrainservices.co.uk/

Amman Valley Trotting ClubAmmanford 07909 698309www.ammanvalley-trotting.co.uk

Blaenafon Mountain Tours (Cycling)Blaenavon 01495 793123

BowlplexCwmbran 01633 867744www.bowlplex.co.uk

BowlplexPontypridd 01443 844944www.bowlplex.co.uk

Bryn Oer TramroadTredegar 01495 355937http://brinore-tramroad.powys.org.uk/

Call of the Wild (Adventure Activities) LimitedNeath 01639 700388www.callofthewild.co.uk

Dare Valley Country Park -OutdoorAberdare 01685 874672www.darevalleycountrypark.co.uk

Dolygaer Outdoor Education CentreMerthyr Tydfil 01685 721751www.merthyr.gov.uk

Dulais Valley Quads & Archery CentreNeath 01639 701768www.dulaisvalley-quads.co.uk

Dynamic Rock Adventures ltdClydach 01792 845655 www.dynamicrock.co.uk

EcoDysgu EcoLearnTondu, Bridgend 01656 784222www.ecodysgu.co.uk/

G-Force Karting Pontypool 01495 785777www.g-forcekarting.co.uk

Glyncorrwg Mountain Bike Centre and PondsPort Talbot 01639 851900www.visitnpt.co.uk

Go Ape! High Wire Forest Adventure - Margam Country ParkPort Talbot 01284 852218www.goape.co.uk

Gwent AdventuresPontypool 01291 673002www.gwent-adventures.co.uk

Milestone ActivitiesPontyclun 01443 224117www.milestoneactivities.co.uk

Paraventure Airsports (Paragliding)Blaenavon 0845 4790635www.paraventure.co.uk

Parc Bryn Bach Country Park & Activity CentreTredegar 01495 711816www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk

Pontymoile Day Boat HirePontypool 07981 846184www.pontymoilemarina.co.uk

Pontypool Ski CentrePontypool 01495 756955

Rhondda BowlPorth 01443 672672

Sbri Cymru LtdSwansea 01792 824119www.sbricymru.com

South Wales 2000 Shooting GroundBlackwood 01495 201182www.southwales2000.com

Taff Valley Quad Bike & Activity CentrePontypridd 029 20 831658www.adventurewales.co.uk

Team Force PaintballLlangyfelach 01792 772311www.teamforceuk.com

Terence Leslie Jones T/A Outdoor Ed VenturePen Y Cae 01639 849378

The Twrch Trail (Mountain Bike) at Cwmcarn Forest DriveCwmcarn 01495 272001www.cwmcarnforest.co.uk

Top Gun PaintballNeath 01639 700487www.topgun-paintball.co.uk

Wales Activity BreaksBowlplex Parc Bryn Bach Country ParkBlaenafon Mountain Tours

thevalleys.co.uk

The ValleysTwin Dragons Archery RangePontypool 01495 763917www.twindragonarchery.co.uk

Vale of Neath Gliding ClubGlynneath 01685 811023valeofneathglidingclub.bravehost.com

Wales Activity BreaksPontypridd 029 20 831658www.walesactivitybreaks.co.uk

Wet and Wild AdventuresPentre 07841 054205www.wetwild.co.uk

Ynys Hywel Activity CentreCross Keys 01495 200113 www.caerphilly.gov.uk/leisure

Young's ActivitiesAberfan 01443 693536

Horse Riding CentresCimla Trekking & Equestrian CentreCimla Neath 01639 644944www.cimlariding.co.uk

Dinefrw Riding CentreAmmanford 01269 850042

E K M EquestrianBridgend 01656 743950www.ekm-equestrian.netfirms.com/

Greenmeadow Riding CentreAberdare 01685 874961www.rhondda-cynon-taf.gov.uk

Rockwood Riding CentreCaerphilly 02920 866281www.visitcaerphilly.com

South Wales Equestrian CentreBridgend 01656 862959 www.visitbridgend.com

Sunny Bank Livery YardCaerphilly 02920 864943

Sunny Bank Equestrian CentreRudry 02920 864943www.sunnybankec.com

Talygarn Equestrian CentrePontyclun 01443 225107http://www.talygarnec.co.uk/RidingLessons/

Tickens Trekking CentreCwmbran 07722 547084www.tickenstrekking.co.uk

Tir Twyn Farm Livery YardYstrad Mynach 01443 812612www.tirtwynfarm.com

Waun Fawr Farm Riding SchoolPontardawe 01792 830273

Visitor Attractions

Big Pit: National Coal MuseumBlaenavon 01495 790311www.museumwales.ac.uk

Blaenafon Cheddar Company Blaenavon 01495 793123www.chunkofcheese.co.uk

Bridgend Designer OutletBridgend 01656 665700www.bridgenddesigneroutlet.com

Chocs AwayBlaenavon 01495 790790www.chocsawayparty.co.uk

Cwmbran Boating LakeCwmbran 01495 742333www.visittorfaen.co.uk

Dan Yr OgofAbercrave 01639 730284www.showcaves.co.uk

Festival ParkEbbw Vale 01495 350010 www.festivalshopping.co.uk

Ffos Las RacecourseTrimsaran 01554 811092www.ffoslasracecourse.com

Garwnant Visitor CentreMerthyr Tydfil 01685 723060www.forestry.gov.uk

Greenmeadow Community FarmCwmbran 01633 647662www.greenmeadowcommunityfarm.org.uk

Penderyn Distillery Visitor CentreDan-yr-OgofTickens Trekking

thevalleys.co.uk40

Attractions & ActivitiesVisitor Attractions

Maesteg Town HallMaesteg 01656 733269www.maestegtownhall.com

Margam Abbey Stones MuseumPort Talbot 029 2050 0200www.visitnpt.co.uk

Margam Country ParkPort Talbot 01639 881635www.visitnpt.co.uk

Mynydd Bach Trout PondsMaesteg 01656 731367

Mynydd Mawr WoodlandUpper Gwendraeth Valley 01554 747500www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk

Neath MuseumNeath 01639 645726www.visitnpt.co.uk

Penderyn Distillery Visitor CentreAberdare 01685 810651www.welsh-whisky.co.uk

Pontardawe Arts CentreSwansea 01792 863722www.visitnpt.co.uk

Pontypool & Blaenavon RailwayBlaenavon 01495 792263www.pontypool-and-blaenavon.co.uk

Princess Royal TheatrePort Talbot 01639 760551www.visitnpt.co.uk

Roundhouse TowersNantyglo 01495 355937www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/leisure/8044.asp

Shell GrottoPontypool 01495 766754www.visittorfaen.co.uk

St Elvan's Church, AberdareAberdare 01685 879999www.gocities.com/campanologywales

St. Illtyd's ChurchAbertillery 01495 355972http://www.illtyd.co.uk

St James PondTredegar 01495 355937www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/leisure/7957.asp

St John the Baptist Church, AberdareAberdare 01685 879999www.gocities.com/campanologywales

The Black Mountain CentreAmmanford 01269 823400www.brynaman.org.uk

The National Showcaves Centre for WalesSwansea 01639 730 284www.showcaves.co.uk

The Pit Pony SanctuaryPontypridd 01443 480327www.visitpitponies.co.uk

Thomas Dadford Canal Trip BoatNeathwww.neath-tennant-canals.org.uk

Country Parks

Aberdare ParkAberdare

Afan Forest Park and Visitor CentrePort Talbot 01639 850564www.afanforestpark.co.uk

Barry Sidings Countryside ParkPontypridd

Bryngarw Country ParkBrynmenyn, Bridgend 01656 725155www.visitbridgend.com

Craig-y-nos Country ParkPen Y Cae 01639 730395www.breconbeacons.org

Cwmcarn Forest DriveCwmcarn 01495 272001 www.cwmcarnforest.co.uk

Cwmcelyn PondBlaina 07773 524418www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/leisure/7960.asp

Cwmtillery LakesAbertillery 01495 320504www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/leisure/7959.asp

Cyfarthfa ParkMerthyr Tydfil 01685 727474www.visitmerthyr.co.uk

South Wales Miners MuseumCwmbran Boating Lake Blaenavon Ironworks

thevalleys.co.uk

The ValleysDare Valley Country ParkAberdare 01685 874672www.darevalleycountrypark.co.uk

Festival ParkEbbw Vale 01495 350010www.festivalshopping.co.uk

Glamorgan Wildlife TrustTondu, Bridgend 01656 724100www.visitbridgend.com

Gnoll Estate Country ParkPort Talbot 01639 850564www.visitnpt.co.uk

Lakeside Farm ParkGlynogwr, Blackmill 01443 676805www.lakesidefarmpark.co.uk

Llyn Llech Owain Country ParkGorslas 01269 832229www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk

Margam Country ParkPort Talbot 01639 881635www.visitnpt.co.uk

Parc Bryn Bach Tredegar 01495 711816www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/5807.asp

Parc Coetir Bargoed 01495 235219www.Caerphilly.gov.uk/countryside

Parc Cwm DarranBargoed 01443 875557

Parc PenalltaCaerphilly 01443 816853www.Caerphilly.gov.uk/countryside

Parc Slip Nature ParkTondu, Bridgend 01656 724100www.visitbridgend.com

Parc Taf BargoedTrelewis, Merthyr Tydfil 01685 727474www.visitmerthyr.co.uk

Pen y Fan Pond & Country ParkBlackwood 01495 270991www.Caerphilly.gov.uk/countryside

Pontypool ParkPontypool 01495 766754 www.visittorfaen.co.uk

RSPB Cwm Clydach Nature ReserveClydach 029 2035 3000www.rspb.org.uk

Silent Valley Nature reserveEbbw Vale 01600 740600 www.gwentwildlife.org/reserves/SilentValley.htm

Sirhowy Country ParkBlackwood 01495 270991www.Caerphilly.gov.uk/countryside

Waterfall Centre/Waterfall CountryNeath 01639 721795www.breconbeacons.org

Ynysangharad War Memorial ParkPontypridd 01443 490249

Ynys Dawel Nature ParkAmman Valley 01554 833913www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk

Arts and CraftsArt Gallery - Rhondda Heritage ParkTrehafod 01443 682036www.rhonddaheritagepark.com

Beaufort Theatre and BallroomEbbw Vale 01495 355800www.blaenaugwentvenues.com

Berwyn Centre Nantymoel, Bridgend 01656 840439www.berwynartscouncil.org

Blackwood Miners InstituteBlackwood 01495 227206 www.caerphilly.gov.uk/bmi

Congress TheatreCwmbran 01633 868239www.congresstheatrecwmbran.co.uk

Form Contemporary CraftBlaenavon 01495 790926www.form-gallery.co.uk

Gelligroes Mill & Candle WorkshopBlackwood 01495 222322

LLanhilleth InstituteLlanhilleth 01495 212000www.llanhillethinstitute.com

Llantarnam Grange Arts CentreCwmbran 01633 483321www.lgac.org.uk

Dare Valley Country Park Cwmcarn Forest DriveAfan Forest Park

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Attractions & Activities

Cyfarthfa Castle

Arts and CraftsMarket Hall Cinema Brynmawr 01495 310576 www.blaenaugwentvenues.com

Muni Arts CentrePontypridd 08000 147111www.rct-arts.co.uk

Myfanwy TheatreMerthyr Tydfil 0751 6774384www.myfanwytheatre.co.uk

Odeon CinemaBridgend 0870 5050 007 www.odeon.co.uk

Parc and Dare TheatreTreorchy 08000 147111www.rct-arts.co.uk

Tredegar Little TheatreTredegar 01495 724979www.tredegar.co.uk/littletheatre

The Coliseum TheatreAberdare 08000 147111www.rct-arts.co.uk

The Grogg Shop & MuseumPontypridd 01443 405001www.groggs.co.uk

The MetAbertillery 01495 322510www.the-met.co.uk

Heritage AttractionsAberbeeg Packhorse BridgeAberbeeg 01495 355937www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/8040.asp

Aberdulais FallsNeath 01639 636674www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Abertillery & District MuseumAbertillery 01495 211140www.abertilleryanddistrictmuseum.org.uk/

Aneurin Bevan Memorial Stones & TrailTredegar 01495 355937www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/advice/13572.asp

Bedwellty House & ParkTredegar 01495 355937www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/leisure/8048.asp

Big Pit: National Coal MuseumBlaenavon 01495 790311 www.museumwales.ac.uk

Blaenafon Community Heritage & Cordell MuseumBlaenavon 01495 790991www.visitblaenavon.co.uk

Blaenavon Ironworks Blaenavon 01495 792615www.cadw.wales.gov.uk

Blaenavon World Heritage CentreBlaenavon 01495 742333www.visitblaenavon.co.uk

Blaengarw Workmen's HallBlaengarw, Bridgend 01656 871911www.creation.me.uk/hall.htm

Blaina Heritage Action Group MuseumBlaina 01495 292025www.blaina.moonfruit.com

Brecon Mountain RailwayMerthyr Tydfil 01685 722988www.breconmountainrailway.co.uk

Brynmawr MuseumBrynmawr 01495 313900www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/leisure

Caerphilly CastleCaerphilly 029 2088 3143www.cadw.wales.gov.uk

Cefn Coed ViaductMerthyr Tydfil 01685 727474

Cefn Cribwr IronworksBridgend 01656 725155www.visitbridgend.com

Cefn Junction Signal BoxCefn Cribwr, Bridgend

Chartists' CaveTredegar 01495 355937www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/leisure/8042.asp

Coity CastleBridgend 01443 336000 www.cadw.wales.gov.uk

Clydach IronworksBrynmawr 01495 355937www.breconbeacons.org/visit-us/easy-access/places-to-visit-with-easier-and-disabled-access/clydach-ironworks

Cyfarthfa Castle Museum & ParkMerthyr Tydfil 01685 723112www.museums.merthyr.gov.uk

Cordell Museum Blaenavon World Heritage Centre

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The ValleysCynon Valley Museum and GalleryAberdare 01685 886729www.cvmg.co.uk

Ebbw Vale Works Archival TrustThe Works, Ebbw Vale 01495 350941www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/theworks

Folly TowerPontypool 01495 766754 www.visittorfaen.co.uk

Garw Valley Railway Company LtdSarn, Bridgend 01656 722234www.visitbridgend.com

Griffithstown Railway MuseumPontypool 01495 762908www.visittorfaen.co.uk

Joseph Parry's Ironworker's CottageMerthyr Tydfil 01685 723112www.museums.merthyr.gov.uk

Kidwelly CastleKidwelly 01554 890104www.cadw.wales.gov.uk

Kidwelly Industrial MuseumKidwelly 01554 891078www.kidwellyindustrialmuseum.co.uk

Llancaiach Fawr ManorNelson 01443 412248 www.llancaiachfawr.co.uk

Llanyrafon MillCwmbran 01633 482780www.visittorfaen.co.uk

Miners Family StatueLlwynypia 01443 490249

Monmouthshire & Brecon CanalPontypool 01873 881069www.mon-brec-canal-trust.org.uk

Nantgarw China Works MuseumNantgarw 01443 841703www.sallystubbings.co.uk

Pontypool MuseumPontypool 01495 752036www.pontypoolmuseum.org.uk

Pontypridd MuseumPontypridd 01443 490748

Rhondda Heritage ParkPontypridd 01443 682036www.rhonddaheritagepark.com

Sirhowy IronworksTredegar 01495 355937www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/advice/7936.asp

Six Bells Mining MemorialAbertillery

South Wales Miners MuseumPort Talbot 01639 850564www.visitnpt.co.uk

Statue of Evan James and James, James, Ynysangharad War Memorial ParkPontypridd 01443 490249

St Peter's ChurchPontardawe 01792 862003

The Old BridgePontypridd 01443 490748

The Winding HouseNew Tredegar 01443 822666 www.windinghouse.co.uk

Tredegar Town ClockTredegar 01495 355937www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/leisure/8049.asp

Trefil Rail RoadTredegar 01495 355937www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/leisure/8045.asp

Trevithick's TunnelMerthyr Tydfil 01685 727474

Ty Mawr Mansion & Roundhouse TowersNantyglo 01495 355972

Ynysfach Engine HouseMerthyr Tydfil 01685 727474

GuidesBlue Badge Guides 01286 678590Central Enquiry Service for Waleswww.wotga.com

Cordell Country Official Guideswww.wotga.com/cordellcountry.php

Heads of the Valleys Green Badge Guideswww.realvalleytour.org.uk 01873 8116525

M W Guiding ServicesTreharris 01443 453494 www.mwguiding.co.uk

SIrhowy Ironworks Griffithstown Railway MuseumBig Pit

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Take your pickIntroducing Wales’s Holiday Areas. The Valleys, ‘Heart and Soul of Wales’, is one of the HolidayAreas within Wales. Each area has its own distinct character.

The Isle of AngleseyA place like no other, Anglesey offers unparalleledbeauty, amazing adventures, serious solitude and warmwelcome. Easily accessible; this unique Island, with itscoastline, varied beaches and historical towns make it asuperb base for all the family. Thos that have visitedneed not be told. They just return…Tel +44 (0)1248 713177 or (0) 1407 762622email: tourism@anglesey.gov.ukwww.visitanglesey.co.uk

Llandudno, Colwyn BayVibrant Llandudno, the Victorian seaside gem. WorldHeritage Conwy. Waterfront adventure at Colwyn Bay.Year round breaks, filled with fun, good food, greatwalking and wolrd class theatre. All within easy reach ofSnowdonia.Tel: +44 (0) 1492 577577Email: llandudnotic@conwy.gov.ukwww.visitllandudno.org.uk

Rhyl and PrestatynAmong the best recognised British seaside resorts.Fabulous award-winning beaches with a range of familyfriendly attractions, events and activities. Walk theOffa's Dyke path in Prestatyn. An hour’s drive fromMerseyside and the West Midlands.Tel +44 (0)1745 344515/355068 email: rhyl.tic@denbighshire.gov.ukwww.rhyl-prestatyn.co.uk

The North Wales BorderlandsShort journey: very different place. At less than 20minutes from Chester, we’re just a hop and a skip awayfrom the North West and the West Midlands. From thebustling shops and nightlife of Wrexham to the culinarydelights of the Mold food and drink festival to theworld-famous Llangollen International Eisteddfod.100% Wales on your doorstep!Tel: 01978 292015Email: tourism@wrexham.gov.ukwww.northwalesborderlands.co.uk

Snowdonia Mountains and Coast/Eryri Mynyddoedd a MôrAn exciting destination that includes the SnowdoniaNational Park, Llŷn Peninsula and Cambrian Coastline. Awide choice of quality accommodation, attractions andactivities – castles, narrow-gauge railways, golf, cycling,walking, World Heritage Site, Areas of OutstandingNatural Beauty and Heritage Coast. Open all year….Tel: +44 (0) 1341 281485 (24hr) email: tourism@gwynedd.gov.uk www.visitsnowdonia.info

Mid Wales and the Brecon BeaconsStep into fabulous walking country, right on yourdoorstep. Two National Trails and a National Park,charming spa and market towns, outdoor pursuits inoutstanding scenery.Home to Hay Literary Festival and Brecon Jazz, eventsthroughout the year make this a destination for all seasons. Tel: +44 (0)1597 825748Email: tourism@powys.gov.ukwww.exploremidwales.com

Ceredigion – Cardigan BaySome of the UK’s finest coast and countryside. Holidayareas include Aberporth, Tresaith, Llangrannog, NewQuay, Aberaeron, Aberystwyth, Borth, Cardigan, theTeifi Estuary and Valley, Devil’s Bridge and CambrianMountains. Popular pursuits include mountain biking,cycling, walking, sailing and angling.Tel +44 (0)1970 612125 email: brochure@ceredigion.gov.uk www.tourism.ceredigion.gov.uk

PembrokeshireChoose between lively Tenby and Saundersfoot orpeaceful St Davids and Newport. No other county inthe UK has more Blue Flag Award beaches, all set in themagnificent Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. Perfectfor outdoor activities or just relaxing.Tel +44 (0) 844 888 5115email: tourism@pembrokeshire.gov.uk www.visitpembrokeshire.com

Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland Aberglasney, a garden lost in time Llanddwyn Island Lighthouse The Brecon Beacons

Carmarthenshire - Carmarthen Bay Stretching from Carmarthen Bay in the South to theWestern Brecon Beacons in the North, discover Wales'longest beaches, the Botanic Gardens of Wales, thehome of Merlin the magician plus Laugharne, Llandeilo,Carmarthen, Kidwelly, Pendine, Llandovery & the Teifi &Towy valleys. Perfect fishing, cycling & walking. Tel: +44 (0) 1267 231557Email: marketing@carmarthenshire.gov.uk www.discovercarmarthenshire.com

Swansea Bay, Mumbles, Gower, Afan and the Vale of NeathUnwind in the UK’s first Area of Outstanding NaturalBeauty, relax on award-winning beaches, and exploreunspoilt countryside. Some of the UK’s best locationsfor walking, cycling, watersports and golf, together withSwansea, Wales’ Waterfront City.Tel +44 (0)1792 468321 email: tourism@swansea.gov.uk visitswanseabay.com

Cardiff, capital of WalesThe capital of Wales has unique attractions, top-classentertainment – and quality shopping with a difference.Cardiff Castle, the Millennium Stadium, National MuseumCardiff and Wales Millennium Centre combined withCardiff Bay offer indoor and outdoor entertainment foreveryone. Tel +44 (0)8701 211258 email: visitor@cardiff.gov.uk www.visitcardiff.com

The Most Southerly Point in Wales – The Glamorgan Heritage Coast and CountrysideThe dramatic Heritage Coast and popular resorts ofBarry Island and Porthcawl are fringed by lovely Valeand Bridgend countryside and green hills. Discover thespecial character of an area steeped in history – and it’sclose to Cardiff, Wales’ cosmopolitan capital. Tel +44 (0)1446 704868 or +44 (0)1656 672928 emails: tourism@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk

tourism@bridgend.gov.uk www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk www.visitbridgend.com

The Wye Valley and Vale of Usk Food lovers flock here. Maybe it's because Mon-mouthshire’s officially the ‘best food destination’ inWales. Or it could just be because there are so manyways to work up an appetite. Like the walking. We'vegot more than 1,000 miles of footpath to explore. Theflying is good too. Take off on a tandem paraglidingflight from the Blorenge Mountain, near Abergavenny,and spot the 11th century castle. From the ground it’seven more impressive. Tel +44 (0)1633 644842email: tourism@monmouthshire.gov.ukwww.visitwyevalley.com

Visit Wales Holiday GuidesFor FREE copies of any THREE Holiday Area brochuresplease tick the appropriate boxes and send to:Visit Wales, Dept G16, PO Box 1, Cardiff CF24 2XN� The Isle of Anglesey� Llandudno & Colwyn Bay � Rhyl & Prestatyn� The North Wales Borderlands� Snowdonia Mountains & Coast/

Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr � Mid Wales & the Brecon Beacons� Ceredigion – Cardigan Bay� Pembrokeshire� Carmarthenshire – the Garden of Wales� Swansea Bay, Mumbles, Gower, Afan

& the Vale of Neath � Cardiff� The Glamorgan Heritage Coast & Countryside � Wye Valley & Vale of Usk

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Visit Wales Activity GuidesFor FREE copies of any of the activity guides pleasetick the appropriate boxes and send to:Visit Wales, Dept H16, PO Box 1, Cardiff CF24 2XN� Fishing Wales� Golf Wales

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Activities for All: Find out more with these FREE action-packed guides and take a look at the websites.

Fishing: Wales’s 750-mile coastline and countlessrivers and lakes all add up to a paradise for sea, gameand coarse fishing. www.fishing.visitwales.com

Golf Wales: The secret’s out! More and more playersare discovering and thoroughly enjoying ‘Golf as itshould be’ in Wales. www.golfasitshouldbe.com

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So easy to get toBy coach and busRegular luxury express coach services run to Newport, Cardiff,Merthyr Tydfil and Pontypridd with good onward connectionsto The Valleys.

National Express T: +44 (0)870 580 8080 www.nationalexpress.com

The Valleys has a comprehensive bus network serving manytourist attractions.

Traveline Cymru T: +44 (0)871 200 2233www.traveline.org.uk (also rail enquiries)

By railThere are regular services from London to Newport andCardiff with good regional railway links (Valleys Lines) to TheValleys. Cardiff is also served hourly from major cities includingBirmingham, Bristol, Manchester and many other towns in theMidlands, the West Country and Southern England.

National Rail Enquiries/Valley Lines T: +44 (0)845 748 4950

www.thetrainline.com (for booking tickets)www.arrivatrainswales.co.uk

On two wheelsYou can cycle to the region from the Severn Bridge on theCeltic Trail part of the Cycle ‘Network’ (map NN4B).

Sustrans T: +44 (0)29 2065 0602www.sustrans.org.uk

The Taff Trail, dedicated cycle route, will then take youthrough the Valleys. T: +44 (0)1685 883880 for a map

By carVia the M4, M5 and M50 The Valleys enjoy excellent motorwaylinks with easy access from the South East, the Home Counties,the Midlands and the South West.

South East and Home CountiesThe M4 junction 32 (Cardiff) links with the A470 or as an alternative take the scenic A40 route westwards linking withthe A465 Heads of the Valleys road. From London to the centreof The Valleys it is approx 150 miles with a journey time of 3hrs.

Midlands and NorthUse the M6, M5, M50 and A40 or use the A49 which also linkswith the A465 Heads of the Valleys road. From Birmingham,West Midlands, to the centre of the Valleys it is approx 106miles with a journey time of 2hrs 25mins. For travel routes visit www.theaa.com

Travel informationFor all transport information on Wales visit www.traffic-wales.com

Local traffic, travel and weather information can be found onthe following radio stations Red Dragon 103.2 and 97.4 FM Real Radio 105-106 FM BBC Radio Wales 882 and 657 AM (FM depends on location) BBC Radio Cymru 92.4-96.1 FM

For further travel information visit www.thevalleys.co.uk

By airCardiff International, Bristol and Birmingham airports offercomfort and convenience for passengers to and from Britain.

Cardiff International Airport T: +44 (0)1446 711 111 www.cwlfly.co.uk

Bristol International Airport T: +44 (0) 87733 44444 www.bristolairport.co.uk

Birmingham International Airport T: + 44(0) 84457 66000 www.bhx.co.uk

By seaThere are ferry connections from mainland Europe to the UK’ssouth and east coast and from Ireland to ports in Wales.

Brittany Ferries T: +44 (0)870 536 0360 www.brittany-ferries.com

Irish Ferries T: +44 (0)870 517 1717 www.irishferries.ie

P&O Ferries T: +44 (0)871 664 6464 www.poferries.com

Stena Line T: +44 (0)870 570 7070 www.stenaline.co.uk

Cork - Swansea Ferries T: +44 (0) 844 576 8831 www.fastnetline.com

Via Channel Tunnel T: +44 (0) 8432 186 186 Eurostar passenger train service www.eurostar.com

Eurotunnel vehicles & passengers T: +44 (0)870 535 3535www.eurotunnel.com

ToursFor tours to The Valleys

SeeWales www.seewales.com

By car By coach By train By bike

This guide has been funded and produced by the Valleys Consortium consisting of Blaenau Gwent CBC, Bridgend County Borough Council,Caerphilly CBC, Carmarthenshire Council, Merthyr Tydfil CBC, Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council, Powys Council, RhonddaCynon Taff CBC, City and County of Swansea, Torfaen CBC, Visit Wales and Capital Region Tourism.

Published by Vibe PR & Marketing www.vibeprandmarketing.co.uk Photographs © Crown copyright (2009) VisitWales and the Valleys Consortium members; CADW; Photolibrary Wales.Copywriter: Roger Thomas. Design: Morf Designs Ltd www.morfdesigns.com

Important notice: Every effort has been made by the Valleys Consortium to ensure accuracy in this publication, but they cannot acceptany liability whatsoever for any errors, inaccuracies or omissions, or of any matter arising from the publication of this material.

Brecon Mountain Railway

This map is only a guide to the region, whentravelling please refer to the relevant O/S map.These are available from the Tourist InformationCentres or www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk.

Quirky factsThe Neath Port Talbot Valleys are the birthplace of manyfamous talents including Richard Burton, Sir AnthonyHopkins, Michael Sheen and Katherine Jenkins.

On Pontypridd Common there are two large bouldersdeposited on top of each other. They are know locallyas the Rocking Stones.

Tommy Cooper was born in Caerphilly and a life sizebronzed statue of him stands proudly in the town.

The National Showcave Centre at Dan-yr-Ogof in theupper Tawe Valley is western Europe’s largest showcavescomplex

Merthyr Tydfil, the former ‘iron and steel capital of theworld’, was once far bigger than Cardiff

You can hop on a boat at Pontypool and get off 35miles later in the heart of the Brecon Beacons NationalPark when you cruise the beautiful Monmouthshire andBrecon Canal

The rare native beechwoods in the Clydach Gorge, aNational Nature Reserve, are some of the finest in thewest of Britain

The Pontypool & Blaenavon Railway is the 'highest standard gauge railway in Wales' and runs through Blaenavon’s World Heritage site landscape.

West Monmouthshire Golf Club at Nantyglo is the highestgolf course in the UK, according to the Guinness Bookof Records (so it must be true)

Tourist Information Centres

Aberdulais FallsAberdulais Falls National Trust Property, Aberdulais, Neath SA10 8EU T: +44 (0)1639 636 674 www.visitnpt.co.ukE: aberdulaistic@nationaltrust.org.uk

Blaenavon World Heritage Centre and TICChurch Road, Blaenavon NP4 9AST: +44(0) 1495 742333 visitblaenavon.co.ukE: blaenavon.tic@torfaen.gov.uk (closed Mondays except Bank Holidays)

BridgendTourist Information Centre at Bridgend DesignerOutlet, The Derwen, Bridgend CF32 9SUT: +44(0) 1656 654906 E: tourism@bridgend.gov.uk

Visit CaerphillyTwyn Square, Caerphilly CF83 1JLT: +44(0) 29 2088 0011 E: visitcaerphilly@caerphilly.gov.uk

Carmarthen 113 Lammas St, Carmarthen SA31 3AQT: +44 (0) 1267 231 557 visit.carmarthenshire.gov.ukE:carmarthenTIC@carmarthenshire.gov.uk

Llanelli, Millennium Coastal ParkDiscovery Centre, Millennium Coastal Park, NorthDock, Llanelli, Carmarthenshire SA15 2LFT: +44 (0) 1554 777 744 E: discoverycentre@carmarthenshire.gov.uk

Merthyr Tydfil14a Glebeland Street, Merthyr Tydfil CF47 8AUT: +44(0) 1685 727474 E: tic@merthyr.gov.uk

PontypriddMuseum & Tourist Information Centre, BridgeStreet, Pontypridd CF37 4PET: +44(0) 1443 490748 E: enquiries@pontypriddmuseum.org.uk

Visit Swansea BayTourist Information Centre, Plymouth St, Swansea SA1 3QGT: +44 (0)1792 468 321E: tourism@swansea.gov.uk visitswanseabay.com

TredegarParc Bryn Bach Countryside Centre, Merthyr Road, Tredegar NP22 3AYT: +44(0) 1495 711816 E: parcbrynbach@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk

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