27 Nov 2023
Ready to explore this winter? Whether it’s hiking or biking, camping or glamping, a trip to an art gallery or a country park, our trains and local bus services can get you to your destination in the dramatic heart of Wales.
Neath Port Talbot is known by many as the heart of South Wales, where rural West Wales meets the urban Southeast. It’s an area full of drama, a powerhouse of the Industrial Revolution and still home to the UK’s largest steelworks.
The drama isn’t just about steelmaking. It’s about a natural theatre of mountains, caves, valleys, waterfalls and rivers, contrasting with the wind-swept sand dunes of the coast. It’s about live drama and performances in theatres.
Whether it’s hiking or biking, camping or glamping, a trip to an art gallery or a country park, our trains and local bus services can get you to your destination in the dramatic heart of Wales.
Check out just some of what it has to offer below.
Afan Forest Park
This beautiful and ancient woodland includes gentle walking and cycling routes along the banks of the River Afan, including paths following a former mineral railway that once served the heavy industry of this area. You’ll also find some challenging mountain bike trails that have been graded for difficulty.
Bring your bike on the train and get off at Port Talbot Parkway. It’s not too far to cycle from here to the Forest Park, where you can really get peddling.
You can also travel from Port Talbot by bus. The main bus stops in the park are located at Pontrhydyfen/Oakwood, Afan Forest Park Visitor Centre, Cymmer and Glyncorrwg.
Margam Country Park
Situated in 800 acres of beautiful countryside, this grand estate is home to the magnificent Tudor-Gothic Margam Castle, former residence of the Talbot family that gave their name to Port Talbot. You’ll also find the ancient ruins of Margam Abbey, dating from the 12th century, and the peaceful ornamental gardens, ideal for getting away from it all and taking a relaxing stroll.
There’s plenty for younger members of the family to enjoy too, from an adventure playground to the fairytale village with its miniature cottages and castle.
Buses from Port Talbot, Swansea and Bridgend stop frequently near the entrance to Margam Park. Travelling by train? Get off at Port Talbot Parkway and make a short onward journey by bus. Alternatively, it’s not far to travel by bike.
Melincourt Falls
Located on a tributary of the River Neath near the village of Resolven, the Melincourt waterfalls plunge 80 feet over a layer of hard sandstone, making them the tallest in South Wales. It’s an impressive and imposing sight.
The falls are situated in a nature reserve with surroundings of mature oak woodland ideal for hiking, strolling or enjoying a spot of birdwatching. This is a must-see if you love the great outdoors.
Why not head here by bus? Services run from Swansea and Neath railway station to Melincourt. Travelling by bike? Melincourt can be accessed from National Cycle Route 46.
Melincwrt Waterfalls Nature Reserve, Resolven, Neath, Port Talbot
Pontardawe Arts Centre
This is a great one to visit with the whole family or perhaps just as a couple. You’ll find a theatre, cinema, art gallery and dance studio. Live performances, entertainment and events take place here all year round. Whether it’s classical music, stand-up comedy, dancing, drama or children’s events, the Arts Centre offers something for everyone.
It’s located in the bustling town centre of Pontardawe, and you’ll find plenty of places to stop for a rest, cuppa or bite to eat after your visit.
If you’re travelling by train, get off at Neath or Swansea, where you can connect with frequent, direct bus services to Pontardawe.
Why not get to the Arts Centre the scenic way by bike? It’s located close to National Cycle Network Route 43 and you’ll find bike racks outside the venue to safely store your cycle.
Want to find out more?
Discover Neath Port Talbot - things to do and places to stay in South Wales, UK
