Southern Wales brochure - Website Design Home

2 

contents 

4 A Bird’s Eye View of Southern Wales 

5 Welcome to Cardiff 

7 Activity packed 

9 Greens of Southern Wales 

11 Take to the water 

13 History through the ages 

17 Whatever next? 

19 Arts, crafts and great shopping 

21 Events and venues for all 

24 The Welsh language 

25 Around the region 

26 Map 

28 Suggested day trips 

29 Short breaks in Southern Wales 

30 Where to stay 

41 Attractions 

47 Tourist Information Centres 

48 Access and Travel information 

Published by Southern Wales Consortium © 2006 Southern Wales Consortium. Written by Graham 

Muschialli, Huw Davies, Jacqueline van de Stadt, Sarah Lewis & Vivienne Wilfred. Designed and 

produced by Accent ADC Ltd (Swansea). Images from Accent ADC, PMC Design & Photography 

(pmc.photo@btopenworld.com), Peter Britton, Wales Tourist Board, Visit Britain, Cadw, Brecon 

Beacons National Park, Wales Millennium Centre, Front Cover images: Castell Coch, Cardiff; Llyn 

Fawr, Rhondda Cynon Taff; Dining in Cardiff; Rest Bay, Porthcawl; Abergavenny Food Festival 

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy in this publication, the publishers can accept 

no liability whatsoever for any errors, inaccuracies or omissions, or for any matter in any way 

connected with or arising out of the publication of the information. Please check all prices and 

facilities before making your booking. 

Southern Wales Travel Trade and Overseas Tourism Initiative is 

supported by the 10 Local Authorities of South East Wales and 

Capital Region Tourism. 

www.southernwales.com 

a bird’s eye view 

of southern wales 

4 

welcome to cardiff 

5 

9 

greens of Southern Wales

7 

activity packed19 

11 

take to the water 

history 

through the ages 

13 

events and venues for all 

21 

whatever 

next 

17 

arts, 

crafts... & 

great shopping 


3

4 

Photographs 

1. Severn Bridge || 2. Porthcawl || 

3. Millennium Stadium || 4. Cardiff Castle 


a bird’s eye view 

of Southern Wales 

Culture and heritage, peace and relaxation, adventure and activities, shops and 

sightseeing and a year round fixture of exciting and varied events mean that a 

holiday to Southern Wales is a must. 

How about the Wye Valley and Vale of Usk – an area of 

outstanding natural beauty that straddles the Wales/England border 

where the River Wye meanders peacefully through the lush meadows 

and ancient woodlands that inspired Wordsworth and Turner and past 

castles and abbeys which tell the story of this once fought over 

borderland. It feels as though time stands still in this corner of 

Southern Wales. 

Or how about Cardiff – the Capital City of Wales. A thriving yet 

compact city where modern blends seamlessly with history, where an 

extravagant castle sits next to a modern sports stadium, high street 

stores are complemented by small independent retailers and where 

industrial docklands have been completely transformed into one of 

Europe’s trendiest and liveliest waterfronts. 

Then there’s the Glamorgan Heritage Coast and Countryside 

where walkers stroll along rugged cliffs, sun worshipers bathe on 

golden sandy beaches, thrill seekers surf the waves and families enjoy 

the traditional seaside holidays. Head inland from the coast to get a 

taste of traditional Wales, with pretty villages and interesting market 

towns packed full of shops selling local produce. 

Or for an insight into the rich culture and heritage of Southern 

Wales take a trip to the area known the world over simply as 

‘The Valleys’. Heritage centres and country parks now stand on the 

sites where workers once toiled in the pits, extracting the coal that 

powered the world while the numerous castles prove testament that 

this peaceful part of Wales was once a fierce battleground. 

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Just two hours from London yet a world away. Most 

visitors travelling by road will normally travel over the 

Severn Bridge – an unmistakable landmark that marks the 

border between England and Wales. Once past the sign 

that reads Croeso i Gymru – Welcome to Wales, it is time 

for your holiday to begin. 

Such is the diversity of Southern Wales it is hard to know 

where to start. 

Throughout the region, throughout the year you can catch a whole 

host of varied and exciting events - from major international sporting 

and musical occasions at the Millennium Stadium to the more local 

cultural festivals. Then there’s the golf. A wonderful variety of valley 

courses and challenging seaside fairways and of course the Celtic 

Manor at Newport – home of the Wales Open and in 2010 the 

Ryder Cup. 

Southern Wales is around two hours from the major airports of 

London and Birmingham while Bristol is even closer and Cardiff 

International Airport will bring you straight into the heart of the 

region. Access from Cardiff International Airport is now easier than 

ever thanks to a brand new railway line that takes passengers straight 

into the centre of Cardiff or through the picturesque Vale of 

Glamorgan to the towns of Llantwit Major and Bridgend. From the 

seaports of West Wales and Southern England you’ll find a first class 

road network that will whisk you straight to your destination in next 

to no time while main line trains connect with the extensive local 

services at Newport, Cardiff and Bridgend. 

Wherever you travel from, whatever your experience is, whichever 

region you stay in, Southern Wales will leave you with treasured 

memories. 

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welcome to Cardiff 

A City full of surprises 

During the last few years the Capital City of Wales has experienced a complete transformation, 

with new landmarks such as the Wales Millennium Centre, Europe’s largest waterfront 

development at Cardiff Bay and the acclaimed Millennium Stadium. 

Future projects like the further development of the already popular 

shopping centre will re-affirm Cardiff as the city to visit. So if you 

have never ventured to the Welsh capital or haven’t been for some 

time, you can be sure that there are many new additions to 

captivate and inspire you! 

Attractions 

Within the compact city centre you’ll find the stunning Cardiff Castle, 

National Museum, open top bus and ghost tours and much more. A 

water taxi ride away, Cardiff Bay has a stunning waterfront that has 

been transformed into a wealth of attractions and leisure facilities. Only 

ten minutes from the city centre are the St Fagans National History 

Museum and Llandaff Cathedral. More sport-minded visitors are invited 

to join a power boat ride, take a tour at the spectacular Millennium 

Stadium or to enjoy one of the numerous top class golf courses. 

Shoppers Paradise 

From the latest chic furniture store to trendy fashion chains and a 

choice of shops offering those special Welsh gifts, Cardiff is a haven for 

the avid shopper. The contrast of glossy new shopping centres against 

the authentic Edwardian and Victorian shopping arcades and Cardiff’s 

Victorian Market makes the shopping experience truly special. 

Croeso i Gaerdydd 

Short Breaks & Accommodation 

Cardiff is an ideal location for a weekend away or as a base for a 

holiday in Southern Wales. The accommodation spectrum ranges from 

luxurious 5 star hotels and spas, like the sumptuous St. David’s Hotel 

and Spa in the Bay, to more modestly priced accommodation, like the 

modern Futures Inn, the traditional Angel Hotel and Lincoln Guest 

House or Jolyons for a truly Welsh flavour. 

3 

Capital of Events 

The city has a year-round calendar of events with 

everything from a variety of carnivals and open-air 

concerts to sporting occasions. To give you a taste: 

the Cardiff Worldport Festival brings you the very 

best in jazz and world music, then there is the Wales 

Rally GB, the International Food and Drink Festival, 

Winter Wonderland and much, much more. 


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Photographs 

1. Iron Mountain Trail, Blaenavon || 2. Llyn Fawr || 

3. Horse Riding in the Rhondda Valley 


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activity 

packed 

Wales is a land of mountains and countryside, and there is nowhere better to enjoy it 

than in Southern Wales. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, there are so many activities to 

enthral and entertain you. 

Cycle the length of the 

Celtic Trail, 

the National Cycle Route in Wales, passing some of the most 

stunning scenery ever! There are numerous local routes leading 

from the trail, either down to the sea or high into the mountains 

and valleys that make this part of Wales so stunning. 

The valleys and mountains are covered with woodland areas that 

are available for Mountain Biking, such as at Cwmcarn, north of 

Newport. A route that rises higher and higher through forests and 

woodlands until it's possible to gaze over the valley below and on 

to the distant Severn estuary. 

The St. Gwynno Forest mountain-bike route is a terrific trail that 

goes right through some beautiful countryside near Pontypridd. 

The trail is surrounded by the unspoilt St. Gwynno Forest where the 

lush green environment is home to many rare birds and animals. 

The 12km trail starts at Llanwynno and passes the stunning Pistyll 

Goleu Waterfall and the Clydach Reservoir. 

Whatever your cycling discipline you’ll be well catered for at 

Tredegar’s Parc Bryn Bach. With many routes leading from the 

park’s Visitor Centre on the shores of the lake and crisscrossing the 

park’s 340 acres, BMX, Mountain Biking, Road Racing and Cyclo 

Cross are all popular activities here. 

Maybe you would 

prefer to walk... 

There is ample opportunity with local leisurely strolls as well as 

really adventurous long distance walks. With the new 'Right to 

Roam' laws, the whole of Southern Wales is your playground! 

Start in Chepstow and follow the Offa's Dyke path. Built by King 

Offa to protect his kinsmen, the route goes the whole length of 

Wales right to the north, close to Chester. If that’s slightly too 

adventurous for you, then try the Taff Trail, which takes you from 

Wales' capital city of Cardiff, northwards along the lower Taff 

Valley and eventually into the Rhondda Valley, probably one of the 

most famous valleys in the World! 

or see the scenery 

from horseback! 

Southern Wales is ideal horse riding country with numerous centres 

scattered throughout the area. 

If your idea of adventure is slightly more daring, then why not try the 

Welsh International Climbing Centre at Treharris near Pontypridd for 

a totally different experience. Whether you are qualified or just an 

enthusiast, the centre can assist you to fulfil your dream. 

For a more relaxed approach to climbing, the Adventures Outdoor 

Activity Centre at Kenfig, near Porthcawl can assist with their 

climbing wall, as well as teach you to surf, or raise the blood pressure 

on Quad bikes! 


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Photographs 

1. Celtic Manor Resort, Newport || 2. Golf at the Vale Hotel 

3. Royal Porthcawl || 4. Dewstow Golf Club 


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greens of 

Southern Wales 

3 

Golf in Wales is growing in stature and there has 

never been a better time to discover Welsh Golf. 

With the Ryder Cup due to be played at Newport’s Celtic Manor in 2010, 

excitement for golf is building and more and more people are coming to 

Southern Wales to experience its hidden treasures. 

One of the most appealing aspects of golf in Southern Wales is the fact 

that it has incredible diversity in a relatively small area. Visitors can play 

large established courses such as the famous Rolls of Monmouth in the 

same day as playing a stimulating round overlooking the fantastic Brecon 

Beacons at Cradoc. 

The Celtic Manor Resort, The Vale Resort and The Marriott St Pierre in 

Chepstow provide fine examples of resort golf, with their courses 

providing challenging golf amid luxurious surroundings with the added 

benefits of fine dining and spa experiences to relax after a day on the 

course. 

In addition, Southern Wales has to offer some of the finest links courses in 

the UK. The Royal Porthcawl golf course and the Pyle and Kenfig each 

offer unique challenges with fabulous sea views. 

Southern Wales also has a large number of smaller, more intimate courses 

that offer golfers of any ability just the challenge they need. The Valleys’ 

courses offer dramatic landscapes and mountainous terrain. Many of the 

courses were built by the former mine owners and are now steeped in 

heritage and history overlooking the old mining communities of Southern 

Wales. 

For an experience 

well above par 

it has to be Southern Wales 

To book your golfing holiday in Southern Wales contact 

The Greens of Southern Wales on 

+44 (0) 870 600 6088 

or visit the website on 

www.greensofsouthernwales.com 


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Photographs 

1. Cosmeston Lakes Country Park || 2. Freshwater fishing || 

3. Brecon-Monmouth Canal || 4. Rest Bay Porthcawl 


1

Southern Wales' coastline stretches from Newport across to Porthcawl and embraces a vast 

variety of activities. Naturally sailing is one of the major pastimes and the Marinas at Cardiff Bay 

and close neighbour Penarth are the places to be. Not only are they ideal for sailing, they are 

surrounded by restaurants, bars and nightlife that would be equally at home in some 

Mediterranean or Caribbean harbour! These are the waterside playgrounds of Southern Wales 

that add that touch of continental spice to any holiday. 

Penarth can also offer water ski lessons with professional trainers. For 

those of you who want something a little less strenuous how about a 

leisurly trip along the Southern Wales coast on the Balmoral or Waverly. 

Further along the coast at Barry take a gentle cruise over to Flat Holm 

Island nature reserve for a peaceful day out. 

Just beyond Barry is the start of the spectacular Glamorgan Heritage 

Coast with its high cliffs and stunning views. This was the first 

designated Heritage Coast in Britain. 

At Dunraven Bay, Southerndown, you will find the Heritage Coast 

Centre, which has all the information you might want about the 

geology and geography of the coast. The bay is also a firm favourite 

with surfers as the swell created by the tide makes it ideal. This is the 

second highest tide-change in the world. 

Onward past more stunning cliffs and swirling mysterious sand dunes 

brings you to the 'Golden Coast' - the water sports centre of Southern 

Wales. Here at Porthcawl’s Trecco Bay and Rest Bay you can learn to 

surf, wind surf, scuba dive, sea kayak and canoe, all with experienced 

trainers, in absolute safety. The beaches are European Blue Flag 

awarded and the trainers are all nationally accredited. 

3 

take to the water... 

Wordsworth called it 'The most romantic Valley in the World', and it's 

easy to see why. The beautiful Wye Valley, which forms the border 

between England and Wales, can offer canoeing, fishing and a number 

of other water sports. On the Brecon and 

Monmouth canal you can take things at 

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an almost stationary pace as you let your 

traditional narrow boat drift along the 

historic waterway through the peaceful 

Southern Wales countryside. 


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But not all 

water sports 

are along the coast 

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Photographs 

1. Caerphilly Castle || 2. Chepstow Castle || 

3. Coity Castle 


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history 

through the ages ... 

If it’s history and culture you want to experience then Southern Wales will surpass itself. Wales 

has more castles per square mile than any other in Europe and the largest number of these are in 


Start at Chepstow, the first stone built castle in Wales, designed to 

protect the important trading route down the Wye Valley and out to 

sea at the 'new port' on the coast. Not too far away, but just as 

impressive in its way, is Raglan Castle, the last stone built castle in 

Wales, and more of a fortified manor house, resembling a French style 

of building. 

Further west are three lesser 

known castles, but in their 

time equally as important 

because they helped protect 

the interests of the Norman 

invaders from the Welsh 

tribesmen; Newcastle in 

Bridgend, Coity Castle close 

by and Ogmore Castle close 

to the river mouth at Ogmore 

by Sea. Of them all, Coity is 

the best preserved, dwarfing 

its surrounding village, but the 

2 

most beautiful setting is 

Ogmore at the side of the river 

with its stepping stones leading over to the sprawling sand dunes at 

Merthyr Mawr. Legends of King Arthur, battles, and Knights of the 

Round Table abound in these parts. 

Travel northwards from Cardiff and you will soon arrive 

at Caerphilly. It's a charming little town with an 

abundance of shops, cafes and inns. The town is famous 

for giving its name to the cheese and for having the 

second largest castle in the World! Caerphilly Castle 

stands proudly on an island in the middle of its own lake 

and is spectacularly preserved. From the battlements to 

the Great Hall, the castle takes you back to a different 

era of chivalry. During the Civil War, Oliver Cromwell 

tried to break its spirit by blowing up the walls and 

towers. He didn't succeed, but left it with a tower that 

leans more than its more famous counterpart in Pisa! 

3 

For sheer extravagance and beauty a visit to Cardiff Castle, right in the 

centre of the city, is a must, as well as its 'annex' at Castell Coch in 

Tongwynlais, north of the city. 

The Scottish Bute family owned it and over a period of years it was 

transformed from a fortress into a spectacular fairy-tale castle and 

home from home during their visits from Scotland. The 3rd Marquess 

was very interested in medieval matters and wanted to re-create his 

image of 'Camelot' on the site. Did he manage it? Just to gaze at the 

roofline from Bute Park confirms that he did, and with its summer and 

winter smoking rooms, its personal chapel, roof garden, nursery rhyme 

nursery, library and clock tower it's easy to imagine ladies in flowing 

gowns and chivalrous knights. 

If you look through the windows of the roof garden, northwards, you 

will see Castell Coch perched on the side of the hill north of Cardiff. 

It was built as a hunting lodge by the 3rd Marquess and has the same 

spectacular interiors as Cardiff 

Castle. Both were designed by 

William Burgess, who also 

designed the interiors of 

Neuschwanstein Castle in 

Bavaria for 'Mad' King 

Ludwig! 


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Today the cellars 

play host to 

medieval banquets

14 

Museums abound throughout Southern Wales and 

include those at Cyfartha Castle in Merthyr Tydfil, built 

by the Iron Baron William Crawshay who's beautiful 

home now tells the history of Merthyr while the Cynon 

Valley Museum at Aberdare’s historic Gadlys Ironworks 

offers an insight into what life in the valley was like in 

days gone by. 

At the other end of the spectrum lies Tredegar House, the ancestral 

home of the Morgan family who gave their name to Gla-Morgan. 

Tredegar House is a testimony to courage at one extreme and 

extravagance at the other. Lord Tredegar was the man who gave the 

order at the Charge of the Light Brigade and his horse is buried in 

the grounds. 

The extravagance came in the 1930-40 when the family wealth was 

squandered on wild parties and entertaining with the likes of Noel 

Coward and other theatrical people. 

Photographs 

1. Caerleon Ampitheatre || 2. Cyfarthfa Castle || 

3. National Museum, Cardiff || 4. St Fagans National History 

Museum || 5. Tintern Abbey || 6. Llancaiach Fawr 


1 

Long before the castles were built, the Romans arrived and 

settled in a number of places, but Caerleon was one of the most 

important settlements for them. The whole town is built over the 

original Roman town, although the baths, amphitheatre and 

barracks can still be viewed along with the Roman Legionary 

Museum, also in the town. The amphitheatre is also reputed to 

be the site of King Arthur’s Round Table. 

There are also interesting museums at Chepstow and in Newport, 

with a particularly interesting one at Monmouth that is dedicated to 

Admiral Horatio Nelson who visited the town with Lady Hamilton. 

Probably the finest is the National Museum in Cardiff’s Civic 

Centre, with the largest collection of impressionist paintings outside 

of the Louvre in Paris. 

3 

2

If your interests lie in ecclesiastical heritage, then no visit to Southern 

Wales is complete without going to see Tintern Abbey in the Wye 

Valley. Set spectacularly at the foot of the valley with the river 

running past it, the abbey was once the home of a thriving colony of 

monks. 

Industrial Heritage has not been forgotten either and a visit to the 

World Heritage Site at Blaenavon will take you back to a much 

harder time in Wales, when men would spend the most part of their 

day underground. The National Coal Museum, or 'Big Pit' has the 

widest coal shaft in Wales and it’s possible to travel the 300 feet to 

the bottom to experience something of what they had to endure. 

Also in Blaenavon, countless reminders of the industrial revolution 

can be found at the town’s 18th century ironworks, one of Europe’s 

best preserved. 

Alternatively, visit the Rhondda Heritage Park where the story of 

the Coal Barons and Miners is brought to life in the exciting 

“Underground Experience’ and through a stunning audio-visual 

presentation. 

The trials and tribulations of the valleys were chronicled in many 

books by the late Alexander Cordell. Take time to discover Cordell 

Country and its fascinating history. Cordell Country Tour leaflets are 

available from local Tourist Information Centres. 

Just west of Cardiff is the National History Museum at St Fagan's 

which is a continually expanding open air museum with endangered 

historical buildings brought, brick by brick from many parts of Wales, 

to be re-built on the site and protected for future generations to see. 

Just a little further on close 

to Penarth is 

Cosmeston Lakes and 

Cosmeston Medieval 

Village, with costumed 

workers portraying 

what life was like back 

in ancient times. 

Northwards of Caerphilly at Nelson is Llancaiach Fawr, an ancient 

mansion and probably the most haunted house in Wales. Here you 

can step back in time to the 17th century and experience the stories 

and gossip that went on in a house of this type when the 'Master' 

was not at home. 

Costumed actors 

portray the servants 

and guide you around the house. 

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Photographs 

1. Country Pub, Vale of Glamorgan || 

2. Pontypool Park 


1

whatever next 

Why not step back in time to the Golden Age of 

steam and travel on one of Wales' preserved 

steam railways? Start at Barry Island, where the 

Barry Island Railway runs regular trips, or the 

Pontypool and Blaenavon railway high up in the 

Valley, or take the Brecon Mountain Railway 

from Merthyr Tydfil into the Brecon Beacons 

National Park with a stunningly beautiful trip 

alongside the Taf Fechan Reservoir. 

If that sounds too energetic for you, then perhaps a gentle stroll 

through a country park is more to your liking. It can be invigorating. 

Southern Wales has ample to try. Parc Bryn Bach, high in the hills 

above Tredegar has its own restaurant, lake and seating areas, with 

plenty of open land to explore, whilst a visit to Dare Valley Country 

Park in Aberdare provides a fascinating insight into man’s influence 

on our landscape over the generations. 

With 150 acres of wonderful scenery, Pontypool Park is an ideal 

spot for a peaceful walk. In the summer the park plays host to the 

ever-popular Pontypool Jazz Festival. The park also boasts the longest 

dry ski slope in Wales. 

Close to the sea at Barry is Porthkerry Park, which tumbles down 

to the shingle beach close to Cardiff Airport. Acres of open land to 

explore, with woodland walks and coastal paths. 

At the foothills of the mountains, close to Bridgend, lies Bryngarw 

Country Park. Once the grounds of an impressive mansion, the park 

offers wetlands areas, walks, children's play areas and formal 

gardens, as well as a hotel and restaurant. 

There is a fantastic restaurant at Bryngarw House, as there are all 

over Southern Wales. The Welsh love their food so much they have 

entire festivals devoted to it. Try the superb food festival at 

Abergavenny for instance, or the annual one in Cardiff Bay. You may 

even want to try an evening Medieval Banquet at Caldicot Castle 

near Newport or Cardiff Castle right in the centre of the city. Good 

food, good company, good entertainment, that is what Southern 

Wales is all about. 

If you like a glass of good wine then wander along to Llanerch 

Vineyard, just off the M4 Motorway, close to Miskin. Not only can 

you try the wines, but you can also see how the vines are grown, 

before being able to purchase a bottle to take back with you. Maybe 

you want something a little stronger! Penderyn Distillery in 

Hirwaun will show you how Welsh Whisky is made and now rivals 

those of Scotland and Ireland. 

? 

Wales is an artistic nation, 

particularly in Southern 

Wales, as Cardiff is home to 

the Welsh National Opera, 

acknowledged throughout 

the world as one of the best. 

They are based at the brand 

new Wales Millennium 

Centre in Cardiff Bay. The 

centre also caters for large 

West End musicals. St. 

David's Hall, close by, and 

the Riverside Theatre in 

Newport, cater for touring 

2 

performances whilst the 

much smaller and intimate 

New Theatre is a traditional theatre where pre-West End 

productions are common, as well as drama, plays and traditional 

British 'pantomime'. The Grand Pavilion overlooking the sea in 

Porthcawl also caters for a variety of styles including 'Cabaret on the 

Coast' where you can have a meal and enjoy a cabaret afterwards. 

The St Donats arts centre near Llantwit Major is well known for its 

varied programme of performances throughout the year as well as 

the International Story Telling Festival held each summer. In the 

summer months watch out for various outdoor plays staged at a 

number of spectaular venues throughout the region, including 

Dyffryn Gardens and at the St Fagans National History Museum. 

The Valleys are not left out as the Muni Arts Centre in Pontypridd 

offers a huge variety of different styles of performance and could 

well be classed as the spiritual home of Welsh Arts as the National 

Anthem was written in Pontypridd and international star Tom Jones 

and world renowned opera star Sir Geraint Evans were both born in 

the town. In fact it is 150 years this year since the National Anthem 

was written and there will be a host of celebrations to mark this 

important milestone in Welsh history. 

The Cardiff International Arena right in the heart of Cardiff City 

plays host to numerous exhibitions and events, as well as hosting the 

World famous Holiday on Ice touring show. The centre is also the 

home for performances by many chart topping international 

performers. 

And don't forget the many choirs, including our famous Welsh Male 

Voice Choirs, which perform nightly throughout the area. 

Love of art and music is ingrained in the personality of the Welsh 

people, and no visit to Southern Wales is complete without 

experiencing at least some of it. 


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Photographs 

1. Festival Park Shopping || 2. Cardiff || 3. McArthur Glen Designer Outlet, Bridgend || 

4. Pottery || 5. Wood Carving 


1

arts, crafts... 

and great shopping 

If you love shopping, 

then Southern Wales 

is hard to beat. 

Cardiff city centre is considered one of the finest shopping centres in 

Britain with over 600 shops in a square kilometre. Shopping in 

Cardiff is a real pleasure as the centre is totally pedestrianised making 

it a safe environment. As well as the major national chain stores, 

Cardiff boasts hundreds of local, smaller stores, most of them 

situated in one of the many Victorian and Edwardian shopping 

arcades. 

Further north from Cardiff is Festival Park shopping village at Ebbw 

Vale, offering reduced rate goods. There are numerous stores as well 

as restaurants and gardens making it a beautiful and relaxing 

experience. 

To the West of Cardiff, right on the M4 Motorway at junction 36 is 

McArtherGlen Designer Outlet. There are over 100 shops as well as 

restaurants and coffee shops, a huge food court and even an eight 

screen cinema, making the whole experience a complete day out! 

Specialist arts and crafts can be seen at the Model House in 

Llantrisant or at Ewenny Pottery and Craft Centre near Bridgend. 

The Grogg shop in Pontypridd is 

another unusual and unique place 

to visit. Here you can buy handmade 

figurines depicting famous 

personalities such as Pavarotti, 

Tom Jones or local sporting heroes. 

They also offer a range of comical 

pottery figures. 

2 

If you are in the Wye Valley, 

then don't fail to visit Abbey 

Mill Craft Centre, within 

walking distance of Tintern 

Abbey. The centre offers many 

different crafts and goods as 

well as having a restaurant 

and seating area overlooking 

the River Wye. It’s a great place to spend a morning or afternoon. 

There are arts and craft festivals throughout the area, but it is worth 

visiting the one at Caerleon, Wales' Roman town. 

www.caerleon-arts.org 

4 

5 


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3

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Photographs 

1. Big Balloon Festival, Blackwood || 2. Wales Millennium 

Centre || 3. Evan and James James Memorial, Pontypridd || 

4. Chepstow Racecourse 


1

Visitors to Southern Wales will soon discover that this is a region where there is always 

something going on. Whether it’s a large international event or something smaller and more 

intimate you’ll be welcome to join in the festivities. 

3 

events 

& venues for all 

2 

Dominating the Cardiff Bay skyline is the impressive Wales Millennium 

Centre – the Country’s new performing arts complex. A wide range of 

productions are staged here – west end musicals, ballet, opera as well as 

comedy, music and drama. Elsewhere throughout the region you’ll find 

many theatres playing host to all sorts of performers. Cardiff’s St David’s 

Hall, Newport’s Riverfront Theatre, Porthcawl’s Grand Pavilion and 

Pontypridd’s Muni Arts Centre are just some of the many theatres in the 

region. If you want to see a chart topping band or top comedians then 

check out the list of performances at the Cardiff International Arena. 

Whether it is a major international rugby or football match or a concert 

by a world famous rock band there is always something going on at 

Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium. Indeed, if sport is your passion you’ll be 

well catered for in Southern Wales. As well as rugby and football there’s 

top class cricket and ice hockey or how about horse racing at Chepstow 

racecourse set in the beautiful Wye Valley 

2006 is a big year in the town of Pontypridd. It was here 150 years ago 

that our National Anthem was written by local poet and musician Evan 

James and his son James. The ‘Big Anthem Fawr’ is a series of 

events being held throughout the year in the town and 

surrounding area to mark this important milestone in Welsh 

history. As well as celebrating the composing of the Anthem, 

Pontypridd will also be holding a series of events to mark the 

250 th 

anniversary of the building of the town’s famous stone 

bridge. For more details on these events contact +44 (0) 1443 

424123. 

Almost every town in Southern Wales hosts some form of event 

during the year, from traditional celtic festivals, jazz festivals and 

food festivals to something a little bit more unusual such as the 

Porthcawl Elvis festival. Ask locally at the Tourist Information 

Centres for more 

details. 

4 


21

22 

Photographs 

1. Winterwonderland, Cardiff || 2. Cosmeston Lakes 

Country Park || 3. Wales Rally GB || 4. Wales v Ireland, 

Millennium Stadium || 5. Wales Millennium Centre || 

6. Abertillery Blues Festival 


2 

1 

3 

events2006 

january 

All year�Newport Transporter 

Bridge Centenary Exhibition, 

Newport �01633 842962 

All year�Big Anthem Fawr, Rhondda 

Cynon Taf �01443 424123 

1st - 6th�Snow White & Seven 

Dwarfs Christmas Pantomime, Grand 

Pavilion, Porthcawl �01656 786996 

1st – 7th�Jack and the Beanstalk, 

Muni Arts Centre Pontypridd 

�01443 485934 

1st - 8th�Winterwonderland, 

City Hall Lawn Cardiff 

�029 2027 7281 

1st – 28th�Peter Pan, New Theatre, 

Cardiff �029 2087 8889 

1st - 3rd�Dick Whittington 

Pantomime, Riverfront Arts Centre 

�01633 656757 

2nd – 14th�Merlin and the Cave of 

Dreams, Sherman Theatre, Cardiff 

�029 2064 6900 

2nd – 7th�Cinderella, St Davids 

Hall, Cardiff �029 2087 8444 

13th�Jamie Cullum, St Davids Hall, 

Cardiff �029 2087 8444 

15th�Lee Mack, Wales Millennium 

Centre Cardiff �08700 402000 

20th�Chepstow Races, Chepstow 

Racecourse �01291 622260 

22nd�Reedbed’s in Winter, 

Newport Wetlands Reserve, Gwent 

Levels �0845 1306229 

25th – 26th�Completely Hollywood 

(abridged), Riverfront Arts Centre 

Newport �01633 656757 

27th�BBC National Orchestra of 

Wales, St Davids Hall, Cardiff 

�029 2087 8444 



february 



5th�Johann Strauss Gala, St Davids 

Hall, Cardiff �029 2087 8444 

6th – 11th�Strictly Ballroom 

Dancing, New Theatre, Cardiff 

�029 2087 8889 

10th –12th�Phantom of the Panto, 

Berwyn Centre, Nantymoel, Bridgend 

�01656 840439 

11th�The Marriage of Figaro - 

Opera, Wales Millennium Centre, 

Cardiff Bay �08700 402000 

11th Feb – 7th May�Artes Mundi, 

National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff 

�029 23039 7951 

12th�Wales v Scotland, RBS Six 

nations, Millennium Stadium, 

Cardiff, �0870 0138600 

14th – 18th�Romeo and Juliet, 

New Theatre, Cardiff 

�02920 878889 

17th�The Flying Dutchman - Opera, 

Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff 

Bay �08700 402000 



Cardiff Bay �08700 402000 

18th�South Wales Miners Brass 

Bands Eisteddfod, Grand Pavilion 

Porthcawl �01656 786996 

21st - 23rd�The Circus of Horrors, 

New Theatre, Cardiff 

�02920 878889 

22nd�The Flying Dutchman - 


Cardiff Bay �08700 402000 

25th�The Flying Dutchman - Opera, 


Bay �08700 402000 





Cardiff Bay �08700 402000 

march 

1st�Blaenavon Booktown Spring 

Festival, Blaenavon 

�01495 793141 

1st�St Davids Day Festival, Cardiff, 

In and around Cardiff 

�029 2087 2087 

1st�The Flying Dutchman - Opera, 


Bay �08700 402000 

2nd - 4th�Jephtha - Handel's Last 

Oratorio, Wales Millennium Centre 

Cardiff �08700 402000 

3rd – 5th�Celtic Music Festival, 

Porthcawl �01656 766667 

4th�Parade of the Celts, Bridgend 

�01656 661338 

9th�The Osmonds in Concert, St 

Davids Hall, Cardiff 

�029 2087 8444 

11th�Wales v Italy RBS Six 

Nations, Millennium Stadium, 

Cardiff, �0870 5582582 



13th – 18th�FESTEN, New 

Theatre, Cardiff �02920 878889 

18th�Wales v France RBS Six 

nations, Millennium Stadium, 

Cardiff �0870 0138600 

22nd�Chepstow Races, Chepstow 


25th�Mendelssohn A Midsummer 

Night’s Dream, St Davids Hall 

�029 2087 8444 

29th�Get Carter, The Coliseum 

Aberdare �01685 881188 



27th March- 8th April�Blood 

Brothers, New Theatre 

�029 2087 8889 

april 



8th�Porthcawl Jazz Festival, 

Porthcawl �01656 786639 

may 

1st�Chepstow Races, Chepstow 


12th – 14th�Folk Festival, 

Tredegar House, Newport 

�01633 815880 

17th�Tosca - Opera, Wales 

Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay 

�08700 402000 

17-22�Llantilio Crosenny Music 

Festival, Abergavenny 

�01873 857588 

20th�Mazepa – Tchaikovsky – 

Classical Music, Wales Millennium 

Centre, Cardiff Bay 

�08700 402000 

4

20th�Heineken European Cup 

Final, Millennium Stadium, Cardiff 

�08705 582 582 

26th�Kirov Orchestra performing 

Borodin, Prokofiev,Tchaikovsky, 

St Davids Hall, Cardiff 

�029 2087 8444 

27th�Mazepa – Tchaikovsky – 

Classical Music, Wales Millennium 

Centre, Cardiff Bay, 

�08700 402000 

28th�Tosca - Opera, Wales 


�08700 402000 

29th – 30th�Chepstow Races, 

Chepstow Racecourse 

�01291 622260 

june 

TBC�National Archaeology Week, 

Various Venues, Blaenau Gwent 

�01495 355937 

All Month�Living History Month, 

Blaenau Gwent 

�TIC 01495 792615 

All Month�Music in the Park, 

Bedwellty Park �01495 355937 

1st – 4th�Wales Open Golf 

Tournament, Celtic Manor Resort 

Hotel, Newport �01633 410216 

1st�Don Giovanni - Opera, Wales 

Millenium Centre, Cardiff Bay 

�08700 40 2000 

2nd�Tosca - Opera, Wales 


�08700 402000 

3rd�FIM Fiat Vans British Speedway 

Grand Prix, Millennium Stadium, 

Cardiff �08705 582 582 

3rd�Don Giovanni - Opera, Wales 

Millenium Centre, Cardiff Bay 

�08700 40 2000 

3rd�Chepstow Races, Chepstow 


8th – 10th�Midsummer Madness 

Festival, Bridgend Town Centre 

�01656 661338 





july 

TBC�Maindee Festival, Maindee, 

Newport �01633 842962 

All Month�Cardiff Summer Festival, 

Various Venues, Cardiff 

�029 2087 2087 

All Month�Music in the Park, 

Bedwellty Park �01495 355937 

2nd – 9th July�Cardiff World Port 

Festival, Cardiff Bay, Cardiff 

�029 2087 2087 

All Month�Welsh Proms, St Davids 

Hall, Cardiff �029 2087 8444 

TBC�International Food Festival, 

Cardiff Bay Waterfront 

�02920 872087 



8th – 9th�Bridgend Show, Pencoed 

College �01656 661338 

13th - 14th�Abertillery Blues 

Festival, Abertillery �01495 355937 



TBC�Shoppers International Street 

Festival, Cardiff City Centre 

�TIC 029 2027 7281 

TBC�MAS Carnival 2006, Roald 

Dahl Plass, Cardiff Bay 

�029 2038 2094 

28th – 30th�Big Cheese Festival, 

Caerphilly �TIC 02920 880011 



august 

All Month�Cardiff Summer Festival, 

Various Venues, Cardiff 

�029 2087 2087 



12th – 14th�Big Weekend, 

City Hall Lawn, Cardiff 

�029 2087 2087 



17th – 19th�Blooming Bridgend 

Flower Festival, Town Centre, 

Bridgend �01656 661338 

26th – 28th�The Big Balloon, 

Caerphilly �TIC 02920 880011 



september 





8th – 10th�European Heritage 

Days, Various Venues, Blaenau 

Gwent �01495 355937 

9th�Bridgend Motor Show, 

Bridgend Town Centre 

�01656 661338 

12th�Newport Transporter Bridge 

Centenary Celebrations, Newport 

�01633 842962 

16th�Abergavenny Food Festival, 

Abergavenny, Monmouthshire 

�TIC 01873 857588 

21st – 23rd�Bridgend Festival of 

Wales, Bridgend Town Centre 

�01656 661338 

23rd – 24th�European Heritage 

Days, Various Venues, Blaenau 

Gwent �01495 355937 

october 




Racecourse 

�01291 622260 

31st�Celtic New Year Festival, St 

Illtyd’s Church, Abertillery 

�01495 355937 

5 

november 

1st�Chepstow Races, 


�01291 622260 

5th�Fireworks 

Extravaganza, Barry Island 

�01446 709325 

5th�Merthyr Tydfil 

Fireworks Show, Cyfartha 

Park �01685 379884 

5th�Wales Festival of 

Remembrance, St Davids 

Hall �TIC 02920 227281 

22nd�Chepstow Races, 


�01291 622260 

25th - Jan 2007�Winter 

Wonderland 2006, City 

Hall Lawn, Cardiff �029 

2023 0130 

27th-Dec 3rd�Ironmasters 

Christmas, Blaenau Gwent 

�01495 355937 

december 

1st - 3rd�Wales Rally GB, 

City Hall/Cardiff Bay – 

Cardiff and area, 

�02920 872087 

2nd�Chepstow Races, 


�01291 622260 

21st�River of Light and 

Lantern Parade, Town 

Centre, Caerphilly 

�TIC 02920 880011 

25th�Christmas Day 

Morning Swim, Porthcawl 

�01656 786754 

27th�Chepstow Races,Chepstow 


31st�Calennig – New Year 

Celebrations, City Hall Lawn 

Cardiff �02920 872087/8 

6 

Below is a list of some of the major 

events that are occurring throughout 

the Southern Wales region in 2006. Full 

details and information on other events 

can be obtained by calling the regional 

tourist information centres listed on the 

inside back page. Please note when 

phoning from overseas the dialling 

code is 00 44 and the first 0 is omitted 

from the telephone number eg. 01656 

123456 is + 44 1656 123456. 

For more information on events in 

Southern Wales, visit: 


All dates / events subject to 

alteration, please check details with 

event organisers before travelling 


23

24 

Photographs 

the welsh 

language 

Welsh is a Celtic language similar to Breton and Cornish and is one of the oldest surviving 

languages in Europe and is spoken throughout Wales. It can be heard on television and 

radio and is taught in schools. It also appears, with English, on road signs. The language 

helps give Wales its unique character and identity 

simple guide 

to welsh 


1 

2 

Here are a few Welsh sayings 

to help you along the way: 

Bore da – Good Morning 

Prynhawn da – Good afternoon 

Noswaith dda – Good evening 

Nôs da – Good night 

Shwd mae? – How are you? 

Hwyl Fawr – Good-bye 

Diolch – Thank you 

Croeso – Welcome 

Iechyd da! – Cheers! 

1. Bridgend || 2. Rhondda Valley || 3. Cardiff’s Cafè Quarter || 

4. Cwmcarn Forest Drive 

Welsh place names 

Some words crop up time and again in 

Welsh place names and most have a 

different meaning 

Aber – Mouth of the river (e.g. 

Aberdare – Mouth of the river Dare) 

Caer – Fort 

Castell - Castle 

Cwm - Valley 

Pont – Bridge 

Llan – Parish 

Tre – Town 

3

around 

the region 

Abergavenny e2 

Gateway to the Brecon Beacons National Park 

and attractively set in the Vale of Usk, this 

prosperous market town has a weekly market 

(Tuesday), castle and museum, good shopping. 

Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal nearby. 

Barry and Barry Island c6/c7 

The ‘island’, connected to Barry, is a traditional 

seaside resort. Excellent beaches, funfair and 

amusements. Railway Heritage Centre for 

steam train enthusiasts. New Waterfront 

dockside promenade. The quieter Knap area 

and Porthkerry Country Park just around the 

headland. The nearby town of Barry has two 

main shopping areas with a wide variety of 

shops, cafés and restaurants. The weekly 

Tuesday street market attracts bargain hunters. 

Blaenavon d3 

A World Heritage Site in recognition of the 

leading role it played in the iron and coal 

industries. Go underground at the Big Pit 

National Mining Museum, or visit the historic 

ironworks. Blaenavon has lately diversified into 

bookshops, becoming a sister ‘town of books’ 

to Hay-on-Wye. 

Bridgend b5 

Busy shopping and market town set in 

attractive countryside. Its most historic part is 

Newcastle, a cluster of cottages, castle and 

church. Excellent choice of shops in town itself 

and at nearby McArthur Glen Designer Outlet 

Village. Beautiful Bryngarw Park and Coity 

Castle also close by. 

Caerleon e4 

It is only now that Caerleon’s significance as 

one of the Romans’ key towns in Britain is 

emerging. Outstanding Roman remains 

include barrack block, huge bath-house 

complex and amphitheatre (reputedly the site 

of King Arthur’s fabled Round Table). More 

Roman finds on display in town’s museum. 

www.caerleon.net 

Caerphilly d5 

Busy town just north of Cardiff with an 

unexpected centrepiece - one of the largest 

and best-preserved medieval castles in Britain. 

Caerphilly Castle’s stone and water defences 

are vast, covering 12 hectares. Explore the 

surroundings on horseback from the Caerphilly 

Riding and Trekking Centre. 

Cardiff d6 

Where to begin? There’s so much to see and 

do in Wales’ stylish capital - city-centre castle, 

neoclassical Civic Centre, superb shopping in 

Victorian arcades and modern malls, spacious 

parks and gardens, world-class art and 

museums, theatres and places to eat. And if 

that’s not sufficient, there’s a new city 

emerging along Cardiff Bay where the old 

dockland is being transformed into a 

waterfront for 21st-century living and leisure. 

Chepstow g4 

Historic border town at the mouth of the 

lovely Wye Valley. It’s large castle is reputedly 

Britain’s first stone built castle. A few miles up 

the road is Tintern Abbey home to one of 

Wales’ most evocative religious sites. 

Ebbw Vale d3 

Former steel town at the Heads of the Valleys 

close to Brecon Beacons National Park. Festival 

Park, the home of Garden Festival Wales, is 

now an attractive shopping outlet set amongst 

landscaped gardens and natural woodland. 

Merthyr Tydfil c3 

Former ‘iron capital of the world’ with good 

range of heritage attractions and museums. 

Narrow-gauge Brecon Mountain Railway runs 

into foothills of the Beacons. Explore 

woodlands and lakes from the Garwnant 

Visitor Centre to the north. 

Monmouth f2 

History-laden gateway town with rare 

defended medieval bridge and ruined castle. 

Agincourt Square named after famous son 

Henry V. Good shopping, attractive Georgian 

streets, Nelson Museum dedicated to Admiral 

Lord Nelson, hero of Battle of Trafalgar. 

Newport e5 

City at mouth of River Usk. Lots to see, 

including excellent museum, hilltop cathedral, 

famous Transporter Bridge across river, 14 

Locks Canal Centre and Tredegar House, an 

outstanding historic mansion set in parkland. 

www.newport.gov.uk/tourism 

Penarth d6 

Victorian town and seaside resort just across 

the bay from Cardiff which has retained its 

period charm. Seafront gardens, pier, 

waterfront cafés and restaurants, modern 

marina. Visit Turner House Art Gallery and 

nearby Cosmeston Medieval Village. 

Pontypool e3 

The area’s rich industrial heritage is recalled at 

the local museum set in Pontypool Park. 

There’s living canal heritage too - the 

Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal connects 

the town with Brecon. Good leisure facilities 

including a dry ski slope. 

Pontypridd c4 

Friendly valleys town with good shopping. 

Pontypridd Museum is housed within a 

beautifully converted chapel. Don’t miss the 

famous ‘Grogg’ shop - unique sculptures of 

famous people. 

Porthcawl a6 

Traditional, ever-popular seaside resort with 

good choice of beaches - Sandy Bay with its 

Coney Beach Pleasure Park and the peaceful, 

restful Rest Bay, a Blue Flag beach. Separating 

them is an attractive promenade with Grand 

Pavilion seafront theatre. Superb links golf 

course. The big dunes of Merthyr Mawr and 

Kenfig National Nature Reserve close by. 

Tredegar d3 

Historic ironmaking town on the fringe of the 

Brecon Beacons National Park famous for its 

tall iron clock tower. Town has recently 

conserved the 17th-century ironworks and has 

two beautiful parks - lakeside Parc Bryn Bach 

and Bedwellty Park. 

Usk e3 

Small town in pastoral border country 

renowned for its floral displays. Rural life 

museum and remnants of ancient castle. Good 

choice of inns and places to eat locally. 

Grid references indicated refer to map on 

pages 26/27. 


25

482 

26 

alley 

ford 

A474 

ntardawe 

SEA43 

45 

landarcy 

ansea 

A465 

bles 

Maesteg 

s Head 

ansea Bay 

mer season only 

1 

2 

3 

44 

43 

42 

4 

5 

6 

7 

Lynton 

A4109 

A4067 

A4107 

To Fishguard 

41 

40 

Porthcawl 

� 

39 

38 

47 

A48 

37 


a b c 

4 

A40 

A4063 

Aberdare 

Brecon 

Brecon Beacons National Park 

MERTHYR 

TYDFIL 

Pont Nedd 

Fechan 

Rhondda A4058 

BRIDGEND 

36 

A4061 

M4 

Bridgend 

St Donats 

A473 

A48 

A470 

A4059 

A4233 

RHONDDA, 

Porth 

CYNON, TAFF 

A4093 

35 

Cowbridge 

Llantwit 

Major 

B4520 

B4265 

34 

R Usk 

BRISTOL CHANNEL 

5 Miles 0 1 2 3 4 5 

8 Kilometres 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 

Libanus 

47 

Pontypridd 

4 

Llantrisant 

Pencoed 

8 

R Taff 

Llangorse 

Lake 

Nelson 

A470 

A473 

33 

Cardiff 

International Airport 

Bronllys 

Talybont-On-Usk 

Tretower 

BLAENAU 

GWENT 

A469 

B4560 

A4048 

A4046 

47 

CAERPHILLY 

32 

A468 

Caerphilly 

CARDIFF 

Barry 

Bridgwater 

Bay 

B4350 

Black 

Mountains 

Brynmawr 

A465 

A 

Tredegar 

Merthyr 

Tydfil 

Ebbw 

Vale 

Blaenavon A404 

Pendoylan 

8 

Abertillery 

8 

Barry 

Island 

A479 

d 

B4248 

A467 

30 

Crickhowell 

TORFAEN 

29a 

A472 

29 

B4246 

Pontypool 

28 

CARDIFF 

Cardiff Bay 

Penarth 

MO 

Blackwood A4042 

Cwmbran 

Penarth-Minehead 

Summer season only 

A467 

46 

42 

27 

26 

Summer season only 

N 

To Plym

B4348 

e f g 

bergavenny 

2 

Raglan 

NMOUTHSHIRE Wye 

A449 Valley 

landegfedd 

Reservoir 

B4236 

25 24 

Newport 

EWPORT 

outh 

22 

Usk 

Caerleon 

21 

4 

A465 

A40 

Magor 

CITY OF 

BRISTOL 

A49 

N SOMERSET 

Mendip 

Hills 

A48 

23a 23 

20 

Monmouth 

42 

B4235 

A370 

A466 

Tintern 

Chepstow 

M48 

M4 

19 

A371 

A38 

A368 

A449 

To Birmingham 

Airport 

2 

Caldicot 

Cheddar 

A466 

A403 

22 

18a 

18 

Bristol 

A39 

Wye 

Valley 

A48 

R Severn 

A4136 

BATH & 

NE SOMERSET 

map key 

M5 

SOUTH 

1 

GLOUCESTERSHIRE 

17 

21 

16 20 

3 

4 

Ross-on-Wye 

To Heathrow 

and London 

2 

19 

1 

3 

A39 

A4 

14 

M50 

M4 47 Motorway / / Interchange 

M4 47 Motorway / Interchange 

A465 Primary A Road 

A465 Primary A Road 

A Road 

A475 

A Road 

A475 BBRoad Road 

B4265 

B Road 

B4265 Railway Line 

Railway Line 

4 

Cycle Routes 

4 

(for Cycle further Routes information on cycle routes 

contact (for further Sustrans information on 0117 on 929 cycle on 0888) routes 

contact cycle routes Sustrans contact on 0117 Sustrans 929 0888) 

on 0117 929 0888) 

Woodland margin 

Woodland margin 

Urban area 

Urban area 

River / Lake 

River / Lake 

Beach 

Beach 

Official Tourist Info Centre 

Official Tourist Info Info Centre 

Railway Station 

Railway Station 

Coach Parking 

Coach Parking 

Waverley Pleasure Steamer Route 

Waverley Pleasure Steamer Route 

Airport / Airfield 

Airport / Airfield 

Building of historic interest 

Building of historic interest 

Castle or defensive works 

Castle or defensive works 

Cathedral / Abbey / Priory / Religious Site 

Cathedral / Abbey / / Priory Priory / Religious / Religious Site Site 

Country Park 

Country Park 

Industrial / Rural Heritage Site 

Industrial Yate / / Rural Heritage Site Site 

Prehistoric Site of Importance 

Prehistoric Site Site of of Importance 

Roman Site 

Roman Site 

Water / Flour / Corn / Woollen Mill 

Water / Flour / / Corn / / Woollen Mill Mill 

M4Climbing 

Centre 

Climbing Centre 

Caves 

Caves 

Surfing 

Surfing 

Windsurfing 

Windsurfing 

Sailing / Boating 

Sailing / Boating 

Fishing 

Fishing 

Blue Flag Beach 

Blue Flag Beach 

Steam Train 

Steam Train 

World Heritage Site 

World Heritage Site Site 

Golf course 

Golf Course course 

Vineyards 

Vineyard Vineyards 

Distillery 

Distillery 

A367 

Map derived from Ordnance Survey (Miniscale) data 

with the permission of The Controller of Her 

Majesty’s Stationery Office 

© Crown copyright. Licence no. PU.100039570 

Capital Region Tourism. 

A362 

27

28 

Castle Country 

suggested 

day trips 

Start the day at Cyfarthfa Castle, Merthyr Tydfil. Built in 1824 by 

local Ironmaster William Crawshay, the position of the castle on a hill 

meant it would overlook his vast Iron empire. Today the castle is a 

renowned Museum and Art Gallery located in 160 acres of 

picturesque parkland. On to Caerphilly Castle which dominates the 

town. Covering 30 acres the castle is one of the biggest in Europe. 

Watch out for its leaning tower which ‘out leans’ that of Pisa. Go 

over the mountain from Caerphilly to probably the most picturesque 

castle in Wales – Castell Coch. Built as a summer retreat for the 

wealthy owner of Cardiff’s booming docks, Lord Bute. The Castle 

enjoys commanding views over Cardiff from its vantage point 

perched on a hillside to the north of the City. Finally head into Cardiff 

City Centre to view Lord Bute’s other home – Cardiff Castle. 

Extravagantly decorated by Lord Bute’s architect William Burgess, the 

castle is one of Cardiff’s premier attractions. Before coming into the 

ownership of the Bute family the castle site was occupied by the 

Romans and Normans. 

Sea Breeze 

Take a day trip along the stunning Glamorgan Heritage Coast with 

its rugged cliffs and golden sandy beaches. Start off at the newly 

rejuvenated Penarth Marina and take in the view from the barrage 

across the Bay to Cardiff. Head along the coast to the beach at 

Southerndown. Stop offs along the way could include Porthkerry 

Country Park in Barry or the picturesque market town of Llantwit 

Major. After Southerndown head for the traditional seaside resort of 

Porthcawl. The more energetic visitor 

can catch some waves and go surfing 

1 

while others may prefer to stroll along 

the promenade or simply sit, relax and 

enjoy some refreshments in one of the 

many seafront bars and cafes. 

Photographs 

2 

1. Cardiff Castle || 2. Southerndown || 3. Monmouth || 

4. Big Pit || 5. Luxury Spas || 6. Golf || 7. Ogmore Castle 


3 

Historic Wye Valley 

Your day tour of the beautiful Wye Valley starts at Caldicot Castle. 

The Normans founded this castle before being restored as a Victorian 

family home. The castle is set in 55 acres of Country Park. From 

Caldicot take the short journey to the border town of Chepstow 

where the castle stands guard over the Wales/England border. You 

may even catch a horse-racing meeting at the nearby Chepstow 

Racecourse. Move up the Wye Valley to the picturesque village of 

Tintern, which is dominated by the impressive remains of a 13th 

century Cistercian Abbey. Sitting on the banks of the River Wye, the 

setting once inspired Wordsworth. Finally head for Monmouth the 

history laden gateway town. Good shopping, attractive Georgian 

streets, several fine old country inns and the Nelson museum 

dedicated to Admiral Lord Nelson, hero of the Battle of Trafalgar 

complete this attractive town. 

Shops, Mines and Heritage 

Abergavenny is an attractive market town on the banks of the River 

Usk. Surrounded by the glorious scenery of the Brecon Beacons the 

town is home to a famous food fair every autumn. After exploring 

Abergavenny head to the World Heritage Site at Blaenavon. Take an 

underground tour at the excellent Big Pit: National Coal Museum 

or visit one of the town’s many bookshops. For those who want more 

shopping then Festival Park Shopping Village near Ebbw Vale is 

the next stop. Almost 50 shops under one roof is a must for anyone 

with some spare money to spend. Then its time to end the day in 

relaxing fashion by visiting Dare Valley Country Park near 

Aberdare to take in the stunning views of the Cynon Valley. 

4

short breaks 

in Southern Wales 

Whether it’s self-indulgence or self-improvement you’re after, we’ve 

got just the break you’re looking for here in Southern Wales. If you 

want the cares and tensions of everyday life to melt away you can 

choose from a variety of options whatever the season. How about 

staying in a rural retreat and crunching through the golden autumn 

leaves or perhaps you’d prefer to banish the winter blues as you try 

a ‘holistic weekend’, where you’ll be welcomed by a roaring log fire 

your own cosy cottage. When spring is in the air, why not enjoy one 

of our many golf courses – we have a superb choice from resortbased 

to links to local character courses. Of course, when summer 

arrives, the great outdoors always looks just that bit more tempting 

and with so many activities (such as walking, horse-riding, cycling 

and watersports) to choose from you’ve got plenty of excuses to 

spend as much time as you like taking in our varied countryside and 

coastline. 

Our diverse and entertaining events programme runs year-round 

including nail-biting sporting finals, colourful festivals, West End 

shows and a variety of top-class countryside shows where local food, 

wine and crafts can be found alongside some dazzling displays that 

showcase rural life. We have some 

impressive venues to boast about 

including the stunning new Millennium 

Centre and the world-renowned 

Millennium Stadium where you can rock 

with the biggest names in music one 

evening and wait for that crucial try the 

next. 

As you can imagine with such a tempting 

range of things to see and do in our 

region, we need an equally tempting 

selection of places to stay and we can 

certainly promise a fantastic choice 

including welcoming bed and breakfasts 

offering that personal touch, charming 

cottages with their own unique 

characters and five star hotels with every 

possible resource to hand. 

For your short breaks 

leaflets visit 


7 

6 


5 

29

30 

If you wish to make your own reservation we recommend you check all charges at the time of booking. Some 

operators will require a deposit and advise you accordingly. In addition, some non-serviced accommodation providers 

may require a refundable bond to cover against damage and will advise you accordingly. We recommend that you 

always confirm your booking in writing. Please check operators’ cancellation policy prior to booking. 

Grading and Symbols 

All the accommodation in this publication has been fully inspected and graded 

for quality on an annual basis. The accommodation complies with the Wales 

Tourist Board’s (WTB) own grading schemes or those of the AA and RAC. Star 

grades mean that you can be sure of standards and choose the accommodation 

that’s just right for you. Please note: Occasionally properties have been unable to 

be graded in time for publication. In these instances the property is marked as 

‘Awaiting Grading’. 

Hotels and Guest Houses 

WTB’s Stars are your guide to quality. Places that score highly will have an 

especially welcoming atmosphere and pleasing ambience, high levels of comfort 

and guest care, and attractive suurounding enhanced by thoughtful design and 

attention to detail. Here’s the quality rating: 

Exceptional 

Excellent 

Very Good 

Good 

Fair to Good 

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It is important to bear in mind that the WTB Star Grade takes into account the 

nature of the property and expectation of the guests – so a farmhouse is just as 

entitled to five stars as a country hotel, as long as what it offers is of the highest 

quality. 

AA/RAC Star Grading Scheme 

Please bear in mind that these schemes are based more on the provision of 

facilities that the WTB star grades, which are based primarily on quality. 

Self Catering 

As with hotels and guesthouses, the WTB uses stars to denote quality at selfcatering 

accommodation. At five star accommodation, all beds will be made up 

on arrival and you will have access to a washing machine. All three, four and five 

star accommodation will be entirely self-contained. 

Caravan and Camping Parks 

Stars also apply to caravan and camping parks, the grade reflecting the 

overall quality of the park. 

Welcome Host 

The WTB’s Welcome Host scheme is part of a tradition of 

friendliness. This customer care scheme, open to everyone from 

hotel staff to taxi drivers, places the emphasis on hospitality and 

first-class service 

Walkers and Cyclists Welcome 

Walking and cycling enthusiasts should look out for this sign, which 

includes the ‘boot’ and ‘bike’ symbols (some properties qualify for 

both symbols, others just the one). It’s displayed by places which have 

undertaken to provide features which walkers and cyclists always find 

welcome – drying facilities for wet clothes and boots, secure lockable 

areas for bikes, adequate storage space for rucksacks, packed lunches and 

so on 


Booking information 

Accommodating Visitors with Disabilities 

The WTB recommends that all tourism operators prepare and make available 

an ‘Access Statement’ to potential visitors. This the only way of accurately 

describing accessibility in tourism premises. 

Businesses using a verified Access Statement will be denoted by a symbol 

S 

in their advertisement. 

Please Note 

All gradings and awards were correct at time of going to press. Inspections 

are on going and improvements made by establishments may have resulted 

in a revision since publication. Please check when booking. 

Further information on Gradings and Awards is available from the Wales 

Tourist Board, Ty Glyndwr, Forge Road, Machynlleth, SY20 8WW. 

Tel: +44 (0) 1654 702584, Fax: +44 (0) 1654 703081 

E-mail: quality@tourism.wales.gov.uk Website: www.wtbonline.gov.uk 

Any Problems? 

If you are dissatisfied with the accommodation in any way please contact the 

owner or manager of the business at the time of your stay so that matters 

can be put right. Unfortunately, the WTB is only able to consider an 

investigation of complaint about accommodation if you have previously 

raised the matter with the proprietor or manager. 

If you have already taken this course of action but do not feel satisfied with 

the outcome, please send details of your complaint to the Quality Assurance 

Department, Wales Tourist Board, Brunel House, 2 Fitzalan Road, Cardiff, 

CF24 0UY within 14 days of your visit where possible including the name of 

the person to whom you referred your complaint. The WTB is not in a 

position to provide compensation where customers have been unable to 

resolve such disputes. 

If you refer your complaint to the WTB for investigation, we retain the right 

to use the complaint as we consider appropriate, which may include passing 

a copy to the proprietor concerned. 

Key 

Hotels, Inns and Conference Centres 

Guest House and Bed & Breakfast 

Backpackers, Hostels and Bunkhouses 

Self-Catering and Canal Boat holidays 

Caravan and Camping 

Attractions, Activities and Services

t Linen for hire 

s Linen provided 

‡ Meter charge for fuel 

` Laundry facilities 

Å Showers 

) Electric hook up 

Ò Major credit cards accepted 

^ Totally non smoking 

Z Cafe/Restaurant 

≈ Licensed 

§ Evening Meal 

¯ Special Diets 

‚ Evening Entertainment 

+ Barbecue 

Ω Parking 

d Gym/Health Club 

q Indoor pool 

p Outdoor pool 

∏ Bird Watching 

± Tea/coffee 

Bryn Meadows Golf and 

Country Hotel 

Set in the heart of the beautiful Rhymney Valley, a 20 minute drive from 

Cardiff. This four star country hotel is one of Wales’ premier golf and 

leisure facilities. Recently refurbished to provide even more luxurious 

surrounding. This family run establishment offers the warmest of 

welcomes coupled with unrivalled standards of service. 

Maesycwmmer, Ystrad Mynach, Caerphilly, CF82 7SN 

�� + 44 (0) 1495 225590 �� + 44 (0) 1495 228272 

� www.brynmeadows.com 

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Open: All Year 

No of Rooms: 42 

(all en-suite) 

Single Occupancy from 

£85 

Double Occupancy from 

£98 

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HOTEL 

key to symbols 

t TV in bedrooms 

¢ TV in lounge 

˙ Pets by arrangement 

« Lift 

ß Bus Stop nearby (1/2 mile) 

π Train station nearby (3 miles) 

w Toilets 

~ Guided tours 

¢ Picnic area 

? Children’s play area 

T Games Room 

apple Craft Demonstrations 

Æ Gift Shop 

S 

Disability Access Statement Prepared 

9 Ground Floor Bedrooms Available 

F Garden for guests use 

K Cots available 

The White Hart Inn 

19 Church Street, Bedwas, Caephilly, CF83 8EA 

�� + 44 (0) 2920 885394 

✉ Eurwen.higgs@btconnect.com 

d5 

I Bookable through TIC’s 

All accommodation in this section is categorised 

according to type (i.e. Hotels, Guest House & 

Farmhouse, Self Catering, Caravan + Camping). 

Please refer to colour codes opposite. 

Ideally situated for Cardiff and Caerphilly. Friendly and homely inn with 

all one needs when away from home. Bus stop 100 metres away for most 

local trips. We’re placed on bike route. No smoking in rooms. Disability 

access downstairs only. Welsh speaking. Good home cooked meals. 

Breakfast a must. 

ÒΩtπß§F?≈^Z¢ 


2 rooms in main building 

(both en suite) 

3 further rooms in 

annexe 

(not en suite) 


£30 to £35 


£50 to £55 

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HOTEL 


31

32 


No of Rooms: 197 rooms 

(all en suite) 

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HOTEL 

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No of Rooms: 28 rooms (all en suite) 

Single Occupancy from £75 to £95 

Double Occupancy from £100 to £140 

Family Room from £130 

B&B 2 people, 2 nights from £200 to £275 

D, B&B 2 people 2 nights from £270 to £320 

b5 

5 

Dare Valley Country Park 

A modern hotel situated in 200 hectares of accessible parkland. All rooms 

can be adapted to sleep up to four people. This flexibility makes it ideal for 

families and groups seeking a central base for exploring this fascinating 

region. We are noted for our hearty breakfasts and a friendly atmosphere. 

Trecynon, Aberdare, Rhondda Cynon Taf, CF44 7RG 

�� + 44 (0) 1685 874672 �� + 44 (0) 1685 882919 

✉ darevalleycp@rhondda-cynon-taf.gov.uk 

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Hilton Hotel 

Kingsway, Cardiff, CF10 3HH 

� + 44 (0) 2920 646300 �� + 44 (0) 2920 646333 

Luxury five star hotel in the heart of the city, overlooking 

Cardiff Castle and almost within kicking range of the 

Millennium Stadium. With our great Restaurant and 

impressive Leisure facilities you may find it hard to leave 

this wonderfully relaxing hotel. 

✉ reservations.cardiff@hilton.com 

� www.hilton.co.uk/cardiff 

Coed y Mwstwr 

Coychurch, Bridgend, CF35 6AF 

� +44 (0) 1656 860621 �� +44 (0) 1656 863122 

Tranquil setting perched on a hillside and set in 17 acres of 

woodland. The perfect base for exploring the Heritage 

Coast. Enjoy award-winning cuisine in the Eliot Restaurant 

or take advantage of our new leisure club with gym, sauna 

and steam room. 

✉ Enquiries@coed-y-mwstwr.com 

� www.coed-y-mwstwr.com 



(all en suite) 


£35 


£45 to £62 

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CONFERENCE 

Open: All year (except Christmas) 

No of Rooms: 19 (all en-suite) 

Single Occupancy from £55 


Family Occupancy from £105 to £130 

B&B 2 people, 2 nights from £210 to £250 per 

couple 

D, B&B 2 people 2 nights from £260 to £300 

per couple 

b5 

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Cwrt Bleddyn Hotel & Spa 

The beautiful manor house hotel has been extensively refurbished to create 

a delightful and unique venue providing excellent food, spa, leisure and 

corporate facilities. The hotel is situated in 50 acres of gardens amongst the 

rolling hills of Monmouthshire. There is an abundance of tourist attractions 

within 10 miles of the venue. 

Llangybi, Usk, Monmouthshire, NP15 1PG 

�� + 44 (0) 1633 450521 �� + 44 (0) 1633 450220 

✉ enquiries@cwrtbleddyn.co.uk 

� www.cwrtbleddyn.co.uk 

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Bryngarw House 

Bryngarw Country Park, Brynmenyn, Bridgend 

� +44 (0) 1656 729009 �� +44 (0) 1656 729007 

Bryngarw House nestling in 113 acres of Country Parkland. 

Each of the nineteen bedrooms is en suite and has its own 

unique style, direct dial telephones, television, trouser press, 

hairdryer and hospitality tray, executive accommodation 

available. Award winning Harlequin Restaurant for evening 

meals and special occasions 

✉ bryngarwhouse@bridgend.gov.uk 

� www.bryngarwhouse.co.uk 

Macdonald Holland House Hotel 

24-26 Newport Road, Cardiff, CF244 0DD 

� + 44 (0) 870 122 0020 �� + 44 (0) 2920 488894 

A luxury hotel in a prime location within minutes of the busy 

shopping centre. Combining urban sophistication and stylish 

decor this premier hotel offers 165 luxurious bedrooms with 

stunning views of the city. The hotel boasts an 

awardwinning restaurant, Spa, swimming pool, sauna, 

steam room and Gym. 

✉ sales.Holland@macdonald-hotels.co.uk 

� www.macdonaldhollandhouse.co.uk 

AWAITING GRADING 

HOTEL



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Special Offer 

3 nights for the price of 2 during 

certain periods 

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Thistle Hotel 

Park Place, Cardiff, CF10 3UD 

� + 44 (0) 870 333 9157 �� + 44 (0) 870 333 9257 

Thistle Cardiff is superbly located close to Cardiff Castle and 

the main shopping area in the heart of this fascinating city. 

The Hotel has three bars and a brasserie serving a selection 

of drinks, light refreshments and meals. 

✉ Cardiff@thistle.co.uk 

� www.thistle.co.uk/cardiff 

Vale Hotel, Golf and Spa Resort 

Hensol Park, Hensol, Nr Cardiff, Vale of Glamorgan CF72 8JY 

� + 44 (0) 1443 667800 �� + 44 (0) 1443 665850 

Wales premier 4 star resort with world class hotel, 2 

championship golf courses, Wales’ largest health spa 

only 15 minutes from Cardiff and easily accessible from 

the M4 motorway, making the Vale Resort one of the 

UK’s most desirable golf leisure and spa destinations. 

✉ reservations@vale-hotel.com 

� www.vale-hotel.com 

Delightful village Coaching Inn near Raglan Castle. Best Inn 

in Monmouthshire award. Family run. Excellent reputation 

for very good food, real ales and wine in a relaxed informal 

atmosphere. Refurbished throughout. Restaurant, open 

fired lounge, intimate bar. Individual bedroom décor. Rural 

views from terrace. 

✉ thebeauforthotel@hotmail.com 

� www.beaufortraglan.co.uk 

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Prices from £69 per room per night 

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The brand new Park Plaza Hotel oozes luxury and 

sophistication in the heart of the city centre. This stunning 

4 star deluxe boutique style hotel offers 129 fully airconditioned 

guest rooms with state of the art conference 

facilities and fabulous spa facilities. 

✉ ppcres@parkplazahotels.co.uk 

� www.parkplaza.com 

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Park Plaza 

Greyfriars Road, Cardiff, CF10 3AL 

� + 44 (0) 2920 111 111 �� + 44 (0) 2920 111 112 

The Beaufort Arms 

High Street, Raglan, NP15 2DY 

� +44 (0) 1291 690412 �� +44 (0) 1291 690935 

Future Inns Cardiff Bay 

Hemingway Road, Cardiff, CF10 4JY 

� + 44 (0) 2920 487111 �� + 44 (0) 2920 432796 

A quality upscale hotel offering unbeatable value. Located 

near the Wales Millennium Centre and the vibrant dining 

and entertainment hot-spot of Cardiff Bay’s waterfront and 

1 mile from the City Centre. The Thomas Restaurant offers 

an extensive choice of dishes influenced by Welsh flavours. 

✉ sales.cardiff@futureinns.co.uk 

� www.futureinns.co.uk 





D, B&B 2 people 2 nights from £170 

to £320 

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Single Occupancy £65 to £95 

Double Occupancy £90 to £135 

D, B&B 2 people, 2 nights £239.80 to 

£319.80 

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Family Occupancy from £100 

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Double Occupancy from £85 


Executive Suites from £110 

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HOTEL 

Usk Inn 

Station Road, Talybont on Usk, LD3 7JE 

� +44 (0) 1874 676251 �� +44 (0) 1874 676392 

We were the 2005 AA Welsh Pub of the Year, chosen for 

excellent food, comfortable rooms, warmth of our 

welcome and hands on management. Nothing about 

the Inn has changed. It continues to go from strength to 

strength. An ideal touring base for South Wales. 

✉ stay@uskinn.co.uk 

� www.uskinn.co.uk 

Atlantic Hotel 

West Drive, Seafront, Porthcawl, CF36 3LT 

� + 44 (0) 1656 785011 �� + 44 (0) 1656 771877 

A personally run hotel situated on seafront within a few 

minutes of town centre, harbour and Royal Porthcawl 

Golf Club. The hotel has a comfortable lounge bar and 

restaurant which enjoys a first class reputation for its 

cuisine. No Dogs (Guide or Hearing Dogs Only) 

✉ enquiries@atlantichotelporthcawl.co.uk 

� www.atlantichotelporthcawl.co.uk 

Court Colman Manor 

Pen y Fai, Bridgend 

� +44 (0) 1656 720212 �� +44 (0) 1656 724544 

Set in six acres of tranquil landscaped gardens, the Manor 

has 34 en-suite bedrooms with styles such as Welsh, Italian, 

Moroccan, Indian and Japanese. The Bokhara offers a mix 

of Indian and Mediterranean cuisine. Two miles from the 

M4 (junction 36) 

✉ Experience@court-colman-manor.com 

� www.court-colman-manor.com 

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Parkway Hotel 

Cwmbran Drive, Newport, NP44 3UW 

� + 44 (0) 1633 871199 �� + 44 (0) 1633 869160 

This privately owned and operated hotel has recently been 

refurbished and offers a very high standard of 

accommodation in executive bedrooms with marble 

bathrooms. Fully equipped leisure club with heated indoor 

pool and all modern comforts expected of a 4 star hotel 

✉ enquiries@parkwayhotel.co.uk 

� www.bw-parkwayhotel.co.uk 

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Children under 12 half price 

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Sandville Hotel 

19 Mary Street, Porthcawl, CF36 3YL 

� + 44 (0) 1656 773774 

The Sandville is a small family run hotel where visitors are 

guaranteed high quality accommodation. Tastefully 

refurbished throughout, bedrooms are en-suite with 

television and hospitality trays. Walking distance from town 

centre, promenade and beaches. Ideal base for touring 



33

34 





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HOTEL 

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Family Occupancy from £110 plus £6 per 

additional child 

B&B 2 people, 2 nights from £140 

D, B&B 2 people 2 nights 

from £205 

b5 


No of Rooms:9 (all en-suite) 

Single: from £40 

Double: from £58 

Family Room from £58 

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5 

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HOTEL 


The Bear Hotel 

63 High Street, Cowbridge, CF71 7AF 

� + 44 (0) 1446 774814 �� + 44 (0) 1446 775425 

Situated on the main high street of the beautiful market 

town of Cowbridge just 15 minutes from Cardiff. The 

hotel is famed for it’s fine home cooked food, friendly 

atmosphere and good ale. Many attractions nearby 

including Museum of Welsh Life and Castell Coch 

✉ enquiries@bearhotel.com 

� www.bearhotel.com 

ÒΩ˙qptπ9ßd`≈«ZK 

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Heronston Hotel 

Ewenny Road, Bridgend, CF35 5AW 

� +44 (0) 1656 668811 �� +44 (0) 1656 668641 

The Heronston Hotel and Leisure Club is situated on the 

outskirts of Bridgend and is ideally placed to discover the 

beautiful Glamorgan Heritage Coastline. Equidistant from 

Cardiff and Swansea and it’s many attractions. Excellent 

restaurant and bar. Nearby golf, horse riding, cycling and 

walking. 

✉ enquiries@bestwesternheronstonhotel.co.uk 

� www.bw-heronstonhotel.co.uk 

Masons Arms Hotel 

Bryncethin, Bridgend, CF32 9YR 

� +44 (0) 1656 720253 �� +44 (0) 1656 720253 

This family run establishment has been converted from a 

traditional Welsh Inn to a luxuriously designed hotel and 

restaurant. Highly commended for excellent cuisine. Ideally 

located for the McArthur Glen Outlet. Follow A4061 to 

Bryncethin from the M4 motorway junction 36 

� www.infotel.co.uk/67137 

Seabank Hotel 

The Promenade, Porthcawl, CF36 3LU 

� +44 (0) 1656 782261 �� +44 (0) 1656 785363 

Pleasantly situated overlooking the Glamorgan Heritage 

Coastline, the Seabank offers a traditional blend of Welsh 

hospitality. Our spacious restaurant, smugglers bar and cosy 

lounges set the ideal scene to relax and unwind 

✉ info@seabankhotel.co.uk 

� www.seabankhotel.co.uk 

The Castle Inn 

Nant y Croft, Rassau, Ebbw Vale 

� + 44 (0) 1495 302087 �� + 44 (0) 1495 302087 

Recently refurbished 300 year old inn, retaining all its 

charm. Summer terrace, garden, bbq and bar. Excellent 

home cooking in restaurant. Accommodation tastefully 

decorated with quality modern facilities. Conveniently 

situated on A465 road. 

� www.the-castleinn.co.uk 



Single Occupancy from £39.95 


Special Offer B&B from £60 per night 

for a Friday & Saturday and get 

Sunday night free 

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Single Occupancy £49.50 


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Open: All Year (except Christmas & 

New Year) 





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Single Occupancy from £49 (farmhouse) 

and from £55 (studio) 

Double Occupancy from £65 (farmhouse) 

and from £75 (studio) 

Family Occupancy from £90 (Studio) 

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Greendown Inn Hotel 

Drope Road, St Georges-Super-Ely, Nr Cardiff CF5 6EP 

� + 44 (0) 1446 760310 �� + 44 (0) 1446 760937 

The Greendown is a quaint privately run 15th Century Inn 

with restaurant. Set in rural surroundings with the M4 

junction 33 only 5 minutes and Cardiff city centre 10 

minutes. Large car park. All rooms en-suite. C.C Club 

members welcome. 

� www.greendownhotel.co.uk 

The Hill Education & Conference Centre 

Pen y Pound, Abergavenny, NP7 7RP 

� +(0) 1495 333777 �� +(0) 1495 333778 

A converted country house located in picturesque grounds 

within walking distance of the market town of 

Abergavenny. Easily reached by road or rail, the hill is ideal 

for those looking to explore Monmouthshire or the Brecon 

Beacons. Ample free parking. Self catering accommodation 

also available. 

✉ hill@coleggwent.ac.uk 

� www.thehillabergavenny.co.uk 

The Park Hotel 

Station Road, Ebbw Vale, NP23 6TN 

� +44 (0) 1495 371431 �� +44 (0) 1495 370214 

Warm hospitality and excellent cuisine from family run 

charming Victorian hotel. Recently renovated with 

spectacular views from the conservatory restaurant. 

✉ ppfranchi@aol.com 

Minerva Hotel 

52 Esplanade Avenue, Porthcawl, CF36 3YU 

� +44 (0) 1656 782428 �� +44 (0) 1656 772055 

The Minerva is a small family run hotel with a warm and 

friendly atmosphere, situated just off the sea front in a 

quiet avenue near the town centre. All rooms are en suite 

and have television, telephone and hospitality tray. 

✉ Minerva-porthcawl@tiscali.co.uk 

Llanerch Vineyard 

Hensol, Pendoylan, Vale of Glamorgan CF72 8GG 

� + 44 (0) 1443 225877 �� + 44 (0) 1443 225546 

Situated in the beautiful Vale of Glamorgan yet only 15 

minutes from the centre of Cardiff, Llanerch Vineyard offers 

quality accommodation in en-suite rooms or deluxe studios 

on our 20 acre estate. Ideal location for touring all of South 

Wales. 

✉ enquiries@llanerch-vineyard.co.uk 

� www.llanerch-vineyard.co.uk


No of Rooms: 2 rooms (1 en suite) 




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The White House 

Flanders Road, Llantwit Major, Vale of Glamorgan, CF61 1RL 

� + 44 (0) 1446 794250 

Charming sympathetically restored Georgian retreat 

situated in the heart of the historic, quaint village of 

Llantwit Major. Elegant, spacious bedrooms with a host of 

thoughtful extras including fluffy bathrobes, mini fridges 

and luxury toiletries. Ideal for exploring the many attractions 

of Cardiff and the Vale. Fluent Welsh spoken – Croeso 

Mawr! 

✉ waleswhitehouse@hotmail.com 

� www.waleswhitehouse.co.uk 

Edmon Guest House 

33 Esplanade Avenue, Porthcawl, CF36 3YS 

� +44 (0) 1656 788102 Mobile +44 (0) 7876 388818 

For business or pleasure Edmon House prides itself on 

providing only the best in quality and service maintaining 

luxury surroundings and family atmosphere. Golf, fishing, 

horse riding and all amenities close by. 100yrds to the sea 

front and wonderful coastal walks. 

✉ edmonhouse@edmonhouse.force9.co.uk 

� www.edmonguesthouse.co.uk 

Hunter’s Gate 

Maudlam, Pyle, Bridgend, CF33 4PL 

� +44 (0) 1656 740735 

Family run modern guesthouse, halfway between Swansea 

and Cardiff, 2 miles from M4 motorway. Adjacent to Kenfig 

Nature Reserve. Within easy reach of the seaside resort of 

Porthcawl, four major golf courses, Margam Country Park 

and Afan Argoed Forest Park 

✉ janehampton@maudlam.fsnet.co.uk 

Mair’s Bed & Breakfast 

9 Coychurch Road, Bridgend, CF31 3AR 

� +44 (0) 1656 654838 Mobile +44 (0) 7768 286303 

Feel at home at Mair's Bed and Breakfast offering you 

homely accommodation with a truly Welsh welcome. Mair's 

welcomes disabled visitors, having some facilities for 

disabled persons. This B&B was opened by Graham Henry, 

(former Coach of the Welsh National Rugby Team) in 1999. 

✉ mairbandb@hotmail.com 

� www.mairsbedandbreakfast.co.uk 

Protea Guest House 


� +44 (0) 1656 786526 

A warm welcome is assured at our tastefully decorated 

Edwardian town house, situated only a minutes walk from 

the seafront. Conveniently located close to junction 37 of 

M4 motorway. Championship golf courses, fishing and 

coastal walks are a few of the local amenities to be enjoyed. 

Totally non smoking establishment. 

✉ djlewis@fsmail.net 





Rate per unit per week from £ to £ 

Rate per unit for 3 nights from £ to £ 

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No of Rooms: 3 rooms (all en suite 



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Single Occupancy £35 



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D, B&B 2 people 2 nights from £175 

to £200 

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No of Rooms: 4 (2 en-suite) 

Single: from £30 

Double/Twin: from £58 

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Eastfield B&B 

13 Eastfield Way, Caerleon, Newport, NP18 3EU 

� + 44 (0) 1633 422261 

Eastfield is a small very friendly Wales Tourist Board 3 star 

Bed & Breakfast situated in a quiet suburb of the historic 

Roman Town of Caerleon on the River Usk. We may be 

small in capacity but big on Welsh hospitality. 

✉ anne@collings110.fsnet.co.uk 

� www.caerleon.net/inns/east/ 

Ewenny Woods Bed and Breakfast 

The Trip, Ewenny, Nr Bridgend, Vale of Glamorgan 

� + 44 (0) 1656 766421 

Situated in the historic village of Ewenny, in the Vale of 

Glamorgan within easy access of Bridgend and Cowbridge, 

Ewenny Woods offers superior Bed and Breakfast 

accommodation for the discerning traveller. Our rooms are 

stylish and comfortable, with DVD, refreshments facilities, 

bathrobes and deluxe ensuites with panoramic views of the 

Welsh countryside. 

✉ info@ewennywoods.co.uk 

� www.ewennywoods.co.uk 

Lugano Guest House 

Hillside, Mountain Road, Caerphilly 

� + 44 (0) 2920 852672 Mobile: +44 (0) 7970 906488 

Charming character house, residents private garden and 

terrace. Upstairs bedrooms have views overlooking 

Caerphilly Castle. All rooms are en-suite. Just a minute walk 

from the town centre. Regular public transport services into 

Cardiff. A warm and friendly welcome is assured. 

✉ nick@dowson4145.freeserve.co.uk 

� www.visitcaerphilly.com 

The Old Police Station Bed & Breakfast 

Station Terrace, Nelson, Caerphilly, CF46 6ED 

� + 44 (0) 1443 451611 

A warm welcome and luxury ensuite accommodation in a 

sensitively restored Edwardian former village police station. 

Breakfast is served in the award winning Sergeants 

Restaurant where guests also receive 10% discount off a la 

carte dining 

✉ Sergeants2@aol.com 

� www.sergeantsrestaurant.co.uk 

Roseland Bed & Breakfast 

Dukestown Road, Dukestown, Tredegar, NP22 4RE 

� + 44 (0) 1495 722040 

Ideal central base for visiting industrial, cultural and leisure 

attractions of the Southern Wales Valleys and Brecon 

Beacons National Park. The comfortable accommodation is 

also handy for the Gower Coast, Hay Festival and Cardiff 

✉ susanroseland@aol.com 


35

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Springfields Guest House 

371 Llantarnam Road, Cwmbran, Torfaen, NP44 3BN 

� + 44 (0) 1633 482509 

Large Victorian house in suburban location but only 5 

minutes to M4 motorway. Family run with family values, for 

business and tourism, good food close by. On major routes 

for sightseeing, golf, walking, cycling and shopping. 

Blaenavon World Heritage site 1/2 hours drive. 

✉ springfields@webster.uk.net 

� www.springfieldsguesthouse.com 

Wern Ganol Guest House 

Wern Ganol Farm, Nelson, CF46 6PS 

� + 44 (0) 1443 450413 

Family run guest house overlooking panoramic views of 

open countryside, providing home from home comfort 

with a warm friendly atmosphere. 

✉ mail@wernganol.co.uk 

� www.wernganol.co.uk 

Mynydd Lodge 

Tillery Road, Cwm Tillery, Abertillery, NP13 1JN 

� + 44 (0) 1495 321052 �� + 44 (0) 1495 217213 

Large converted chapel fully modernised. Set in picturesque 

scenery deep in the heart of the Welsh valleys. Within in 

walking distance of lakes. Only 25 minutes from Millennium 

Stadium, Cardiff 

✉ mynyddlodge@aol.com 

� www.abertillery.net 






No of Rooms: 8 rooms (sleeping 58) 

Self Catering per person per night 

£10.50 (under 18) £14.00 (Adult) 

Bed & Breakfast per person per night 

£15.00 (Under 18) £18.50 (Adult) 


GUEST HOUSE 

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The Coach House 

2 Twyn Sych, Rudry, Caerphilly, CF83 3EF 

� + 44 (0) 2920 884772 �� + 44 (0) 2920 884772 

A warm welcome from the heart of the countryside. Near 

Millennium Stadium, public services, historical attractions. 

11/2 km from Caerphilly Castle. Woodland sights for 

walking, cycling and fishing. Home cooked breakfasts, quiet 

surroundings and pleasant views. 

Ty Shon Jacob Farm 

Tranch, Pontypool, NP4 6BP 

� + 44 (0) 1495 757536 �� + 44 (0) 1495 757536 

The farm is peacefully situated above Pontypool with 

panoramic views over the Bristol Channel to the south and 

the Brecon Beacons to the north. There are an abundance 

of places to see and things to do like walking, biking and 

horse riding 

✉ tyshonfarm@aol.com 

� www.smoothhound.co.uk/hotels/tyshon 




Double Occupancy £55 

D, B&B 2 people 2 nights £150 

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The Wenallt 

Gilwern, Abergavenny, NP7 0HP 

� + 44 (0) 1873 830649 �� + 44 (0) 1873 830649 

Charming and cosy 16th century Welsh longhouse at the 

foot of Blorenge mountain in Brecon Beacons National Park. 

Minutes from Blaenavon World Heritage Site, castles, 

mountain railway and famous Hay-on-Wye bookshops. 

Enjoy peace and tranquility in our spacious gardens. 

� www.downourlane.co.uk 

Ysgubor Fach Bed & Breakfast 

Coalbrookvale, Brynmawr, NP23 4QQ 

� + 44 (0) 1495 290413 

We offer guests warm and friendly hospitality in our olde 

worlde cottage nestling in a peaceful mountain setting 

✉ j-p@ysguborfach.freeserve.co.uk 

� www.southwalesbnb.com 

Rossett Guest House 


� +44 (0) 1656 771664 �� +44 (0) 1656 771664 

Friendly and inviting home in the centre of the Victorian 

seaside town of Porthcawl. A few minutes walk from 

promenade, with beautiful coastal walks across the 

common and Kenfig Nature Reserve - Golf, fishing, cycling 

and horse riding nearby. Approx 30 minutes from Swansea 

and Cardiff. 

✉ rossettgh@hotmail.com 

Blue Seas Bed & Breakfast 

72 Beach Road, Porthcawl, CF36 5NE 

� + 44 (0) 1656 786540 �� + 44 (0) 1656 789361 

Come and join us and enjoy our family run Bed & Breakfast, 

situated on the waters edge overlooking the idyllic Newton 

Beach. Cast your eyes a little further to explore the 

Glamorgan Heritage Coast and surrounding countryside. A 

perfect location for all your holiday activities. 

✉ rg@blueseasbnb.co.uk 

� www.blueseasbnb.co.uk 

Glyncornel Environmental Centre 

Nantygwyddon Road, Llwynypia, Tonypandy, CF40 2JF 

� + 44 (0) 1443 431727 �� + 44 (0) 1443 431734 

Glyncornel Centre is situated in a wooded nature reserve 

and caters for schools, community and leisure groups. 

Walkers and cyclists are welcome, close to Afan Argoed 

Centre. Footpaths and cycle paths nearby. Minimum 

booking unless another group on site. 

✉ glyncornel@rhondda-cynon-taff.gov.uk 

� www.rhondda-cynon-taff.gov.uk/glyncornel


No of Rooms: 4 rooms (sleeps 26) 

£12 per person 

1 

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Hobo Backpackers 

Morgan Street, Tredegar, NP22 3NB 

� + 44 (0) 1495 718422 

Southern edge of Brecon Beacons in picturesque Sirhowy 

Valley. Perfect for singles, families, groups. Also cottage 

sleeps six. No smoking. Bedding provided. Mountain biking, 

walks from door. Good bus links. Family run, friendly 

welcome. Ideal short break or overnight stop. 

✉ info@hobo-backpackers.com 

� www.hobobackpackers.com 

Cambrian Cruisers 

Family run narrow boat business on the beautiful Mon and Brec Canal 

near Brecon. Eight modern high quality comfortable boats for short breaks 

and weekly hire. Novices and experienced customers welcome. All boats 

awarded 4 out of 5 stars. See website for full details or telephone/fax for 

colour brochure. 

Open: Mar - Oct 

Canal boats 

8 units (all en suite) 

Sleep 2-6 

Ty Newydd, Pencelli, Brecon, Powys, LD3 7LJ 

�� +44 (0) 1874 665315 �� +44 (0) 1874 665315 

✉ info@cambriancruisers.co.uk 

� www.cambriancruisers.co.uk 

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Weekly rate per unit from £650 to 

£1223 

Rate per unit for 3 nights 

£455 to £856 

jjjj 

CANAL BOATS 


No of Rooms: 5 rooms (sleeps 30) 

£5.30 - £11.55 per person 

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37 

Parc Bryn Bach Bunkhouse 

Countryside Centre, Merthyr Road, Tredegar, Blaenau Gwent, NP22 3AY 

� +44 (0) 1495 711816 �� +44 (0) 1495 725093 

Lakeside Visitors Centre with licensed restaurant, gift shop, 

exhibitions and accommodation surrounded by 400 acres 

of woodland and meadows. Fishing and other adventure 

activities on site. Excellent base for exploring Brecon 

Beacons and Black Mountains. 

✉ parcbrynbach@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk 

� www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk 

Llwynau Farm Pinelodges 

Ideally situated for Cardiff, coast and Rhondda Valley areas. Rural location 

yet only 5 miles from the M4 motorway junction34. These pine lodges 

serve as a comfortable base for those seeking to get out and about. A 

holiday here can be as busy or as leisurely as you like. 

Llwynau Farm, Castellau, Llantrisant, CF72 8LP 

�� + 44 (0) 1443 229021 

�� + 44 (0) 1443 229021 

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Photograph 

1. Celtic Stones, Pontypridd 


4 Units (sleeps 2/4) 

Rate per unit per week 

from £190 to £300 

Rate per unit for 3 

nights from £110 to 

£175 

jjj 

SELF CATERING 

www.southernwales.com

38 


2 units (each sleeps 4) 

Rate per unit per week from £350 to 

£650 

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4 units: JVZ – Sunny Croft (1 Bed) 

JSM – Penny Croft (1 Bed) 

JAQ – Abbots Croft (2 Bed) 

OMY – Meadow Croft (3 Bed) 

Rate per unit per week from £240 

jjjj 

SELF CATERING 

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2 units (slepps 5) 


£510 

Rate per unit for 3 nights from £120 

to £195 

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3 units (sleeps 4 each) 


£400 


to £195 

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1 unit (sleeps 5) 

Weekly Rate per unit from £235 to 

£465 


to £323 

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Stable Cottages at Llanerch Vineyard 

Hensol, Pendoylan, Vale of Glamorgan CF72 8GG 

� + 44 (0) 1443 225877 �� + 44 (0) 1443 225546 

An idyllic countryside setting yet only 15 minutes from Cardiff 

and 1 miles from Junction 34 of the M4.Two cottages have been 

converted to a very high standard from the old stable block. 

Each has full central heating, a double and a twin bedroom, two 

bathrooms and are fully equipped with washing machine, 

dishwasher, fridge freezer, microwave, hob oven, TV and video 

and telephone. An ideal location for visiting all of South Wales. 

✉ enquiries@llanerch-vineyard.co.uk 

� www.llanerch-vineyard.co.uk 

Cae Abbot Farm Cottages 

Cae Abbot Farm, Llangeinor, Bridgend, CF32 8RX 

� +44 (0) 8700 781100 

Set in 2 acres of gardens, these four cottages are well 

equipped and beautifully furnished throughout. They are 

warm and welcoming and make the ideal retreat at any 

time of the year. Peaceful pastureland with plenty of walks 

straight from the doors. 

✉ davgar@btopenworld.com 

� www.english-country-cottages.co.uk 

Cwm Hafod Tudor Lodges 

Ty Hafod Tudor, Wattsville, Cross Keys, NP11 7QQ 

� + 44 (0) 1495 271225 �� + 44 (0) 1495 271225 

Two genuine Finnish lodges set in tranquil wooded valley, 

ideal for walking, cycling, golf and exploring. Brecon 

Beacons 30 minutes, Newport and Cardiff nearby, seaside 

40 minute car drive. Lots of country pubs to sample and 

markets to visit. 

✉ jemima.morris@virgin.net 

� www.cwmhafodtudor.co.uk 

Granary Cottages 

Ystradgynwyn, Torpantau, CF48 2UT 

� + 44 (0) 1685 383358 

Three delightful fully equipped properties in the heart of 

the Brecon Beacons. Close to main road links to south, mid 

and west Wales. Ideally located for cycling, walking, 

fishing or just relaxing. A comfortable base for exploring 

Wales 

✉ sian@selfcateringcottagesinwales.co.uk 

� www.selfcateringcottagesinwales.co.uk 

Miners Cottage 

Miner’s Cottage, Kenfig Hill 

� +44 797 1950 772 �� +44 797 060 6377 

This beautifully appointed miner’s cottage overlooks the 

Margam valley, situated in a quiet lane; the cottage has 

maple and slate floors and comes well equipped. An ideal 

location for the Glamorgan Heritage Coast, Gower 

peninsular and the Brecon Beacons with many 

championship golf courses and beaches nearby 

✉ bookme@minerscottage.com 

� www.minerscottage.com 


2 Units (sleeps 6 & 4) 


£455 


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2 Units (sleeps 6) 


£420 


to £250 

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4 units (sleeps 4-6) 


£450 

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Beacon Valley Breaks 

Tynewydd Farm, Nant y Bwlch Tredegar Gwent, NP22 3BB 

� + 44 (0) 1495 724155 �� + 44 (0) 1495 724155 

1720s stone longhouse sleeps 6. Cosy comfortable fully 

equipped. Airport, coast, parks, walks easy reach. 

Experience real Wales and beyond. Cottage south of Brecon 

Beacons, North of Valleys. Leisure activities and various 

attractions close by. Ideal base for relaxing or exploring. 

✉ connieprunell@btinternet.com 

� www.beaconvalleybreaks.co.uk 

The Courtyard 

Bryncenydd House, Nantgarw Road, Caerphilly, CF83 3FB 

� + 44 (0) 2920 866666 �� + 44 (0) 2920 850766 

A small cottage close to the main house within the 

beautiful grounds of Caerphilly Castle. It is ideal for tourists 

or guests attending weddings at the castle. There is secure 

parking in the private courtyard. 

✉ nigelwphillips@aol.com 

Granary and Coach House 

Upper Cwm Farm, Brynderi, Llantilio Crossenny, Abergavenny, NP7 8TG 

� +44 (0) 1873 821236 �� +44 (0) 1873 821236 

Warm welcome awaits you in award winning beautifully 

converted barn. Peaceful countryside between historic 

towns of Abergavenny and Monmouth. Superb area of 

valleys and hills. Ideal for walking, bird watching and 

exploring castles, interesting markets and craft centres. 

Brochure available. 

✉ uppercwm@btopenworld.com 

� www.downourlane.co.uk/granary 

Grove Farm Cottage 

Grove Farm, South Cornelly, Pyle, Bridgend, CF33 4RP 

� +44 (0) 1656 783331 Mobile +44 (0) 7812079453 

Grove Farm Cottage is a newly refurbished self-catering 

facility. The Cottage is fully equipped with modern facilities, 

including electric showers in each of the en-suite shower 

rooms and remote control TV in each bedroom. The 

cottage has three en-suite bedrooms and a kitchen. 

✉ pjj24@hotmail.com 

Parc Coed Machen Country Cottages 

St Brides Super Ely, Nr Cardiff, Vale of Glamorgan CF5 6EZ 

� + 44 (0) 1446 760684 �� + 44 (0) 1446 760289 

A group of superior centrally heated cottages in a courtyard of 

converted farm buildings having 2 bedrooms with additional fold 

up bed and cot available. Fully equipped kitchen including 

microwave and dishwasher. Bathroom with bath and shower, fully 

furnished living / dining room with TV and video. Level 3 disabled 

category. Nearest rural self-catering accommodation to Cardiff City 

Centre. Ideal touring centre for South Wales. Convenient for 

junction 34 of M4. 

✉ prtrivett@hotmail.com 

� www.trivett.fsbusiness.co.uk




£375 


to £150 

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1 Unit (sleeps 8) 

Rate per week from £250 to £600 

Rate for 3 nights from £150 to £350 

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Open: February - December 

15 Static Caravans (sleeps 6-8) 

45 Tent pitches. 45 Touring caravan pitches 

10 motor home pitches 

Rate per static per week from £180 to £325 

(based on 2 sharing).Tents from £8.50 to £9 per 

night (based on 2 sharing) 

Touring Caravans from £8.50 to £9 per night 

(based on 2 sharing). Motor Homes £8.50 to 

£9.50 per night (based on 2 sharing) 

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37 pitches 

Touring pitch per night £8.50 to 

£10.00 

Tents pitch per night £6.00 to £9.00 

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Pen y Parc Cottage 

Pen y Parc House, St Arvans, Chepstow, Monmouthshire, NP16 6EZ 

� + 44 (0) 1291 625517 �� + 44 (0) 01291 625517 

Near Chepstow with spectacular views across the Wye and 

Severn. Designed for maximum comfort, relaxation and 

privacy. Single floor layout has lounge/diner, 

accommodation, full size bath/shower and 

kitchen/breakfast bar. 2 twin bedrooms and one single. 

Private garden with patio and barbecue. 

✉ cottage@pen-y-parc.freeserve.co.uk 

� www.ukworld.net/penyparc 

Windmill Farm Cottages 

Llansannor, Nr Cowbridge, Vale of Glamorgan CF71 7TF 

� + 44 (0) 1446 772470 �� + 44 (0) 1446 772470 

Recently converted farm buildings offering quality 

accommodation with panoramic views adjacent to our 

working farm. Quiet rural location. Convenient for junctions 

34/35 of the M4. 20 minutes from central Cardiff and 10 

minutes from the market town of Cowbridge. 

✉ rosser@globalnet.co.uk 

� www.windmillfarm.co.uk 

Northways 

2 Northwyas, Porthcawl 

� +44 (0) 1656 743983 Mobile +44 (0) 7817 612909 

Modern, spacious seaside town house five minutes from 

Porthcawl. 4 bedrooms - master bedroom is en-suite with 

four-poster bed. Spacious open plan kitchen. Ideal for 

extended families. Within easy reach of beaches, parks, 

shopping and sporting activities. Half hour from Cardiff and 

Swansea. 

✉ gaina@gainamorganmedia.co.uk 

Acorn Camping & Caravanning Site 

Rosedew Farm, Ham Lane South, Llantwit Major, VoG CF61 1RP 

� + 44 (0) 1446 794024 �� + 44 (0) 1446 794024 

A peaceful family run site 1 mile from the beach, 1 mile from the 

historical town of Llantwit Major taking tents, caravans and 

motor homes. Also static caravans to hire one wheelchair 

accessible with ramps. On site there is a shop, take-away, 

children’s play area with trampoline, a snooker and games room. 

Free hot showers, toilets one suitable for wheelchair users. 

✉ info@acorncamping.co.uk 

� www.acorncamping.co.uk 

5 

Cwmcarn Forest Drive 

Visitor Centre & Campsite 

Nantcarn Road, Cwmcarn, Cross Keys, NP11 7FA 

� 01656 729009 �� 01656 729007 

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CARAVAN & 

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A well equipped caravan and campsite at the foot of the 

spectacular Cwmcarn Forest Drive. Visitor centre, gift 

shop, café and mountain bike trail on-site. 

✉ Cwmcarn-vc@caerphilly.gov.uk 

� www.caerphilly.gov.uk/visiting 


4 Units (sleeps 2-8) 


(Swallow & Ivy Cottages) 


(The Granary & Coach House) 

a5 

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2 Units (sleeps 4) 


£250 


to £160 

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Open: 1st Feb – 1st Dec 

Pitches: 

Tent – 25 (£5-£10 per night based on 

2 sharing) 

Touring Caravans – 75 (£10 to £15 

per night based on 2 sharing) 

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20 Touring Pitches (£10 to £13 per 

night) 

30 Tent Pitches (£8 to £11 per night) 

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CARAVAN & 

CAMPING 

Ty Tanglwyst Farm Holiday Cottages 

North Cornelly, Pyle, Bridgend, CF33 4SA 

� +44 (0) 1656 745635 �� +44 (0) 1656 745635 

Tastefully furnished and fully equipped cottages offering 

high standard of comfort. Convenient to M4 motorway, 30 

mins to Cardiff or Swansea, 3 miles to the seaside town of 

Porthcawl. Situated on a working dairy farm where you are 

welcome to see the cows being milked. 

✉ info@tytanglwystholidaycottages.co.uk 

� www.tytanglwystholidaycottages.co.uk 

Wyrloed Lodge 

Manmoel, Blackwood, Caerphilly, NP12 0RN 

� + 44 (0) 1495 371198 �� + 44 (0) 1495 371198 

Nicely decorated with pine and leather furnishings in a 

quiet village, ideal for children, ideal for walking with 

village pub and church. Rated 3 Star bed & breakfast 

accommodation also available from £27 per night (single 

occupancy) and from £45 per night (double occupancy) 

✉ Norma.james@btinternet.com 

� www.btinternet.com/~norma.james 

Ty Tanglwyst Granary & Coach House 

Ty Tanglwyst Farm, North Cornelly, Pyle, Bridgend, CF33 4SA 

� +44 (0) 1656 745635 �� +44 (0) 1656 745635 

Tastefully converted traditional farm buildings, located on 

working dairy farm, equipped to a high standard offering 

spacious accommodation. Conveniently situated near the 

M4 motorway close to golf courses, heritage coast, castles 

and places of interest. The Coach House is particularly 

suitable for the disabled visitor. 

✉ info@tytanglwystholidaycottages.co.uk 

� www.tytanglwystholidaycottages.co.uk 

Llandow Caravan Park 

Nr. Cowbridge, Vale of Glamorgan, CF61 1ZG 

� +44 (0) 1446 794527 

Sheltered, secluded and set in the heart of the Vale of 

Glamorgan. Only 20 minutes from Cardiff and three miles 

from the stunning Heritage Coast. Free heated spotlessly 

clean facilities with hot power showers. Children’s play area, 

small shop, secure caravan storage and seasonal pitches 

available. 

✉ Sharon@llandow.com 

� www.llandowcaravanpark.com 

Grawen Caravan & Camping Park 

Cwm Taf, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 2HS 

� 01685 723740 

Easy access along Brecon Beacons Road, two miles from 

A465, four miles north of Merthyr Tydfil. Picturesque 

mountains, forest and reservoir walks from site, also the 

Taff Trail for walkers and cyclists. Reservoir trout fishing. 

Modern facilities, cleanliness a priority. Ideally located for 

touring. 

✉ Grawen.touring@virgin.net 

� www.walescaravanandcamping.com 


39

40 

Dare Valley Country Park 

A small, level site set in 200 hectares of attractive accessible parkland close 

to the town of Aberdare. It is centrally situated to explore the Brecon 

Beacons, the Gower coast and the historic valleys. The adjacent visitor 

centre complex comprises a cafeteria, exhibition gallery, heritage centre, 

hotel and conference facilities 


25 Touring Pitches, 10 Tent Pitches 

Touring Pitch per night £11.50 

Tent pitch per night from £3 to £8 

Aberdare, Rhondda-Cynon-Taf CF44 7RG 

�� +44 (0) 1685 874672 �� +44 (0) 1685 882919 

✉ darevalleycp@rhondda-cynon-taf.gov.uk 

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Photographs 

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1. Japanese Pavillion, Ebbw Vale || 2. Ogmore Castle 


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30 pitches 

Touring pitch from £10 per night 

Tent pitch from £5.20 per night 

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Parc Bryn Bach 


� +44 (0) 1495 711816 �� +44 (0) 1495 725093 

Unique lakeside setting surrounded by 400 acres of 

woodland and meadow. Fishing and other adventure 

activities on site. Visitors Centre with licensed restaurant, gift 

shop, exhibitions and accommodation. Excellent base for 

exploring Brecon Beacons and Black Mountains. 



Trecco Bay Holiday Park 

Porthcawl 

� 01656 729009 �� 01656 729007 

The Park offers an excellent range of fully equipped 

modern holiday homes for all the family. Extensive family 

facilities include Splashland Bowlingo snooker room, over 

18's Cabaret Bar, 1,200 seater Showdome with resident 

entertainment team - great whatever the weather! 

� www.treccobay.co.uk

attractions 

and activities 

Caerleon Roman Legionary Fortress Town 

One of the most important military sites in Roman Britain, today brought 

to life at the Fortress Baths, once a giant ‘leisure centre’, the Roman 

Legionary Museum, which portrays the life of the garrison, and the 

Amphitheatre, designed to hold 6000 spectators. 

Caerleon is an attractive town with pubs, restaurants, tearooms and 

Ffwrwm Arts & Crafts Centre. A fascinating sculpture trail is the legacy of 

the International Sculpture and Arts Festival held every summer, taking 

place June 28th – July 9th 2006 

(www.caerleon-arts.org) 

Caerleon Tourist Information Centre, 

5 High Street, Caerleon, Newport, NP18 1AE 

� 01633 422656 �� 01633 422656 

Caerleon.tic@newport.gov.uk 

www.caerleon.net 

e4 

Newport Tourism 

Newport TIC, Museum and Art Gallery, John Frost Square, 

Newport, NP20 1PA 

� 01633 842962 �� 01633 222615 

Newport.tic@newport.gov.uk 

www.newport.gov.uk/tourism 

e5 

Southern Wales is packed with exciting venues 

and attractions, catering for all ages and tastes. 

The City of Newport and its environs are 

surprisingly rich in culture, from magnificent 

Tredegar House to the Roman remains in Caerleon. 

For details of what to do, where to stay and eat 

visit www.newport.gov.uk or contact the Tourist 

Information Centre 


41

42 

Rhondda Cynon Taf 

b3-c5 

Blaenavon Industrial Landscape 

The Blaenavon Industrial Landscape World Heritage Site offers 

something for everyone. Visit Big Pit National Mining Museum, 

Blaenavon Ironworks, 

Pontypool and Blaenavon 

Railway, Booktown 

Blaenavon and the 

Community Heritage and 

Cordell Museum or 

explore the Industrial 

Landscape, Brecon 

Beacons National park, 

Monmouthshire and 

Brecon Canal and Garn 

Lakes. 

Tourist Information Centre, 

Blaenavon Ironworks, North Street, Blaenavon, Torfaen, NP4 9RQ 

� + 44 (0) 1495 792615 �� + 44 (0) 1495 792615 

blaenavon.ironworks@btopenworld.com 

www.world-heritage-blaenavon.org.uk 

d3 

Ω¢ 


Destination Rhondda Cynon Taf 

Visit our website for: 

• Visitor attractions 

• Outdoor activities 

• Places to eat 

• Accommodation 

• Events 

� + 44 (0) 1443 424085 

tourismenquiry@rhondda-cynon-taff.gov.uk 

www.rhondda-cynon-taf.gov.uk/visiting 

Incentevent Wales 

Destination Management 

Incentevent Wales is the corporate events organiser specialising in travel 

incentives, conferences and company events within Wales. 

Nobody knows Wales as well as us. We can source for you the most 

exciting venues, the most original activities and the most sophisticated 

meeting facilities. Of course our knowledge of Wales extends far beyond 

our major cities and we are always delighted to suggest alternative areas of 

this beautiful, exciting country for your events. Operating a total service 

approach, from the smallest group incentive to the largest multinational 

conference, Incentevent Wales has the skill, expertise and imagination to 

deliver a truly memorable, unique and exciting event. For information on 

how Incentevent Wales can help you please contact William Jones 

(Project Director). 

Incentevent Wales, 7 High Street, Treorchy R-C-T-S, Wales, UK CF42 6AE 

� + 44 (0) 1443 777190 Mobile: + 44 (0) 7768 044443 

�� + 44 (0) 1443 774773 

info@incenteventwales.com www.incenteventwales.com


d3 

Rhondda Heritage Park 

Based at the former Lewis Merthyr Colliery, Rhondda Heritage Park offers 

a fascinating insight into the rich culture and character of the Rhondda 

Valleys in an unique entertaining and educational environment for all 

ages. Underground experience, multi media presentations, period village 

street, plus much more completes the heritage experience. 

c4 


d6 

Lewis Merthyr Colliery, Coed Cae Road, Trehafod, CF37 7NP 

� + 44 (0) 1443 682036 �� + 44 (0) 1443 687420 

info@rhonddaheritagepark.com || www.rhonddaheritagepark.com 

ÒΩ?≈Z«ßπ^w~Æ¢ 

ACTIVITY 

πß§‚~ZÆ 

Brinore Tramroad 

c/o Community Services Department, Blaenau Gwent County 

Borough Council, Central Depot, Barleyfield Industrial Estate, 

Nantyglo, Brynmawr, Blaenau Gwent, NP23 4YF 

� + 44 (0) 1495 355937 �� + 44 (0) 1495 355900 

An historic 8 mile route built in 1815 starting from the 

village of Trefil and passing through dramatic countryside to 

terminus at the Monmouth – Brecon Canal in Talybont. The 

trail can be enjoyed by walkers, cyclists and horse riders. 

✉ tourism@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk 



Summer opening times:- 

(Apr - Sep) 

Open daily 10am - 6pm 

(last tour 4.30pm). 

Winter opening times:- 

(Oct - March) 

Open Tuesday - Sunday 

10am - 6pm 

(Last tour 4pm) 

Closed from Christmas 

Day to Jan 3rd. 

Cardiff Castle 

Castle Street, Cardiff, CF10 3RB 

� + 44 (0) 2920 878100 �� + 44 (0) 2920 231417 

Situated in the heart of the capital the Castle conceals an 

elaborate interior. Climb to the top of the keep for 

breathtaking views across the city. For a memorable night 

out, join us for a traditional Welsh Banquet – a relaxed and 

fun evening, including dinner and traditional Welsh 

entertainment. 

✉ cardiffcastle@cardiff.gov.uk 

� www.cardiffcastle.com 

Walks In Blaenavon Landscape 

Follow trails through the outstanding landscape and enjoy stunning 

views of the Brecon Beacons. Free walks leaflets, including the Iron 

Mountain Trail are available, ranging from easy strolls to energetic hikes. 

Walks start and finish at a convenient car park, village centre, pub, 

picnic site or a heritage attraction. *World Heritage Site. 

Tourist Information Centre, Blaenavon Ironworks, 

North Street, Blaenavon, Torfaen, NP4 9RQ 

� + 44 (0) 1495 792615 �� + 44 (0) 1495 792615 

blaenavon.ironworks@btopenworld.com 

www.world-heritage-blaenavon.org.uk 

d3 

Ω¢ 

The park is open all year. 

The visitor centre and café are open: 

10am to 6pm April to September 

10am to 4pm October to March 

Free entry 

ATTRACTION ATTRACTION 

e4 

d6 

ZΩ?~¢Æ+∏w 

Caerleon International Arts Festival 

and Sculpture Symposium 

� + 44 (0) 1633 421047 

June 28 - July 9 2006 

✉ tourism@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk 

� www.caerleon-arts.org 

Cosmeston Lakes Country Park 

Lavernock Road, Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan CF64 5UY 

� + 44 (0) 29 2070 1678 

At Cosmeston Lakes Country Park you will find over 90ha of lakes, 

woodlands and meadows open to the public all year round. A place 

you can relax, walk and take a closer look at nature. Why not take 

the opportunity to explore the contrasting wildlife areas? Walk along 

the boardwalk through tall bulrushes and reed beds or through a 

fine broad-leaved woodland seeing a variety of wild flowers. At 

quieter moments you may see a variety of birds, foxes, grey squirrels 

and many other animals in their natural habitat. 

✉ cosmestonlakescountrypark@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk 

� www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk 


43

44 

Opening Hours: 

11:00am – 5:00pm (Summer), 

11:00am – 4:00pm (Winter) 

Admission Charges Apply 

Group Rates available 

d6 

wΩ?~Z¢Æ 

Prices start at £15 per tour. 

Tours available all year round. 

d6 

Chauffer Driven Tours 

Open 7 days 

Times by arrangement 

d4 

Open all year 

Every day 10:00am-5:00pm 

Closed on Mondays Nov - Feb 

Last admission 1 hour before closing 

Admission charge 

Group rates available 

c4 

ÒΩ‚~≈^Z¢Æ 

Open all year 

8.30am – 7pm (summer) 

8.30am – 4.30pm (winter) 

Admission Charge 

Group rates 

d3 

ATTRACTION 

SERVICES 

Cosmeston Medieval Village 

Cosmeston Lakes Country Park, Lavernock Road, Penarth, CF64 5UY 

� + 44 (0) 29) 2070 1678 

Set in attractive Cosmeston Lakes Country Park, is a 

Heritage project that is unique in Britain. The reconstructed 

14th Century village is on its original site and consists of 

medieval buildings, gardens, rare breeds and a small yet 

fascinating museum. Tours of the village are by costumed 

villagers. Special events throughout the year. Please ring or 

visit the website for details. 


Dragonride Trike Tours 

� + 44 (0) 7840 760394 

An unique way to see the beauty of Southern Wales on 

chauffeured trike tours. Choose from a variety of tours 

including the Heritage Coast Hop and the Tintern Trek. 

Customised tours for special occasssions also available. 

Jackets and helmets provided. 

✉ martin@dragonride.org.uk 

� www.dragonride.org.uk 

Exclusive Carriage Company– 

Chauffeur Driven Tours 

Carriage House, 23 Gelledeg Close, Maesycwmmer, Caerphilly, CF82 7RR 

� + 44 (0) 1443 862420 �� + 44 (0) 1443 862420 

Luxury Chauffer Driven tailor made tours for all of 

Southern Wales – scenic, historical, cultural, sporting and 

for special interest groups 

✉ info@exclusivecarriage.com 

� www.exclusivecarriage.com 

Llancaiach Fawr 

Gelligaer Road, Nelson, Treharris, CF46 6ER 

� + 44 (0) 1443 412248 �� + 44 (0) 1443 412688 

Step back in time to be greeted by Colonel Pritchard’s 

servants. Experience 17th century life as you tour the 

manor and listen to the servants. Visit the Conservatory 

Restaurant and Gift Shop and enjoy the period gardens. 

Annual events programme. 

✉ llancaiachfawr@caerphilly.gov.uk 


Visitor Centre open all year 

Easter – October Mon-Thurs 9:00 – 17:00 

Fri – Sun 9:00 – 18:00 

Evening opening times July and August, 

phone for details 

October – Easter Mon – Sat 9:00 – 17:00 

Fri 9:00 – 16:30 

Forest Drive Open March – November 

d4 

c6 

ÒΩ˙?^Z¢ 

Open: 10am until 6pm. 

For seasonal details please contact 

the visitor centre. 

Admission charge applies. 

Group rates available. 

d3 

wΩ~Z¢Æ 

Open all year 

7 days a week 

Monday – Saturday 9:30 – 17:30 

Sunday – 11:00 – 17:00 

Thursday – Late night shopping until 

19:00 

ÒΩZ 

Open all year 

8.30am – 7pm (summer) 

8.30am – 4.30pm (winter) 


Group rates 

d3 

ATTRACTION 

ATTRACTION 

SERVICES ACTIVITY 

ATTRACTION 

5 ATTRACTION 

Ω˙Æ+§?≈«^Z¢ 


Parc Bryn Bach 


� +44 (0) 1495 711816 �� +44 (0) 1495 725093 

One of Wales’s most popular country parks. 400 acres of 

beautiful woodlands and meadows with a 16-acre lake. 

Recently refurbished Visitor Centre with licensed restaurant, 

gift shop, exhibitions and accommodation. Play area, water 

sports and other activities available on site 



Ω˙Åt§?`≈«^Z 

Open April – September, 

Wednesday to Saturday 

9.30am – 4.30pm 

Sunday 2pm – 5pm 

d3 

ΩÆ 

5 ACTIVITY 

ATTRACTION 

Cwmcarn Forest Drive 

Nantcarn Road, Cwmcarn, Cross Keys, NP11 7FA 

� + 44 (0) 1495 272001 �� + 44 (0) 1495 271403 

This spectacular seven mile scenic drive has picnic and BBQ 

spot, adventure playground and many walking and cycling 

routes. Enjoy breathtaking views or try the energetic 

mountain bike trail. There is an on-site visitor centre with 

café and on-site campsite. 

✉ Cwmcarn-vc@caerphilly.gov.uk 


Dyffryn Gardens 

St Nicholas, Vale of Glamorgan, CF5 6SU 

� + 44 (0) 29) 2059 3328 

An outstanding Grade 1 registered Edwardian Garden. Formal 

lawns, fountains and pools, seasonal beds, feature garden room 

enclosed by yew hedges and walls including the Pompeian, Paved 

court and Theatre garden. The extensive arboretum contains trees 

from all over the world including the original Acer griseum collected 

from China by the famous plant hunter Ernest Wilson. A garden for 

all seasons. Currently parts of these gardens are under restoration 

funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund. 

✉ JEHopkins@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk 


Festival Park Shopping Village 

Victoria, Ebbw Vale 

� + 44 (0) 1495 350010 �� + 44 (0) 1495 307363 

Factory outlet shopping centre with over 40 shops selling 

top brand names at up to 50% off high street prices. 

Large restaurant, free car parking, excellent disabled 

access, free wheelchairs. 70 acres of parkland with 

ornamental gardens, lake, owl sanctuary, and woodland 

craft centre 

✉ fpsv@eagle-one.co.uk 

� www.festivalshopping.co.uk 

Parc Bryn Bach Activity Centre 


� +44 (0) 1495 711816 �� +44 (0) 1495 725093 

Adventure activities on water and land – canoeing, 

windsurfing, angling, walking, cycling, abseiling, climbing, 

caving, hill walking and orienteering, Run by motivated, 

committed leaders in the unique setting in the heart of the 

Valleys within easy reach of the Brecon Beacons and Black 

Mountains. 



Sirhowy Ironworks 

Graham’s Yard, Dukestown Road, Sirhowy, Tredegar, 

Blaenau Gwent, NP22 4QD 

� +44 (0) 1495 355972 �� +44 (0) 1495 355900 

5 

Recently restored and conserved, the remains of Sirhowy 

Ironworks are a rare survival of the heyday of the iron 

industry in Georgian Wales. Regular living history events give 

vivid insights into the lives of ironmasters and men in this 

turbulent period of Welsh history. 

✉ heritage@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk 

� www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk

Open April – September, 

Sundays 2pm - 5pm 

Free entry 

d3 

Ω 

Open 7 days a week 

8:30am – 11:00pm 


Group Rates available 

1 

c3 

St Illtyd’s Church 

St Illtyd’s, Llanhileth, Abertillery, Blaenau Gwent, NP13 2AY 

� +44 (0) 1495 355972 �� +44 (0) 1495 355900 

A restored medeval church, originally built by the white 

monks of the Cistercian Abbey at Llantarnam. Regular living 

history events give vivid insights into the lives of the white 

monks who owned the mountains and the Welsh farmers 

who worked the land. 

✉ heritage@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk 


ÒΩπ9 ß§Fd?`≈Z¢T 

2 

Photographs 

ATTRACTION 

ACTIVITY 

Welsh International Climbing and 

Activity Centre 

Trelewis, Treharris, CF46 6RD 

� + 44 (0) 1443 710749 �� + 44 (0) 1443 710789 

Europe’s premier indoor climbing wall and outdoor activities 

centre set in the beautiful location of Parc Taf Bargoed. Caving 

complex, climbing, high ropes course, kayaking and gorgewalking 

taught by qualified instructors to all abilities. Accommodation, 

fitness suite, function rooms available. 3 star bunkhouse 

accommodation also available from £12 per night + VAT 

✉ enquiries@indoorclimbingwalls.co.uk 

� www.indoorclimbingwalls.co.uk 

1. Tredegar Town Clock || 2. Brecon Mountain Railway || 

3. Tredegar House, Newport 

Open 7 days a week, all year around 

9am – 11pm 

d3 

ACTIVITY 

ÒΩÅq§d≈«^Z 

Valley Leisure 

Community Services Department, Blaenau Gwent County 

Borough Council, Central Depot, Barleyfield Industrial 

Estate, Nantyglo, Brynmawr, Blaenau Gwent, NP23 4YF 

� +44 (0) 1495 355956 �� +44 (0) 1495 355900 

For fun filled days come and visit Blaenau Gwent’s Sports 

centres with fitness studios, health suites, swimming pools, 

hydro slides, soft play sessions, squash courts, indoor and 

outdoor sports facilities. Special play schemes during school 

holidays. 

✉ valleyleisure@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk 



3 

45

46 

✁ 

Southern Wales has four distinct areas and each 

has their own in-depth brochure. 

Southern Wales Valleys – Wisdom and Walks ❑ 

Natural beauty is a backdrop to a region packed with heritage 

attractions, including castles, steam railways and mining 

museums. The landscape is also suitable for walking, cycling, 

golf and many other attractions. 

Cardiff ❑ 

Cardiff, the capital city of Wales is exciting and dynamic, with 

world-class attractions, such as Cardiff Castle and the 

Millennium Stadium. Cardiff Bay offers entertainment for 

everyone with boat tours, attractions, festivals and events 

Wye Valley and Vale of Usk ❑ 

The borderland where King Arthur ruled, the Romans bathed, 

the Normans settled, Turner sketched, Wordsworth penned, 

Chartists protested, markets bustle and golfers drive 

Glamorgan Heritage Coast and Countryside ❑ 

The dramatic Heritage Coast and popular seaside resorts of 

Porthcawl and Barry Island nestling by hills and countryside. 

Discover the special character of this beautiful area, steeped in 

history and on the doorstep of Cardiff. 


To order a brochure fill in the form below and send to: 

Southern Wales Tourism 

Innovation Centre 

Science Park, Bridgend 

Wales, UK 

CF31 3NA 

or visit www.southernwales.com 

Name 

Address 

Postcode 

Country 

E-mail 

We would like to send you further information on Southern 

Wales in the future. If you wish to receive this information 

please tick here ❑ 

Please note that these brochures are only available in English



47

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rail 

Direct, fast and frequent rail services connect the 

region to London, Birmingham and other major 

cities. The Eurostar services from Paris and 

Brussels to London Waterloo connect with direct 

services from London Paddington to Southern 

Wales. A new rail link from Cardiff International 

Airport to Cardiff City Centre and to the town of 

Bridgend now makes access to the region even 

easier. 

National Rail enquiries 

� 08457 484950 www.nationalrail.co.uk 

Eurostar � 08705 186186 www.eurostar.com 

air 

Cardiff International Airport has arrivals from 

many of the major European cities, bringing you 

straight into the heart of the region. The airports 

at Bristol and Birmingham are also convenient 

access points while London Heathrow, Gatwick 

and Manchester airports are only around 3 hours 

away. The popular airports of Stanstead and 

Luton are also easily accessible. 

direct air services 

Cardiff International Airport 

� +44 (0) 1446 711111 www.cwlfly.com 

Birmingham International Airport 

� +44 08707 335511 www.bhx.co.uk 

Bristol International Airport 

� +44 0870 12 12 747 

www.bristolairport.co.uk 

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London Heathrow Airport 

� +44 0870 0000123 www.heathrowairport.com 

London Gatwick Airport 

� +44 0870 0002468 www.gatwickairport.com 

Manchester Airport 

� +44 (0) 161 489 3000 

www.manchesterairport.co.uk 

London Stansted Airport 

� +44 (0) 870 000 0303 

www.stanstedairport.com 

London Luton Airport 

� +44 (0) 1582 405 100 

www.london-luton.co.uk 

airlines 

Air Wales 

� +44 (1792) 633 200 www.airwales.com 

BMI Baby 

� +44 (0) 870 264 2229 

� 0 890 710 081 (France) 

� 1 890 340 122 (Ireland) www.bmibaby.com 

Air France 

� 0 820 820 820 www.airfrance.com 

BMI British Midland 

� +44 (0)1332 64 8181 www.flybmi.com 

British Airways 

� +44 (0) 870 850 9850 www.ba.com 

Easy Jet www.easyjet.com 

Fly be � + 44 (0) 13 922 685 29 

www.flybe.com 

KLM www.klm.com 

Lufthansa www.lufthansa.com 

Ryanair www.ryanair.com 

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You’ll see from the map and information 

on this page that Southern Wales is ideally 

located for quick and easy access from most 

parts of Britain and all major international 

�� 

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gateways. �� Its extensive, first-class 

communications �� network includes: 

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roads 

�� The road links to Southern Wales are excellent. 

The M4 motorway runs right through the region 

meaning we are only around 2 hours from 

London. There are also easy connections with the 

M5 and M50 motorways linking with 

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�� Birmingham and the channel ferry ports of the 

South of England A40 makes for easy access 

from the Irish Sea ferry ports in West Wales. 

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Direct coach services connect the region with 

many of the major airports and cities. 

www.nationalexpress.com 

Distances by road to Cardiff from: 

Birmingham Airport 185km 

Bristol Airport 80km 

Channel Tunnel 364km 

Dover 380km 

Fishguard 177km 

Harwich 392km 

London 243km 

London Heathrow Airport 222km 

Manchester Airport 292km 

Pembroke Dock 158km 

Plymouth 241km 

Portsmouth 249km 

ferry services 

Brittany Ferries 

� +44 (0) 8703 665333 

� 0825 828 828 (France) 

www.brittany-ferries.com 

P&O Ferries 

� +44 (0) 8705 980 333 

� 0825 120 156 (France) 

� 070 70 77 71 (België/Belgique) 

� 020 201 3333 (Nederland) 

� 0180 500 9437 (Deutschland) 

SeaFrance 

� +44 (0) 8705 711 711 www.seafrance.com 

Stena Line 

� +44 (0) 8705 70 70 70 

� 01 204 7777 (Ireland) www.stenaline.co.uk 

www.stenaline.nl www.stenaline.ie 

Irish Ferries 

� 0818 300 400 www.irishferries.com 

Swansea-Cork Ferries 

� 00 353 21 4836000 

www.swanseacorkferries.com 

one stop shop... 

Travel Line Cymru provides route and timetable 

information for bus, coach, rail, ferry and plane 

operators 

� 0870 608 2 608, www.traveline.org.uk 

easy 

accessibility

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