Posted: 29/11/2021
Have A Family Adventure in Rhondda Cynon Taf
Don’t worry about the weather – just focus on the fun in Rhondda Cynon Taf, South Wales.
Whether it is glorious sunshine or pouring with rain, there’s lots for all to enjoy in this beautiful landscape, which is just half an hour’s drive north of Cardiff.
We have the space to get away from it all and the room for lots of attractions – including many you won’t find anywhere else.
We know everyone says it, but we really do have something for everyone! Find out more in our free Visit guide - get yours now.
Ride Phoenix, the world’s fastest seated zip line at Zip World Tower – perfect for thrill seekers. (Min age seven). Fly over some of the most stunning scenery in the region.
Cegin Glo restaurant has great food and an even better view. Check out the mining memorabilia that celebrates the site’s industrial importance. It was once Tower Colliery, the longest operating mine in the UK and, possibly, the world. A hot chocolate is just what is needed after a thrilling outdoor adventure.
Whatever the weather, the outdoor pools at Lido Ponty are heated to a balmy 27 degrees – to bathe in the warm water is a joy (Lido is open seasonally). Caffi Lido has a range of barista coffees, hot and cold snacks and hot chocolate to warm you up.
Wrap up warm and enjoy the glorious surroundings of Ynysngharad War Memorial Park, including the huge Lido Play adventure playground.
To “coin” a phrase, The Royal Mint Experience is not to be missed.. Kids will love seeing loads of different coins – some dating from the 9th Century - there’s even a car made from pennies. Learn more about the treasures we guard and strike your own coin. The gift shop is a must for coin collectors.
Go back in time in ancient Llantrisant, with castle ruins and a grisly, fascinating past. Discover more in Llantrisant Guildhall, where kids can learn about fearless warriors, dragons, ghosts and medieval legends.There are costumes, treasure hunts and more.
The rush for “black gold” coal unfolded right here in the Rhondda – we once powered the globe. The award-winning A Welsh Coal Mining Experience tells that story and brings our heritage to life.
Men who worked in the mines as boys are your tour guides, taking you underground and back in time as they share their stories and memories. Ride DRAM! the last dram of coal to the surface and see how children and their families lived in days gone by. Explore exhibitions, interactive displays and the industrial courtyard.
Caffe Bracchi is on site to serve tea, cakes, snacks and afternoon tea.
Dare Valley Country Park is huge and home to the exciting new Gravity Family Bike Park.
Bring your own bikes or hire one on site. Make your own way to the top of the trails or use the uplift. Zoom downhill, stopping at numerous pump tracks along the way.
There’s a huge adventure playground, plus a smaller play area for little ones right outside Black Rock Café (perfect for grabbing a coffee to go).
Enjoy the walking trails – whether you fancy a trek to the top of the mountain or prefer a wheelchair and pushchair friendly adventure. Grab a map from reception.
The Great Outdoors
We are used to wrapping up warm in our waterproofs here in Rhondda Cynon Taf. It’s only thanks to the weather that we have such lush scenery.
Anyway, it doesn’t rain all the time and here are our pick of outdoor spaces to explore:
Penpych is one of just two table-top mountains in Europe. Venture through forestry and waterfalls. Feel on top of the world as one of the best views in Wales unfolds before you. Get the route.
With two lakes (three if you count the secret top lake) wildlife and lots of surprises for nature-lovers, it’s hard to believe Clydach Vale Countryside Park was once a coal mine. The lakeside café is a perfect place to relax – see if you can spot the heron or the kingfisher. Get the route
Llanwonno Forestry is steeped in myths and legends, it’s the former training ground of Guto Nyth Bran, once the fastest man in the word and the inspiration for the Nos Galan Road Races. It’s a great place to explore, with a reservoir, forestry and the Pistell Golau waterfall. Try the Brynfynnon Hotel for a cold drink after your walk. Get the route.
Rhigos Mountain has lots of Natural Resource Wales parking areas, which are the starting point for walks where you can discover forests and lakes. Get the route.
The Pontypridd Circular is a great way to see the town. See the ancient Rocking Stones, where bards and eccentrics used to meet – see if you can make them move. Get the route.
Find out more in our free Visit guide - get yours now.
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Great places to stay in Rhondda Cynon Taf
Time for an adventure
Thanks to
Tracey Purnell
Martin Agg
Lee Williams
Heritage Hiker
For allowing us to use their pictures.