The Valleys
The heart and soul of Wales
In the Valleys of Southern Wales, famous the world over
for their pioneering role in the industrial revolution, there are a
wealth of outdoor pursuits, stunning scenery and cultural and
historical attractions.
Whilst the mines and tips that once scarred this area are long
gone their legacy and memory remain. Reminders of the past are
evident at the award winning Big Pit National Coal Museum at
Blaenavon. Don your lamps and helmets and take the cage to the pit
bottom to discover what life was like underground.
Coal was not the only thriving industry in Southern Wales in years
gone by. Just down the road from Big Pit is the remains of
Blaenavon Ironworks. Such is the historic importance of the town of
Blaenavon it is ranked alongside the Pyramids of Giza and the Taj
Mahal as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. If you want to find out
more about the Southern Wales coal industry then head to the
Rhondda Heritage Park for an entralling tour of the former Lewis
Merthyr Colliery
At Merthyr Tydfil, Cyfarthfa Castle is an impressive museum
telling the story of the town that was once the biggest iron
producer in the world. At the time the castle belonged to the
unscrupulous ironmaster William Crawshay who, from the castles
position on the hillside, would look out on his iron empire and the
squalid settlements of those who used to work there.
For those who like to get out and about the Valleys offer some of
the best walking in the whole of Southern Wales. Each trail will
reveal some extraordinary scenery and don't worry if you're not an
experienced walker; there are routes that suit all ages and levels
of fitness. For those who prefer two wheels to two feet, the are
numerous cycle tracks crisscrossing the region. At Cwmcarn, high in
the hills above the Rhymney Valley, the new Mountain Biking tracks
are considered by experts as being amongst the best in the
world.
If the great outdoors is not your cup of tea, then how about
hitting the shops. One of the Valley's best-kept secrets is the
excellent Festival Park shopping village at Ebbw Vale. Set in the
parkland that was once home to the Garden Festival of Wales, the
centre boasts over 40 shops selling the latest fashions plus a
craft village, garden centre and even an owl sanctuary.
For further information visit www.thevalleys.co.uk
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