About Merthyr Tydfil

Merthyr Tydfil, one of the most historically fascinating and beautiful regions of Wales is ideally placed between Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park and Cardiff the Welsh Capital.

Location

Merthyr Tydfil sits in a prime location, midway between the vibrant capital city of Cardiff and the breathtaking Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. Its excellent transport links make travel easy and convenient.

The town sits at the crossroads of Wales’s major routes: the A470, running from South to North Wales, and the A465, the key artery connecting Swansea to the Midlands. Recent upgrades to the A465 have transformed it into a modern dual carriageway, ensuring faster, smoother journeys and even greater connectivity.

From Merthyr Tydfil, you’re perfectly placed to explore the dramatic South Wales Valleys, the stunning Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park, the cultural attractions of Cardiff, the coastal charm of Swansea and the unspoilt beauty of the Gower Peninsula. Whether you’re seeking adventure, heritage, or simply spectacular scenery, Merthyr Tydfil is your ideal base for an unforgettable Welsh experience.

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Wild History

Our history is big and bold!

Visit these heritage sites to discover Merthyr Tydfil’s achievements and pioneering people.

A world first!

The first steam locomotive journey on rails happened in Merthyr Tydfil. Retrace the route taken by Richard Trevithick’s steam locomotive, Penydarren, in 1804 when it ‘carried ten tons of iron in five wagons, and seventy men riding on them’ at a speed of ‘nearly five miles an hour’!

Walk or cycle the 9-mile linear Trevithick Trail which has artworks and information panels along its length.

Hear the Welsh language

Canolfan a Theatr Soar is the heart of the Welsh language (Cymraeg) community in Merthyr Tydfil, and the perfect place to find out more about this ancient tongue.

Canolfan Soar, managed by Menter Iaith Merthyr Tydfil, is a key driver in the development of the Welsh language in the area.

Grandest ironmaster’s house in Wales

Cyfarthfa Castle, Museum & Art Gallery is a must-see.

Built by the Crawshay family who ran Cyfarthfa ironworks in the 18th and 19th centuries, it’s a tremendous place to discover Merthyr Tydfil’s history.

The splendidly restored rooms house a fine collection of artworks, along with artefacts from the Romans to the Industrial Revolution.

Set in 160 acres of landscaped parkland with a lake, walking trails, café and children’s play area, it’s easy to spend the entire day here.

The red dragon advances

Admire the iconic exterior of the Grade II listed Redhouse. It was from these steps that the first Labour MP, Keir Hardie, was sent to Parliament.

The Merthyr Tydfil Rising of 1831 was a significant working-class rebellion in Merthyr Tydfil, sparked by low wages, poor conditions, and unemployment in the iron and mining industries. Penderyn Squarewas a key location where the uprising’s major events unfolded, including confrontations between protesters and troops, the seizure of the town , and the flying of the red flag for the first time in British history.

Notice the quote from 15th century poet Deio ap Ieuan Ddu in the floor mosaic at the entrance: ‘Y ddraig goch a ddyry gychwyn’ (the red dragon advances).

Steam into the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park

Go back in time on a steam train at Brecon Mountain Railway, and visit the workshops where they restore locos and carriages.

You’ll experience amazing views of the mountains as you travel around Taf Fechan reservoir, before enjoying refreshments in the tea room.