The beautiful Welsh park with a striking castle, hidden spa and plenty for kids to do
The striking Cyfarthfa Park and Castle offers visitors a unique experience of history, relaxation and fun for all of the family in a location you may not have thought about visiting for a day out - Merthyr Tydfil. While there's lots on offer in the valleys town that saw a rich industrial heritage, it crowned "Iron Capital of the World" at one point, the place is a tourist destination for more outdoor persuits, mainly thanks to the mountain biking centre nearby.
But, there are plenty of things to do at the beautiful 160-acre Cyfarthfa Park, whether that's taking a stroll around the lake, relaxing in the Rose Retreat spa, taking a ride on the miniature railway or learn about the rich history of Merthyr Tydfil. Just around 30 minutes from the Cardiff and just before you enter the beauty of Bannau Brycheiniog it is a perfect place to spend your day if you're staying nearby or just passing through.
Cyfarthfa Castle is a reminder of the wealth brought to the area in the 1800s by the iron industry with it being built for the Ironmaster, William Crawshay II in 1825. Once the Crawshay family had left their home, the Grade II listed castle was transformed into a museum and art gallery as well as a school which is no longer there. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What’s On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here
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Inside the castle walls you can explore the museum and art gallery that give you a glimpse of what life was like in Merthyr and it's importance in Welsh and British history. You can take a look at the first steam whistle, the first voting ballot box and dresses by Laura Ashley and Julien McDonald, amongst other fascinating artefacts and artwork. Fancy a cuppa, there are the tea rooms in the castle, too.
Encompassing the 200-year-old castle is the picturesque Cyfarthfa park, home to a number of attractions for everyone to enjoy. One of the main features of the park is its stunning lake and woodland, perfect for a stroll on a fresh winters day. Both 1km and 4km walks are doable in the grounds.
If you're looking for a gentle scenic walk where you can spot a variety of bird, animal and plant species along the waterside, the Cyfarthfa Park lake circular is the ideal walking route. Starting along Brecon Road, taking you around the lake, the 1km walk takes around 13 minutes to complete and allows you to surround yourself in nature.
For the kids there are a number of attractions including the Cyfarthfa Miniature Railway which operates throughout the summer. Taking you on a short tour around the park and through tunnel, the miniature railway is great fun for not only children but adults too.
Little ones can also enjoy the children's park and play area as well as the outdoor splash pad - which is perfect in the summer when the weather is hotter. You can also visit the newly refurbished café to take a break and enjoy a coffee and a cake whilst you're visiting Cyfarthfa Park.
Amongst the gorgeous setting of Cyfarthfa Park is some thing you don't often find in a town's park fit for walking or exploring, a boutique spa! The Rose Retreat Spa which you can find via the Gwaelodygarth Lane entrance into the park. It has a zen relaxation suite which includes an infrared sauna and there are lots of calming beauty therapy and spa treatments to choose from should you get lucky and bag an appointment. .
Rightfully so, Cyfarthfa Castle and Park is popular amongst visitors who rave about their experience there. One wrote: "We had a fab time there, lots of walks with the dog, café that accepts dogs inside, lovely facilities for kids there.
"Lots of support for the disabled on buggys and with free parking and free to go round you just can't lose. Lovely lake with ducks, geese and cormorants. Exercise machines for able and disabled people to use. Lovely greenhouse with amazing ferns and trees taking you through the evolution of plant life. Could definitely go back for another look next time we visit Wales!"
For up-to-date news on what's going on at Cyfarthfa Castle and Park, click here.