Pontypool

Travel Guide

Big Pit National Coal Museum
Big Pit National Coal Museum showing interior views
Big Pit National Coal Museum
Big Pit National Coal Museum
Big Pit National Coal Museum

This charming old industrial town surrounded by woods, hills and lakes offers an authentic experience of Welsh scenery and hospitality.

The compact town of Pontypool showcases some of the best qualities of Wales. Encounter the friendliness of the Welsh people, the richness of the country’s mining history and the serenity of its landscapes. The town, situated in the heart of the Torfaen region, offers museums, outdoor activities and a popular, expansive park.

Start your exploration of the town in the Pontypool Museum, a treasure trove of artefacts from the town’s long history. Pontypool is one of the oldest industrial settlements in Wales, with evidence of forges in the area from as early as 1425. Iron ore in the ground led to the town becoming a key location during the Industrial Revolution of the 19th century. Explore the galleries of the museum, hosted in a Georgian stable block, to see items from every era of the town’s past.

One of the local highlights is the vast Pontypool Park. The “People’s Park” is both a pleasant outdoor space for relaxation and the home of some curious heritage sights. Wander throughout the 158-acre (64-hectare) park to find the Italian Gardens, Shell Grotto and the Ice House. If the weather turns bad, head to the park’s leisure centre for a children’s play area and sports facilities.

The area surrounding Pontypool is packed with activities. Drive for 15 minutes east of the town to reach the Llandegfedd Reservoir, a tranquil lake that is popular for water sports. Try dinghy sailing, fishing or stand-up paddleboarding or simply hike around one of the woodland trails.

To the north lies Blaenavon, another mining community. Take your family to the Big Pit National Coal Museum for an interactive experience that teaches about Torfaen’s industrial past. Board the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway to enjoy a vintage steam train journey.

Fly into Cardiff International Airport and drive for about an hour to reach Pontypool. Alternatively, get a ticket for one of the trains that run between the Welsh capital city and Pontypool each day. Visit in summer when the days are warmest and you can make the most of the outdoor attractions in the area.

Where to stay in Pontypool

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Abersychan

While there might not be top attractions in Abersychan, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Pontypool Park and Big Pit National Coal Museum.

Abersychan
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Pontymoile

While visiting Pontymoile, you might make a stop by sights like Pontypool Park and Shell Grotto.

Pontymoile

Griffithstown

While Griffithstown isn't home to many top sights, Pontypool Park and Grosmont Castle are some notable places to visit nearby.

Griffithstown
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Pen Tranch

While Pen Tranch isn't home to many top sights, Big Pit National Coal Museum and Pontypool Park are some notable places to visit nearby.

Pen Tranch
Best Western Pontypool Metro Hotel

Best Western Pontypool Metro Hotel

3 out of 5
Lower Mill Field, Pontypool, Wales
The price is €61 per night from 25 Aug to 26 Aug
€61
25 Aug - 26 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Pontypool. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,000 reviews)
"Good location for our needs."

Reviewed on 12 Aug 2025

Best Western Pontypool Metro Hotel
Celtic Manor Resort

Celtic Manor Resort

5 out of 5
Chepstow Road, Coldra Wood, Newport, Wales
The price is €125 per night from 14 Sept to 15 Sept
€125
14 Sept - 15 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Newport. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 indoor pools, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,302 reviews)
"Excellent, luxurious stay. This huge hotel is a well-oiled machine and functions brilliantly. Breakfast was superb. Staff extremely helpful. Meal options are varied but pricey. Would stay again."

Reviewed on 18 Aug 2025

Celtic Manor Resort
The Angel Hotel

The Angel Hotel

3 out of 5
Castle Street, Cardiff, Wales
Stay at this 3-star eco-certified hotel in Cardiff. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and 24-hour room service. Our guests praise the breakfast and the ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (2,571 reviews)
Great Location
"Hotel staff was very friendly and helpful. Room was clean and while there was a fan, was hard to get cool even with the windows open. Breakfast was very good. Ideally situated to get to many sites in the city."

Reviewed on 18 Aug 2025

The Angel Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
The Spires Serviced Apartments Cardiff

The Spires Serviced Apartments Cardiff

3 out of 5
10 Cathedral Rd, Cardiff, Wales
Stay at this 3-star apartment in Cardiff. Enjoy free WiFi, parking (surcharge), and laundry facilities. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
9/10 Wonderful! (267 reviews)
"Great location, friendly staff, only stayed one night. Daughter has dietary needs so kitchen was a bonus"

Reviewed on 1 Aug 2025

The Spires Serviced Apartments Cardiff
Yugo Explore - Arofan House

Yugo Explore - Arofan House

2 out of 5
Vere Street, Cardiff, Wales
Stay at this aparthotel in Cardiff. Enjoy free WiFi, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Cardiff Castle and Principality Stadium ...
7.6/10 Good! (55 reviews)
Everything we needed for a comfy stay
"Private, quiet, clean, and perfectly suited to our independent travel style. Staff was pleasant by and helpful. We had everything we needed for a comfy stay."

Reviewed on 19 Aug 2025

Yugo Explore - Arofan House
Newport Student Village - Campus Accommodation

Newport Student Village - Campus Accommodation

4 out of 5
Usk Way, Endeavour House, Newport, Wales
Stay at this 4-star apartment in Newport. Enjoy free WiFi, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Friars Walk Newport and Newport ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (212 reviews)
Really fantastic short stay!
"Very happy with the price and quality of stay. Everything we needed for the weekend!"

Reviewed on 15 Aug 2025

Newport Student Village - Campus Accommodation
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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