Things to do in Aberfan

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#Details! .The Aberfan disaster was the catastrophic collapse of a colliery spoil tip in the Welsh village of Aberfan, near Merthyr Tydfil, that killed 116 children and 28 adults on 21 October 1966. The collapse was caused by the build-up of water in the accumulated rock and shale tip, which suddenly slid downhill in the form of slurry. In the cemetery side by side stands and overwhelming array of arches - each one a grave to those who passed that fateful day. It is beautiful and peaceful - almost heavenly - worthy of a visit....I felt initially uncomfortable to take photos but the beauty of it overwhelmed me and will live with me forever. #Photo Details Sweepstake
#Details! .The Aberfan disaster was the catastrophic collapse of a colliery spoil tip in the Welsh village of Aberfan, near Merthyr Tydfil, that killed 116 children and 28 adults on 21 October 1966. The collapse was caused by the build-up of water in the accumulated rock and shale tip, which suddenly slid downhill in the form of slurry. In the cemetery side by side stands and overwhelming array of arches - each one a grave to those who passed that fateful day. It is beautiful and peaceful - almost heavenly - worthy of a visit....I felt initially uncomfortable to take photos but the beauty of it overwhelmed me and will live with me forever. #Photo Details Sweepstake
A wonderful sculpture to acknowledge the industry and hard working miners of Wales #Details! #Photo Details Sweepstake
The Aberfan disaster was the catastrophic collapse of a colliery spoil tip in the Welsh village of Aberfan, near Merthyr Tydfil, that killed 116 children and 28 adults on 21 October 1966
The Aberfan disaster was the catastrophic collapse of a colliery spoil tip in the Welsh village of Aberfan, near Merthyr Tydfil, that killed 116 children and 28 adults on 21 October 1966
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Aberfan must see attractions

1. Principality Stadium

Watch national and international sporting events, see musical legends perform and go behind the scenes at the Principality Stadium. This is the national stadium of Wales, a 74,500-seat venue that is the home of the Welsh national rugby team.
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Millennium Stadium showing modern architecture and a river or creek

2. Brecon Beacons National Park

Brecon Beacons National Park is an expanse of immeasurable natural beauty. Rugged mountain ranges spill down to valleys while limestone caves and dramatic waterfalls highlight a landscape of flower-filled meadows, forests and grassy hills. Brecon Beacons National Park is a paradise for biking, hiking, horseback riding and touring on canals. Discover more than 250 ancient monuments, villages crowned by castles and designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
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Brecon Beacons National Park showing rainforest, a waterfall and a lake or waterhole

3. Cardiff Castle

Cardiff Castle is a medieval stronghold and Victorian Gothic mansion with approximately 2,000 years’ worth of history. The magnificent structure was built on the site of a Roman fort and a Norman castle and during its existence also served as a home, a concert venue and a World War II shelter.
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Cardiff Castle showing heritage elements, heritage architecture and a castle

4. Utilita Arena Cardiff

The main area of the arena is a hugely versatile space capable of staging a wide variety of events, from trade exhibitions to music concerts and stand-up shows. It is capable of holding a standing audience of 7,500 people, a number that falls to 5,000 for seated events.
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D6WYKM Aerial photograph of the Cardiff Motorpoint Arena

5. Cardiff University

One of the UK’s major teaching and research universities, in its 2014 University Guide the Sunday Times described Cardiff as “the acknowledged leader of higher education in Wales”. The previous year it hailed it as a “powerhouse of academic and research excellence”.
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Main building of Cardiff University - Wales; Shutterstock ID 289260233; purchase_order: Comps; job: ; client: ; other:

6. Wales Millennium Centre

Wales Millennium Centre is one of the most popular cultural attractions in Cardiff. It is a place to see everything from small dance pieces and comedy shows, to West End musicals and major art exhibitions. The venue hosts several performance areas and is the home of the Welsh National Opera, the BBC National Orchestra of Wales and other arts organizations. Watch a show, view some art and enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour.
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Wales Millennium Centre which includes street scenes, modern architecture and signage

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What to do in Aberfan

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Aberfan? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Aberfan

Great Steam Train ride into the Brecon Mountains,

Brecon Mountain Railway

You can spend time studying the exhibits at Brecon Mountain Railway during your travels in Pant. Discover the mountain views and countryside in this relaxing area.

Brecon Mountain Railway
Sunset over ponsticil

Pontsticill Reservoir

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Pontsticill Reservoir during your travels in Merthyr Tydfil. Amble around the area's parks or visit its monuments.

Pontsticill Reservoir
Front view of Cyfarthfa Castle, Merthyr Tydfil, South Wales. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyfarthfa_Castle

Cyfarthfa Park and Museum

You can spend time browsing the exhibits at Cyfarthfa Park and Museum in Park. Amble around the area's parks, or seek out its golf courses.

Cyfarthfa Park and Museum

Garwnant Visitor Centre

Garwnant Visitor Centre is just one of the places to see in Hirwaun, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Wander the rocky beaches or discover the area's countryside.

Garwnant Visitor Centre

Joseph Parry's Cottage

Learn about the local history of Park when you take a trip to Joseph Parry's Cottage. Discover the area's spas and seek out its golf courses.

Joseph Parry's Cottage

Joseph Parry's Ironworker's Cottage

Find out about the history of Park when you spend time at Joseph Parry's Ironworker's Cottage. Discover the area's spas and seek out its golf courses.

Joseph Parry's Ironworker's Cottage

Ynysfach Engine House

You can learn about the history of Park with a trip to Ynysfach Engine House. Discover the area's spas and seek out its golf courses.

Ynysfach Engine House

Aberfan Disaster Memorial Garden

Learn about the local history of Aberfan when you spend time at Aberfan Disaster Memorial Garden.

Aberfan Disaster Memorial Garden

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Aberfan

Nant Crew on the other side of the Cantref Reservoir near Merthyr Tydfil, Powys, Wales, UK

Merthyr Tydfil

Cardiff showing a city, street scenes and night scenes

Cardiff

Track towards Mynydd y Capel This path skirts the western side of the high ground leading to Forest Chapel, above a steep forest slope that drops down to Merthyr Vale to the right. The light westerly breeze is pushing the mist up over the hill.
Photo by Graham Horn (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0)

Treharris

#Details! .The Aberfan disaster was the catastrophic collapse of a colliery spoil tip in the Welsh village of Aberfan, near Merthyr Tydfil, that killed 116 children and 28 adults on 21 October 1966. The collapse was caused by the build-up of water in the accumulated rock and shale tip, which suddenly slid downhill in the form of slurry. In the cemetery side by side stands and overwhelming array of arches - each one a grave to those who passed that fateful day. It is beautiful and peaceful - almost heavenly - worthy of a visit....I felt initially uncomfortable to take photos but the beauty of it overwhelmed me and will live with me forever. #Photo Details Sweepstake

Merthyr Vale

Fernhill railway station. Viewed from a level crossing. Fernhill is a single-track, single-platform station on the Aberdare Branch of the Merthyr Line, between Mountain Ash station and Cwmbach station.
Photo by Jaggery (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0)

Mountain Ash

Frequently asked questions

Is Aberfan worth visiting?
Aberfan offers a unique mix of culture, local charm and attractions. Whether you're into history, the outdoors or traditional cuisine, there are many things you'll enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Aberfan?
Brecon Mountain Railway and Garwnant Visitor Centre are two excellent places to kick-start your adventures. Be sure to check out the shopping and dining options in Aberfan while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Aberfan?
You can't leave without visiting Garwnant Visitor Centre, ranked the top tourist attraction in Aberfan.
Is three days enough to stay in Aberfan?
Three days will be enough time to tick off popular city highlights, including Cyfarthfa Park and Museum, Brecon Mountain Railway and Joseph Parry's Ironworker's Cottage. The average stay in Aberfan is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your trip, Cardiff isn't far away.
What are some activities to do in Aberfan with kids?
Planning what to do in Aberfan with kids has never been simpler. Whether you're taking a trip with toddlers or teenagers, there's a range of family-friendly tours and activities to keep them busy here.

What to do in Aberfan for adults?
Ynysfach Engine House and Joseph Parry's Cottage are just a couple of the things to do in Aberfan. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Aberfan?
In Aberfan, Cyfarthfa Park and Museum is a must-see spot for anyone wishing to tour the city without taking their wallet out. Also, check out the local parks and neighborhoods, and ask for tips from a local tour guide. It's an easy way to discover the best free things to do in Aberfan.