As the school summer holidays continue to roll on – with weather as predictable as toddlers’ moods – families are seeking easy getaways for the bank holiday.
The Dramatic Heart of Wales sits along the south Wales coastline, easily accessible by train or by car for those seeking family-friendly adventure trips from south Wales, the Midlands, the south West, London and beyond.
Offering a whole host of family-focused activities, the region has something for everyone this bank holiday.
For active adventures
Ever wanted to scuba dive without having to travel to international waters? Spring Valley Lakes glamping site in Glynneath lets you book guided scuba diving in their stunning lake for adventure seekers aged 10+.
Campers can also enjoy canoeing, pedlo, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding, alongside land-based activities such as archery and axe throwing. The site has a licensed bar and weekly entertainment, making it an ideal spot for families of all ages.
The Dramatic Heart of Wales is also home to the world-renowned mountain bike area Afan Forest Park, with trails suitable for young beginners through to the toughest black-rated bike trails. Challenge yourself with daring drops, hairpin turns, steep climbs and exhilarating rides.
For making a splash
Aberavon Beach is lifeguarded throughout August, with a small section of the beach also allowing dogs. Surf lessons and paddle board hire are available on the seafront with Surf School Wales and Surf More South Wales. Lessons can be booked on an individual or group basis, teaching you the fundamentals of surfing ¾ so you can catch waves and ride into shore.
The accessibly-designed Aberavon Aqua Splash has over thirty water features including fountains, jets, cannons and tipping buckets for little ones to enjoy. Free to enter, the splash park has kiosks and shops selling treats to help you cool off in the heat.
For exploring nature
Waterfalls, rivers, valleys and coastline are all synonymous with a Welsh holiday ¾ and you can visit all of them here, in the Dramatic Heart of Wales.
Discover the beauty of Melincourt Waterfall which once inspired the great artist J.M.W Turner, or stroll along Neath Canal and surround yourself with the summer colours of butterflies, dragonflies, kingfishers and the flowing river.
Swansea Valley Wildlife Walk also offers stunning views of the river and surrounding forests, hills and vales.
Hike along the coast, through countryside, towards quaint towns, and enjoy circular walks through woodland. Explore all our walks here.
For stepping back in time
A visit to the Dramatic Heart of Wales is not complete without a trip to our cultural sites. Neath Abbey ruins tell the story of the once-powerful Cistercian monks who called the land home, and is free to enter with dog-friendly walking trails.
Margam Country Park – also dog-friendly and free to enter on foot – welcomes families looking to soak up the sun in historic surroundings. The rolling grounds are home to Margam’s Gothic Castle, Margam Abbey – the best-preserved Cistercian abbey in Wales – the Celtic stones museum, as well as an adventure playground, café, lake, fairytale playground, and walking trails across the parkland.
Bike hire and ‘go kart safaris’ are available to book, making the day out a treat for all ages.
Plan your visit to the Dramatic Heart of Wales today. Discover more about our area here.
