2025 marks a year of celebration here in the Dramatic Heart of Wales: it is 100 years since renowned Hollywood actor, Richard Burton, was born in the Afan Valley village of Pontrhydyfen, Port Talbot.
The internationally-renowned actor became a household name during Hollywood’s Golden Age, but he never forgot the close-knit communities, towns and sweeping landscapes that raised and inspired him.
Throughout 2025, the vales, valleys and coastline of Neath Port Talbot will act as the backdrop for a host of performances, talks, activities, tours and more, all celebrating the remarkable legacy of Richard Burton: the “voice of a generation” who took Wales to the world.
Find out more here: https://richardburton100.org/
Walk the Richard Burton Trails
Richard Burton may have become one of the highest-paid actors in Hollywood, but his acting training began in Port Talbot Grammar School. And, he learnt to project his voice by practicing from the rugged peak of Margam Mountain, overlooking the winding streets of Port Talbot.
Now, you can walk in the footsteps of the stage and screen actor along the two new Richard Burton Trails.
The Birthplace Trail guides visitors through the stunning landscape of Pontrhydyfen, with its iconic viaduct leading you through the story of Burton’s early life. Walk through the village where Burton took his first steps, and find out more about his first years through the handy QR codes along the way.
The Childhood Trail leads you into the heart of Port Talbot in Taibach, taking visitors past his childhood homes and haunts.
During 2025 there will be free tours available along the Trails with our expert guide – keep an eye out and be sure to follow @richardburton_100 on social media to stay up-to-date on tour dates and times.
Find the interactive map and plan your visit here: https://rbtrail.dramaticheart.wales/childhood-trail/
Visit the Richard Burton Exhibition
Coming to Aberafan Shopping Centre for previews in May 2025 and the full exhibition taking place from July to November, the ‘Becoming Richard Burton’ Exhibition takes you on a journey through the actor’s life.
From his boyhood as Richie Jenkins in Pontrhydyfen and Taibach, through the schooling years where he met his mentor and namesake Mr Philip Burton, the exhibition culminates in a retrospective of his glittering career. Celebrate the icon of stage and screen in the heart of the community that shaped him.
Find out more: https://richardburton100.org/discover-our-area/events/rb100-exhibition-in-aberafan-2/
Enjoy a performance inspired by Richard Burton
If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity to learn more about Richard Burton’s life and legacy, Welsh-language theatre company Theatr Na nOg present ‘Halen yn y Gwaed’ (salt in the blood).
Performed by local school-children during the Urdd Eisteddfod, the show will share tales of the great actor.
Find out more: https://richardburton100.org/discover-our-area/events/theatr-na-no-g-halen-yn-y-gwaed-urdd-performance/
Lose yourself in the story of his life
‘Behind the Scenes: The Dramatic Lives of Philip Burton’ is the latest non-fiction book from Angela V. John, renowned biographer and historian. Following the launch of her new book, John will be giving an exclusive Q&A session at the New Plaza, Port Talbot, on 26th April. Sign up to the RB100 mailing list to be the first to hear about ticket release!
If you are visiting the region for a Richard Burton-inspired getaway, browse our accommodation options here: https://dramaticheart.wales/discover-our-area/accommodation/
To stay up-to-date with the latest news in RB100 events, sign up to the mailing list at richardburton100.org.
