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About
The Afan Valley is rich in history. From early monastic estates, the landscape developed into a farming area and later a coal mining valley. The last mine closed in 1970 and the area was designated as a forest parkin 1972 because of its great walking potential.
The last mine closed in 1970 and the area was designated as a forest park in 1972 because of its great walking potential.
Nowadays waymarked trails criss-cross the valleys and hillsides through the forest, passing be abandoned mines, former tramways and disused railways.
You can explore Afan Forest Park by following forest tracks and roads on foot or by bicycle.
natural Resources Wales manages a number of waymarked walking trails which start from Afan Forest Park Visitor Centre and from the car park at Rhyslyn.
Afan Forest Park is the fastest-growing mountain bike area in Britain. Natural Resources Wales manages a range of mountain bike trails that are suitable for everyone from beginners to expert mountain riders.
There is a network of bridleways in Afan Forest Park, some of which you need a permit to access. Please contact us to find out more about horse riding in Afan Forest Park or to apply for a permit.
Visitor Centre
Afan Forest Park Visitor Centre is set within 11,000 hectares of forest for you to explore & enjoy.
Rhyslyn Picnic Site & Car Park
Afan Forest Park lies just a few miles from Port Talbot within easy access of the M4.The forest park nestles on the slopes of the Afan Valley which is one of the narrowest and most beautiful valleys in Wales.
OS Grid Reference: SS 800 943
Tymaen Picnic Site & Car Park
A medium sized car park and picnic area set back from the main road and sheltered by mature trees. This car park is closed at 5pm. It is a five minute walk from the Afan Argoed Countryside Centre.
OS Grid Reference: SS815 949
Mountain Biking
The mountain bike trails have been carved out of hillsides once surrounded by coal mining, and the valley has been transformed into a rider's heaven.
The visitor centre offers:
café
shop
picnic areas
information about the forest park
camping pitches (tents only)
The South Wales Miners Museum is located within the visitor centre (there is an entry charge to the museum).
The Afan Valley Bike Shed is adjacent to the visitor centre and offers bike hire, a repair and servicing workshop and the sale of bikes and parts.
Please note:
Sometimes we need to close or divert trails for your safety whilst we undertake maintenance work or forest operations.
Occasionally we may have to close a site in extreme weather, such as high winds or snow and ice due to the risk of injury to visitors or staff.
Please always follow any instructions onsite and make sure you follow any temporary diversion signs in place.
Book Tickets
Guide Prices
Neath Port Talbot Council manages the car park. There is a charge for parking and a season ticket is available.
The season ticket is valid at both visitor centres in Afan Forest Park
Facilities
Accessibility
- Disabled access
- Disabled toilets
Booking & Payment Details
- Credit cards accepted (no fee)
Catering
- On-site catering
- On-site light refreshments
- Picnic site
Children
- Baby changing facilities
- Children welcome
Groups
- Education/study area
- Facilities for educational visits
- Facilities for groups
Meeting, Conference & Wedding Facilities
- Facilities for conferencing
Parking
- Parking with charge
Property Facilities
- Dogs Accepted
- Gift shop
- Public toilets
Target Markets
- Accepts groups
- Coach parties accepted
Map & Directions
Road Directions
By Car Directions: Situated on A4107. Follow road from M4, (J40) for 6 miles, passing the village of Cwmafan.
OS Grid Reference: SS820 950