All linked by a network of around 9km footpaths, Craig Gwladus is a delightful combination of:
- thickly wooded slopes
- picturesque rocky outcrops
- varied wildlife habitats
- coal-mining heritage
Things to see
- Drift mine heritage trail (all access)
- Family trail (partly all access)
- Natural play areas for children
- A variety of picnic areas
- Panoramic views over the Neath Valley
An ideal retreat for hikers of all levels, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts.
Parking
There are three car parks on site signposted at the entrance.
| Car park opening time | Car park closing time |
|---|---|
| 8.00am | Dusk |
Cars onsite after closing time can exit the park over one-way ramp.
You can access the woods on foot at any time via the main entrance and various pedestrian entrances.
Drift mine heritage trail
The trail follows old dramways that link key features of the Gelliau and Graig Cilfrew collieries, including:
- mine entrances
- the engine house
- remains of bridges
- spoil heaps
- the air ventilation shaft
- the Smithy
It incorporates the central, flat Dram Road. Suitable for off-road wheelchair and pushchair access.
What's on
Working party session every Friday 10.00am - 1.00pm. Tea, coffee and tools are provided
Activities
One-off activities and events take place throughout the year. Past activities include:
- family play sessions
- wildflower walk
- heritage crafts workshops
- building conservation workshops
- wellbeing sessions
Group hire and rates
You can hire spaces at the park for organised group activities.
| Duration | Cost |
|---|---|
| Half day | £30.00 |
| Full day | £50.00 |
This includes:
- access to toilets (not open for public use)
- the workshop shelter
- managed activity spaces
Heritage
The park has significant historical importance. It:
- holds ancient woodland status being wooded for over 500 years
- was used for drift mining in the 19th Century
- produced high quality steam coal for export for the Tin Plate and Iron Works
Information points along the way will help you imagine how different this place was.
Accessible facilities
- Parking at the top car park provides access to all access trail
- Disabled access toilet and event area
- View point
- Drift Mine trail
- Picnic area
- Dramway – the central path of the park
Friends of Craig Gwladus
Generous and caring locals are helping to maintain this beautiful park. If you would like to help the Friends of Craig Gwladus, please contact:
Ian Davies, Secretary of the Friends via the Friends’ Facebook page.
Contact us
