Where to go · Neath Port Talbot

Forest bathing at Craig Gwladus Country Park

Ancient woodland on the slopes above the Neath Valley, threaded with old dramways from 19th century drift mines.

Craig Gwladus is a wooded country park at Cilfrew, just outside Neath. The slopes have been wooded for over 500 years, with rocky outcrops and streams, and the woods carry the marks of 19th century drift mining, which produced steam coal for the local tinplate and ironworks. From the top there are views across the Neath Valley.

There are about 9km of paths. The Drift Mine Heritage Trail is around 2km and follows old dramways past mine entrances and an engine house; its flat central Dram Road suits off road wheelchairs and pushchairs, with accessible parking at the top car park. The 1 mile Family Trail passes small waterfalls and streams and is the busier one. The car parks open in the morning and close at dusk, though you can walk in at any time.

Practical

Managed by
Neath Port Talbot Council
Parking
Three signposted car parks at the entrance, open from morning until dusk; accessible parking at the top car park
Terrain
Woodland paths and old dramways; flat central Dram Road suits off road wheelchairs and pushchairs
Nearest station
Neath, about 3 miles
Facilities
Accessible toilet (not open during group hire), picnic areas, viewpoint, natural play
Opening and entry
Free; open on foot at all times
Official page
npt.gov.uk

Last updated 4 November 2026. Paths, parking and access can change, so check before you visit. Spotted something out of date? Please let us know.

Guides nearby

Two guides within 15 miles of Craig Gwladus Country Park

More woodlands in Neath Port Talbot

All venues in Neath Port Talbot
Forested hillside in Afan Forest Park, Neath Port TalbotAfan Forest ParkWooded slopes above the River Afan, with gentle riverside walks away from the bike trailsFootbridge over the stream among trees in Cwm Du Glen, PontardaweCwm Du GlenWooded river gorge with cascades and a giant redwood in the middle of PontardaweLake with trees at Gnoll Estate Country Park, NeathGnoll Estate Country ParkWoodland estate on the edge of Neath with 18th century cascades and ponds

Photos: Afan Forest Park, Alan Hughes (CC BY-SA 2.0); Cwm Du Glen, Nigel Davies (CC BY-SA 2.0); Gnoll Estate Country Park, Alan Hughes (CC BY-SA 2.0).