Where to go · Merthyr Tydfil
Forest bathing at Cyfarthfa Park
A large Victorian park around Cyfarthfa Castle, with a lake, woodland walks and views up the valley to the Beacons.
Cyfarthfa Park is the 160-acre estate that surrounds Cyfarthfa Castle, built in 1825 for the ironmaster William Crawshay II and now the town's museum and art gallery. Beyond the formal gardens and play areas there is real woodland, with the Crawshay Nature Trail and wood carvings dotted among the trees, and views across the valley towards the Brecon Beacons. It is the easiest place in Merthyr to find trees within walking distance of town.
Start from the free car park off Brecon Road and head away from the castle and the play area; the woods and the paths around the lake are where it is quietest. Paths range from firm and gravel to foot-worn trails, and the park is hilly in places. A path also leaves the park through woodland towards the Taf Fechan gorge if you want a longer walk. Weekday mornings are calmer than summer weekends, when events and families fill the lawns.
Practical
- Managed by
- Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council
- Parking
- Free car park, with disabled spaces
- Terrain
- Firm, gravel and foot-worn paths; hilly in places
- Nearest station
- Merthyr Tydfil, about 1 mile
- Facilities
- Café at Canolfan Cyfarthfa, tearoom, toilets (not 24 hours), museum and art gallery
- Opening and entry
- Free; park open daily from early morning, closing time varies by season
- Official page
- visitwales.com
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 Spotted something out of date?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 who run sessions here
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More woodlands in Merthyr Tydfil
All venues in Merthyr Tydfil
Cwm Taf Fechan WoodlandsAncient woodland gorge on Merthyr's northern edge, with mossy limestone, cascades and a deep blue pool
Gethin Woodland ParkLarge hillside forest south of Merthyr with long forest tracks and views over the valleysPhotos: Cwm Taf Fechan Woodlands, Alan Hughes (CC BY-SA 2.0); Gethin Woodland Park, Gareth James (CC BY-SA 2.0).