Forest bathing at Pontypool Park

Pontypool Park is a 150 acre historic park laid out by the ironmaster John Hanbury at the end of the 17th century, now looked after by Torfaen County Borough Council. It is mostly open grassland and mixed woodland, with many old sweet chestnuts; a 400-year-old hollow tree here was voted Welsh Tree of the Year in 2019. In the grounds are the Folly Tower near the eastern edge, rebuilt in the 1990s, and the Shell Grotto, decorated inside with shells, minerals and bones.

The leisure centre, museum and sports grounds draw most visitors, so for quieter time head into the trees and up towards the Folly; the council's circular walk from the Active Living Centre car park follows well-defined tracks, an old Roman road and a steep driveway. Paths can be muddy and slippery, so wear sturdy shoes. The Folly and Grotto open on summer weekends, and from the Folly you can see across to Wentwood.