In the shadow of the steelworks lies a town that is full of hidden gems
Ask anyone what springs to mind when they think of Port Talbot, and chances are you’ll hear the same answer echo back – the steelworks. Towering chimneys and plumes of steam that have long defined the town’s skyline.
Yet beyond the shadow of this great steel giant, lies a different side of Port Talbot that many people who are not local to the area, may not even know about. One that is rich with natural beauty, local history and hidden gems waiting to be explored.
With that in mind, it shouldn’t be shocking that recent research from the online property company Zoopla has revealed Port Talbot as one of the most popular, affordable places to live in Great Britain. The famously industrial town ranked fourth in a list, based on how often three-bedroom homes were viewed online, combined with how affordable those homes are compared to local earnings.
Port Talbot sits just behind Neath, Llanelli, and the Scottish town of Glenrothes, proving it’s more than just steel drawing attention.
One of those reasons is Afan Argoed, also known as Afan Country Park – a haven for walkers and cyclists with its miles of scenic trails, winding through the Valley’s ever changing landscape. This place was a childhood favourite of mine that holds memories of long dog walks with my granddad and rare sunny day picnics down Rhyslyn car park.
Speaking of Rhyslan car park, this is also the starting point of a fantastic walking trail, that certainly put me in my paces growing up. The route forms a figure of eight, giving walkers the choice to complete the full loop or opt for one half – perfect if you’re after a shorter, three-mile stroll.
The first section is a treat for fans of Richard Burton, guiding you past landmarks tied to the legendary actor who was born just down the road in Pontrhydyfen.
As a kid, reaching the portrait bench was always a bit of a milestone – a quiet clearing where three steel figures stand proud: Mr Burton himself, Gavin and Stacey actor Rob Brydon and former Afan Valley head ranger Dick Wagstaff. The sculptures were chosen by the local community and installed in 2010 by the sustainable transport charity, Sustrans.
Just beside the figures, visitors will find a small but powerful surprise – a listening post that plays a snippet of Richard Burton’s iconic voice, reading Dylan Thomas’ famous poem: Under Milk Wood. To hear his rich, haunting tones echo so close to where he once roamed is a moment that sticks with you.
The second loop of the trail leads deeper in the heart of the Afan Valley’s forest, where the tall evergreens and fern-lined parks makes it easy to see why the area is often called ‘Little Switzerland’. Beyond that, there are many other trails for cyclists and walkers just waiting to be explored. Stay informed on everything Neath Port Talbot by signing up to our newsletter here
Aberavon Beach needs little introduction; it is a beloved stretch of coastline that has been drawing both locals and visitors for generations.
With its long, sweeping sands and a sleek modern promenade overlooking Swansea bay, it’s easy to see why it remains a firm favourite. That being said, the reintroduced parking charges have taken a bit of a shine off for some – but its still hard to stay away, especially during these flashes of warm weather.
The beach itself is huge – one of the longest in Wales – and provides endless activities for all ages. The northern end is usually alive with sand yachting and kitesurfing making the most of the wind and waves.
What I love most about this beach is how it’s a proper family spot. There are two decent play parks that provide safe, fun spaces for children to burn off energy, although Aberavon Aqua Splash might be the real highlight – complete with fountains, jets and “waterfalls” that is the perfect relief during those blistering (albeit rare) heatwaves.
A site that must be a part of every local’s childhood is the iconic blue whale and penguin statutes that you can check out during your walk along the beach. These relics have been here for as long as I can remember – if you know, you know.
For those older kids, there’s also crazy golf on the beachfront, which is a good laugh and of course the Reel Cinema; my absolute go-to. Rarely crowded, with a good choice of snacks and the added bonus of being able to wander straight onto the beach after a film for an ice cream – what’s not to love?
Dog owners aren’t left out either. While the main beach is not available to dogs during the summer months, the strong line up of cafes and restaurants are more than welcoming. Francos – a popular fish and chip shop, that is a highlight of any beach trip – is completely dog-friendly, offering your furry companion their own menu and abundance of water bowls.
Memo Beach Café and Café Remos also welcomes dogs. These are the perfect places to stop for some lunch and coffee, while your dog chills at your side. Personally, a trip to Cafe Remos always has to involve their freshly made ice cream – their strawberry cones are a ten out of ten.
Meanwhile, there is also The Front, which has grown quite popular over the years for their tasty burgers and reasonable prices. It’s just next door to cinema and even has it’s own drive-thru, which is sometimes a must as it’s always super busy.
If you asked most people about the best spots in Port Talbot, I am willing to bet that Aberafan Shopping Centre wouldn’t be too high on the list. But I’m going to say it… there’s actually quite a lot going for this place!
One of its biggest claims to fame right now is Spud Fam, a baked potato business that’s been making waves on TikTok. The shop is a real family operation – owned by Jordanna Landeg and her husband David, with Jordanna’s brother Jude and their mum – all pitching in.
Their videos give a behind-the-scenes look at the day to day running of the shop, including some of the interesting spud combos and orders that they serve up; showing just how creative – and delicious – a loaded potato can be.
With a loyal following of over 12,000 on TikTok, they’ve made a name for themselves with their ridiculously loaded baked potatoes and fries. From classic cheese and beans to more adventurous options like beef brisket and their very own “Spud Fam’s Bol”, they’ve turned simple comfort food into something a bit more fun.
Also in the shopping centre is Portablo Coffi, a coffee shop run by former steelworker Cassius. Opening at the start of this year, its already become a staple of the town thanks to its great coffee and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
A wander round B and M’s and Home Bargains with a coffee in one hand and a spud from your local independents in the other… sometimes it really is the simple things in life.
Just a short drive from Port Talbot, lies Margam Country Park; which while not part of Port Talbot itself, is close enough to feel like an extension of the area’s history.
At the centre of Margam Park is the magnificent 19th century Tudor Gothic mansion, designed by architect Thomas Hopper for Christopher Rice Mansel Talbot. Built between 1830 and 1840, this Grade I listed mansion is packed with stunning features, from its soaring staircase hall to the distinctive octagonal tower.
Margam Castle’s outbuildings now house the Visitor Centre, which includes a café, gift shop and other handy facilities. Visitors can also explore the Entrance Hallway and the grand Staircase Hall, stepping back into much more opulent times.
As a child, I remember Margam being the subject of plenty of ghost stories – the kind that made passing by places like the Castle and Margam Monastery a little spine-tingling. However, those eerie feelings have faded with time, replaced by a real sense of wonder at this beautiful, historic spot.
There’s lots more to see during a visit to Margam Park beyond the Castle itself. One of my childhood haunts was the Fairytale Village – which although a bit crusty and dusty, still has a certain charm. I loved wandering through, checking out the miniature houses inspired by classic folklore tales.
For families, another must is the farm trail. It offers the chance to get up close to a variety of animals from alpacas and donkeys to pigs and pygmy goats. Even in my twenties, I had to take a stroll round there during a recent visit – although I will warn visitors to not go too close to those gates as I was almost victim to alpaca spit!
My last bit of advice when visiting is – if you ever get the chance, don’t miss the outdoor cinema experience. Watching a film beneath the shadow of Margam Castle is something magical; the atmosphere and setting make it an unforgettable night.