Things to do in Pontypool

Activities, attractions and tours

Big Pit National Coal Museum
Big Pit National Coal Museum showing interior views
Big Pit National Coal Museum
Big Pit National Coal Museum
Big Pit National Coal Museum

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What to do in Pontypool

Popular places to visit

Millennium Stadium showing modern architecture and a river or creek

Principality Stadium

Follow in the footsteps of sporting and musical greats when you tour this vast sporting arena. Walk on the pitch, see dressing rooms and lift a trophy.

Principality Stadium
Wales Millennium Centre featuring a square or plaza, modern architecture and a city

Cardiff Bay

Explore the waterfront in Cardiff with a trip to Cardiff Bay. Discover the top-notch restaurants and acclaimed theatre scene in this relaxing area.

Cardiff Bay
Barry Island Beach

Barry Island Beach

If you’re looking for a quintessential Welsh seaside experience, look no further than Barry Beach in the picturesque Vale of Glamorgan.

Barry Island Beach
Cardiff Castle featuring heritage elements, château or palace and heritage architecture

Cardiff Castle

A fortified tower from the 12th century, World War II tunnels and Welsh military history make a fascinating day out at this magnificent castle.

Cardiff Castle
Cardiff University

Cardiff University

Founded by Royal Charter in 1883 and located in the heart of the thriving Welsh capital, Cardiff University has built an international reputation for the quality of its work.

Cardiff University
Wales Millennium Centre showing signage, modern architecture and street scenes

Wales Millennium Centre

Book your tickets for theater, opera, dance and comedy shows and go on a backstage tour at this prestigious arts venue.

Wales Millennium Centre
Cardiff International Arena

Cardiff International Arena

Cardiff Motorpoint Arena is located on Mary Ann Street in the heart of Cardiff. It was opened in 1993 and is the largest purpose-built facility for staging exhibitions and concerts in South Wales.

Cardiff International Arena
Tintern Abbey which includes religious aspects, a church or cathedral and heritage elements

Tintern Abbey

Tour the ruins of an ancient monastery where Cistercian monks used to live, pray and study. See the remains of their former dwellings and church.

Tintern Abbey
Bute Park featuring château or palace, heritage architecture and heritage elements

Bute Park

Take a calming stroll through Cardiff’s Bute Park. Follow the trails, explore the remains of a medieval friary and admire the horticulture and wildlife.

Bute Park

Areas of Pontypool

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Pontymoile

While visiting Pontymoile, you might make a stop by sights like Pontypool Park and Shell Grotto.

Pontymoile
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Abersychan

While there might not be top attractions in Abersychan, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Pontypool Park and Big Pit National Coal Museum.

Abersychan
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Photo by Roger Cornfoot (CC BY-SA)

Griffithstown

While Griffithstown isn't home to many top sights, Pontypool Park and Grosmont Castle are some notable places to visit nearby.

Griffithstown
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Pen Tranch

While Pen Tranch isn't home to many top sights, Big Pit National Coal Museum and Pontypool Park are some notable places to visit nearby.

Pen Tranch
Photo by Michaela Menzel

Abergavenny

Newport

Newport

Photo by Brian71

Cwmbran

Cardiff which includes a city, night scenes and street scenes

Cardiff

Photo "Kemeys Commander" by Roger Davies (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Roger Davies (CC BY-SA)

Kemeys Commander

Photo "Llanfoist" by andy dolman (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by andy dolman (CC BY-SA)

Llanfoist

Frequently asked questions

Is Pontypool worth visiting?
From retail therapy to outdoor activities and history, there are loads of fun things to do in Pontypool. Be sure to experience the area's mix of unmissable attractions, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Pontypool?
When you've checked off major attractions like Usk Castle and Blaenavon Ironworks, spend some time experiencing the retail and food options in Pontypool.
What is the top tourist attraction in Pontypool?
Usk Castle is one of the top tourist attractions in Pontypool and should be high on every itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Pontypool?
Three days will give you plenty of time to tick off many city attractions, like Blaenavon Ironworks, Bowlplex Cwmbran and Blaenavon Community Heritage and Cordell Museum. The average stay in Pontypool is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your holiday, Cardiff isn't far away.
Is Pontypool a walkable city?
Some leading sights in Pontypool, such as Pontypool Park and Shell Grotto, are within walking distance. You can also explore several of the city's popular neighbourhoods on foot. Only 2 kilometres from the city centre of Pontypool is Pontymoile and Trevethin is 0.97 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Pontypool with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, an itinerary filled with cool activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Check out our ideas for what to do in Pontypool with kids.

What to do in Pontypool for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Pontypool, with experiences for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Blaenavon World Heritage Centre.
Are there free things to do in Pontypool?
In Pontypool, Pontypool Park is a popular spot for anyone wanting to tour the city without opening their wallet. Also, check out the local neighbourhoods and parks, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's a good way to discover the best free things to do in Pontypool.