Mid Glamorgan

Introduction

The Welsh counties are full of amazing sites and historical resources. The beautiful coastline and hilly mountains are the main attractions for people who chose to visit the Principality. Glamorgan is recognised as one of these historic counties and a major administrative centre. Mid Glamorgan is one of the three preserved counties of Glamorgan, along side West Glamorgan and South Glamorgan. The county is bordered by Breconshire to the north, the Bristol Channel to the south, Monmouthshire to the east and Carmarthenshire and Carmarthen Bay to the west. Mid Glamorgan is located on the Bristol Channel and is dominated by the coal mines of the Rhondda Valley and the more agricultural areas in the southern part of the county. It is spread over an area of around 1,000sq km and has plenty to offer its visitors. The beautiful scenic views, beaches and deep narrow valleys are the major attractions in this part of Wales.

Formed in 1974, Mid Glamorgan included regions of Merthyr Tydfil, along with Penderyn and Vaynor from Breconshire and Bedwas, Machem, Rhymney and Bedwellty from Monmouthshire. The six districts of Mid Glamorgan include Cynon Valley, Ogwr, Merthyr Tydfil, Rhondda, Rhymney Valley and Taff-Ely. In 1996, Mid Glamorgan County was later divided into the four new unitary authorities of Bridgend, Merthyr Tydfil, Rhondda Cynon Taff and Caerphilly.

Towns and Major Attractions in Mid Glamorgan

Bridgend is the largest town in the county of the same name. It is located in the heart of south Wales and boasts the famous Llynfi, Garw and Ogmore valleys. Sadly, the region is well known for the high number of suicides recorded in 2007-08. Apart from Bridgend the other major towns are Brackla, Kenfig, Maesteg, Pencoed, Porthcawl and Pyle. The historical sites in and around Bridgend, include Coity Castle, Newcastle, Ogmore Castle and Kenfig Castle. You can find many beaches, such as Coney Beach, Kenfig Sands, Rest Bay, Sandy Porthcawl and Trecco Bay. The transport network is excellent and you can find many seaside resorts and restaurants in this part of Glamorgan.

Merthyr Tydfil is an historic town in Mid Glamorgan, located on the river Taff and connected to the capital city of Wales, Cardiff, by a canal. The town is named after a Welsh princess, St. Tydfil and covers an area of about 111sq km. Before the Second World War, the whole region was well known for coal mines, steel and iron works, but all of these industries went into decline during the 1980’s and 90’s. In recent years the economy has been improving and it is expected to regain something of its past position in the not too distant future. The Brecon Beacons National Park is close to the town and National Cycle Route 8 passes through it. The transport network is excellent and you can find many railway routes connecting Merthyr Tydfil with coastal ports or other parts of Glamorgan. The town retains some reminders of ancient Roman times and the Cyfarthfa Castle is a trademark of Mid Glamorgan. The Taff Bargoed Valley is the main area for outdoor activities for people visiting the area.

Rhondda Cynon Taff is the most populous county in Mid Glamorgan. The important towns in this county include, Aberdare, Mountain Ash and Pontypridd. Bonanza Leisure, Dare Valley Country Park, Old Court House Leisure Lounge, Stardust Amusements, Rhondda Heritage Park and Carousel are the major attractions for tourists visiting Rhondda Cynon Taff. The coal industry and recently developed Dragon International Film Studios are the other important attractions in this part of Mid Glamorgan.

The county of Caerphilly is located on the boundary between Glamorgan and Monmouthshire. Caerphilly is the main town in this county, while others of note include, Bedwas, Risca, Ystrad Mynach, Newbridge, Blackwood, Bargoed, New Tredegar and Rhymney. Tourists enjoy visiting Caerphilly, because it is ideal for outdoor activities. The capital city, Cardiff, is just twenty minutes away and the Brecon Beacons National Park is very close to the town. The breathtaking scenic locations, along with adventurous quad biking, horse riding, canoeing and clay shooting are just some of the other activities you can enjoy in this part of Mid Glamorgan. The beautiful Caerphilly Castle, magnificent lakes, wildlife and excellent accommodation services have made this a dream destination for tourists visiting Mid Glamorgan. If you would like personalised usb sticks to advertise on then follow the link.

Final Word about Mid Glamorgan

Mid Glamorgan is definitely worth visiting if you’re planning to spend a few days far away from the rat race. The hilly region of Glamorgan, with its vast coastal area, good hotels, outstanding natural beauty and historic monuments have attracted tourists from all parts of the world. Mid Glamorgan is definitley a good place to enjoy some leisure time with your friends or family.