Afan Forest Park (NRW)

The Afan Valley is rich in history. From early monastic estates, the landscape developed into a farming area and later a coal mining valley. The last mine closed in 1970 and the area was designated as a forest parkin 1972 because of its great walking potential.

The last mine closed in 1970 and the area was designated as a forest park in 1972 because of its great walking potential.
Nowadays waymarked trails criss-cross the valleys and hillsides through the forest, passing be abandoned mines, former tramways and disused railways.

You can explore Afan Forest Park by following forest tracks and roads on foot or by bicycle.

natural Resources Wales manages a number of waymarked walking trails which start from Afan Forest Park Visitor Centre and from the car park at Rhyslyn.

Afan Forest Park is the fastest-growing mountain bike area in Britain. Natural Resources Wales manages a range of mountain bike trails that are suitable for everyone from beginners to expert mountain riders.

There is a network of bridleways in Afan Forest Park, some of which you need a permit to access. Please contact us to find out more about horse riding in Afan Forest Park or to apply for a permit.