Swansea

Ready for a Welsh adventure? We’re here to help you discover the best of South Wales. This region has something for everyone, everything from rolling green valleys steeped in history to vibrant, modern city experiences. The best part? We make it easy to see it all. Leave the car park chaos and traffic stress behind and let us do the driving.

 

Why visit South Wales?

Capital experience: Our vibrant capital city, Cardiff has everything from castles to lush green parks, sport, culture and a thriving dining scene.

Industrial and cultural heart: Discover the powerful legacy of Wales’ coal and iron industries at UNESCO sites in the valleys. Step into living history at St Fagans National Museum.

Breathtaking natural parks: Explore the majesty of Bannau Brycheiniog (otherwise known as the Brecon Beacons) National Park and the stunning, award-winning beaches of the Gower Peninsula.

Travel that works for you: By choosing to travel by train and bus, you’re making a choice that’s good for your pocket and good for the planet. We’re connecting you to the best of South Wales.

Why not use our app? It lets you see all our budget-friendly travel deals in one place.

 

Top five things to do in South Wales

We've picked five of the best things to do in South Wales that are easy to access by train or bus:

1. Cardiff Castle: Situated right in the city centre, this incredible castle brings 2,000 years of history to life. It's an absolute must-see for its spectacular ornate interiors and Norman tower. Get off at Cardiff Central railway station and the city centre is a short walk away.

2. Explore Swansea and the Gower Peninsula: Start your trip in Swansea, the vibrant city that acts as the perfect gateway to the stunning Gower Peninsula. A designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Gower is home to world-famous beaches like Rhossili Bay and Three Cliffs Bay. It’s perfect for coastal rambling and surfing.

3. Visit Iconic Barry Island: Enjoy the seaside charm, from the famous beach to the amusement park and see the real-life locations of Gavin and Stacey. Catch a direct, regular train from Cardiff for a hassle-free journey.

4. Caerphilly Castle: Visit Britain's largest castle after Windsor, famous for its elaborate water defences and iconic leaning tower. It's a beautiful day out and only a short 20-minute train journey from Cardiff Central.

5. Walk the peaks: Take on Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (the Brecon Beacons). You can reach parts of the park, including Pen y Fan, using the T4 bus service from Cardiff or Pontypridd.

 

Cities in South Wales

South Wales boasts vibrant cities and charming towns that are perfect to explore by train. We’ve picked out some of the best you can easily reach on our network:

Cardiff: As our capital, it’s a cultural hub offering fantastic shopping, the Principality Stadium and the beautiful waterfront of Cardiff Bay, all accessible from Cardiff Central station.

Swansea: Explore Wales’ second-largest city, gateway to the beautiful Gower Peninsula. You’ll find a vibrant waterfront and great spots for food and drink.

Newport: Visit the city famous for its unique Transporter Bridge and stunning Tredegar House, a 17th-century manor set in beautiful parkland.

St David's: This is Britain's smallest city, known for its magnificent cathedral and peaceful, rugged Pembrokeshire coastal scenery.

 

History in South Wales

South Wales is a perfect destination for history lovers, filled with plenty of unusual things to see.

Industrial Revolution: Discover the powerful legacy of our coal and iron industries at UNESCO sites like Big Pit and Blaenavon Ironworks. Big Pit and Blaenavon are connected by local bus routes from Pontypool and New Inn station.

Norman fortresses: Explore formidable Norman fortifications like the impressive Caerphilly Castle. Caerphilly Castle is a short, approximately 20-minute train journey from Cardiff Central.

Ancient sites: Step back to Roman times at the National Roman Legion Museum in Caerleon, or see the dramatic, roofless ruins of Tintern Abbey near the border. Check our website for the best routes.

Living history: You can explore 1,100 years of history at The Royal Mint Experience, easily accessible via local bus connections from Pontyclun station.

 

Outdoor attractions in South Wales

If you’re more of an outdoorsy person, here’s what to do in South Wales.

Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons): This National Park is perfect for hiking, from climbing Pen y Fan to exploring 'Waterfall Country' (like Sgwd Rhyd Yr Hesg). We recommend catching the T4 bus service from Cardiff or Pontypridd.

Gower Peninsula Coast: Enjoy the iconic landscapes of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, perfect for coastal rambling and water sports. Take the train to Swansea railway station and catch a bus from the station to popular spots like Mumbles and Rhossili.

Zip World Tower: Experience a thrilling day out at the world’s fastest seated zip line at Zip World Tower in the South Wales Valleys. Take a train to Aberdare railway station. Zip World is a short, pre-booked taxi ride away.

Afan Forest Park: Known as one of the best mountain biking destinations in the UK, Afan Forest Park offers trails for all abilities. Take a train to Port Talbot Parkway station. From there, you can connect with a local bus service or cycle route directly to the park.

 

Things to do in South Wales with kids

South Wales offers the perfect family day out, with plenty of things to do for kids.

Techniquest Science Discovery Centre: A fantastic, interactive science museum in Cardiff Bay, perfect for curious minds of all ages. Take the train to Cardiff Bay railway station or catch a local bus service.

The Royal Mint Experience: Explore where our coins are made! It’s an educational and fun experience for the family, especially if the weather isn't great. Easily accessible via local bus connections from Pontyclun station.

A Welsh Coal Mining Experience: Visit the Rhondda Heritage Park for a unique underground tour that brings the industrial history of the valleys to life. It’s easiest to access from Pontypridd station.

Go Ape Margam Park: Let the family burn off energy on high ropes courses and adventure playgrounds set in the beautiful grounds of Margam Park. Take the train to Port Talbot Parkway station. Margam Park is accessible via a short taxi ride or local bus service from the station.

 

Things to do in South Wales for couples

South Wales offers stunning, romantic backdrops for a memorable trip for two.

The Fairytale Castle (Castell Coch): Visit this beautifully restored Gothic fantasy castle. It’s a dazzling, romantic location that feels straight out of a storybook. You can easily reach this spot via bus from Cardiff.

Cardiff Bay Waterfront: Enjoy a sophisticated evening exploring the architectural masterpiece of the Wales Millennium Centre and dining at one of the many restaurants and bars. Take the train to Cardiff Bay railway station (a short connection from Cardiff Queen Street) or use a local bus service.

Brecon Mountain Railway: Take a scenic steam train journey together through the spectacular Bannau Brycheiniog scenery, perfect for a peaceful day out. Take the train to Merthyr Tydfil station. From there, you can catch a local bus or a pre-booked taxi to the railway site.

Glamorgan Heritage Coast: Explore dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and the historic Nash Point Lighthouse on this stunning 14-mile stretch of coastline. Take a train to Llantwit Major station. The coast path is easily accessible from the station.

 

Ready to experience South Wales? Plan your journey now using our website or download our handy app to buy your tickets and find our lowest-priced fares with no booking fees.