Only taking half an hour, catching the train from Aberdare to Pontypridd means that you arrive relaxed and ready to explore Ponty, as the locals know it. Connect to our free onboard Wifi and catch up with work - if you really must, social media, or even the music of Pontypridd’s favourite son - the fabulous Tom Jones!

Twelve miles north of the Welsh capital, this attractive market town sits at the merging of two picturesque river valleys - the Rhondda and the Cynon Valleys. Until the 1860s, it was known as Newbridge after the record beating river crossing constructed in 1756 by William Edwards. At the time it was the world’s longest single-span arched bridge built from stone. However, it was deemed too steep for horses hauling heavy loads of locally mined coal and iron ore to cross, and the construction of Victoria Bridge was started one year later.

  • Free Wi-Fi
    Free Wi-Fi
  • Charging points
    Charging points
  • Direct
    Direct
Live departures and arrivals

Pontypridd’s industrial past is celebrated in the local museum. This hive of industry is depicted in the impressive collection of artefacts and machinery relating to the mining of coal and iron ore. Through these sought after products, Pontypridd grew larger, richer and more of an attraction to outsiders seeking employment.  

At the other end of the timescale, Pontypridd is famous for its many roles on the screen, with leading roles in the Dr Who spinoff, Torchwood, the children’s favourite, Fireman Sam, and the Welsh drama Belonging. However, mention the town anywhere in the world, and chances are one name will always crop up - Sir Tom Jones! 

Born in June 1940, Sir Thomas John Woodward OBE started on the road to fame in the mid ‘60s, releasing It's Not Unusual onto an unsuspecting world. Now, after recording over 30 top 40 singles, and with in excess of 100 million sales, the Welsh god can sometimes be spotted around the town, in between his worldwide tours.

The Ynysangharad War Memorial Park is home to a glorious water park which includes the wonderfully preserved Ponty Lido. Built in the 1920s, this icon of Art Deco design, plays host to a number of fun family events throughout the year, and within the water park, there are numerous attractions for locals and tourists alike. Enjoy laughs a-plenty with the water obstacle course and footgolf pitch. 

If your heart lies more with the cute and furry, though, head for the Pit Pony Sanctuary. Giving ageing ponies and needy neddies somewhere peaceful to spend their days, visitors are welcome to fuss and stroke the ponies. Why not gift a loved one a sponsorship pack? They’ll receive posters of their lucky equine pal, gifts and special offers -  perfect for a pony mad youngster or adult! 

Catch the train home to Aberdare and sink into the comfortable seats. Our downloadable app gives you access to our money saving offers, including discounts on group deals and the flexible Anytime tickets.