Pontardawe Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Pontardawe Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Pontardawe sits in a prime spot for exploring South Wales. The town itself has the excellent Pontardawe Arts Centre (SA8 4EG, open 9am-5pm Mon-Sat) which hosts films, theatre and music events throughout the year. It scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor with visitors praising its "friendly atmosphere" and "great value tickets".

Just 15 minutes away is Henrhyd Falls (SA10 9PG), the highest waterfall in South Wales at 90 feet. It's free to visit and was actually used as the entrance to the Batcave in The Dark Knight Rises! The National Trust site scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor.

For industrial heritage fans, the National Waterfront Museum in Swansea (SA1 3RD, open 10am-5pm daily) tells the story of Welsh industry and innovation. It's free to enter and scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. I recommend going on weekdays to avoid crowds.

The Brecon Beacons National Park starts just north of Pontardawe. Pen y Fan, the highest peak in southern Britain, is about 40 minutes drive away. After a day's hiking, that hot tub will feel even better!

Pet Friendly

Many Pontardawe cottages welcome dogs and the area is brilliant for pet owners. The Cwm Du Glen and Glanrhyd Plantation Local Nature Reserve offers woodland trails where dogs can run off-lead in designated areas. It's just 5 minutes from the town centre.

The Butchers Arms pub (SA8 3HL) in the heart of Pontardawe is dog-friendly and serves good food. They even keep dog treats behind the bar! Another great option is The Dillwyn Arms (SA8 4HX) which has a spacious beer garden for dogs to stretch their legs.

For supplies, Pontardawe has a Pets at Home store (SA8 4EH) for any emergency pet needs. I'd recommend bringing your dog's favourite bed to place near the hot tub so they can relax while you enjoy a soak.

Most beaches in the Swansea area have seasonal dog restrictions, but Broughton Bay on the Gower Peninsula allows dogs year-round and is about 40 minutes drive away.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Pontardawe

1. Pontardawe Heritage Centre (SA8 4HU) - This small but fascinating museum documents the town's industrial past. The volunteer guides know everything about local history and will tell you how the town's tin works shaped the community. Open Tuesdays and Thursdays 10am-4pm, it's free to enter but donations help keep it running. A visitor recently wrote: "What this place lacks in size it makes up for in enthusiasm!"

2. Cwmdu Glen (SA8 3BB) - This beautiful woodland walk follows the Clydach River through ancient oak forest. The 2-mile circular route takes about an hour and features small waterfalls and abundant wildlife. It's rarely busy, even in summer. One TripAdvisor review states: "We spotted three different types of woodpecker and countless squirrels. The kids loved it!"

3. Pontardawe Swimming Pool (SA8 4HX) - If you fancy a change from your hot tub, this community pool has excellent facilities including a 25m main pool and smaller teaching pool. They run adult-only sessions early mornings and some evenings. A recent visitor commented: "Surprisingly good for a small town pool - clean, well-maintained and friendly staff."

When is the best time to visit Pontardawe?

August is fantastic as the town hosts its annual Folk Festival with music spilling onto the streets. Spring (April-May) offers mild weather and blooming countryside, perfect for walks followed by hot tub relaxation. Winter visits mean quieter attractions and cosy evenings - many cottages have woodburners alongside their hot tubs.

Can I get around Pontardawe without a car?

It's possible but challenging. The town has bus connections to Swansea (about 30 minutes) with services running hourly. For exploring the Brecon Beacons or Gower Peninsula, a car is essential. Some cottage owners offer bike hire, which is great for local exploration.

Where can I buy groceries in Pontardawe?

The town has a Tesco Express (SA8 4HU) and a larger Tesco superstore (SA8 4QU) on the outskirts. There's also a fantastic indoor market (SA8 4EG, open Tues, Thurs, Fri and Sat) selling local produce, Welsh cheeses and freshly baked bread - perfect for stocking up before heading back to enjoy your hot tub!

Are there any good restaurants in Pontardawe?

Yes! Juniper Place (SA8 4HU) serves excellent modern British food using Welsh ingredients. For something more casual, The Dillwyn Arms (SA8 4HX) offers hearty pub grub. Pontardawe also has several good Indian restaurants - Shampan (SA8 4JA) gets particularly good reviews.

What if it rains during my stay?

Rain shouldn't spoil your break - that's what the hot tub is for! The Pontardawe Arts Centre (SA8 4EG) shows films daily. The LC Swansea (SA1 3ST) has an indoor waterpark about 25 minutes drive away. The National Showcaves Centre (SA9 1GJ) offers underground exploration protected from the elements.

Is Pontardawe suitable for children?

Absolutely! Besides the swimming pool, there's a good playground in Recreation Ground (SA8 4JX). Nearby, Folly Farm (SA68 0XA) is about 45 minutes drive and consistently rated as one of Wales' best family attractions. Many cottages with hot tubs also have games rooms or enclosed gardens.

1. Pontardawe Arts Centre - Official Website
2. Brecon Beacons National Park Information
3. Visit Swansea Bay Tourist Information
4. Pontardawe Folk Festival