In its past the Rhondda Valleys and the South Wales coalfields were as important as the oil producing countries of today. The coalfields exported quality Welsh coal and helped power the world.
Today, there is only one working coal mine left.
Most of the old mine sites have been cleared and are now converted into factory estates, or supermarket sites.
One colliery, however, The Lewis Merthyr was saved from being turned into another Tesco or whatever,
and the Rhondda heritage Park was formed
If you ever wondered what it was like
working underground now is your chance.
The guides are miners that worked at the Lewis Merthyr and after a ride to a simulated" pit bottom" you will be transported back to the 1950s and soon you will appreciate the dangers and hardships and some of the" lighter moments" of working underground. Then you will transported back to the surface in amazing simulated coal truck ride through dark and twisty tunnels!
There is plenty of things to see and do including a reconstructed 1950s village street featuring three shops and a cottage depicting what life was like in the mining valleys
Wide range of gifts,good food and fascinating exhibitions;
Multi-media displays;
A thrilling "underground" tour;
The "Energy Zone"An action-packed adventure playground
Open Times
Monday - Closed
Tuesday - 10.30am to 4.30pm
Wednesday - 10.30am to 4.30pm
Thursday - 10.30am to 4.30pm
Friday - 10.30am to 4.30pm
Saturday - 10.30am to 4.30pm
Sunday - Closed
Cafe Opening - 11.00am to 3.00pm
Directions
Leave the M4 at junction 32 follow
signs for Rhondda Heritage Park
.
Photo by Andrew Gronow..