Merthyr Tydfil

Merthyr Tydfil is perched majestically at the top of the Taff Valley, between the Brecon Becons to the north and the industrial coal fields of south Wales.

During its hey day in the 1700's it was the largest iron producing town in the world. With all the necessary ingredients and raw materials right on its doorstep it grew to become the most populous place in Wales.

To get a feel for the place in its heyday visit the ironmongers' cottages of Chapel Row; when you've had your fill of Proletariat Street head across the river to Cyfartha Castle for a trip up Bourgeois Lane to see how the other 'alf lived.

Built in 1825 to mimic a Gothic castle, it was the home of William Crawshay II who owned one of the town's original four ironworks. The contrast is staggering. Inside there is a decent exhibition of Merthyr's history, particularly exploring its political to-ings and fro-ings.