Just outside of Swansea, in Neath, Aberdulais Tin Works and Waterfall is a small National Trust Wales attraction that provides a good hour to two hours of entertainment.
We took a trip from Ivor’s grandparent’s house in Swansea on Easter Saturday in the afternoon. Parking is a bit thin on the ground with a small car park for about ten cars and then street parking. We did manage to park with no problems in a people carrier, but you may struggle if you go on a really nice day in the summer holidays. The site isn’t very big though, and I’d say most visitors will spend about an hour here, so parking spaces will come available frequently enough even on busy days.
Entry is (including gift aid) £6.50 for an adult and £3.25 for a child. A family pass can also be purchased for £16.25. Entry is free for National Trust members.
The National Trust Easter Egg hunt was taking place when we visited, and whilst Ivor was too young to take part, my husband wasn’t too old.
The site has clear paths. We went after two days of rain and it wasn’t at all muddy. If you are visiting with a baby I recommend taking the sling and leave the buggy at home as there are steps up to the top of the watermill and back down again. There is lift access for wheelchair users which you can use though if you need to take a stroller. The waterfalls are beautiful and there are great viewing station platforms at the bottom and top of the watermill for you to admire them and provide a good photo op.
The watermill is very impressive, in full working order and there is plenty of information dotted around to tell you more about it.
Tip: Don’t miss the opportunity to venture underneath and see the water running down the wall…you can get a bit wet though!
It’s definitely worth popping in the small tin works exhibition to learn more about the history and notable people of the site and this previously industrial area. Your kids will be bored, but it only takes five to ten minutes tops!
There is a small tea rooms back near the entrance/exit which do the usual National Trust menu of cakes, scones, coffee and sandwiches. Whilst dogs are welcome onsite, they’re not allowed allowed in the tea rooms. There are tables outside, including some under a canopy that they are welcome at if it’s raining. There is also a small shop selling the usual National Trust hodgepodge of books, scarves, jam and garden ornaments. We got a lovely nature sticker book for £4.99 for my nephew’s birthday. Toilets are also located at the entrance/exit, along with baby changing which is located in the disabled loo.
Tip: Sit outside the cafe if it’s nice and the kids can play with the traditional maypole whilst you relax with your coffee.
Aberdulais falls is an interesting attraction, with enough to entertain your kids for an hour or two (maximum). If you want to extend the day, I recommend pairing it with a trip to the nearby National Showcaves Centre for Wales
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