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The town lies north of Swansea, on the River Neath in the southern county of Glamorgan. The remains of hill forts and burial tombs indicate the Celts had a vast settlement here. The Romans arrived in 70 AD and established the military fort called Nidum. St. Illtyd visited the territory and constructed a church on what is now the north part of Neath. By the early 1100s, the area attracted the Normans, who by 1150 had constructed a castle, church and a market square. The settlement emerged around this central area. The Welsh called the town Castell-Nedd. Fighting between the Normans and the Welsh over the next 150 years inhibited community expansion and growth.
The land experienced peace in the 1300s and the town experienced further development with the establishment of a new bridge across the river. During the Tudor period, the gentry class replaced lordships that were responsible for Neath’s economic growth. Up until now, the village sustained itself financially through agriculture and had a large cattle market. Current street names originated during this time and include Butter and Cattle Streets and Bull Lane.
Coal mining began in the 1500s, followed by copper smelting in 1584. The Evans family significantly expanded the coalmines in the 1600s, while the Mackworths constructed one of the largest modern copper smelting factories in the country.
Lt. Lewis Roatley, son of the Castle Hotel owner, served in the Royal Marines in the latter 1700s. He and Lord Admiral Nelson stayed at the inn before boarding the HMV Victory, which led them to the Battle of Trafalgar. The Glyn-Neath Canal opened in 1795. Railways extended from the mines to the waterfront for easy export. The canal route from Swansea to Aberdalais opened shortly thereafter.
Neath grew at exponential levels during the Victorian period, having a population of 3,000 in 1823 that skyrocketed to 14,000 by 1880. The community erected a number of civic buildings during this century. Today, Neath has a busy commerce and tourism industry. The town boasts a long line of famous former residents that includes actor Paul Rhys and singer Bonnie Tyler.
Activities and Attractions
Two D-shaped towers flanking the gatehouse comprise the entrance of the ancient Neath Castle. Only partial walls now remain, as the site was abandoned sometime during the 1500s and used mainly for recreation purposes. Journey to the western part of the community and visit the remains of Neath Abbey. Upon the abbey’s dissolution in the mid 1500s, the site became a private residence. During the copper mining boom, the owner converted part of the structure into a copper casting and smelting factory. Large portions of the original building remain, including the church constructed in the latter 1200s. Visitors may gaze at the ornate ceiling architecture and ceramic floor tiles installed by the monks.
The beautiful scenery of the Neath area includes numerous cycling paths and walking trails. Many enjoy mountain biking in the nearby Afan Forest. Follow the garden path along the river and visit the Aberdulais Falls. For over 400 years, the power of the waterfalls provided the required energy that ran many local industries. See the massive waterwheel and the modern turbine now used for electricity. The Old Library and a Victorian schoolhouse serve refreshments in the summertime. Anglers have the opportunity for a good days catch at various locations along the river.
Venture to the Gnoll estate, once home to the Mackworth family. Tour the remains of the expansive country house or enjoy the gardens, wooded areas and duck ponds. The extensive park also features a nine hole golf course, fishing, a children’s play area and visitor’s centre along with a café.
Outside of the community lies the spectacular Neath Vale. The valley formed as the river carved its way through the area leaving a fairytale landscape complete with waterfalls. This was also once the location of the booming mining industry. North of Neath visitors find the Cefn Coed Colliery Museum. Learn the history and legends surrounding the mines and see the massive engine that once powered the location. The original mining buildings now hold galleries featuring simulated mine shafts displaying typical equipment and tools.
Places to Stay and Dining
Guests enjoy a fascinating getaway at any number of Neath’s historic inns. Learn about local legends and explore the facilities housing authentic, unusual architecture and furnishings. Hear about the long line of famous guests including Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor. Burton was born and raised in the area. Some facilities offer room rates and golf packages at one affordable price.
The Café de Napoli is a local Italian restaurant serving an exquisite selection of lunch and dinner meals with the authentic taste of Italy. Early bird menus include pork loin prepared in an apple and port wine sauce. Try tender chicken breast prepared in white wine and served with a creamy mushroom sherry sauce.
Accommodation in Neath
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