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Blaenavon World Heritage Site

Go underground at Big Pit National Coal Museum, unlock the past at Blaenavon Ironworks, take a dip in Keeper's Pond or simply enjoy a relaxing stroll or cycle on the stunningly beautiful Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal.

The area around Blaenavon was the industrial engine of Britain in the 19th century, one of the main areas driving South Wales' position as the world's major producer of iron and coal. So much so that in 2000 UNESCO designated the Industrial Landscape as a World Heritage Site. Nowadays the industrial heritage sits within the natural beauty of the area, with ironworks and coal pits alongside lakes and stunning mountaintop views.

Big Pit opened in 1860 and continued producing coal until 1980. The National Coal Museum is now the main attraction within the Blaenavon World Heritage Site. The guided underground tour is led by ex-miners and the Pithead Baths house a fascinating exhibition about the life of a coal miner.

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Blaenavon Ironworks (Cadw)

The famous ironworks at Blaenavon were a milestone in the history of the Industrial Revolution. Visitors can view cottages furnished in three time periods. Recently used for BBC Coalhouse as 'Stack Square'. Part of a World Heritage site.
1. 1st Jan 202531st Dec 2025
Blaenavon World Heritage Centre

The small town of Blaenavon and its surrounding landscape at the head of the Eastern Valley of Torfaen.
1. 1st Jan 202531st Dec 2025
Big Pit: National Coal Museum

Discover Wales' rich mining heritage in this award-winning interactive museum is set in the Blaenafon Industrial Landscape and designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.
1. 1st Jan 202531st Dec 2025
Keeper's Pond

The Keeper’s Pond, also known as Pen-ffordd-goch Pond or the Forge Pond, is situated near Pwll Du, on the hill above Blaenavon.
1. 1st Jan 202531st Dec 2025
Health Walk - Blorenge High Level Walk

4 mile walk from Keepers Pond around the summit of the Blorenge.
Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal

A beautiful canal running through Brecon, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire and Pontypool.
Goytre Wharf & Canal Visitor Centre

Goytre Wharf is a 200 year old industrial heritage site that includes a busy visitor centre and marina on the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal.
1. 1st Jan 202531st Dec 2025
Abergavenny
Abergavenny accommodation
Places to eat and drink Abergavenny