Feel the Force (Aberdulais Falls (Neath))

Member Name: cmh4135

Product:	Aberdulais Falls (Neath)
Date:	14/07/09 (85 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Educational, beautiful, peaceful

Disadvantages: No real shelter on a wet day

As a child I spent a lot of time travelling in Wales. One of the highlights of each visit was the "waterfall search" that was obligatory on any trip! That childhood love of tumbling water has remained and I will actively seek out falls whenever possible. On a more recent trip to Wales we found ourselves near Neath and the reasonably small National Trust site at Aberdulais.

Aberdulais Falls are, perhaps rather less about the waterfalls and more about early industry but, without the river and its falls the site would not exist.

The falls themselves are attractive enough with plenty of water passing come rain or shine. They wind through light deciduous forest and there are some good vantage points for some excellent photography. The topology of the site means that there's not a great climb to reach the falls and as such access is excellent. You could make it with a buggy and, rather unusually, the site is wheelchair accessible - a rare, but welcome thing.

The real purpose to the site, however, is the display of past industry. The site used to be a water powered tin-works and it is the only surviving example. Prior to that the site was home to a flour mill and a copper works. Today, a hydro-electric scheme is in operation powered by the largest working waterwheel in Europe. The size of the structures and the helpful explanatory displays give you a real insight into the power of the falls. These natural wonders take on a whole new meaning as you realise their awesome power.

For those less into the industrial there are still some parts of the set up that offer interest. The "fish pass" (used to help spawning fish travel up river and climb the falls) is amazing and if you are lucky enough to catch a fish going "upstream" you'll get really up close and personal!

As a "green" attraction this place has every credential. It shows just how good the early engineers were at harnessing the power of nature and has lessons for us all. It's a peaceful site, despite the continuing industry here.

There's a very small shop and refreshment area, toilets and a children's quiz. The nearby pub can be used for bar meals. Parking is in a private car park across the road from the falls.

At £4 for an adult and £2 for a child (2009 season) I think this is a National Trust site that offers great value for money. Whilst it's not vast there is something for everyone and many lessons that can be learned. It offers something very different from the usual stately homes that form the core of the NT collection. Children will not be bored by what is on offer here, photographers and artists will delight (the site was a favourite of Turner) and walkers satisfied. Tours are, in the main, self-led giving you ample freedom.

The site is open from April to October and at weekends at other times. Check on the NT site for detailed and accurate opening times and prices. There's little shelter on a wet day so bring waterproofs if the weather is inclement. Stout shoes are probably advisable although not strictly necessary.

Recommended.

Summary: Nature Knows Best