Lamb Hotel

The Lamb Hotel in Neath is a proper old coaching inn that's been standing since the 17th century, and you can still feel the weight of those centuries in its timber-framed walls and creaking floorboards. It's one of those places where drovers and travellers once stopped to rest their horses and themselves, and the building hasn't changed all that much since those days. You won't find much in the way of formal attractions here - this isn't a museum you book tickets for. Instead, it's a working pub where locals nurse their pints and the atmosphere does most of the talking.

History buffs will get a kick out of spotting the original features if they pop in for a drink. The building itself tells the story better than any plaque could. If you're staying at Four Falls Glamping just down the road, it's easily walkable and worth the effort for a pint and some proper Welsh hospitality. Don't expect grand facilities or guided tours - this is about soaking in genuine local character, not polished heritage tourism.

Best visited in the evening when the pub's actually got some life in it. Allow an hour or so if you're having food and a drink. It works well as a stop-off when you're exploring the Neath Valley, though you'll want to check opening hours before making the trip, as times can be variable for traditional pubs like this one.