Neath Little Theatre

A proper little theatre tucked away in Swansea, Neath Little Theatre punches well above its weight. It's the sort of place where you'll catch everything from amateur dramatics to small-scale professional productions - think community theatre done right, with enough ambition to feel like a proper night out rather than a school hall performance.

The venue itself has that intimate feel that bigger theatres can't replicate. You're close enough to see the actors' faces properly, far enough away that you don't feel awkward about it. The programming tends toward classics and contemporary plays that actually give actors something to sink their teeth into, rather than retreading the same tired pantomimes every winter.

It's worth the drive from Swansea town centre if you're staying at one of the nearby holiday parks - Riverside Holiday Park or SWDA Riverside are both within easy reach. That said, check what's on before you book; the theatre's strength lies in its selective, quality-focused programming rather than putting on something every night. You're looking at a couple of hours for most shows, plus the walk from the car park.

If you're after proper theatre with real actors and real effort put in, this delivers. If you need mainstream West End revivals or West End touring productions, you'll need to head further afield. For families with older kids who can appreciate actual storytelling, absolutely worth the evening.