Sgwd Gwladys Waterfall

The walk to Sgwd Gwladys is the whole point, really. Starting from near Neath, you follow the Pyrddin River through woodland that's genuinely lovely - moss-covered rocks, the sound of water getting louder as you go, sunlight filtering through the trees. The falls themselves aren't massive, but they're proper atmospheric, dropping into a dark pool surrounded by steep rock faces. On a misty morning, which is most mornings here, the whole thing feels genuinely moody.

You're looking at maybe 30 minutes from the car park to the falls - not arduous, but the path can be slippery when wet, and it does get boggy. Wear decent boots. The waterfall works best in winter and spring when the water flow is serious; summer visits are fine but underwhelming if there's been no rain.

Historians and waterfall enthusiasts will get more from this than young kids, though older children keen on exploring won't complain about the walk itself. It's the kind of place where you linger for 20 minutes, take some photos, then head back rather than spend half a day there.

Free to visit, no facilities, and it's part of a proper waterfall circuit in the area. If you're camping at Four Falls Glamping just two miles away, this is genuinely worth the short drive and morning walk. Pair it with other falls nearby - Sgwd yr Eira and Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn are in the same valley system. Come expecting wild weather and you won't be disappointed.