Bedwellty House and Park: A Historic Regency Villa and Victorian Garden in Tredegar
Explore Bedwellty House and Park, a beautifully restored Regency villa and Victorian garden steeped in Welsh industrial heritage and community spirit.
Bedwellty House and Park is a Grade II-listed Regency villa set in the heart of Tredegar, South Wales. Built in the early 19th century as the residence of ironmaster Samuel Homfray, the house and its 26-acre Victorian gardens reflect the region's rich industrial heritage. The estate features restored historic buildings, formal gardens, a bandstand, an ice house, and a children’s play area, offering a blend of cultural history and natural beauty for visitors to explore and enjoy.
A brief summary to Bedwellty House and Park
- Morgan St, Tredegar, Tredegar, NP22 3XN, GB
- +441495353397
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Assembly Room and Council Chamber to appreciate the historical political significance and elegant interiors.
- Use the self-led tour with QR codes to access engaging videos and learn about the house’s history and notable figures.
- Enjoy refreshments at the Orchid House Tea Room, which offers outdoor seating for visitors with dogs.
- Explore the park’s unique features such as the Ice House, bandstand, and the world’s largest block of coal.
- Plan your visit during daylight hours as the house is open from 9:30am to 4:30pm and the park gates close at 5:30pm.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus service from Newport or Ebbw Vale to Tredegar town center, with a journey time of approximately 40 to 60 minutes. From the town center, Bedwellty House and Park is a 15-minute walk. Bus services run regularly but check schedules for weekend and holiday variations. Tickets cost around £3-£5 one way.
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Car
Driving from Cardiff or Newport, expect a 45 to 60-minute journey via the A465 and A4048. Free public parking is available on Morgan Street and Stable Lane near the park entrance. On-site disabled parking is limited and requires prior arrangements. Note that roads near the park can be narrow and busy during peak times.
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Train and Walk
Travel by train to Ebbw Vale Town station, approximately 7 km from Bedwellty House. From there, a taxi or local bus can be taken for a 15-minute ride to the park, or a 90-minute walk through town and residential areas. Train services run hourly from Cardiff Central with ticket prices starting at £6.
Bedwellty House and Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Bedwellty House and Park
Origins and Architectural Evolution of Bedwellty House
Bedwellty House began as a modest farmstead in the early 1800s before being transformed into a Regency villa by Samuel Homfray, a prominent ironmaster of the Tredegar Ironworks. The house was expanded by Homfray’s family through the mid-19th century, evolving into a refined residence that symbolized the industrial prosperity of the region. Later, the Morgan family, owners of Tredegar House, reacquired the property, using it as the residence for the manager of the Tredegar Iron and Coal Company. In 1901, the Morgans gifted the house and its grounds to the local community, marking the start of its public role. The house itself is Grade II-listed, having undergone extensive restoration funded by heritage grants to preserve its Regency elegance and historical significance.The Gardens and Park: Victorian Design and Community Legacy
Surrounding the house is a 26-acre Victorian garden and parkland designed as a Dutch garden, allowing visitors to stroll or ride without encountering fences or gates. The grounds include formal gardens, cascading ponds, an arboretum, and a picturesque lake. Notable features include the Edwardian bandstand, the Long Shelter originally built for Chartist gatherings, and the Ice House, a rare structure used historically to store ice and food. The park also displays the world’s largest single block of coal, a 15-ton piece hewn by South Wales miners for the 1851 Great Exhibition. The park has been recognized on the Cadw/ICOMOS Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest in Wales, underscoring its cultural and horticultural value.Historical Significance and Social Heritage
Bedwellty House and Park are deeply intertwined with the social history of industrial Wales. The house witnessed the rise and fall of the iron industry and was a hub for political and social reform movements. It hosted influential figures such as Aneurin Bevan, the founder of the National Health Service, who spoke in the wood-panelled Council Chamber. The Assembly Room remains a popular venue for events, including weddings, retaining its historic charm. The park was a community focal point, hosting sporting events, musical performances, and social gatherings, reflecting the area's working-class heritage and communal spirit.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Visitors can explore the house and gardens via a self-led tour enhanced by QR codes that bring the history to life through videos and narratives about notable residents and local heritage. The park offers well-maintained walking paths, seating areas, and a children’s play area open daily. The Orchid House Tea Room provides refreshments, including hot and cold drinks and snacks, with outdoor seating available for those with pets. The park gates open early and close in the early evening, while the house and tea room have set opening hours. Disabled parking is available on-site, with additional free parking nearby.Preservation and Cultural Recognition
The house and park have benefited from major restoration projects funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and other agencies, ensuring the preservation of architectural features and garden landscapes. The site’s inclusion in the Cadw/ICOMOS Register highlights its unique status as the only estate in Blaenau Gwent with such recognition. The park’s historical structures, including the bandstand and Long Shelter, have been carefully restored to maintain their original character. Bedwellty House and Park continue to serve as a cultural landmark and green space, connecting visitors with Wales’s industrial past and natural beauty.Notable Features and Surrounding Environment
Among the park’s unique attractions is the Ice House, built in 1820 with a stone upper building believed to have served as a private chapel. The bell cast at Tredegar Ironworks in 1837 once signaled park closing times. The Cenotaph memorializes local soldiers who fell in the World Wars and hosts annual remembrance services. The park’s design encourages leisurely exploration through scenic vistas and tranquil settings, making it a cherished community asset and a destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Twmbarlwm
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Fan Fawr
20.4 km
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Sgwd Yr Eira Waterfall
21.4 km
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Brecon Walk Way
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Experience the tranquility and stunning landscapes at Brecon Walk Way, a must-visit tourist attraction in the heart of Wales.
Cwmbran Boating Lake Playground
21.5 km
Discover Cwmbran Boating Lake Playground, a family-friendly haven with stunning lakeside views and endless fun for kids of all ages.
Castell Caerffili / Caerphilly Castle
21.5 km
Explore Caerphilly Castle, the grand second largest castle in the UK, where history and architecture come alive in stunning Welsh landscapes.
Tommy Cooper Statue
21.6 km
Discover the joy of comedy at the Tommy Cooper Statue in Caerphilly, a charming tribute to the legendary Welsh comedian.
Brecon Barracks
21.7 km
Historic military hub in Brecon, home to the Royal Welsh Regiment and its museum, set within the stunning Brecon Beacons National Park.
Porth yr Ogof
21.8 km
Explore Porth yr Ogof, a breathtaking limestone cave in the Brecon Beacons, filled with stunning rock formations and rich natural beauty.
The Royal Welsh Regimental Museum
21.8 km
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Dinas Castle
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Unveil the history and beauty of Dinas Castle, a remarkable medieval fortress in Brecon that promises breathtaking views and a rich cultural experience.
Brecon Canal Basin
21.9 km
Breathe in the beauty of Brecon Canal Basin, a serene escape in Wales perfect for leisurely walks, local cuisine, and outdoor adventures amidst stunning landscapes.
Theatr Brycheiniog
21.9 km
Experience the vibrant performing arts scene at Theatr Brycheiniog in Brecon, where culture meets scenic beauty along the canal.
Sgwd Clun-Gwyn Waterfall
21.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of Sgwd Clun-Gwyn Waterfall, a breathtaking natural attraction in South Wales, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
YHA Brecon Beacons
21.9 km
Rustic farmhouse hostel offering clean, cozy accommodation and a warm communal atmosphere in the heart of Brecon Beacons National Park.
Unmissable attractions to see
Parc Bryn Bach
2.5 km
Explore 340 acres of woodland, lake, and adventure activities at Parc Bryn Bach, Tredegar’s premier nature reserve and outdoor hub.
Ebbw Vale Works Museum
3.0 km
Britain's only intact steelworks archive, preserving industrial heritage through photographs, documents, and volunteer expertise.
Festival Park Owl Sanctuary
4.2 km
Discover rescued birds of prey up close in a peaceful woodland sanctuary run by dedicated volunteers in Ebbw Vale.
Winding House
5.8 km
Discover New Tredegar’s mining legacy and vibrant culture in the historic Winding House museum and arts centre.
Brecon Mountain Railway
8.4 km
Step aboard vintage steam trains for a scenic journey through Wales’ breathtaking Brecon Beacons National Park, reliving railway history in stunning surroundings.
Ogof Craig a Ffynnon
8.8 km
Explore the breathtaking limestone formations and vast underground passages of Ogof Craig a Ffynnon, a geological treasure in Wales' Clydach Gorge.
Castell Morlais 'Morlais Castle'
9.4 km
Explore the evocative ruins of 13th-century Castell Morlais, perched above Merthyr Tydfil with panoramic views and rich medieval history.
The Guardian Of The Valleys
9.4 km
A towering steel miner watches over Six Bells, honoring the lives lost in the 1960 mining disaster amid tranquil valley landscapes.
Big Pit National Coal Museum
9.5 km
Explore Wales’ rich coal mining heritage with immersive underground tours and historic exhibits at Big Pit National Coal Museum.
St Tydfil Shopping Centre
9.7 km
Merthyr Tydfil’s premier shopping centre offering a modern, accessible retail experience with over 50 shops and ample parking in the town heart.
Clydach Gorge
10.2 km
Explore Clydach Gorge’s dramatic landscapes and rich industrial heritage on scenic walks through this tranquil Welsh valley.
Cyfarthfa Castle Museum and Art Gallery
10.2 km
Explore the grand industrial heritage and art treasures of Cyfarthfa Castle, a majestic 19th-century ironmaster’s mansion set in expansive parkland.
Blaenavon Ironworks
10.5 km
Step into the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution at Blaenavon Ironworks, where history and heritage forge a powerful story of innovation and human endeavour.
Blaenavon World Heritage Centre
10.7 km
Explore the heart of Wales’s industrial heritage at Blaenavon World Heritage Centre, where history and community come alive.
Aberfan Disaster Memorial
11.3 km
A poignant memorial garden honoring the 1966 Aberfan disaster victims and the enduring spirit of a resilient community.
Essential places to dine
The Farmers Arms
3.4 km
Historic farmhouse pub in Rhymney offering scratch-cooked Welsh cuisine, a full bar, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Pantyscallog Inn
7.8 km
A beloved steakhouse in Pant, Merthyr Tydfil, known for hearty portions, friendly service, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Red Cow Inn
9.0 km
A charming traditional Welsh pub in Pontsticill offering hearty home-cooked meals, award-winning ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Pentrebach House Table Table
9.4 km
Classic British pub dining with family-friendly charm and hearty meals in the heart of Merthyr Tydfil.
Rhydycar Harvester
9.9 km
Casual family dining with classic British flavors and welcoming amenities in Merthyr Tydfil’s Rhydycar Leisure Park.
Aberglais Inn
10.0 km
Cozy pub and restaurant in Merthyr Tydfil offering hearty British classics, vegan and gluten-free options, with a warm, friendly atmosphere.
The Red Lion
11.0 km
A historic Welsh village pub blending centuries-old charm with warm hospitality and local brews in the heart of Llangynidr.
Mango House Restaurant
11.2 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine with warm hospitality in the heart of Merthyr Tydfil’s Cefn-coed-y-cymmer.
The Vine Tree Llangattock
11.9 km
Refined Welsh tasting menus in a relaxed Brecon Beacons setting, where skilled cooking meets genuine hospitality.
Cafe 8 & Burger Boys Gwent
12.1 km
Savor expertly crafted burgers in a welcoming, casual setting at Cafe 8 & Burger Boys Gwent, Newport’s local favorite for quality and flavor.
Nantyffin Cider Mill Inn
12.6 km
A cozy country pub in Crickhowell offering hearty local fare, warm hospitality, and a family-friendly atmosphere in the heart of the Brecon Beacons.
Travellers Rest Inn
14.1 km
Cozy countryside inn with hearty meals and warm hospitality near the scenic Brecon Beacons.
The White Hart
14.3 km
Traditional Welsh inn in Talybont-on-Usk offering hearty British fare, local ales, and warm hospitality near the Brecon Beacons.
Luigis
16.6 km
A welcoming British breakfast cafe in Abergavenny known for hearty meals, excellent coffee, and a friendly local atmosphere.
Castle Inn
19.1 km
Traditional Welsh pub and cozy B&B in Llangorse, offering great food, local charm, and a unique Banksy artwork near the Brecon Beacons.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Izzy Roo's
0.7 km
Explore Izzy Roo's in Tredegar for unique gifts and local crafts, capturing the essence of the region's charm and creativity.
Gwent Shopping Centre
0.7 km
A vibrant retail hub in Tredegar offering diverse shops, convenient hours, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
KM Gifts & Accessories
2.7 km
Discover quality gifts, stylish accessories, and friendly service at KM Gifts & Accessories in the heart of Ebbw Vale.
The Den
7.0 km
Discover unique second-hand treasures at The Den, Abertillery’s charity shop championing sustainability and community support.
Super Gifts
8.6 km
Discover unique treasures at Super Gifts in Abertillery, where delightful souvenirs and local craftsmanship await every visitor.
West View Stores
12.3 km
Experience the warmth of Trelewis at West View Stores - your local supermarket for fresh produce and unique Welsh delicacies.
Newbridge Trading Co "Jimmys"
13.4 km
Experience local charm at Newbridge Trading Co 'Jimmys', where every item tells a story and community spirit thrives.
Thats Lovely That
16.5 km
Discover unique Welsh gifts, jewelry, and charming homeware at That's Lovely That, Abergavenny’s boutique celebrating local creativity and craftsmanship.
Ladies Emporium
16.5 km
Explore Abergavenny’s Ladies Emporium for unique women's fashion, blending local charm with contemporary styles in a delightful shopping atmosphere.
Nicholls
16.5 km
Discover stylish fashion, unique gifts, and a charming café experience at Nicholls Abergavenny, the town’s premier boutique destination.
Welsh Gifts
16.6 km
Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and culture through unique gifts and traditional treasures in the heart of Abergavenny.
Cwmbran Centre
19.9 km
Cwmbran Centre: Your vibrant shopping and community hub in South Wales with diverse stores and festive events year-round.
Camden Stores
21.2 km
Experience the essence of Welsh culture at Camden Stores, a charming farm shop and café in the heart of Brecon's countryside.
Castle Court Shopping Centre
21.5 km
Discover diverse shopping, dining, and local culture at Castle Court Shopping Centre in Caerphilly, a vibrant hub for tourists and locals alike.
DIXIES CORNER
22.1 km
Brecon's trusted specialist in authentic military surplus and outdoor gear since establishment.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Jolly Colliers
8.8 km
A cozy, friendly pub in Llanelly Hill offering hearty British fare and rustic tapas in a charming countryside setting.
Coach & Horses
11.4 km
Historic canal-side pub and inn in Llangynidr offering hearty Welsh fare, cozy rooms, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Beaufort
12.0 km
A cozy village pub in Gilwern offering hearty food, friendly locals, and comfortable rooms near the Brecon Beacons.
Bumble Bee
12.5 km
A welcoming modern pub in Gwent with classic pub fare, outdoor seating, and a secret beer garden for families and friends.
The New Inn
13.5 km
A cozy, affordable pub and backpackers’ haven in Bwlch, offering hearty food, friendly service, and a welcoming base for exploring the Brecon Beacons.
The Grofield Inn
16.4 km
Cozy pub and restaurant in Abergavenny offering hearty homemade meals, friendly service, and a charming beer garden retreat.
The Balcony
16.5 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and events venue offering stylish evenings in the heart of historic Abergavenny.
The Foxhunter Bar
16.6 km
A charming old-world bar in Abergavenny, celebrated for local ales, ciders, and a warm, inviting atmosphere cherished by locals.
Royal Oak
17.2 km
Cozy Welsh pub in Pencelli offering traditional hospitality and local ales amidst the scenic Brecon Beacons.
The Crown at Pantygelli
18.4 km
Quintessential Welsh countryside pub offering warm hospitality, traditional dishes, and a cozy atmosphere near Abergavenny.
Lakeside Bar
18.8 km
Relax lakeside at this friendly pub within Brecon’s scenic caravan park, perfect for unwinding after exploring the Brecon Beacons.
The Red Lion Llangorse
19.1 km
A welcoming Welsh gastropub in Llangorse offering seasonal local dishes, real fires, and a cozy atmosphere near the Brecon Beacons.
Blink in Owl
20.0 km
Cosy family-friendly pub in Cwmbran serving hearty roasts, real ales, and lively sports atmosphere with warm community spirit.
The Crow's Nest
21.3 km
A classic Cwmbran pub blending traditional charm with modern comfort, great food, and lively entertainment.
The Skirrid Mountain Inn
21.9 km
Wales’ oldest pub steeped in history, eerie legends, and warm hospitality amid the stunning Brecon Beacons National Park.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Pure Bar & Nightclub Ltd
9.6 km
A lively nightclub and cocktail bar in Merthyr Tydfil offering vibrant music, crafted drinks, and late-night entertainment in South Wales.
The Kirkhouse Nightclub (Koolers)
10.0 km
Experience the vibrant and friendly nightlife of Merthyr Tydfil at The Kirkhouse Nightclub, known locally as Koolers.
Squares Night club
20.8 km
Experience Porth’s vibrant nightlife at Squares Nightclub, where music, dance, and unforgettable evenings come alive every weekend.
Eclipse Nightclub
21.0 km
Experience Pontypridd’s vibrant midweek nightlife at Eclipse Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community come alive every Wednesday night.
Northcote Conservative Club
22.2 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Northcote Conservative Club, Brecon's premier destination for nightlife, music, and local culture.
Brecon Jazz Club (Muse Arts Centre)
22.3 km
Discover the heart of jazz in Brecon at the Brecon Jazz Club, where live music and a vibrant atmosphere collide for an unforgettable night.
BRECON JAZZ
22.4 km
Experience the soulful sounds of Brecon Jazz, an intimate venue celebrating the rich heritage of jazz music in the heart of Wales.
Brecon Working Mens Club
22.4 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality at Brecon Working Mens Club, where locals gather for drinks and camaraderie in a charming setting.
Vibez
26.2 km
Experience Newport’s vibrant nightlife at Vibez Superclub, where pounding bass and late-night energy create unforgettable weekend parties.
Hush Newport
26.3 km
Experience the vibrant Saturday nightlife at Hush Newport, Baneswell’s hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night fun in the heart of Newport.
Stow Hill Rooms
26.4 km
A stylish Art Deco nightclub and function venue in the heart of Newport, blending vibrant nightlife with versatile event spaces.
The Top Club
28.7 km
Experience Blaengarw’s vibrant nightlife at The Top Club, where electrifying entertainment meets community spirit in the heart of South Wales.
The Globe
31.0 km
A compact Grade II-listed former cinema turned lively live-music venue and nightclub, famed for intimate gigs and energetic club nights on Albany Road.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
32.1 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
Yates - Cardiff
32.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Yates in Cardiff, where great food, drinks, and sports come together in a lively setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
