Gnoll Country Park: Historic Woodland and Scenic Retreat in Neath
Explore 240 acres of historic woodland, scenic lakes, and family-friendly fun at Gnoll Country Park in Neath, Wales.
Gnoll Country Park is a sprawling 240-acre green space in Neath, Wales, featuring woodland trails, historic ruins, duck ponds, and playgrounds. The park blends natural beauty with cultural heritage, including 18th-century cascades and the restored Pond Cottage. Visitors enjoy walking, orienteering, family activities, and panoramic views of the Vale of Neath, complemented by a modern visitor centre with café and event facilities.
A brief summary to Gnoll Country Park
- 134 Fairyland, Neath, SA11 3EF, GB
- +441639635808
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Budget
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-7 pm
- Thursday 8 am-7 pm
- Friday 8 am-7 pm
- Saturday 8 am-7 pm
- Sunday 8 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Visit the newly refurbished Visitor Centre for panoramic lake views and locally sourced café treats.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the many scenic spots or picnic areas throughout the park.
- Try the 9-hole pitch and putt golf course for a casual outdoor activity suitable for all ages.
- Explore the historic cascades and ruins to connect with the park’s rich 18th-century heritage.
- Plan your visit during quieter weekday mornings for ample parking and peaceful walks.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Car
Driving to Gnoll Country Park is straightforward with ample parking available on-site. Parking charges apply daily from 8am to 9pm, with options including £3.50 for up to four hours and £4.50 for a full day. Annual parking permits are also available. The park is accessible via Fairyland Road in Neath, and the parking area is suitable for standard vehicles.
-
Train and Walk
From Neath Train Station, enjoy a scenic 25-minute walk to the park entrance. The route offers pleasant views and is suitable for most walkers, though it may not be fully accessible for those with mobility impairments. This option is ideal for visitors relying on public transport and looking to combine travel with light exercise.
-
Bus
Local bus services connect Neath town centre with stops near Fairyland Road, approximately a 10-minute walk from the park entrance. Bus frequency varies throughout the day, so check local timetables. This is a convenient option for visitors without a car, though some walking is required from the bus stop to the park.
Gnoll Country Park location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Gnoll Country Park
A Rich Blend of Nature and History
Gnoll Country Park offers a unique combination of natural landscapes and historic features across its extensive 240-acre estate. The park’s woodland trails wind through diverse habitats, including two dedicated nature reserves that provide sanctuary for local wildlife. Four large duck ponds and a serene lake add to the tranquil environment, inviting visitors to pause and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The park also preserves remarkable historical remnants such as the ruins of Gnoll House, an ice house, the shell of The Ivy Tower, and the 18th-century Formal Cascades—an elegant stepped waterfall that descends from the Grotto and Gazebo, showcasing the landscaping artistry of the Mackworth family who once owned the estate.Family-Friendly Activities and Facilities
Gnoll Country Park is well equipped for family outings, with three playgrounds catering to different age groups and a 9-hole pitch and putt golf course for a gentle sporting challenge. Orienteering and geocaching opportunities offer interactive ways to explore the park’s varied terrain. The park’s open spaces and picnic areas provide ideal spots for relaxing or playing games, while the newly refurbished Visitor Centre, opening in Autumn 2025, features a modern café serving locally sourced food and drinks. The centre’s south-facing balcony offers panoramic lake views, perfect for socializing or quiet reflection. Additionally, the historic Pond Cottage has been restored and is available for private holiday accommodation, blending heritage with comfort.Ongoing Enhancements and Visitor Experience
A £12 million upgrade project is enhancing Gnoll Country Park’s facilities and visitor experience. This includes the new Visitor Centre with conference and event spaces capable of hosting up to 100 people, making the park a versatile venue for meetings and social gatherings. The restoration of historic features and the introduction of an indoor soft play area aim to broaden the park’s appeal year-round. Regular events such as guided nature walks, outdoor cinema screenings, and weekly parkruns enrich the visitor calendar, encouraging community engagement and active lifestyles.Scenic Views and Outdoor Exploration
Situated on a hill overlooking Neath and the Vale of Neath, the park offers stunning panoramic views across the surrounding landscape. Walking trails vary from gentle lakeside strolls to more immersive woodland paths, suitable for all fitness levels. The park is dog-friendly, though visitors are advised to supervise children closely due to some unleashed dogs. Cycling is popular in certain areas, with terrain suited for grass and mud riding, adding an adventurous element to the visit. The War Memorial Gates, erected in 1922, provide a poignant historical landmark near one of the entrances, connecting visitors to the region’s heritage.Accessibility and Practical Information
Gnoll Country Park is open daily from 8am to 8pm, with the Visitor Centre operating from 10am to 5pm during winter months. Entry to the park is free, though parking charges apply seven days a week, with options for short-term, full-day, and annual permits. The park is accessible by car and public transport, with a scenic 25-minute walk from Neath Train Station. Facilities include restrooms, seating areas, picnic spots, and a café, ensuring a comfortable visit for families, solo travelers, and groups alike.A Destination for All Seasons
Each season brings a fresh perspective to Gnoll Country Park, from vibrant spring blooms to tranquil winter landscapes. The park’s extensive green spaces and varied attractions make it a year-round destination for nature lovers, families, and history enthusiasts. The ongoing development of new features and events promises to keep the park dynamic and engaging for future visitors, maintaining its status as a cherished community asset and tourist attraction in South Wales.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tours of Wales
2.9 km
Discover Wales’ rich history and stunning landscapes on small-group, expertly guided day tours with Tours of Wales.
Premier Inn Swansea Waterfront hotel
11.0 km
Modern comfort and scenic marina views combine at Premier Inn Swansea Waterfront, your gateway to Swansea’s vibrant coastal charm.
Cathedral Church of Saint Joseph (Eglwys Gadeirlan Siôseff Sant)
11.5 km
A majestic Gothic Revival cathedral in Swansea, symbolizing faith, history, and community since 1888.
Y Bwlwarcau
11.5 km
Explore Y Bwlwarcau, a serene Iron Age hillfort nestled on Mynydd Margam’s slopes, revealing ancient Welsh heritage amidst tranquil countryside.
Premier Inn Swansea City Centre hotel
11.7 km
Comfortable city-centre hotel on vibrant Wind Street, with spacious rooms, tasty dining, and easy access to Swansea’s cultural and coastal highlights.
Cwtsh Hostel
11.9 km
Modern, friendly, and centrally located hostel offering comfortable stays and social spaces in the vibrant heart of Swansea.
Delta Hotels Swansea
12.3 km
Stylish waterfront hotel in Swansea’s Maritime Quarter with modern comforts, stunning bay views, and versatile event spaces.
Glamorgan History Society
16.1 km
Explore Glamorgan’s rich history through dedicated research, publications, and community events at the heart of Swansea’s heritage.
Carreg Cennen Castle
23.7 km
Experience the mesmerizing beauty and rich history of Carreg Cennen Castle, a must-visit tourist attraction in the heart of Wales.
Pennard Castle
24.0 km
Explore the historic Pennard Castle, a breathtaking ruin on Gower Peninsula offering stunning views and a glimpse into Wales' rich heritage.
Ewenny Priory
24.5 km
Explore the captivating history and serene beauty of Ewenny Priory, a must-visit landmark in Bridgend, Wales, perfect for history lovers and couples alike.
Pobbles Bay
24.6 km
Explore Pobbles Bay, the serene beach in Swansea, renowned for its golden sands, stunning coastal views, and tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
Fforest Fawr Geopark
24.9 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and geological wonders of Fforest Fawr Geopark, a nature reserve in Aberdare, Wales, perfect for outdoor adventures.
Fan Brycheiniog
24.9 km
Explore the breathtaking heights of Fan Brycheiniog for stunning views and unforgettable hiking experiences in Wales' beautiful Brecon Beacons.
Three Cliffs Bay
25.1 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Three Cliffs Bay, a natural paradise on the Gower Peninsula, where stunning cliffs meet sandy shores.
Unmissable attractions to see
Aberdulais Aqueduct
1.8 km
Historic 19th-century canal aqueduct in Neath blending industrial heritage with scenic riverside walks and nature.
Caewern Park
2.1 km
A vibrant, family-friendly park in Neath offering inclusive playgrounds, scenic nature, and a peaceful community atmosphere.
Craig Gwladys Country Park
2.2 km
A tranquil woodland retreat blending rich coal mining heritage with scenic valley views and extensive walking trails near Neath.
Neath Abbey
2.9 km
Explore the majestic ruins of Neath Abbey, Wales’ grand medieval monastery rich in history, royal tales, and industrial heritage.
Dramatic Heart of Wales
5.2 km
A pioneering industrial and innovation hub in Neath, blending green energy, cutting-edge research, and sustainable business growth.
Cefn Coed Colliery Museum
6.0 km
Explore the depths of Welsh coal mining history at Cefn Coed Colliery Museum, home to a majestic steam winding engine and rich cultural heritage.
Melincourt Falls
7.2 km
Discover the historic and scenic Melincourt Falls, an inspiring 24-meter waterfall set in a lush Welsh woodland gorge.
Glantawe Riverside Park
7.8 km
A peaceful riverside park in Pontardawe offering scenic walks, family-friendly green spaces, and a tranquil retreat along the River Tawe.
Aberavon Beach
8.3 km
A three-mile sandy beach with vibrant family attractions, watersports, and stunning Bristol Channel views in Port Talbot.
1940s Swansea
8.3 km
Step back into wartime Swansea at 1940s Swansea, where history and nature meet in the evocative Crymlyn Burrows landscape.
Hawk Adventures
9.2 km
Experience bespoke outdoor adventures in South Wales’ stunning Brecon Beacons with Hawk Adventures—where safety, thrill, and nature unite.
Afan Forest Park
9.2 km
Explore world-class mountain biking and scenic trails in the lush Afan Forest Park, a vibrant outdoor adventure hub in South Wales.
RSPB Cwm Clydach
9.7 km
A serene woodland retreat near Swansea, rich in birdlife and scenic river trails, perfect for nature lovers and peaceful walks.
Dylan Thomas Centre
11.5 km
Explore the life and legacy of Dylan Thomas at Swansea’s vibrant cultural centre with free entry and engaging exhibits.
Capel Mair
11.6 km
Discover the evocative ruins of Capel Mair, a 14th-century chapel with stunning views and deep ties to Margam Abbey’s monastic heritage.
Essential places to dine
The Welsh House
1.5 km
Experience authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality in a cozy Neath setting with a charming beer garden and locally sourced dishes.
T Bones
2.9 km
Rustic British dining with hearty portions and warm service at a charming farm location in Pontrhydyfen, Port Talbot.
The Colliers Arms
3.1 km
Discover the charm of The Colliers Arms – where delicious food meets friendly faces in Port Talbot's welcoming atmosphere.
The Coach House
3.4 km
Historic charm and scenic gardens combine at The Coach House, Neath’s premier wedding venue and steakhouse restaurant.
The Travellers Well
4.7 km
Cozy pub in Skewen offering great food, live music, and a friendly atmosphere for casual dining and special events.
Harvester Llandarcy Neath
4.9 km
A family-friendly British bar & grill near the M4, offering hearty meals, a free salad bar, and casual dining in Neath’s Llandarcy.
Bagle Brook Beefeater
5.6 km
Family-friendly Beefeater steakhouse in Port Talbot offering classic British and American dishes with vegan options and lively weekend vibes.
Afan Tavern
5.7 km
Experience delightful grilled cuisine and warm Welsh hospitality at Afan Tavern in Cwmafan - perfect for budget-friendly dining!
The Front
8.2 km
Enjoy fresh seafood and classic British dishes with friendly service in a relaxed seaside setting on Port Talbot’s Princess Margaret Way.
The River House
11.3 km
Scenic waterfront dining with seasonal modern European cuisine and award-winning cocktails in Swansea’s vibrant SA1 district.
Morgans Restaurant
11.6 km
Elegant European dining and refined bar experiences in a historic Swansea hotel near the marina and city centre.
Carnivore By The Mine
12.7 km
A cozy meat-lover’s haven in Neath, blending hearty dishes with heartfelt mining heritage and warm local charm.
The Secret Beach Bar & Kitchen
13.8 km
A vibrant modern British beachside bar and kitchen with stunning Swansea Bay views and a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Lezzet Authentic Restaurant
14.1 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine in a bright, welcoming setting with expertly crafted dishes and attentive service in Swansea.
Prince Of Wales Inn
16.2 km
Experience delightful gastropub dining at Prince Of Wales Inn in Bridgend - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Works
1.4 km
Explore The Works in Neath for a unique shopping experience filled with books, art supplies, and delightful gifts for all ages.
Zoar's Ark Pet Superstore
1.6 km
Family-run since 1949, Zoar's Ark Pet Superstore offers expert pet care, equestrian supplies, and country living essentials in a welcoming Neath setting.
C & C Stores
4.0 km
A welcoming family-run supermarket in Skewen offering fresh local products and everyday essentials with friendly service.
Welcome Stores - Skewen
4.1 km
Discover Skewen’s friendly local supermarket offering fresh essentials, Welsh treats, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Skewen Local Store
4.3 km
Experience local shopping at Skewen Local Store, where fresh produce meets friendly service, perfect for all your grocery needs during your visit.
S & S Stores Skewen
4.5 km
A welcoming local supermarket in Skewen offering groceries, confectionery, and soft drinks with friendly service and convenient hours.
Lush and Tidy
5.5 km
Explore Lush and Tidy, a charming gift shop in Skewen offering unique treasures and local artistry for every traveler.
SPAR - Park Avenue
5.7 km
Discover convenience at SPAR - Park Avenue, your essential stop for snacks, local products, and travel supplies in Port Talbot.
The Aloe Shop
5.7 km
Natural wellness products and organic beauty essentials in Swansea's Birchgrove neighborhood.
Birchgrove Convenience Store
6.1 km
Discover the local charm and convenience at Birchgrove Convenience Store, your one-stop shop in Swansea for all essentials and delights.
Pooja Stores
6.2 km
Discover the charm of Pooja Stores in Birchgrove, Swansea - your go-to convenience store for quick shopping and local flavors.
Birchgrove Supermarket & Birchgrove Post office
6.2 km
Experience the charm of Birchgrove Supermarket & Post Office, your local stop for groceries and community vibes in Swansea.
Premier
6.2 km
Discover convenience and quality at Premier Convenience Store in Birchgrove, Swansea, offering an array of essentials for every traveler.
CK's Supermarket
6.3 km
A friendly, well-stocked local supermarket in Birchgrove, Swansea, open long hours for your everyday grocery needs.
Nisa Local
6.4 km
Discover Nisa Local in Birchgrove, Swansea - your go-to convenience store for local goods and friendly service during your travels.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Pennsylvania
1.8 km
A welcoming traditional pub on Briton Ferry Road, The Pennsylvania offers a classic Welsh community gathering spot with a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.
The Dyffryn Arms
4.2 km
A classic Welsh pub in Neath offering hearty meals, warm hospitality, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Tyn
5.3 km
A charming Baglan pub blending Welsh hospitality, local ales, and lively events in a cozy setting with a popular beer garden.
Bowens Arms
5.9 km
A friendly and affordable pub in Birchgrove offering hearty meals, quality ales, and a welcoming local atmosphere in Swansea.
The Bridgend Inn
6.1 km
A traditional Swansea pub offering hearty fare, friendly vibes, and a lively social scene in Birchgrove.
The Globe Inn
7.0 km
A welcoming village pub and restaurant in Glais, Swansea, serving classic dishes with a friendly atmosphere and affordable prices.
Pontardawe Inn
7.5 km
Lively, dog-friendly pub in Pontardawe offering hearty food, real ales, live music, and a warm Welsh welcome in a cozy setting.
Bar 141 (The Smiths)
8.0 km
Lively bar and restaurant in Swansea Enterprise Park offering hearty meals, diverse cuisines, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Village Tavern
8.2 km
A friendly and affordable local pub in Clydach, Swansea, offering classic British pub charm with good music and a welcoming atmosphere.
Tafarn Tawe
8.3 km
Lively and welcoming bar at Swansea University Bay Campus, perfect for drinks, events, and socializing in a vibrant student atmosphere.
The Overdraft
8.4 km
A boutique cocktail bar in Clydach blending heritage charm with expertly crafted drinks and a warm, welcoming vibe.
The Copper Pot
8.7 km
A friendly Swansea pub offering hearty meals, generous portions, and a relaxed atmosphere in the heart of Swansea Enterprise Park.
The Millers Arms
8.8 km
A cozy, dog-friendly pub in Ynystawe offering hearty homemade meals and a warm community atmosphere just outside Swansea.
Ivorites Arms
10.8 km
Cozy Welsh pub in Swansea’s Plasmarl offering local ales, hearty food, and warm hospitality in a friendly, inviting atmosphere.
The Mason Arms
10.8 km
Experience authentic Welsh pub culture with warm hospitality and traditional charm at The Mason Arms in Swansea.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Arch Bar & Nightclub
1.6 km
A lively Neath hotspot blending nightclub energy, live music, pub charm, and Thai cuisine in one vibrant venue.
Jimmy's Bar
7.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and live music scene at Jimmy's Bar, Port Talbot’s lively local hotspot with a welcoming atmosphere.
Popworld - Swansea
11.8 km
Experience Swansea’s energetic retro nightclub with affordable cocktails, themed events, and a lively dance floor in the heart of the city.
PlanB
12.2 km
Swansea’s energetic two-floor nightclub with a focus on dance music, lively DJs, and great drink deals for a night to remember.
Cuba Escape
12.2 km
Experience Swansea’s vibrant nightlife at Cuba Escape, where live music, energetic crowds, and a colorful atmosphere come together for unforgettable nights.
Sin City
12.4 km
Energetic Swansea nightclub with live music, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere on Dillwyn Street.
The Top Club
14.0 km
Experience Blaengarw’s vibrant nightlife at The Top Club, where electrifying entertainment meets community spirit in the heart of South Wales.
The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club
17.3 km
Experience lively nights and vibrant music at The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club, Gorseinon’s premier destination for unforgettable nightlife.
Squares Night club
26.5 km
Experience Porth’s vibrant nightlife at Squares Nightclub, where music, dance, and unforgettable evenings come alive every weekend.
The Kirkhouse Nightclub (Koolers)
29.1 km
Experience the vibrant and friendly nightlife of Merthyr Tydfil at The Kirkhouse Nightclub, known locally as Koolers.
Pure Bar & Nightclub Ltd
29.5 km
A lively nightclub and cocktail bar in Merthyr Tydfil offering vibrant music, crafted drinks, and late-night entertainment in South Wales.
Eclipse Nightclub
32.6 km
Experience Pontypridd’s vibrant midweek nightlife at Eclipse Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community come alive every Wednesday night.
Brecon Working Mens Club
41.6 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality at Brecon Working Mens Club, where locals gather for drinks and camaraderie in a charming setting.
Northcote Conservative Club
41.6 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Northcote Conservative Club, Brecon's premier destination for nightlife, music, and local culture.
BRECON JAZZ
41.6 km
Experience the soulful sounds of Brecon Jazz, an intimate venue celebrating the rich heritage of jazz music in the heart of Wales.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Pet Friendly
