Situatedin the Southof Wales on the banks of the rushing Sirhowy River, Blackwoodis rare for a Welsh town in that it was never a major centre of mining. Althoughit may not have bloomed at the peak of Wales’ coal-miningindustry, it makes up for this today as a bustling commercial and retail hub,home to hi-tech businesses and great shops.
Blackwoodis more than just a business district, however. Its location in the undulatinghills and valleys of the Caerphillycountryside means it is also a popular base for those looking to explore theWelsh countryside, including the abundance of outdoor activities available inthe nearby BreconBeacons National Park.
Naturein Blackwood
Walkers,cyclists and rock climbers will easily find a rocky trail or cliff face to keepthem happy in the Brecon Beacons National Park. For something more local, whynot hike along the Sirhowy River? Once heavily polluted by mining, a clean-upoperation in the area means this is now a picturesque beauty spot. In fact, intestament to the river’s renewed purity, salmon breeding was recently recordedhere for the first time in over 100 years.
Golfin Blackwood
Ifhiking is a bit strenuous for your tastes, you could perhaps enjoy the Monmouthshirecountryside from Blackwood Golf Course. Whilesmall – only nine holes, rather than the traditional 18 – this parkland course neverthelessmakes a tranquil afternoon out. If you’re looking to play, you’ll need to bringyour handicap certificate. That said, the clubhouse is open to everyone, andhas some hearty meals and a warm Welsh welcome on offer.
Architecturein Blackwood
Traversingthe Sirhowy Valley, the Chartist Bridge was opened in 2005 as part of a regenerationproject in the area. The bridge itself is an impressive manmade complement tothe surrounding countryside and provides fantastic views over the lush valleyand the river at its centre. You could also visit Blackwood Baptist Church, a minimalisticexample of Victorian architecture with some exquisite stained glass windows.
Culturein Blackwood
Aftera day in the countryside, or working in Cardiff, relax with a drink in one ofthe Blackwood’s many traditional pubs. If you’renot a big drinker, you could also soak up the 1930s splendour of the Maximecinema. Situated right in the centre of Blackwood,some of the original features of this cinema are still present today. Ascinemas go, the snacks and the tickets are surprisingly affordable, too.
Finally,why not see what’s on at the Blackwood Little Theatre? As the name suggests, thislocal community theatre is not large, but the performances definitely are. Cutting-edge,despite its small size, Blackwood Little Theatre wasone of the first in the UK to put on an amateur production of Calendar Girls.
EnjoyBlackwood Today
Whetheryou’re here on business, for an unforgettable outdoor holiday, or just want abreak from the hubbub of big city life, Blackwoodmakes a great Welsh getaway. Search online for a great deal and book your tripto Blackwood today with Expedia.
