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ABERDULAIS FALLS

(An easy level walk)
(Lifts and ramps for disabled access and baby chairs)

Aberdulais Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls of Wales and has long been a favourite visiting place for artists, writers and travellers.

This National Trust property offers a unique blend of natural beauty and social history. Discover the secrets of this small wooded gorge and how the waters of Aberdulais Falls powered a succession of industries for over three hundred years.  

In 1584, Wales's first copper smelting works was established along the banks of the Afon Dulais by the Mines Royal. Like later industrialists, they were attracted here by the plentiful supply of water for powering the waterwheels.

By 1750's, Aberdulais Falls had been transformed; a large grist and flour mill was built to supply the local and growing markets. It was during this period that the property became popular with landscape painters including J.M.W. Turner whose work has been reproduced and can be seen in the Information Centre.

Today, the ivy clad ruins at Aberdulais Falls remind us of the final industry - the manufacture of tinplate established during the 1830's.

In 1990 the National Trust embarked on an ambitious project of power generation and visitors can now see a waterwheel which generates electricity for the property. There is also a turbine generating and exporting electricity. A fish pass has been installed which enables salmon/sewin to reach the upper reaches of the Afon Dulais.

The Trust is engaged in a long term archaeological conservation programme which ensures that this beautiful and important site is carefully preserved for the enjoyment of all.

Situated in the historic village of Aberdulais, this is an ideal starting point for exploring the Vale of Neath. Open April to November. Car parking nearby at the rear of the Dulais Rock Inn. Coaches should set down at the bus stop by the property entrance. For further information telephone 01639 636674.