Cwmbran

Cwmbran stands apart from the rest of Gwent as a new town, built up from the 1950s while its neighbours along the valleys kept their older, industrial character. That planning shows in the way it's laid out: a purpose-built centre geared towards shopping and everyday life, ringed by residential areas and green space, rather than the terraces and chapels you'd find in the valley towns nearby. It makes for a different kind of visit, one built around convenience and family activities rather than history trails.

Places to stay are practical rather than plentiful. The Parkway Hotel & Spa offers a bit more scope for a relaxed stay, with Premier Inn Cwmbran a reliable option for a straightforward overnight, and Walnut Tree Farm giving a quieter, more rural alternative on the edge of town.

Family days out are where Cwmbran does best. Greenmeadow Community Farm and Cwmbran Boating Lake both give a proper outdoor break from the town centre, while Go Play Cwmbran, Cheeky Monkeys Cwmbran and Lollipops and Ladybirds keep younger children entertained on wetter days. For older kids and groups, Hollywood Bowl Cwmbran and Vue Cwmbran round things out with bowling and a trip to the cinema.

As a base, Cwmbran works well for a family visit focused on activities rather than sightseeing, with the wider valleys and Gwent countryside within easy reach for those wanting to explore further afield.