The valleys are renowned for their beautiful scenery and stunning views.
The summer holidays are a great opportunity to embrace the nature that surrounds you and immerse yourself in the place you call home.
Take advantage of the sunny summer weather and the reliable transport links around RCT and Cardiff, and head out with your family.
Transport For Wales are ‘the real social network’, and alongside Cardiff Bus, they are offering sustainable travel to help you reconnect with the people, places, and picnic spots you love across the valleys and South Wales.
We have put together a range of locations you can access using the trustworthy transport links available to you.
The following places are the perfect places to head for a family picnic, and thanks to Cardiff Bus and Transport For Wales, they won’t break the bank.
Travel For Wales’ Valley Lines connects the Rhondda, Cynon, and Taf valleys to each other and beyond.
From Pontypridd to Penarth, the routes pass a number of stunning spots that are ideal for an al fresco lunch.
Barry Sidings County Park
With trails taking you into the surrounding mountains, bike hire, adventure playground and loads of open space, Barry Sidings Countryside Park in Pontypridd is a winner for all ages. There is plenty of space to have a picnic, or even bring a BBQ to use on the dedicated stands around the park.
There are bus stops along Gyfeillon Road, Hopkinstown, that are a short walk to the country park.
You can plan your journey from wherever you live using TfW’s travel map: https://www.traveline.cymru/travel-map/
Clydach Vale Country Park
Once an old coal mine, this beautiful park is an area of outstanding natural beauty. The two lakes are home to wildlife and waterfalls, making it the perfect backdrop for a sunny summer picnic.
The park can be accessed from Clydach Road, where you can hop off at a number of bus stops.
To plan your journey to this wonderful spot, head to: https://www.traveline.cymru/travel-map/
Aberdare Park
Located in the heart of the Cynon Valley, Aberdare Park promises a fun family day out. With boating on the lake and an exciting play area for the kids, this park is a great place to set up base and play the day away.
Bus stops line all sides of the park, so it is very accessible and affordable to take a trip to Aberdare this summer.
You can plan your route here: https://www.traveline.cymru/travel-map/
Bronwydd Park
Head over to Porth for a leafy walk and a beautiful spot for lunch in the sun while this kids let off steam in the playground nearby.
Packed with wildlife and flowers, this park is just a short walk from town and the nearest bus stops.
You can plan your route here: https://www.traveline.cymru/travel-map/
Bute Park
Located in the centre of Cardiff, Bute Park offers beautiful parkland walks with the stunning backdrop of Cardiff Castle.
TfW links RCT to the capital city with affordable and reliable services, so take a day trip down to the ‘diff and soak in the buzz of the town.
To plan your visit to Cardiff, head to: https://www.traveline.cymru/travel-map/
Penarth Pier
This summer, Cardiff Bus are offering a special open top bus service from the city centre to Penarth Pier. Bask in the sun and breathe in the sea air on Penarth’s pebble beach and finish your day with an ice cream (or two!).
Family day tickets for this bus start from £5.50 for up to five people, so get planning and enjoy a seaside escape: https://images.cardiffbus.com/downloads/Penarth%2099.pdf
Barry Island
Oh, what’s occurring? Fancy a trip to Barrybados this summer? Cardiff bus can get you there for just £8 for a family ticket, so plan your journey here and get ready to kick back and relax on the sandy beaches of Barry.