Discovery Gateway

Cwmcarn Forest

Escape to nature! From thrilling adventures to tranquil overnight stays, Cwmcarn Forest is close enough to retreat to yet feels like a million miles away. The hills of this previously mined area have been transformed into peaceful forests with impressive views where nature has reclaimed the former industrial past.

Cwmcarn Forest is mountain biking paradise for thrill seeking adrenaline junkies, with three mountain bike trails (and another coming soon), ample parking, bike repair shop and lift service. Water activities and orienteering are also on offer for fun seekers; as well as an adventure playground.

For walkers, whether you like walking trails or a leisurely stroll, Cwmcarn Forest has it all, from challenging hill climbs up Twmbarlwm, to gentle walks around the forest and valley floor.

Breakfast, snacks and hearty meals are available at Cwmcarn’s Raven’s Café in the visitor centre. And overnight visitors are welcome to stay at one of our glamping pods or newly added lodges.

Through funding from the Welsh Government, Valleys Regional Park has proudly provided the opportunity for several key projects across Cwmcarn Forest. There have been upgrades to the visitor’s centre and café — including interpretation which promotes sustainability and biodiversity.

The funding has also aided in developing a new co-working space, as well as a learning and community shared space. In addition to this, VRP has supported the installation of compost toilets, nature artwork and general habitat and biodiversity improvements to enhance the natural environment and trails.

Local Weather

NEWPORT WEATHER

Address

Cwmcarn Forest
Nantcarn Road
Cwmcarn
Near Crosskeys
NP11 7FE

Contact

01495 272001

Opening Times

Opening hours have changed during Covid-19
Normal hours: Open every day 9:00am – 5:00pm except a 4.30pm close on a Friday during the winter time.

Closed over the Christmas and New Year period from 25th December until 2nd January.
FREE PARKING until January 2021

What you can expect to find at Cwmcarn Forest

Facilities
  • Café or tea room
  • Disabled parking spaces
  • Disabled toilet
  • Electric car charging point
  • Gift shop
  • Non 24/7 toilets
  • Outdoor benches
  • Visitor’s centre
  • Wi-fi (in/near buildings)
Eating & Drinking
  • Café or tea room
  • Dog friendly (outside)
  • Picnic benches
Accessibility
  • Mixed terrain
  • Push bike access
  • Pushchair access (inside)
  • Wheelchair access (inside)
Activities
  • Canoeing
  • Cycling trails
  • Dog walking
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Mountain biking
  • Outdoor play area
  • Park: swings, etc
Nature
  • Aquatic life
  • Bugs and insects
  • Cultivated flowers
  • Far reaching views
  • Hedgerows
  • Pondlife
  • Rare plants
  • Trees
  • Wild birdlife
  • Wildflowers
Landscape
  • Forest
  • Lake
  • Stream
  • Woodlands
Heritage
  • No categories
Functions & Accommodation
  • Camping
  • Conference facilities

Get directions to Cwmcarn Forest

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