Neath Port Talbot

Neath Port Talbot is an administrative area in South Wales stretching from the Swansea Bay coastline inland toward Black Mountain foothills. The territory is shaped by three river valleys running through wooded hills and contains several towns and villages across its landscape.

The area developed as a major coal mining and heavy industry center that shaped life in the valleys for generations. In 1996, two separate districts merged to create the current administrative structure.

The area preserves memories of mining traditions through local museums displaying early Christian memorial stones and mining artifacts from centuries past. These collections tell stories of how communities lived and worked in the valleys.

The best time to explore is on clear days when the hills and valleys are easy to navigate and walking is pleasant. Good road connections and parking in the main towns make it straightforward to move around on foot or by car.

Nearly half of the area is covered with forest, including zones managed for mountain biking and hiking trails. These extensive woodlands make the region a surprisingly green retreat despite its industrial past.

Location: Wales

Inception: April 1, 1996

Capital city: Port Talbot

Shares border with: Swansea, Bridgend County Borough, Carmarthenshire, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Powys

Website: https://neath-porttalbot.gov.uk

GPS coordinates: 51.64556,-3.74500

Latest update: December 13, 2025 16:21