From Merthyr with Love 💝
A weekend with Ruth & Steve - Experience the same places, stories, and spirit.
Follow the journey of Ruth Jones and Steve Speirs as they explore the heart and soul of Merthyr Tydfil in the BBC documentary From Merthyr With Love.
Over one unforgettable weekend, beloved Welsh stars Ruth Jones (Gavin & Stacey) and Steve Speirs (Stella, Star Wars) rediscover the soul of his hometown. From adrenaline fuelled adventures to nostalgic moments, heartfelt laughs, and karaoke nights.
This journey invites visitors to experience Merthyr Tydfil through their eyes. The breath taking views from Cefn Coed Viaduct, the thrill of BikePark Wales, the elegance of Cyfarthfa Castle, and the charm of local clubs and salons. Whether you're a fan of Ruth’s iconic humour or simply curious about the real Welsh Valleys, this itinerary offers a perfect blend of heritage, nature, and personality.
🎥 Come for the laughs, stay for the legacy and leave with a little piece of Merthyr in your heart.
Cefn Coed y Cymmer Viaduct
Cefn Coed Viaduct
📍 Cefn Coed y Cymmer, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 2PY
🕒 9:30 AM – 45 mins
Steve says: “The drone shots flying over Cefn viaduct literally took my breath away. We probably take it for granted, but I thought, Wow! We live in a beautiful place.”
👨👩👧👦 Family Tip: Great for a short walk and wildlife spotting.
BikePark Wales
BikePark Wales & Gethin Woodland Centre
📍 Gethin Woodland Centre, Abercanaid, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 1YZ
🕒 10:30 AM – 3-4 hrs
Ruth says: “I was terrified… but I did it! And I loved it!”
Steve adds: “This woodland is the jewel in Merthyr’s crown.”
📝 Tip: Visitors can enjoy both adrenaline-pumping trails and peaceful woodland walks in one location.
👨👩👧👦 Family Tip: The Kermit Trail is perfect for beginners and children. Tuition and bike hire available.
Artisan Market - From Merthyr with Love. Image credit: BBC Cymru Wales/ITV Cymru Wales
Merthyr Tydfil Market & Town Centre wandering
Browse local stalls, grab a snack, and enjoy the buzz of the town.
🕒 2:30 PM – Merthyr Tydfil Market & Town Centre Wandering
📍 High Street, Merthyr Tydfil CF47 8AN🕒 1 hour
🔎 Explore: Town Centre Walking Tours – themed trails including Dic Penderyn
📝Tip: Check out when you can catch the outdoor artisan markets
Brecon Mountain Railway - Ruth and Steve: From Merthyr with Love. Image credit: BBC Cymru Wales/ITV Cymru Wales
Brecon Mountain Railway
📍 Pant Station, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 2DD
🕒 3.30 PM – 2.5 - 3 hrs
Steve says: “Driving that steam train was a dream come true. It’s part of Merthyr’s soul.”
📝 Tip: Include time for the train ride, café visit, and exploring the station museum. Check out their special Footplates and Cupola experiences.
👨👩👧👦 Family Tip: Shop, cafe and parking onsite. Theme rides and events throughout the year.
The Pencerrig Collection - Ruth and Steve: From Merthyr with Love. Image credit: BBC Cymru Wales/ITV Cymru Wales
Wanderlust - water and wonderful views
🕗 6:30 PM – Pontsticill, Hobbit Huts & Welsh Rebbit Moment
📍 The Pencerrig Collection. Ty Pencerrig, Pontsticill, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 2UN
🕒 1 hour
Enjoy lakeside views and quirky charm.
Ruth: “This was the most magical little place – like stepping into a fairytale.”
📝 Tip: Make your own Welsh Rebbit
👨👩👧👦 Family Tip: Try paddleboarding on Pontsticill Reservoir at Parkwood Outdoors, or simple take in the views.
Day 2 - Community, Glam & Nightlife
See the C5 at Cyfarthfa Museum
Hoover Factory Memories at Cyfarthfa Park Museum
🕘 10:00 AM – Hoover Factory Memories
📍 Merthyr Road, CF48 4TU façade. Cyfarthfa Park, Brecon Rd, Merthyr Tydfil CF47 8RE to visit the Museum and Park
🕒 2hrs
Steve: “This place built more than appliances – it built lives.”
👨👩👧👦 Family Tip: Visit the Hoover artefacts, including the C5 car, at Cyfarthfa Park, Museum & Art Gallery.
Troedyrhiw Bowls Club
Troedyrhiw Bowls Club
🕙 11:00 AM – Troedyrhiw Bowls Club
📍 Troedyrhiw Park, Archer Street, Troedyrhiw CF48 4JQ
🕒 1 hour
Ruth: “I never thought I’d enjoy bowls – but the locals made it unforgettable.”
Haystacks
Free to Wander & Lunch
Enjoy a relaxed lunch and explore nearby shops or parks.
🕒 12:00 PM – Free to Wander & Lunch
📍 In the town centre choose from:
• The New Crown Inn
• Haystacks
• Casa Bianca
🕒 1–1.5 hours
There's an eclectic mix of cafes, bars and restaurants alongside independent shops.
🔎 Optional Tip: Visit Joseph Parry’s Cottage (by appointment) or stroll through Cyfarthfa Park.
RFC Grounds - Ruth and Steve: From Merthyr with Love. Image credit: BBC Cymru Wales/ITV Cymru Wales
MTCBC RFC – Rugby & Community Spirit
🕒 2:00 PM – MTCBC RFC
📍 Merthyr Tydfil Rugby Football Club, Caer Wern, Merthyr Tydfil. CF48 1AF
🕒 1 hour
Steve: “This club is the heartbeat of the town.”
Hairport - Ruth and Steve: From Merthyr with Love. Image credit: BBC Cymru Wales/ITV Cymru Wales
Hairport
📍 97 High St, Merthyr Tydfil CF47 8UD
🕒 1 hour
Ruth says: “I didn’t expect to get glammed up in Merthyr – but I loved every second!”
There's a wealth of beauty salons and barbers throughout the town and beyond. Plenty to suit every taste.
📸 Selfie Spot: Iron Heart @ Penderyn Square
Free to Wander – Penderyn Square & Culture
🕔 4:00 PM – Free to Wander – Penderyn Square & Culture
📍 Penderyn Square, Merthyr Tydfil CF47 8AE
🕒 1 hour
🔎 TIP: Explore and discover Merthyr Tydfil’s cultural heart. Admire the architecture and heritage at Redhouse (temporarily closed)
📸 Selfie Spot: Iron Heart sculpture at Penderyn Square.
Sparkles
Sparkles
🕒 7:30 PM – Sparkles
📍 73 Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tydfil CF47 8UN
🕒 1 hour
Ruth: “It was fabulous – full of colour, laughter, and love.”
Always start the evening with cocktails
👨👩👧👦 Family Tip: Adults only venue – check for themed nights.
Merthyr Tydfil Labour Club
Merthyr Tydfil Labour Club - Karaoke Night
📍 Merthyr Tydfil Labour Club, Merthyr Tydfil CF47 8UB
🕒 2 hours
Ruth says: “I thought it’d be a little bar with a karaoke machine in the corner… but it was this massive room with a big stage!”
Chip Shop Finale
Chip Shop Finale
🕙 10:30 PM on the way home
📍 Ask a local for the best one – they’ll know!
🕒 30 mins
Grab a chippy tea and enjoy a final stroll through the town.
“Merthyr isn’t just a place – it’s a feeling. It’s grit, heart, humour, and hope. And once you’ve been here, you carry a bit of it with you.” – Ruth & Steve 💝
