8 Things to do in Pontypridd, South Wales

Pontypridd Park Pontypridd, a historical market town around 10 miles from Cardiff, with a direct train from the city, is seeing a resurgence in independent stores, food spots, music and arts, with the recent opening of the YMA and investment in the park, lido and local community ventures is making this town a great spot for a day out.  So what is there to see and do in Pontypridd? 1. Ynysangharad War Memorial Park Otherwise known as Ponty Park, this is definitely the central point of the town and has gorgeous green space with a fantastic adventure park, walks, wild gardens, dog park, bandstand, cafe and the perfect spot for a picnic. It is also home to the National Lido of Wales. Ponty Lido 2. Lido Ponty This historic lido is well worth a visit and is currently Wale's premier outdoor pool housed in a grade 11 listed building, having been restored to it's former glory. There are 3 heated pools, offering space for children, families, social swimmers and dedicated swimmers. Booki......

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Food and so much more at The Big Welsh Bite

  Earlier this month was the The Big Welsh Bite, an annual Welsh Food festival held in Pontypridd Park each year and while we of course expected loads of great food there was also a whole lot more on offer. So my eldest and I set off with our bikes on the Taff Trail to Ynysangharad Park to find out more and of course tastes a few local delights. The last time we went to the Big Welsh Bite was when my eldest was a toddler and the new lido had yet to be built so I didn't really know what to expect this time around. Despite the on and off heavy showers in between moments of warm sunshine, it was wonderful to see such a good turn out for an event that helps showcase local and independent food and homemade goods. As we had planned our day to arrive around lunchtime so our first thought was to find a bite to eat, after having perused what was on offer we started out with a Vegan Oreo milkshake made with almond ice-cream and it was amazing! We followed this up with a wood f......

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Come rain or shine

No matter what the weather we spend at least 20min outside everyday, and when it's dry usually at least 1-2hours. Having grown up in South Africa where we have long summers and short mild winters and would live mainly outdoors. It's so hard to adjust to the sedentary lifestyle of the UK and it's hard for me to see so many young kids with little or no interest in doing sport. I am really excited by the prospect of spring coming and milder days and it hasn't been to bad this week. Yesterday we visited an open common, the last time I brought Mr A here he was very small and this time he spent the whole hour running around like a mad man. Sam the dog came with us too, who is getting on a bit now but also really enjoyed the fresh air. Mr A all ready to go in his Ben Sherman Parka The reasons why I think outdoor activities is so important is that it keeps us connected to the natural world, something we are losing everyday with technology. Fresh air an......

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