The River Tawe rises in the Black Mountains in the heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park. The area is popular with walkers and climbers enjoying the fresh air and stunning views; but below the surface is a hidden treasure. Dan yr Ogof is a cave system stretching for 11 miles beneath the South Wales countryside. First explored, in 1912, by local brothers Tommy and Jeff Morgan the caves are now thought to be the largest showcave complex in Europe and in 2005 a poll of Radio Times readers voted Dan yr Ogof “The Greatest Natural Wonder in Britain”.
The National Showcaves Centre for Wales now welcomes visitors to Dan yr Ogof daily during the summer months. Access to the caves is via a descent of 100 steps, so they may not be suitable for all; but there are also things to do at ground level for all ages. There are 10 different attractions altogether and one admission fee covers them all.
Discover 300 Million Years of History Beneath the Swansea Valley
There are over 1.5 kilometres of caves to explore in three showcaves, revealing over 300 million years of history. Dan yr Ogof is the main chamber and visitors see frozen waterfalls and angels hiding in the shadows on the way to the Bridge Chamber. Here the public make a return trip to the showcaves entrance, but the cave stretches for a further 10 kilometres which is accessible only by experienced cavers.
Human life once lived in the smaller Bone Cave, the remains of 42 human skeletons have been discovered and there are exhibits depicting how our forefathers used the caves.
The highlight of the Cathedral Cave is the Dome of St Paul’s. Named after its London counterpart, the dome has two waterfalls descending over 20 metres each to form an underground lake.
See 200 Life Size Dinosaurs in the Dinosaur Park
The prehistoric theme continues on the surface with one the largest dinosaur parks in the world. Over 200 replicas recreate the time when dinosaurs ruled the Earth over 65 million years ago. See a life sized T Rex measuring 12 metres long 5.6 metres high and weighing over 7000 kilograms.
Stepping slowly nearer to the 21st century, the Iron Age farm shows life on the Welsh hillsides almost 3000 years ago. The lives of Jeff and Tommy Morgan, who discovered the caves in 1912, are remembered at the Shire Horse Centre and Mr Morgan’s Victorian Farm.
Children will love the indoor play areas and meeting the animals. The themed Jurassic Karting track is designed for 3 to 6 year olds and children up to 10 will love Barney Owl’s Playground. Barney Owl’s is an indoor adventure playground with slides, rope climbs and aerial walkways. Outside, shire horses, llamas, ponies, rabbits and chipmunks are waiting to make friends.
Dan yr Ogof Showcaves are about 20 miles north of Swansea and 15 miles from M4 (junction 45). Take the A4067 and the caves are about 5 miles after the village of Abercraf.
Opening Hours are from 10am daily March 27th until October 31st 2010
Please phone 01639 730284 for details of last admission and closing times.
Admission Prices
- Adults - £13.50
- Children - £7.00 (aged 3 -16)
- Children under the age of 3 - Free
John Oyston - I am a freelance travel writer, accountant and further education teacher. I have spent a lifetime travelling across the UK, Western Europe ...
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