Torfaen has an extensive network of easily accessible cycling routes which can be used for getting to and from work, reaching important facilities such as leisure centres or shops or just for pleasure. Many of the routes are off road and pass through attractive landscapes with many interesting historical features. The number of routes has expanded rapidly over recent years and there is now an impressive network in the valley.
There are several ‘National Cycle Network’ (NCN) routes in the borough including:
- NCN 492 - Cwmbran to Blaenavon
- NCN 49 - Newport to Mamhilad
- NCN 466 - Pontypool to Crumlin
The Afon Lwyd Trail is the principal off road route through Torfaen and follows NCN 49 and NCN 492 from Cwmbran to the Blaenavon World Heritage Site.
Further information on National Cycle Network’ (NCN) routes in the borough can be found on the OS Maps website (opens in new tab).
Free bike repair stations with pumps and spanners are located at:
- Blaenavon World Heritage Centre Church Road, Blaenavon, NP4 9AE
- Pontypool Park outside Pontypool Active Living Centre NP4 8AT
- One Stop shop, Station Road, Griffithstown, NP4 5JH (NCN 49 + 492)
- Cwmbran Stadium, Henllys Way, NP44 3YS
- Cwmbran Boating Lake, opposite The Boat House Café, NP44 8HT
The locations and other active travel information are available on datamap.gov.wales (opens in new tab)
Afon Lwyd Trail
The Afon Lwyd Trail is a picturesque 16-mile traffic free route that runs from Cwmbran in the south, through Pontypool and up to the Blaenavon World Heritage Site in the north (NCN49 and 492). It takes in all the great sights, stunning landscapes and wonderful green spaces Torfaen the area has to offer. Following first a canal and then a former railway it offers an easy route for all users. With a gradual incline rising from south to north this totally traffic free route makes it perfect for families.
The Trail passes though many valley communities and has great connections to buses and trains so it offers a healthy, pleasant and low cost way to commute to work or school. You might also just choose one small section to explore or one place you want to visit via the bus and train stations at Pontypool and Cwmbran.
Share the Path!
Shared-use paths are a great way to get around by bike, but they’re also used by many other people. It’s important to follow a few basic rules so that everyone can enjoy them as much as possible.
Please check the Cycling Code of Conduct or visit the Sustrans (opens in new tab) website.
Travelling to and from the Afon Lwyd Trail
By cycle
Both Cwmbran and Pontypool stations offer excellent signed links to the trail.
- To the south the route joins to NCN route 49 and 47 as well as the rail and bus stations at Newport.
- To the west the route joins NCN route 466 which links to Crumlin
- To the north via the Monmouthshire and Brecon canal NCN route 49. This links to NCN 46 for connections to the valleys via Brynmawr or Abergavenny for bus and rail stations.
For train times and public transport information visit www.traveline-cymru.info (opens in new tab)
To explore the best of the network and for maps and guide books visit the Sustrans (opens in new tab) website.
Documents
- Afon Lwyd Trail Cycle Map (opens in new tab)pdf file[6.92MB]
Other Cycle Routes
Travelling right through the heart of Torfaen the Afon Lwyd Trail links to many other routes and attractions
- Route 49 - From Pontymoel to Llanfoist follow route 49 along the Monmouthshire and Brecon canal for spectacular views of the Usk Valley and the Black Mountains.
- Route 88 - Outstanding ride alongside the river Usk right into the heart of the Roman town of Caerleon
- Heads of the Valleys - This route is not short of a hill or two, but the views are well worth the effort. Perfect for the more experienced cyclist looking for an invigorating 2-wheel adventure. There are also some fabulous traffic-free family friendly sections around Abergavenny and Brynmawr
- Celtic Trail Route 47 - is a spectacular traffic free ride all the way to the Taff Trail via the amazing 14 locks, Hengoed Viaduct and the 3 country parks of Sirhowy, Penallta and Taff Bargoed. For a challenging mountain bike adventure follow route 47 westward from the Taff trail to Neath!
- Route 466 - A route for more experienced cyclists to Crumlin and the western valley joining route 492 at Pontypool. Go north from Llanhilleth on route 465 to see the imposing Guardian!
- Route 423 - A route for experience cyclists with strong legs. Ride the rolling hills to Monmouth via the pretty market town of Usk