Built-up area in Rhondda Cynon Taf, Wales
| Coordinates: | 51.642, -3.471 |
|---|---|
| OS grid ref: | SS 98 94 |
| Dialling code: | 01443 (Pontypridd) |
The Rhondda in Rhondda Cynon Taf, Wales is a pair of steep, narrow valleys carved by glaciers and drained by the River Rhondda, traditionally split into Rhondda Fawr and Rhondda Fach. It grew explosively in the 19th century as deep coal seams were worked, giving rise to dense rows of pit villages and towns such as Treorchy, Porth and Tonypandy, and industrial heritage sites like the Lewis Merthyr Colliery, now interpreted at the Rhondda Heritage Park.
Today the area retains a strong community identity and cultural life - famous choirs, chapel and working-class traditions sit alongside reminders of events like the early 20th-century unrest in Tonypandy. The local economy has shifted away from coal towards services and regeneration projects, while the high ridges and valley scenery make the Rhondda popular for walking and local outdoor recreation, and it remains within easy reach of larger centres such as Cardiff.
CF41 7NP, CF41 7RJ, CF40 2JJ, CF40 2LX, CF40 2EY, CF41 7PU, CF41 7HT, CF41 7SN, CF41 7SW … See all