This Grade II listed historic garden was first established by the Master of Tredegar Ironworks in the early 1800s. Recently restored, the park is once again at the heart of community life and a peaceful place for visitors to relax and enjoy features such as the cascading ponds and the Orchid House Tearoom.
The house and park, as you can see it today, was largely established by 1839. It was the Ironmaster Samuel Homfray jr who created the park according to the latest fashion. He established the cascading ponds and the unique Icehouse in the shape of a chapel, which is still fully preserved and accessible to visitors. Other features dating from the times of the Ironmasters are two beautiful fountains and a rock grotto, which you enter through the ‘Devil’s Arch.’ Locals say that as you pass underneath the arch, you should place a leaf on one of the stone benches to fend off bad luck – it is best to do so rather than take any chances!
On the other side of the grotto is the restored Walled Kitchen Garden. In this space, we grow produce and flowers for use in our Orchid House Tearoom, as well as in the many celebrations we host here.
Bedwellty Park is also home to the world’s largest Block of Coal cut from a single seam. It was cut right here in Tredegar and intended for display at the Great Exhibition in London in 1851. When the block proved too heavy to be transported all that distance, it was instead placed here in Bedwellty Park.
During your visit, you can also explore the changing art and history exhibitions in Bedwellty House. In the Council Chamber, you can see a film about one of Britain’s most famous politicians. Aneurin Bevan, often called ‘the architect of the National Health Service,’ started his career right here at Bedwellty House before he became active on the national stage. The local town council still uses the council chamber, and as you sit in the benches where the councilors have sat for over one hundred years, you get a sense of the social activism that has always been a tradition in the town of Tredegar.
There are also many special events taking place at Bedwellty House and Park, ranging from outdoor theatre to indoor talks and themed balls. On our website, you will find the latest information on What’s On.
- Address: Morgan Street, Tredegar, NP22 3XN
Postcode: NP22 3XN - Tel number: 01495 353370
Web Address: www.bedwelltyhouseandpark.co.uk - Opening Hours: Please visit our website for seasonal hours.
- Admission Charges: Free
Parking Charges: Free, except for special events. There is only disabled parking inside the park. Car parks nearby are all free of charge. - Group information: Groups of 10 or more are kindly requested to call us in advance of their visit. Guided tours for groups can be arranged for a small charge.
Accessibility information: The house is fully accessible. There is an induction loop in the reception area. Disabled toilets are available. The park is a historic park, and some visitors may find the historic paths somewhat steep. Interpretation panels in the park include Braille. - Dogs welcome
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