Birthplace Trail 
Along the ‘Birthplace Trail’
in Pontrhydyfen, you can see his birthplace and hear him quote a
passage of ‘Under Milk Wood’, a play by his favourite poet Dylan
Thomas. Signposts containing information panels are located along
the trail, which provide interesting facts on Richard's childhood
and career. (leaflet text)
Trail Facts
Difficulty: Moderate (some steps and rough
surfaces)
Distance: 3 miles / 4.8 km
Start: Rhyslyn Car Park
Allow: 1 ½ to 2 hours for the complete walk
Points of Interest
(1) Pontrhydyfen aqueduct, built in 1825.
(2) Richard Burton’s birthplace.
(3) Penhydd Street where many of Richard’s family used to
live.
(4) Pontrhydyfen viaduct, built in 1898.
(5) Portrait Bench. The life sized sculptures are
of Richard Burton, locally born comedian Rob Brydon and retired
Afan Forest Park Ranger Dick Wagstaff.
(6) Bethel Chapel. A memorial service for Richard was
held here shortly after his death and was attended by hundreds of
locals and many celebrities.
Trail Leaflet
The Richard Burton trails leaflet (trails leaflet
webpage) contains maps and directions on how to follow the two
Richard Burton trails. Download your leaflet or pick up a copy from Taibach Library,
Afan Forest Park Visitor Centre or Glyncorrwg Mountain Bike Centre
& Ponds.
How to join the Trail
Driving Directions to Rhyslyn Car Park
Exit the M4 (J40) and follow the A4107 in the direction of Afan
Forest Park. Turn left at the mini roundabout, continue through two
sets of traffic lights and turn left onto the B4287 towards
Pontrhydyfen. Take a sharp right turn just before the
aqueduct.
Driving Directions to Cwmavon Community Centre
Leave the M4 (J40) and follow the A4107 in the direction of Afan
Forest Park. Turn left at the mini roundabout. Continue
along and turn left at the traffic lights. At the bottom of
the hill, turn right, and turn right again when Cwmavon Rugby Club
is in front of you.
Public Transport
Buses go to Pontrhydyfen, Oakwood and Cwmavon Community
Centre. For public transport information call 0871 200 22 33
or visit Traveline
Cymru. Information is also available from Baytrans.