After a short period of closure, Cyfarthfa Museum and Art Gallery has reopened following internal works to the building.
Cyfarthfa Park and Castle in Merthyr Tydfil recently received a share of the Welsh Government’s Brilliant Basics funding to improve its visitor experience, via Visit Wales. The capital grant has enabled a number of key enhancements delivering improvements for visitors to Cyfarthfa Park and Castle.
Within Cyfarthfa Museum and Art Gallery this had included internal improvements to lighting and toilets; enhancement of the reception area, shop and café; upgrades to the Wi-Fi and CCTV; and a new audiovisual cinema display.
Within the Park, the funding will deliver improved signage and wayfinding across the Cyfarthfa Park grounds, helping visitors navigate more easily. It has also supported a range of new and upgraded infrastructure, including high‑quality benches and bins that make the site cleaner, more comfortable, and more accessible for everyone. By investing in these essential amenities, the funding creates a more welcoming environment that encourages visitors to stay longer, enjoy the surroundings, and make full use of the park’s facilities.
These improvements not only enhance visitor flow and enjoyment but also contribute to a more sustainable and well‑maintained destination for the future.
The funding has been awarded to Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council working in partnership with the Cyfarthfa Foundation; the organisation responsible for championing the long term-vision for Cyfarthfa Park and Castle. The Brilliant Basics funding has enabled some enhancements to the current visitor experience, whilst the longer-term work being undertaken to develop Cyfarthfa as a key tourist destination of local, national and international significance and an engine of social renewal continues.
This follows an update last year that the iconic Cyfarthfa Heritage Area has also received £4.5million from Welsh Government and Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council to undertake urgent conservation works which are ongoing externally.
The Council and Foundation are also exploring further opportunities for funding including submitting an application to the National Heritage Lottery Fund, continuing to make the case for investment to the Welsh Government, and approaching other trusts and donors.
Leader of the Council, Councillor Brent Carter, said: "Cyfarthfa Castle isn't just a building – it's the heartbeat of Merthyr Tydfil's rich heritage. This additional funding represents more than just money; it's a commitment to preserving our community's living history. We're not just restoring a castle, we're rekindling the stories and memories that matter most to our people. While we know there's still work ahead, our partnership with the Cyfarthfa Foundation shows our unwavering dedication to transforming this jewel in our crown into a vibrant, inspiring landmark that future generations will cherish."
Jess Mahoney, Chief Executive of the Cyfarthfa Foundation added:
“We are extremely grateful to Welsh Government for showing their support for Cyfarthfa with this new funding. The long-term vision for the redevelopment of Cyfarthfa Castle is likely to take many years and considerable further investment to fully realise. However, this grant means we can achieve meaningful positive change for current visitors following the exciting bicentenary year, and start now in making key upgrades to our beautiful park, Grade I listed castle and treasured museum and galleries that will enhance Cyfarthfa for the local community and visitors to the area alike.”
The Cabinet Secretary for Economy and responsible for tourism, Rebecca Evans, said:
“Cyfarthfa Castle is one of Wales's true treasures, and it is great to see Welsh Government funding is helping to bring it to even more people. The Brilliant Basics fund is about making sure that when visitors come to our iconic destinations, they have the best possible experience - and these improvements at Cyfarthfa do exactly that. This adds to the £2.25m we committed via Cadw last summer to address the deterioration to the oldest part of Cyfarthfa Castle as well as protecting Pont-y-Cafnau bridge.
“From upgraded facilities in the museum to better signage across the park, our investments are making a real difference for the local community and for everyone who travels to Merthyr Tydfil to experience this extraordinary place."
Built in 1825 as a majestic family home for the Ironmaster William Crawshay II, Cyfarthfa Castle is the jewel in the crown of Merthyr Tydfil. Every year thousands of people enjoy a visit to the castle and its expansive gardens, lake, play area and other activities.
These developments to the visitor experience have been made possible thanks to the Welsh Government’s £5M Brilliant Basics fund, delivered through Visit Wales, that supports schemes delivering improvements to essential visitor infrastructure at tourism destinations across the country. As well as Cyfarthfa, there is a full list of projects across Wales set to benefit between 2025 and 2027.