It’s a major route that runs through some of the most stunning scenery in the UK and is very well-used by those living in the area – and yet the starting point is something of a mystery, even to locals who use it every day
The A470 is the only A road in the UK that spans the entire length of Wales, beginning at a seaside spot in the south and concluding at the water’s edge in the north. Along its route, it traverses towering mountains, lakes, castles, and two national parks.
Yet, surprisingly, few people are aware of its starting point, even those residing on it, despite it being a bustling and popular location where thousands flock to enjoy their summer days. For many, the mere mention of the A470 brings back distressing memories of bumper-to-bumper traffic during peak commuting hours into or out of north Cardiff from the South Wales valleys.
However, this urban motorway-like section represents just a small fraction of the road.
Heading north from there, it winds through Welsh towns such as Pontypridd and Merthyr, which played pivotal roles in Britain’s industrial revolution when Welsh coal and iron were the driving forces behind global industries. Just beyond Merthyr, it ventures into the Brecon Beacons and skirts past Pen y Fan, the highest mountain in South Wales.
The views from your car at this juncture are breathtakingly beautiful, with heart-stopping drops from the road down a mountainside on one side, reports Wales Online.
North of the charming market town of Brecon, where you could spend a few hours on a narrowboat on the Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal, the road takes you through the stunning rural mid Wales and the breathtaking Elan Valley.
This little-known beauty spot rivals the Lake District with its picturesque scenery and lakes.
If you’re peckish, just north of Brecon, you’ll find the Felin Fach Griffin, a cosy spot serving some of the finest Welsh cuisine by roaring log fires. You can also book a room for a comfortable overnight stay.
As you continue northwards, don’t be surprised if you find yourself trailing behind slow-moving farming vehicles. You are now in the heart of Welsh farming country, where the Royal Welsh Show takes place over one week every summer near the town of Builth Wells.
Further north, the route takes you through the Coed y Brenin forest (which translates to Forest of Kings in Welsh) and the Eryri (formerly known as Snowdonia) national park. The journey passes not too far from Yr Wyddfa (or Snowdon), the highest mountain in all of Wales and England.
The route also traverses the historic slate mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog, which, like Pontypridd and Merthyr, was instrumental in exporting Welsh resources to the world.
The picturesque village of Betws-y-Coed, with its Alpine-like surroundings of water, woodland and mountains, is another highlight.
Don’t miss the Swallow Falls waterfall just outside the town. Nearby lies the charming village of Beddgelert, known for its quaint stone cottages, riverside pubs and a tragic local tale.
As you continue northwards, the road skirts Conwy, home to one of Wales’ most impressive castles, part of King Edward I’s Ring of Steel. Overlooking the Conwy estuary, it remains a formidable structure even today.
Conwy itself is a delightful town, brimming with great places to eat, drink and stay overnight, as this writer can attest. The A470 concludes at the famous seafront promenade of Llandudno, a favourite staycation and day trip destination for Brits since Victorian times.
So where does the A470 begin or end in the south?
A little-known fact is that the A470, a major artery in Wales, actually begins at Mermaid Quay in Cardiff Bay, just outside the Wales Millennium Centre.
It snakes its way up Lloyd George Avenue before heading up North Road in Cardiff and morphing into what most South Walians recognise as the A470 – the dual carriageway that cuts through the valleys from Cardiff.
The A470’s history dates back to 1922 when it was originally a road running from Cardiff Docks to Brecon. The modern route we know today was born out of a campaign in the 1970s by the Western Mail newspaper for a single route to connect north and south Wales.
Stretching 186 miles, it holds the title of being the longest road in Wales.
When’s the best time to take a drive on the A470?
Well, when you’ve got plenty of time to spare. It’s a fantastic road trip from start to finish with countless spots to pull over for a bite to eat, a leisurely walk or to soak up the stunning views.
But if you’re pressed for time, avoid getting stuck in a Cardiff traffic jam or behind a slow-moving tractor in mid Wales.
As for where to grab a meal or spend the night along the A470, there are plenty of options either directly on the route or just a short detour away. Consider popping into the towns of Conwy or Brecon for lunch or dinner.
And one of the top dining spots in all of Wales, the Felin Fach Griffin, is conveniently located right beside the road.