The new train service restarting after 60 years travelling to ‘must-see destination’
A BRAND new train service is once again providing a link to a small town that's home to music festivals, stunning countryside and important heritage sites.
The rail service restores a connection between the small town and its nearest city that was lost 60 years ago, when it was cut.
Ebbw Vale is described as "a must-see destination in Wales" by holiday specialists .
However, despite its appeal, it hasn't had a rail link to its nearest city Newport since 1962.
That's all changed following a £70million loan from the Welsh government to the local Blaenau Gwent council.
Since yesterday (February 1) 30 services have started running every day between the town and Newport, providing a vital new link.
Read More on Train Trips
Deputy climate change minister Lee Waters said the new service would "make a difference" to both communities.
A return ticket from Ebbw Vale Town to Newport will cost £8.30, while a seven-day season ticket will set passengers back £29.10.
The train will make it easier for people to visit Ebbw Vale, which hosts the Steelhouse music festival.
The event is one of Wales' biggest music festivals and aims to be one of the best value too.
Most read in City breaks
Its location in Ebbw Vale makes it stand out from others, as it overlooks the valleys from the hilltops.
Events website Skiddle wrote: "Steelhouse is Wales’ biggest classic rock festival that goes down in a breathtaking mountaintop location.
"Aiming to be the best value rock festival in the UK, it’s no wonder the fest has gained such a loyal following over the years."
Previous headliners have included the likes of The Darkness, Thin Lizzy and Europe. This year's lineup includes Skindred and The Almighty, with tickets available from £57.75.
The event will take place from July 26-28.
For those not into their rock and roll, there are still plenty of places to enjoy the tranquil nature of Ebbw Vale, including Festival Park.
It includes more than 70 acres of parkland, remaining from the 1992 Garden Festival Wales.
It still features many of the original features and sculptures from the event, including ornate pagodas and bridges.
There's also a woodland and two lakes, both of which are popular with local anglers who like to relax by fishing in the waters.
Visitors to the park can also visit an owl sanctuary, which was established in 1998 for the rehabilitation and care for injured, abandoned uncared for wild owls, hawks and falcons.
Guests are able to meet the birds for free and learn about them as they rehabilitate at the facility.
The town is also a site of important heritage too, with nearby sites like Bedwellty House and Park a fine example of a regency residence.
The Grade II listed building is set just a stone's throw away in the heart of Tredegar.
Visitors can wander around the house and its extensive gardens - while special events are also hosted in the home, including murder mystery dinners, afternoon tea and special half-term events for kids.
This month's promises "a magical storytelling adventure" with kids having to track down the best dragon trainer in the lands, with the help of a brave and noble knight.
Elsewhere, the Big Pit National Coal Museum will teach visitors about the area's history of mining, with underground tours available.
A night for two in Ebbw Vale can be booked from around £55.
READ MORE SUN STORIES
Meanwhile, this five day train trip travels through some of the most beautiful parts of the UK and features an onboard bar.
And this route through the UK could be one of the best train journeys in the world.
