Taffs Wells Hot Spring, Cardif, Wales, UK

## Overview Taff's Well Thermal Spring is the only known thermal hot spring in Wales, making it a unique geological and historical landmark. Located on the eastern banks of the River Taff, just north-west of Cardiff in South Wales, the spring sits at an elevation of around 30 metres (National Grid Reference ST11925 83639). The spring's warm waters have been known for centuries and were historically valued for their reputed therapeutic properties. During the Victorian era, the spring gained popularity as a destination for those seeking the health benefits of its naturally heated water. The water temperature has been reported to be notably warmer than the surrounding river and groundwater, a result of deep geological circulation along fault lines in the South Wales coalfield. The warmth is believed to originate from rainwater percolating deep underground, where it is heated by the natural geothermal gradient before rising back to the surface along fractures in the Carboniferous limestone. Today, the spring is enclosed within a brick structure and small building that helps protect it. It is situated within Taff's Well Park, an accessible public park owned and maintained by Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council. The park provides a pleasant green space along the River Taff and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. While the spring has historically been used as a source of water by local residents and visitors, its current water quality should not be assumed to be safe for drinking without independent testing. ## Directions 1. From Cardiff city centre, head north-west on the A470 towards Pontypridd. 2. After approximately 6 miles (10 km), take the exit for Taff's Well (Ffynnon Taf). 3. Follow signs into the village of Taff's Well. 4. Taff's Well Park is located near the centre of the village, on the eastern side of the River Taff. 5. The thermal spring is enclosed within a brick structure inside the park grounds. Look for the small building near the riverbank. 6. GPS coordinates: 51.544748, -3.271483. ## What to Expect Visitors will find the spring housed inside a modest brick enclosure within the well-maintained grounds of Taff's Well Park. The park itself is flat, accessible, and family-friendly, with paths along the River Taff. The spring structure is relatively unassuming but carries significant geological importance as Wales's sole thermal spring. The water flow is steady but modest, and the warmth of the water is noticeable — particularly in cooler months when steam may be visible. The surrounding area offers pleasant riverside walks and the park is accessible year-round. There is no charge to visit. The village of Taff's Well has basic amenities including shops and public transport links, with regular train services on the Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil line stopping at Taffs Well railway station, a short walk from the park. This makes the spring easily reachable even without a car. For those interested in geology, local history, or simply curious about one of Wales's most unusual natural features, Taff's Well Thermal Spring is well worth a visit.