Location, Location,Location – Why We Love the South Wales Valleys
Jones Battye has had an office at Aberdare in the South Wales Valleys for over 20 years and we know we are very lucky to work in such a beautiful and vibrant place. And we also know that three important things combine to make this geographical area a great place to live and raise a family too – Community, Transport Links and Property Value for Money.
Community
Historically, Valleys towns are well known for their close-knit communities and this sense of family and community is as strong today as ever. People have a real sense of belonging here and a true feeling of ‘hiraeth’. The South Wales Valleys are also a great place of Welsh culture with a vibrant Welsh language scene and popular Welsh language schools.
Aberdare itself has recently been given the official title of “Town of Song” to recognise its rich musical tradition and thriving music scene. The inaugural ‘Caradogfest’ was held in 2022 and has become an annual celebration of the Welsh choral tradition in the town. Named for Caradog (Griffith Rhys Jones), whose statue stands directly outside our offices on Victoria Square, the choral festival is a celebration of his achievements as the choral leader of the ‘Cor Mawr’, who won the One Thousand Guinea Trophy at the Crystal Palace in 1872.
With the beautiful countryside of Bannau Brycheiniog (the Beacon Beacons) and all it has to offer literally on the doorstep, but with great facilities and amenities too, the Valleys really do have the best of both worlds. Together with many clubs, sports and activities going on, it’s a terrific place for children of all ages. Why not try horse riding or mountain biking in the Dare Valley Country Park?
Transport Links
The transport links in and around the Valleys are good and improving all the time. After 23 years the dualling of the A465 Heads of the Valleys road is finally complete, plus the South Wales Metro project, intended to improve connectivity in the public transport network is ongoing. You may be surprised to know that many people who relocate to the Valleys commute to Bristol, London, the Midlands or even further afield during the week. We are also so close to the 3 cities of Cardiff, Swansea and Newport that we are spoilt for choice, and it’s also very easy to get away to the Gower and the beaches and countryside of West Wales.
Value For Money
Perhaps most importantly (for us anyway!) there is a huge range of property types in the Valleys with something to suit everyone. From attractive 18th century ironworkers’ cottages, stereotypical rows of miners’ terraces, modern new builds and large detached Edwardian houses to farms, small holdings and equestrian properties. And although prices have increased in recent years as savvy buyers have got wise to what’s on offer here, you can still get a lot for your money. Good quality 3 bed terraces are available for around £150,000, whilst £300,000 – £400,000 will get you a 4 bed new build detached family home. There’s plenty of green space too with many homes boasting larger than average gardens and plots for ‘build your own’ projects are also often available.
These are just some of the reasons why we think the Valleys are worth a second look. It’s a great place to work every day and to relax with family at the end of a busy week.
Need help for your move? For Property Valuations and Home Surveys please call Jones Battye on 01685 378894 (Aberdare) or 02920 625433 (Cardiff) or visit www.jonesbattye.com
