Merthyr Tydfil’s £300 Million Ski Resort, Wales’ Longest Indoor Slope Set to Boost Tourism: All You Need to Know

Published on November 24, 2025

In the heart of South Wales, Merthyr Tydfil is set to undergo a significant transformation with the construction of a world-class leisure resort at Rhydycar West. The £300 million project promises to create a state-of-the-art indoor snow centre featuring the UK’s longest indoor ski slope, a tropical indoor water park, and a variety of thrilling adventure activities. This bold development is expected to drive tourism in the region and generate hundreds of jobs, revitalising the local economy.

The Rhydycar West project, located near the A470 dual carriageway in Merthyr Tydfil, will feature over 400 metres of ski slopes, setting a new record for indoor skiing in the UK. The slopes, which could reach up to 424 metres in length, will dwarf the current benchmark, which is held by Chill Factore in Manchester, with a length of around 180 metres.

A Game-Changer for Welsh Tourism

This development represents a game-changing opportunity for Wales, bringing a unique mix of indoor snow sports, a tropical water park, and an array of adventure activities like zip wires and mountain coasters. With its expansive 39,200 square metres indoor snow centre and thrilling outdoor activities, the resort will offer a year-round tourism destination, attracting both winter sports enthusiasts and families seeking exciting adventures.

The impact of this development extends beyond just sports tourism. It is designed to serve as a national centre of excellence for snow sports, providing support to Welsh and UK Olympic and Paralympic athletes. As part of its commitment to growth, it will also offer hotel accommodations and woodland lodges, creating an immersive experience for visitors of all ages.

Economic Boost and Job Creation

The economic impact of the Rhydycar West project is expected to be substantial. With an estimated 842 operational jobs set to be created once the resort is up and running, this development will not only boost tourism but also create valuable employment opportunities for the local community. The resort is predicted to contribute an impressive £38.1 million annually to the local economy, benefiting businesses and communities in the area.

Furthermore, the resort’s tropical water park is poised to be a key attraction, providing a warm escape no matter the season. This will complement the ski slopes by offering a family-friendly destination for visitors who might not be interested in winter sports, ensuring the resort can cater to a wider audience.

Planning and Environmental Concerns

The £300 million project has received backing from the Merthyr Tydfil Council, despite objections from some environmental groups. Planning concerns, particularly around the ecological impact of the development, have been raised. However, the council has approved the project, and it is now set to be reviewed by the Welsh Government for further consideration.

This decision marks a significant milestone in the transformation of Merthyr Tydfil into a major tourism hub for South Wales. With its potential to draw visitors from across the UK and beyond, the Rhydycar West project is a shining example of how tourism can drive both economic growth and community revitalisation.

Merthyr Tydfil’s Growing Tourism Appeal

Merthyr Tydfil has long been a part of the industrial heart of Wales, but Rhydycar West offers a new vision for the future. By capitalising on the growing trend of adventure tourism and indoor leisure activities, the project will ensure the town’s economic landscape is diversified. The ski resort and water park will position Merthyr Tydfil as a major tourist destination, attracting visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure.

The combination of world-class facilities, adventure activities, and a focus on creating year-round appeal makes Rhydycar West a beacon for the future of Wales’ tourism sector.

A Bright Future for Wales

The Rhydycar West development is a bold and exciting venture that promises to reshape the tourism landscape in Merthyr Tydfil and across South Wales. The longest indoor ski slope in the UK, along with the tropical water park and adventure facilities, will make this resort a must-visit destination for tourists seeking an unforgettable experience. As the project moves forward, it will bring significant economic benefits and create jobs for local communities, making it an integral part of the region’s bright future.

In the coming years, visitors from across the globe will flock to Rhydycar West to experience the excitement, challenge, and relaxation of this new world-class resort. As Merthyr Tydfil embraces its new role as a hub of leisure and tourism, this project is set to become a cornerstone of the region’s economic revival.