Aberdare Park is a well-preserved Victorian public park. The park was laid out on part of Hirwaun common on the instigation of R.H. Rhys, chair of the local board of health. In 1863, he informed the board that the 'Pleasure Grounds' of nearly fifty acres (20.25ha) would soon be given to the overseers of the parish so that a pleasant place for the inhabitants of Aberdare could be constructed. The park opened on July 27, 1869 and in 1870, the local board of health borrowed £5,000 to wall, drain and plant the park.

The landscaping and planting of the park was carried out by William Barron (1805-1891) a nurseryman who laid out many public parks in England from 1860 onwards. It was during the period 1860-1870 that the main phase of construction of the park was carried out, with such features as fish ponds, a circular walk and the building of the boundary wall.
For the adults and older children, there is plenty to do and see. There are two bowling greens, tennis courts and in the summer, local bands play on the bandstand.
There are entrances to the park off Hirwaun Road (B4275), top entrance to the park via Park Lane or from Glan Road for disabled car access. Alternatively the main gates to the park are via the lodge at the junction of Glan Road and Gadlys Road.

The Park opens at 7am each day, the closing time changes month by month but is roughly dusk.

The family run café offers you a warm welcome and is open from Easter weekend until the end of September. Located to the side of the lake, this is the perfect place to sit down, relax and take in the scenery whilst sipping a nice cup of tea and/ or having a bite to eat. An indoor seating area is also available for those colder or wet days. Why not come in and have a nice cup of hot chocolate?

Fancy something to eat? There is plenty to choose from whether you fancy a hot or cold snack or simply wish to have your favourite Sidoli’s ice-cream. From chip butty to cheese and onion toasty via salad bowls and jacket potatoes, there is something for everyone. Please note all produce are sourced locally.

From milkshakes to cans of coke right through to cappuccino and latte, whether you are looking for something hot or something cold, this is the perfect place to come and enjoy it. Little children will also be mesmerised by the café’s sweet cart and the many toys on offer. Why not pop in to see what’s on offer?