As Christmas draws near, you might find yourself meticulously planning your shopping trips, but your local may not suffice. If you fancy going elsewhere this December, a staycation in one Welsh town could combine exploration and independent boutiques.

One location that may not have crossed your mind is nestled deep within Rhondda, South Wales; Treorchy and its high street are perfect for a leisurely Saturday morning amble, browsing the many independent shops, with the remainder of the day free for dining, drinking or, weather permitting, a post-lunch wander around the nearby hills and waterfalls. 

Shops

The true charm of Treorchy lies in its small independent shops, where you’ll find gifts and stocking fillers aplenty.

At the top of Bute Street, there’s the florist, Lili Wen, where – in addition to beautiful bouquets and wreaths – you’ll find homely yet stylish housewares and trinkets.

For those who enjoy browsing through trinkets and gifts, Wonder Stuff is a must-visit. This charming gift shop has been in business for over two decades, selling adorable stationery, mugs, cards, and food and drink gifts.

Just a few doors down, Green Valley may appear to be a simple fruit and veg shop – and it is – but it also stocks sustainable gifts, a variety of hot sauces, Christmas items, treats and, intriguingly, cosy Nordic socks. 

Beyond The Lion pub, you’ll encounter two distinct shopping experiences. Sparkilicious is a treasure trove of stylish gifts and homeware, puzzles, games and toys.

Then across the street, Celtic Dragon Retro offers a different kind of treasure trove, filled with retro games consoles and games, collectible toys and comics. You’ll find everything from Pokemon and WWE, Star Wars, Marvel and DC to Disney.

They even have gaming tables for a break from your shopping spree! Treorchy’s high street also boasts a range of clothes shops, baby stores, drapers and jewellery shops worth exploring.

Places to eat and drink

Treorchy is brimming with coffee shops and snack spots, such as Hot Gossip, which is boasting a large festive drinks selection. 

The Cwm Farm Shop serves a hearty breakfast, Sunday roast, homemade pies and pasties, and daily specials. Their cawl is particularly noteworthy and many of the dishes utilise locally-sourced meat from the nearby farm owned by the same family.

For dinner, the Pencelli Hotel offers a full menu of pub classics, tapas items, curries and flatbreads. Elsewhere, you can enjoy a pub meal or pizza at the Cardiff Arms Bistro, with dishes like beef short rib, grilled monkfish and prawn curry.

Christmas attractions

Treorchy is one of many towns in Rhondda Cynon Taf that hosts a Christmas celebration. This year, the fantastic parade will kick off on Saturday, November 29.

Every Saturday henceforth in December, Treorchy Library will be hosting Santa Saturdays, where Father Christmas will be in his grotto. Additionally, late-night shopping will be available on Wednesdays throughout December, starting on Dec 3.

Hiking

The upper Rhondda boasts stunning views and invigorating hikes. Simply drive to the Bwlch hilltop for a breathtaking view over Treorchy and Cwmparc, or head to the top of the valley to the Rhigos viewpoint for a glimpse of Bannau Brycheiniog on a clear day.

One particular hike that’s a must for walkers is the Blwch mountain circular, a 13km stretch from Treorchy up to the viewpoint. 

Accommodation

The Pencelli and Cardiff Arms Bistro both offer accommodation to visitors from afar.