Scheduled MonumentsWalesMerthyr Tramroad Tunnel (Trevithick's Tunnel)
Post Medieval/Modern · Tramroad

Merthyr Tramroad Tunnel (Trevithick's Tunnel)

Wales
Cadw SAM GM573
Period
Post Medieval/Modern
Site type
Tramroad
Broad class
Industrial
Nation
Wales
Boundary

Scheduled area

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Overview

History & significance

Merthyr Tramroad Tunnel is a surviving section of the pioneering iron tramroad constructed in South Wales during the early nineteenth century. Built to facilitate the transport of iron and coal from the Merthyr Tydfil ironworks to the canal at Abercynon, the tunnel represents an important stage in the development of railway engineering and industrial transport infrastructure. The structure dates from the period when tramroads were being superseded by railways, reflecting the transitional technologies of early industrial Britain. The tunnel remains a significant monument to the engineering enterprise and industrial heritage of the South Wales coalfield during its period of greatest expansion and prosperity.

Merthyr Tramroad Tunnel (Trevithick's Tunnel) is a scheduled monument protected by Cadw under reference GM573. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Merthyr Tramroad Tunnel (Trevithick's Tunnel)?

Merthyr Tramroad Tunnel is a surviving section of the pioneering iron tramroad constructed in South Wales during the early nineteenth century. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Cadw under reference GM573.

What period does Merthyr Tramroad Tunnel (Trevithick's Tunnel) date from?

Merthyr Tramroad Tunnel (Trevithick's Tunnel) dates from the post medieval/modern period, and is classified as a tramroad. It is one of over 32,000 scheduled monuments protected across Britain.

Who is responsible for protecting Merthyr Tramroad Tunnel (Trevithick's Tunnel)?

Merthyr Tramroad Tunnel (Trevithick's Tunnel) is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, legally protected by Cadw — the body responsible for designating and safeguarding heritage sites in Wales. The official designation reference is GM573.

What other scheduled monuments are near Merthyr Tramroad Tunnel (Trevithick's Tunnel)?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Cefn Merthyr Round Cairns (5.5 km), Brynbychan Round Cairn (6.1 km), Coed Cae Round Cairns (6.5 km).

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