
Sultan the Pit Pony
A colossal horse sculpture carved from coal shale, honoring the pit ponies of South Wales' mining past.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best for appreciating the sculpture

Sultan the Pit Pony
Best Time
Best for appreciating the sculpture

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A colossal horse sculpture carved from coal shale, honoring the pit ponies of South Wales' mining past.
"Absolutely mind blowing sculpture. Looks good from the drone."

🎯 Best Viewpoint
Head to the top carpark for the most comprehensive view of Sultan.
🚁 Drone Enthusiasts Rejoice
Aerial shots offer a stunning perspective of Sultan's immense scale.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Majestic Sultan Sculpture
Parc Penallta, Caerphilly
A colossal horse sculpture carved from coal fragments, honoring South Wales' pit ponies.

Panoramic Views from the Top Carpark
Top Carpark, Parc Penallta
Offers the best vantage point to see Sultan laid out and views of the surrounding valleys.

Exploring Parc Penallta Trails
Parc Penallta
Extensive walking trails connect to cycle tracks, perfect for a day of outdoor adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Sultan's Grandeur
Respecting the Landscape
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Best Viewpoint
Head to the top carpark for the most comprehensive view of Sultan.
🚁 Drone Enthusiasts Rejoice
Aerial shots offer a stunning perspective of Sultan's immense scale.
🐾 Dog-Friendly Adventures
Parc Penallta is great for dogs, but bring your own bags for cleanup.
🚶♀️ Walk On History
You can walk on the sculpture itself to get a unique feel for its size.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Best Viewpoint
Head to the top carpark for the most comprehensive view of Sultan.
🚁 Drone Enthusiasts Rejoice
Aerial shots offer a stunning perspective of Sultan's immense scale.
🐾 Dog-Friendly Adventures
Parc Penallta is great for dogs, but bring your own bags for cleanup.
🚶♀️ Walk On History
You can walk on the sculpture itself to get a unique feel for its size.
🗺️ Navigate with Ease
Use Google Maps for precise location; search 'Sultan the Pit Pony'.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the spectacular scale and poignant tribute of Sultan the Pit Pony. The sculpture is described as mind-blowing and a great place for walks, offering unique views. However, some feel a lack of a perfect viewpoint to see the entire sculpture laid out without aerial assistance, and a few mention the need for more dog waste bins.
"A spectacular structure which can be seen at most angles. The best view of Sultan is from the top carpark. There are views of the Gap in Quakers Yard and beyond. Well worth a visit"
Julie Brown
"Its good you can walk on the pit pony and be able to see the layout. But there is no veiw point to see it all layed out other than in pictures. The picture i got is from a high "veiw point" but can still not see it in all its glory"
Heidi Wildridge
"Great place for walks. Absolutely mind blowing sculpture. Looks good from the drone."
Dean Livingstone
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sultan is located in Parc Penallta, near Caerphilly, South Wales. The easiest way to find it is by using Google Maps and searching for 'Sultan the Pit Pony' or 'Parc Penallta'. There is a carpark available, with the top carpark offering the best views.
While specific bus routes directly to the sculpture's immediate vicinity might be limited, the area is accessible by public transport to Caerphilly, from where you might need a taxi or a longer walk. The 'Magnificent Train Journey' has even named a train 'Sultan' inspired by the sculpture, suggesting good rail links to the region.
There are carparks available at Parc Penallta. The top carpark is highly recommended as it provides the best vantage point for viewing the entire sculpture.
Yes, Parc Penallta is connected to cycle tracks, including links to Merthyr and Cardiff, making it accessible for cyclists.
The sculpture is a prominent feature of the park. Following signs for the main walking areas or asking locals should help you locate it easily. The top carpark offers immediate views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Parc Penallta and viewing Sultan the Pit Pony is free. It's a public park and a piece of land art accessible to all.
Parc Penallta is a public park, so it is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's advisable to check local council information for any specific park opening or closing times, especially during winter months.
There is no admission fee for Sultan the Pit Pony. It's a free-to-access land art installation within Parc Penallta.
While the park is generally open, it's best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the sculpture and its surroundings.
The main restrictions would be related to park rules, such as keeping dogs on leads in certain areas and respecting the environment.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
For the most impressive shots, consider aerial photography with a drone to capture the full scale of the sculpture. If you don't have a drone, the top carpark offers a good elevated perspective.
The top carpark is widely cited as the best viewpoint for seeing Sultan laid out. However, walking on and around the sculpture also provides unique photographic opportunities.
Drone flying is popular here and offers incredible views. Always ensure you are aware of and comply with local drone regulations and safety guidelines.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic shadows and highlight the contours of the earth sculpture, making for stunning photographs.
From ground level, it's challenging to capture the entire sculpture in one frame due to its immense size. Aerial views are ideal for this.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
You can walk on and around the massive earth sculpture, explore the trails of Parc Penallta, and enjoy the surrounding natural landscape.
Absolutely! Parc Penallta offers numerous trails for walking and hiking, and Sultan itself is a unique surface to explore on foot.
While there are walking trails and open spaces, specific facilities like toilets might be limited. Some visitors have noted a need for more dog poop bins.
You could spend an hour or two exploring the sculpture and nearby trails. If you plan to cycle or hike further, allocate more time.
Walking on the sculpture itself might be challenging due to its uneven, earthy surface. However, the surrounding park trails may offer varying levels of accessibility.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Dog Owners
📸 Photographers & Drone Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Sultan
The creation of Sultan in the 1990s was a significant undertaking, transforming the landscape into a lasting memorial. It stands not only as a piece of art but as a powerful reminder of the dangerous and demanding work performed by both humans and animals in the region's mining history. The sculpture's presence in Parc Penallta allows visitors to connect with this heritage in a tangible way, offering a unique perspective on the industrial past that shaped South Wales.
Today, Sultan is a popular landmark for locals and visitors alike, drawing attention through its sheer scale and historical resonance. Its visibility from various angles, especially from elevated viewpoints, allows for a full appreciation of its design and impact. The sculpture has even inspired local initiatives, such as the naming of a train 'Sultan' by Transport for Wales, further embedding its significance into the regional identity.
Experiencing Sultan and Parc Penallta
Parc Penallta, the setting for Sultan, is a sprawling green space that complements the sculpture with its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The park features numerous trails suitable for walking, hiking, and cycling, making it a destination for a full day out. These trails often connect to wider networks, such as the Merthyr and Cardiff cycle track, offering extended routes for more adventurous visitors. The open space is particularly popular with dog owners, providing ample room for pets to run and play.
For those seeking the most impactful views, strategic positioning is key. The top carpark is frequently mentioned as the prime spot for observing Sultan in its entirety, offering a panoramic vista that showcases the sculpture's impressive scale and form. Drone photography has become a popular way to capture Sultan, with aerial shots revealing its full grandeur and artistic composition from above. Whether you're walking the trails, admiring the sculpture up close, or capturing it from the sky, Sultan and Parc Penallta offer a memorable blend of history, art, and nature.



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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit