Neath stands 12km north east of Swansea in South West Wales. The Neath River flows through the town before entering into Swansea Bay around 7.5km south, whilst two canals, the Neath and the Tennant, travel through Neath before joining at Aberdulais basin 5.3km north east of the town. Less than a kilometre east of the town centre is the well known Neath Castle, one of the minor Norman castles in the lordship of Glamorgan, with a magnificent 14th century gatehouse.

Not only is there a castle but the outstanding ruins of Neath Abbey, founded by Richard de Granville in 1130, are just 2.5km from the castle. The Drumau Mountains are 3.5km west of Neath, and both cycle and walking routes can be taken along the Neath Canal. The Neath Valley to the north east of Neath is famous for its scenic waterfalls including the Melincourt and Aberdulais Falls and the cascades at Gnoll Country Park.

For the more adventurous there are the deep gorges of the rivers Nedd Fechan, Hepste and Mellte. While the Afan Valley to the west is popular with cyclists and mountain bike enthusiasts, having some of the best mountain bike trails in Britain.