Alltwen  is a small and pleasant village overlooking Pontardawe, just 7 Km North of junction 45 on the M4 motorway. It has a primary school, rugby field and clubhouse, post office and shops, community centre, martial arts club and a park and childrens' play area. There are several hotels and public houses.

The village grew along ancient tracks across the hill , some of which go back to Roman times. In the 1800's coal and metals were carried by cart along such tracks, which developed into today's roads.