Duffryn's growth can be traced to 1890 when the first pit was sunk. The village with its school developed along the main road leading into the valley. Among its amenities are a general store, off licence and a post office, a club and the largest DIY store in the valley. Above the school a number of large modern houses have been built.

Duffryn Afan School.

On the mountainside are slag tips of the Duffryn Rhondda colliery, some of the few remaining in the valley. Their tops have been flattened to make them safe.