Glamorgan Heritage Brochure 2012

8/13/2019 Glamorgan Heritage Brochure 2012

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2012-13Wales

Cardiff ConnectionsStunning scenery so close to the capital.

Gavin and StaceySee what the TV duo loved about Barry Island.

Its now or never!Porthcawls Elvis Festival is the king of quirky events.

Nearest beaches for millionsAnd discover the sensational Heritage Coast.

Barry Island Bridgend Cowbridge Llantwit Major Maesteg Penarth Porthcawl

Bridgend County and the Vale of Glamorgan.

Two counties, one PROPER holiday.


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The Glamorgan Heritage

Coast & Countryside

combines two county

areas; the Vale of

Glamorgan and Bridgend,

giving you a tasty blend of

everything you want from

a weekend break or

holiday. Weve got 28 milesof coastal scenery that lets

you explore dramatic cliffs,

golden family beaches,

legendary villages,

fascinating towns and

ancient castles.

This brochure gives you a taste ofeverything on offer here, tips for some

top days out, as well as a guide to the

local accommodation. Stay in cosy places

that will feel like a home from home, or

others that will feel nothing like home.

Unless, that is, you live in a Romany

Caravan or a Railway Carriage.

Throughout the brochure youll notice our

two websites www.bridgendbites.com and

www.visitthevale.com. Both are full of

extra information, photos and video clips

to help you find out more about the areaand what you can do and see here.

Capital connections

The Glamorgan Heritage Coast &

Countryside is situated right between

Cardiff and Swansea, and we fully

understand that any visitor to South

Wales will have these two cities at the top

of their to do list. But, while you are here

to watch an international match at the

Millennium Stadium, a performance at the

Wales Millennium Centre, or some top

class football, why not stay less than half

an hour away among our stunningcountryside and coastline.

Nearest beaches for millions

The traditional British seaside experience

is alive and kicking in our two main beach

resorts, Barry Island and Porthcawl. If you

are looking for sandcastles and family fun

in the sea, then both resorts tick every

box. They are home to the nearest

beaches for millions of people, and

whatever time of year you visit, you are

sure to have a fantastic time.

Our beach life doesnt stop there though.

Escape the crowds and head off for a

weekend along the protected Glamorgan

2 www.bridgendbites.com

Dunraven Bay, Southerndown

Royal Porthcawl Golf Club

Whitmore Bay, Barry Island

Two countiesOne proper holiday


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Heritage Coast where the coastline is both wild and wonderful

and perfect for those who love the outdoors. You can use our

beach guide to find out more, whether you want to go rock

pooling with little ones, take part in water sports, or go for a

windswept coastal walk with your dog.

A little less conversation,

a little more action

Our towns all have their own unique reasons for you to visit

them and are full of experiences that will stick long in the

memory. None more so than the Porthcawl Elvis Festival, which

turns the seaside town into a mecca to the King of Rock n Roll!

The Glamorgan Heritage Coast and Countryside is also an ideal

place to take an activity break, such as a few days cycling, walking,

surfing, or on the golf course. If you are keen on a golfing break

then you will be impressed by our diverse range of Links and

US-style parkland courses as well as a number of pitch and putt

courses ideal for those picking up a club for the first time.

Out and About

To help you plan all of yourdays out, have a look at

our Take 5 section, while

you can also order a free

copy of our Out and

About map and guide that

will help you get even more

out of your stay.

Bridgend Mashup Rest Bay, Porthcawl

Index Page

Make the most of our coast 4 - 5

Walk this way 6 - 7

Get set for the seaside 8 - 9

Beach guide 10 - 11

Familiar to millions 12 - 13

Sand, sea and surf 14 - 15

All shook up! 16 - 17

Talk of the towns 18 - 21

Hidden histories 22 - 25

The complete golf package 26 - 27

Fancy a dirty weekend 28 - 29

Take 5 30 - 34

Accommodation 36 - 48

Take your pick 50

Easily accessible 50

Map 51

www.visitthevale.com 3

Exeter

BRISTOL

BIRMINGHAM

LONDON

MANCHESTER

EDINBURGHGLASGOW

A92

M90

M8

A74

M6

M6A5

A487

M4

M5

A38

A36 M3

M4M2

M1

M1

M62

A1(M)

F d

Pembr

Bridgend County

Vale of Glamorgan

oke

Dover

Harwich

Folkestone

M25

Hull

Southampton

PortsmouthPlymouth

M20

ChannelTunnel

C

ishguar

Holyhead

Swansea ARDIFF

Glamorgan Heritage Coast


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Make the most

of our coast

wetfeet&sorebums.Wouldntchangeathing!

Tiredlegs


Dunraven Bay, Southerndown


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Covering 870 miles around the countrys

coastline, the Wales Coast Path is the

largest continuous coastal path in the

world, and lets you enjoy Wales outdoor

spaces to the max.

We may be biased, but we are confident

that youll find our stretch of the path to

be one of the most appealing and exciting

sections. Not only does it give casual

walkers the chance to discover the purerelaxing pleasure of a coastal walk, but it

also gives more serious walkers an

invigorating experience as it overlooks

such striking surroundings.

As well as the Wales Coast Path, youll also

find dozens of fantastic walking routesinland such as those that let you explore

the forestry of the Llynfi Valley close to

Maesteg, the wider Ogmore Valley and the

Garw Valley too. You can also follow the

Millennium Heritage Trail and our town

trails while a number of well organised

walking festivals are held locally too. To

find out more, please visit our websites.

Walk this way

orstrollingGreatfortrekking

6 www.visitthevale.com

Pink Bay, Porthcawl

Improve your wellbeingand breathe in some

striking surroundings with a

walking holiday on the


and Countryside, and see

Wales newest and biggest

tourist attraction, the

Wales Coast Path.



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orjuststoppingandadmiringtheview

www.bridgendbites.com 7

Wales Coast Path near Llantwit Major


8/528 www.visitthevale.com

Get set for the seasideYou are only ever minutes away from a beach in the Glamorgan Heritage Coast

and Countryside, and they are all very different and well worth a visit. Go on,

get some sand between your toes! Read on for our handy beach guide

Greatsurf

Greatsand

Greattime


9/52www.bridgendbites.com 9

Rest Bay, Porthcawl


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2

6

7

8

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5

4

3

Beach

guide

Newton Bay, Porthcawl

A lovely sheltered sandy bay which

stretches all the way round to Ogmore.

} {= WC

Great for: Dogs! They are allowed on

the beach all year round and the

Beachcombers caf allows dogs outsideand will even provide water for your dog.

Cwm Colhugh,

Llantwit Major

Rock pools & sand with cliff top scenery.

} {= WC zGreat for: Surfing and coastal walks all

year round. The Heritage Coast path

joins up with the beach and offers

some amazing walks and views.

Dunraven Bay,

Southerndown

Depending on the tide, at most times

its a sand and pebble bay which is

connected to the Heritage Coast path.

} {= WC z

Great for: Surfing, kayaking and rockpooling with little ones.

(Seasonal)

Nash Point, Marcross

A rocky shore and rugged cliff

scenery. Guided tours are available at

nearby Nash Point lighthouse.

} WC

Great for: Spectacular rock formations

and views.

Ogmore-By-Sea

A wide sand and pebble beach.

Access dependent on the tide level of

the Ogmore river.

} {= WC zGreat for: Walks that will put colour in

your cheeks, and exploring the nearbyMerthyr Mawr sand dunes.

Trecco Bay, Porthcawl

This well sheltered sandy and rocky

beach is close to excellent facilities

for the family.

} {= WC zGreat for: Families, as it is so close tothe Trecco Bay Holiday Park, which is

also open to the public.

Sandy Bay, Porthcawl

A beautiful flat sandy bay sheltered by

Porthcawls harbour.

} {= WC

Great for: Sunbathing, sandcastles,

donkey rides and the Coney Beach

Amusement Park. Porthcawl towncentre and promenade are also

nearby.

Rest Bay, Porthcawl

Golden sands that sweep up to a

rocky shoreline which is backed by

acres of common ground.

} {= WC zGreat for: All sorts of water sports,

particularly surfing. Youll also findplenty of space to sunbathe and relax.

Sker Beach, Porthcawl

The hidden jewel of Porthcawls

beaches, this is a remote sandy beach

which backs on to Kenfig National

Nature Reserve.

} {= WCz

Great for: Nature. Sker Beach is hometo wild orchids, insects and wildlife.

The beach is naturally unspoilt and

has views across to Swansea and the

Gower.

Pink Bay, Porthcawl

A quieter pebble/sandy beach with

rocks that have a unique pink marbling

effect hence the name Pink Bay.

You can walk here from Rest Bay.

C

Great for: People who just want to

chill out and get away from it all.

(Seasonal)

(at Kenfig)

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5

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2

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12 14

13 1516 17

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Penarth seafront

Steps lead down from the esplanade

to the beach, which is a mix of stone

and shingle.

} {= WCzGreat for: Sea fishing and the Pier,

beautiful gardens and range of places

to eat and drink.

Whitmore Bay,

Barry Island

A wide sandy beach close to cafs,

attractions and amusement arcades.

} {= WC zGreat for: Traditional seaside fun, fish

and chips, ice cream, sandcastles and

sunbathing. Beach wheelchairs

available for hire during the summer

from Tourist Information Centre.

Cold Knap, Barry

A wide pebble beach with coastal

walks nearby.

}CzGreat for: Windsurfing and sea fishing.

The conditions and location are

perfect for both.

The Leys, Aberthaw

Very rocky, next to Aberthaw Power

Station.

}C

Great for: One of the best shore

angling venues in South Wales.

Summerhouse Point,

Boverton

A flat rock beach on a quiet part of

the coast.

} {=

Great for: Walkers, ramblers and

fishermen.

(at certain times)

Lavernock Point,near Penarth

A small sandy beach with coastal

walks nearby.

} WC

Great for: History it was from herethat Marconi received the first radio

transmission across water in 1897.

Fontygary Bay, Rhoose

A sheltered beach backed by cliffs. A

mixture of sand, pebbles and rock

pools.

C

Great for: Getting away from it all.

Jacksons Bay,

Barry Island

A small sandy bay with a footpath

linking around to Whitmore Bay.

CGreat for: A quieter alternative to

Whitmore Bay, with coastal walks.

Porthkerry, Barry

A wide pebble beach adjoiningPorthkerry Country Park.

} {= WCzGreat for: The combination of a

beach and country park. Includes an

adventure playground and nature trails.

Key:

} Car Park

{= Toilets

W Snacks available

C Dogs welcome all year round

C Dogs banned between1 May and 30 September

Lifeguards on duty(during summer season only)

Blue flag beach

z Disabled facilities available(Toilets accessed by RADAR key)

All details correct at time of goingto press

Please be careful on our coast.There are many hidden dangers, with

cliff falls a possibility and many

beaches are tide-traps as the Bristol

Channel has the second highest tidal

range in the world. Watch out for

any warnings and listen to the advice

given by Lifeguards. For tide times

please visit our websites.

Please ensure that the coastline is

maintained for the future by only

leaving your footprints behind, and

take any litter with you.

Rockpool exploring is fun but the

creatures and organisms found can

often be damaged if exposed to the

sun and wind. If you turn over a rock,

remember to replace it the correct

way up and dont remove anything

that is firmly attached to it.

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Generations have been

enjoying the seaside funand stunning beach of

Whitmore Bay at Barry

Island for many years.

If the sun is shining then stock up on

ice cream or candy floss and enjoy the

promenade, amusements, shops, funfair

rides and beautiful sands. Or, if youre

wrapping up for a wintry walk at the

seaside or along the nearby coastal paths,

then dont miss out on some of the finest

coffee in South Wales to warm you up.

There is plenty of car parking available at

Barry Island, while the resort has its own

train station which is linked to Cardiff

Central.

During the summer youll find a huge

variety of exciting free events taking place

at Barry Island along the promenade or on

the beach. Please go to

www.visitthevale.com for details.

Barry Island is also the home of the BBC

TV comedy show Gavin and Stacey as

many of the series most popular scenes

were filmed there. The resort has become

familiar to millions thanks to the show and

fans will love seeing the real life slots

arcade where Stacey

worked, Marcos

caf and more.


Smugglers Cove Crazy Golf


The beach at Whitmore Bay

Familiar to millions


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Make your own Gavin and Stacey tour

If you are a fan of Gavin, Nessa, Smithy and the rest of the gang that have put Barry

Island firmly in the spotlight during the last few years, then youll want to visit some

of the top filming locations that were used at Barry Island and the surrounding area.

1. Island Leisure Amusement Arcade, Western Shelter, Barry IslandNessas slots arcade, where she worked in the first series.

2. Boofys Chip Shop, Western Shelter, Barry IslandGavin and Stacey's chippy of choice.

3. Marcos Coffee and Ice Cream Bar, Barry IslandHome of Peroni, the dog featured in the opening credits,

and where Stacey works in the third series.

4. The Square, Barry IslandThis is where Daves Coaches left from to take Stacey to

London to meet Gavin for the first time.

5. The Glendale Hotel,The Italian restaurant 'Luigi's', which was the scene of a dramatic meal in series two

when Nessa revealed to the girls that she was pregnant... and the father is Smithy!

6. All Saints Church Hall, Victoria Road, PenarthThe setting for Gwens Barn Dance birthday bash.

7. King Square, outside the Town Hall in BarryNessas human statue took Gwen

and Jason by surprise.

8. Trinity Street, BarryThis is the street on which Gwen, Stacey,

Doris and Uncle Bryn all lived.

9. The Tadross Hotel, 271 Holton Road, BarryThis was used for the christening of Neil,

the baby, in the third series.

10. St Peters Church, Peterston-Super-ElyUsed as the venue for Nessa and

Daves wedding that never was.


Stacey,Gavin,Smithy&Nessa

Gavin&Stacey

intheSquare

Ice creams on the promenade Rides and amusements galore!

Nessashumanstatue


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This adrenaline packedseaside resort of Porthcawl

on the Heritage coast and

Swansea Bay can easily be

found just off the M4 at J37

between Cardiff in the east

and Swansea in the west.

A great place for a holiday,

a few days away or to take

a break on your journey.

Waves, sand and laughter

Well known for its water sports beaches,

get away from it all on Sker Beach, surf the

breakers at Rest Bay, build a sandcastle

with the family at Sandy Bay or sail/kayak

on the calmer waters of Newton Bay, here

you can also take your dog for a walk on

the beach any day of the year.

Porthcawl is a mecca for the adventurer,

from beginner to expert try you hand at

wind, board or kite surfing, scuba diving,

kayaking, yachting, jet skiing or wake

boarding. Need some tuition, there aremany local water sports operators to

assist you.

World class golf with a view

The golf is special as well Royal

Porthcawl an 18 hole links course

has an enviable reputation as

one of the leading courses in the

world, it hugs the coast with

great sea views from most holes

and provides a real test of your

golfing skills. Close by is Pyle and

Kenfig Golf Club 18 holes,

glorious views on an undulating

links course with natural hazards

of hillocks, valleys and towering

dunes. For something a little

different play the Grove Golf

Club a 18 hole parkland course.

Sand, sea and surf


Porthcawl Promenade

Rest Bay, Porthcawl


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Back to nature

Fancy an invigorating walk then try out 11 miles of trails that

start at the mouth of the river Ogmore and skirt around Merthyr

Mawr sand dunes. You can continue this walk past Newton Bay,

Porthcawl, Rest Bay and finish at Sker beach. This walk forms part

of the new Wales Coastal footpath which runs along the length

of the Glamorgan Heritage Coast.

While at Sker dont forget to visit Kenfig National Nature Reserve

and try out the new family trail at Kenfig Pool. Read the story to your

children and follow the interactive map, can you spot the wildlife?

Fun for all the family

For extra fun and excitement dont miss out on Sandy Bay, which

is backed by the rides and funfair thrills of Coney Beach Pleasure

Park. Families will also enjoy the range of facilities that are on

offer at the Trecco Bay Holiday Park complex, including an indoor

swimming pool, play centre and various entertainment venues.

If entertainment is your enjoyment then the Grand Pavilion on

the seafront, has popular shows, live music, comedians to

entertain you throughout the year.

Memories of your holiday

Need to buy a present, the town centre has a pedestrian

shopping area where you will find plenty of places to buy your

holiday gifts or treats for the family. Have a bite to eat or drink,

the continental coffees taste even better as you watch the

rolling waves on the seashore.

Whatever time of the year you decide to visit there are some

amazing quirky events taking place in Porthcawl. We have every

kind of music from the Celtic Festival in March to Jazz on the

Beach in April. There are also surfing and cycling competitionsand dont forget the internationally renowned Porthcawl Elvis

Festival in September. We even have a Christmas morning swim!


Whiteknuckles

Whitewaves

Whitesands

Coney Beach Pleasure ParkSplashing Time


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The Glamorgan HeritageCoast and Countryside is

building up a reputation for

hosting some of the most

exciting, quirky and fun

events in the UK, and

none more so than the

Porthcawl Elvis Festival.


Porthcawl Elvis Festival

Bridgend Feastival

Elvis definitely isnt dead. Visit Porthcawl

during September and you will spot TheKing everywhere! Youll see any number of

quiffs and sideburns, plenty of blue suede

shoes, and all shapes and sizes squeezing

into their finest Elvis jumpsuits.

Eight years ago a local promoter who

wanted to help secure the future of the

Grand Pavilion in Porthcawl decided to

stage an award show for Elvis Tribute

Artists. Venues such as The Hi Tide and

The Brentwood rallied around the event

and helped create a festival weekend

which has now grown to be, officially, thelargest Elvis festival in the World.

Hundreds of fans get dressed up and

make sweet music in the town every year

to pay homage to their hero. Its a unique,

and sometimes surreal, event that is

perfect entertainment for a weekend

away.

There are shows galore during the festival

at a number of venues across Porthcawl,

including The Elvies, the leading award

show for Elvis Tribute Acts. See if youagree with the judges as they pick out the

winners of awards such as Best Vegas

Elvis, Best Newcomer, Best Gold Lame

Jacket, Best Young Elvis and Best Festival

Elvis. If you get carried away with it all,

and your voice matches the quality ofyour outfit, then why not get all shook up

and sing at one of the open-mic events.

Its now or never!

Then, when Elvis has left the building

there are all of these events to enjoy as

well

A food festival

with a difference

The Bridgend Feastival shows off the best

in local food and drink, but does so with asmile. Your tastebuds will definitely be

tickled by the sight of the cookery demos,

tasting tents and food stands that sprawl

around the town centres streets, while

youll also enjoy a chuckle at seeing some

food-related entertainment. Previous

Feastival highlights include a 10-foot tall

sheep made out of cauliflowers, portraits

that were created with marmite on toast,

a leek lobbing competition, an egg drop,

and a leaning tower of pizza. Who knows

what spectacular culinary delights will bestore at the next Feastival?


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The home of Welsh culture

There may be a small event or two going

on in London in the summer of 2012, but

for us all eyes will be on Llandow in the

Vale of Glamorgan between August 4 11

for the National Eisteddfod of Wales. It is

truly one of the worlds greatest festivals

and attracts visitors from across the globe,all keen to soak up the week-long fest of

culture, music, literature, visual arts and

activities. The Eisteddfod is a travelling

festival which belongs to the people of

Wales, and visits a different part of the

country each year. Its a big honour for

the Vale of Glamorgan to host the

Eisteddfod in 2012, and its the first time

that the county has held the event since it

came to Barry in 1968.

Christmas crackers

Join dozens of other runners at the

Merthyr Mawr Christmas Pudding Run,

usually held annually on the weekend

before Christmas. A gruelling 10k route

over the sand dunes and the hilly local

terrain of Ogmore-by-Sea makes for a

challenging, but extremely fun day out.

You will definitely feel as though you have

earned your Christmas pud after this!

Another fun event is the Christmas

Morning Swim at Porthcawl, where

swimmers of all ages brave the icy sea.Why? Join them to find out!

A matter of good taste

See Cowbridge at its most vibrant during

the towns annual food and drink festival.

Created in 2004 out of the 750th

anniversary celebration of the towns

original founding, the festival now attracts

more than 15,000 visitors who pour into

the towns streets over a weekend at theend of October. Foodies among you will

relish the delights of cooking demos,

drinks talks, a champagne marquee, street

entertainment, over 80 exhibitors and

much much more.

Got a funny feeling?

Join in with

Bridgend

Giggles

for all

thingsfunny! The

annual comedy

festival takes place at some of the areas

finest venues each autumn, with events

including stand up performances, talent

competitions, and gurning contests, while

if you fancy putting together your own

comedy routine you can do so at an open

mic night.

Show time

Both the Vale of Glamorgan and Bridgend

Agricultural Shows provide a great chance

for the local farming community to come

together and celebrate some of the best

quality livestock in Wales. Both shows

draw in the crowds by featuring

competitions, displays, trade and craftstands, showjumping, and general fun for

all the family. The Vale Show is a one-day

event held during August on the grounds

of Fonmon Castle, while the Bridgend

Show is a weekend affair which takes

place in Pencoed during July.

And thats not all. Theres also the Penarth

Summer Festival, the Beyond the Border

storytelling festival at St Donats Arts

Centre, a number of walking festivals,

regular events at Dyffryn Gardens, summer

events at Barry Island, and loads more.You can also see some great shows and

entertainment throughout the year at our

local theatres such as the Grand Pavilion in

Porthcawl, the Memorial Hall in Barry,

Maesteg Town Hall and Blaengarw

Workmens Hall.

To find out full details, dates and times of

all our events please visit our websites.


MooooFoodfestival

Familytime

Merthyr Mawr Christmas Pudding Run


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Ogmore Valley

Bridgend

Stop off at the Bridgend Designer Outlet

at junction 36 of the M4 for a break or

visit you must make in any weather. Be

tempted by nearly 100 top branded stores

offering better discounts than their usual

high street versions. Get your designer

clothing and household items from stores

including Next, Marks & Spencer,

Billabong, Ted Baker, FCUK, Nike, Adidas

and more. Its also a particularly good

place to go if you are looking for leisureclothing and to get all your outdoor

walking and camping gear.

When you are unable to enjoy the great

outdoors, catch a film at the Odeon, the

areas largest cinema complex. There is

plenty of parking available, as well as a

good choice of food options.

Just a few miles north is the One Historic

Garden Bryngarw House and Country Park,

with 113 acres of beautiful walks, way-

marked nature trails, open spaces, and ayear round calendar of events with art,

crafts, historic and music festivals. Wander

around the picturesque Oriental garden

before calling into Bryngarw House for a

well-earned drink, break or meal. The

House is more than 200 years old and

with 19 bedrooms you get a great deal for

a short break at any time of the year.

Bridgend is overlooked by the ruins of

Newcastle and offers traditional traffic

free shopping, an indoor market and fine

Italian cafs and restaurants. Many

people believe that the town took its

name from the 1425 Old Bridge which

was built across the river Ogmore, and themany more modern bridges and a new

river walkway provide a way around town

and an innovating walk to the sea along

the river.

Bridgend is now famous for the quirky

style events that happen throughout the

year, such as Mash Up in the spring,

Giggles in the summer, Feastival in the

autumn and the Elfsteddfod just before

Christmas, all ensuring visitors an

experience to remember.

Blaengarw heritage sculpture

Garw Valley carnival

Bridgend Elfsteddfod



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Barry

The port of Barry dates back to the late

19th century, and at its peak in 1913 more

than 11 million tonnes of coal a year were

exported from there.

A reminder of the towns industrial past

can be seen with the large viaduct that

stands within Porthkerry Country Park, a

beautiful park with 220 acres of green

countryside and woodland. The park

leads down to the seashore and the

pebbly Knap beach, with the nearby

harp-shaped Knap lake the perfect place

for a family picnic.

Barry has a busy schedule of events

throughout the year, and has two main

shopping areas - High Street to the west

and Holton Road in the town centre. The

towns waterfront area is currentlyundergoing regeneration, with a number

of exciting projects in the pipeline.

Blaengarw

Drive along the only road or cycle the

gentle graded Garw Valley community

route to a small town at the head of the

valley. At its heart, the historic Blaengarw

Workman's Hall hosts regular live shows

throughout the year. Mingle with the locals,

visit the Garw Carnival and Rural Fair inAugust, walk one of the many scenic trails,

and learn about the tales of the Valleys.

Discover who wrote Welsh hymn Calon

Lan then enjoy a Welsh tea in the caf. For

the more active, new Mountain Bike trails

from blue (easy) to black (difficult) will be

ready for the summer 2012 from the

Calon Lan car park.

Porthkerry Country Park

Bridgend Indoor Market

Shop RelaxFun



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Cowbridge

One of South Wales most fashionable

places, rural Cowbridge is full of

sophisticated shops and plays host to a

fantastic food and drink festival each

autumn.

If you like to shop in style then youll love

Cowbridge High Street. The town is often

referred to as the Bond Street of Wales

and has numerous unique, family-ownedshops selling up-market clothes for men

and women as well as jewellery, leather

goods, shoes, antiques and crafts.

Eating out in Cowbridge is always a treat,

whether youre looking for a lunchtime

bite or a three-course meal. The town has

a wealth of history dating back to Roman

times, while the South Gate on Town Mill

Road shows the only surviving gateway of

the original walled town.

It is an extremely rare example ofmedieval town gates in Glamorgan and

dates from the early 14th century.

Cowbridges historic past is further

reflected in its present day buildings,

which add to the interest and character of

the town. The area around High Street is a

pleasure to explore while the Cowbridge

Physic Garden is a tranquil place to relax.

Llantwit Major

The most important early Christiansettlement in Wales was at Llantwit Major,

where St Illtud founded a church and

religious school in around 500AD.

The imposing church of St Illtud now

stands on this site and contains a

collection of Celtic crosses and carved

stones, many of which are older than the

church itself.

Other historic sites in the town include

Iron Age hill forts, a Roman villa, fine

Tudor buildings and a Medieval Grange.

Despite having grown in recent years, this

coastal town still retains its air of antiquity

with its maze of little lanes, narrow streetsand old inns.

Llantwit Majors beach has some amazing

cliff-top scenery. It is a great place to

start or finish a coastal walk, and is also

popular with surfers.

Maesteg

Travel north from the M4 and the scenery

changes as the visitor is greeted with the

steep sided valleys and mountains of theHeritage Hills within the Valleys Regional

Park.

At their centre is the ancient market town

of Maesteg, standing at the head of the

Llynfi Valley. The towns origins can be

traced back to the establishment of iron-

making in the late 1820s, and the area

also has a justly proud heritage of

supplying coal.

There is still plenty to remind us of the

proud industrial age, but now you will finda very different landscape. Vast areas of

forest now provide fantastic walking and

cycling routes with magnificent views in

every direction.


Penarth Marina

Physic Garden, Cowbridge

St Illtuds Church, Llantwit Major


21/52

Maesteg also has an interesting claim to

fame in that the first official performance

of the Welsh National Anthem was at

Maestegs Tabor Chapel in 1856. Miss

Elizabeth John performed the song which

was composed in Pontypridd by father

and son, Evan and James James. Maesteg

Town Hall continues the tradition with

many popular entertainment acts

throughout the year.

For the more active a new internationalBMX track at Caerau will tempt bikers of all

abilities to a turn around the track. Then

cycle or walk down the new community

route to Maesteg admiring the scenery

and artworks, following the route of the

Dyffryn Llynfi Porthcawl railway.

Penarth

Penarths Victorian and Edwardian

founders created a resort of great

elegance and beauty, and the present daytown is just as full of charm and character.

Tread the boards of the 658 foot long

Penarth Pier, which is quintessentially

British and oozing with nostalgia. Built in

1895, it is reminiscent of more gentle

times and is one of only two surviving

pleasure piers in South Wales, the other

being Mumbles.

In addition to the Pier, the rest of

Penarths seafront is also home to a

graceful Esplanade, beautiful gardens,restaurants and cafes. Its the perfect

place for a stroll and it is only a short uphill

walk back to the town centre.

There are plenty of ways to improve your

health and wellbeing in Penarth. For

example, why not lose yourself for a few

hours in the peaceful surroundings of

Cosmeston Lakes Country Park. Open all

year round, the park has easily accessible

paths and is a haven for local wildlife.

Further scenic views can be found from

Penarth Cliff Top, where you can look out

towards Flat Holm Island. During the

summer months you can also take to thesea to explore the Bristol Channel on board

the historic Balmoral cruise ship or

Waverley paddle steamer from Penarth

Pier.

Penarth Marina is just across the water

from Cardiff Bay, and if you are visiting

the capital for a show or sporting fixture,

then you can get there in minutes from

Penarth by walking or cycling across the

Barrage or by taking a water-taxi.

HistoricLlantwitMajor

MaestegTownHall

LunchinCowbridge


Penarth Pier Maesteg Town Centre


22/52

Thanks to the passion oflocal heritage enthusiasts,

the historic secrets and

tales that span the length

and breadth of the


and Countryside have

recently been dusted off

and brought to life in a way

fit for the 21st century.

Visit the interactive Explore and More

touch-screen kiosks at Dyffryn GardensVisitor Centre, Cowbridge High Street, St

Illtuds Church in Llantwit Major and the

Water Mill pub near Bridgend, and you can

watch a series of short films that delve

deep into the fascinating stories behind

many of the castles, churches and ancient

sites that can be visited in the area.

Here is a taste of what you can uncover

The key to our castles

Clues to how significant the GlamorganHeritage Coast and Countryside was as a

source of wealth and power are visible

today in the number of castles and

fortified houses that were built in the area.

Imagine the battles that were fought at St

Quentins Castle near Cowbridge, picturethe imposing presence that Newcastle

would have had, gazing down on the

dwellers of Bridgend. Or marvel at the

impressive architecture of Beaupre Castle

(shown below) or the scale of St Donats

Castle, the largest continually inhabited

castle in Wales and steeped in over 800

years of history.

Another grand castle is found at Coity.

Founded by the knight Payn de Turberville

this was an important seat of Norman

influence in South Wales. The castlesextensive ruins date back to the 14th

century and include tall walls, towers and a

gatehouse.


Dyffryn Gardens, St Nicholas

Hidden histories


23/52

You can also wander around the remains

of Ogmore Castle, idyllically situated next

to the river. The castle, which was

established by King William 1, was first

built as an earth and timber structure, and

later replaced with stone, the remains of

which you can explore today.

Village people

History hunters will also love to see and

touch how life was in 14th century Walesat Cosmeston Medieval Village near

Penarth. You can become immersed in

1350 by taking a stroll around the village

or opt for an audio tour. The feel of the

village is so authentic that it has been

used as a filming location for the BBC TV

show Merlin.

A garden for all seasons

Only a few miles from Cardiff are the

Grade One listed gardens of Dyffryn

House which show off the best in

Edwardian garden design. The historic

House and Gardens allow visitors to

experience an extraordinary range of

designs including Italiante influences at its

Pomperian Garden, to the rockery,

fountains, formal lawns, glass house,

a pretty rose garden, and an extensive

Arboretum featuring trees from all over

the world. Late in 2012 parts of the house

are planned to be fully restored to their

original splendour, and open to the public.

Are you ready?

With these words a message in Morse

Code was tapped out from Flat Holm

Island in the Bristol Channel and received

by a young Italian, Guglielmo Marconi at

Lavernock Point, a headland two miles

south of Penarth. It was 13th May 1897

and Marconi had successfully received the

first ever radio transmission over water,

ably assisted by George Kemp, a Post

Office Engineer from Cardiff. The modern

age of wireless communication owes

much to that remarkable day on theGlamorgan Heritage Coast and

Countryside.

A house ahead of its years

One Historic Garden Bryngarw House and

Country Park was renovated by a Victorian

industrialist who had travelled extensively

in the Far East, bringing back rare and

exotic plants and antiques. The Japanese

gardens close to the house are a good

example of how these plants were used.

The house was altered and extended

when Morgan Popkin Traherne married

and undertook the 1830 renovation.

The household was quite advanced for its

time in that it generated its own

electricity, while the picturesque

surroundings later came alive with the

sound of music when orchestra and piano

recitals were performed outdoors on the

lawn, as O.P. Traherne (Morgan's

successor) was a keen music lover. He also

loved hunting and fishing and played host

to royalty who visited the park for hunting

weekends.


Coity Castle Explore and More kiosk


24/52

Atmospheric Churches

Ewenny Priory is the most complete

Norman church in South Wales and one

of the finest examples of a fortified

church building in Europe. It is thought

that it was completed in 1126 and it

stands today as an extraordinary

monument to Norman power andChristian devotion. In 1141 it became a

Priory of the Benedictine Abbey of St

Peter, Gloucester.

Other atmospheric churches include St

Illtuds in Llantwit Major, which at over

1500 years old is one of the oldest

Christian sites in the UK. Visitors can also

admire wall paintings, memorials, carvings

and a collection of Celtic crosses.

Theres old. Theres really old.

And theres Tinkinswood.

For a magical tale or two, history hunters

should head to the Burial Chambers

(shown below) at Tinkinswood and St

Lythans. Standing just outside the village

of St Nicholas, the Tinkinswood Megalithic

Burial Chamber was built in 4000BC,

making it even older than Stonehenge.

It is unclear why 6000 years ago a 36-

tonne capstone measuring around nine

metres long and four metres wide was

brought to Tinkinswood to create a burial

chamber to honour the dead. Building the

chamber required engineering skill and

resourcefulness that is astounding even

today, revealing much about the incredible

ingenuity of our Neolithic ancestors.

The spirits arent only

behind the bar

One of the areas oldest pubs, the Ploughand Harrow near Monknash, has served as

a hostelry since 1383. But that was not

the only role that this famous inn has

played. Before it was an inn, the building

was a grange established by a monastery,

but as the years passed it is said to have

been implicated in the arts of

shipwrecking.

The Wreckers of Wick were a band of

local rogues, reputed to have tied lanterns

around the necks of sheep that grazed

near the cliff tops. When darkness fell,ships captains were lured into believing

that they were nearing the docks of

Cardiff Bay or Barry, only to find their

vessels run aground on the treacherous

Nash sandbank.

With the cargo looted, the bodies of the

dead sailors were said to have been

brought to the Plough and Harrow

either by the monks or by the wreckers

before they were buried. To this day, the

pub is said to be haunted by a number of

restless spirits.


Llangwnwyd Church

Newcastle, Bridgend


25/52

Romantic tales and traditions

The old hilltop village of Llangynwyd is

home to many historic tales and customs.

One story centres around the poet and

bard Will Hopcyn, who was born there in

the 1700s. Wills ill fated love of local maid

Ann Thomas is said to be the basis of the

old Welsh legend, The Maid of Cefn Ydfa.

The story goes that Anns parents didnt

approve of the romance and forbid her to

see Will. Ann was then forced to marry

another man against her wishes and died

pining for Will, her true love. Both Will and

Ann are buried in the Llangynwyd

churchyard and the cross between the

church and The Old House is a memorial

to Will.

The ancient Welsh tradition of the Mari

Llwyd also has close links to the village.

The ancient custom marks the passing of

the darkest days of mid-Winter and

involves animal skulls, songs and rhymes.

Llangynwyd is one of the few remaining

places where the tradition can still be seen

in its purest form every New Years Eve.

For more stories from yesteryear, order a

copy of our Fascinating Towns and

Legendary Villages handbook see page35 for details.

OneHistoricGarden

Uncoverourhiddenhistories

Goonacastlequest!


St Donats Castle Coity Castle


26/52

In the Glamorgan Heritage

Coast and Countryside we

do golf in every different

way imaginable. You can

enjoy the ultimate golfing

experience that will suit

you to a tee, however you

want to play. Golfing

breaks are available formost courses, while others

welcome you to pay and

play.

Big and little hitters

Kids of all ages who fancy some quick

golfing fun should head for a game of

crazy golf at either Barry Islands pirate-

themed Smugglers Cove course or

Trecco Bay in Porthcawl.

You can sharpen up your short game on

our nine-hole public courses such as the

ones at Porthkerry Country Park in Barry

and Griffin Park in Porthcawl, both of

which are ideal for budding Rory McIllroys

making early steps in the game. Big andlittle hitters can also practise their swings

at floodlit driving ranges such as those

found at the Bridgend Golf Complex and

St Andrews Major Golf Club, among

others.

Unique challenges

Youll be tested and delighted in equal

measures by our selection of 18-hole

courses. Brave the natural elements and

the unique challenges of one of the bestBritish links course at Royal Porthcawl. The

course is currently ranked twelfth in the

world and will host the British Seniors

Open in 2014. At Royal Porthcawl you will

also find a clubhouse that is arguably thefinest 19th hole in the country.

A golfing break at the Vale Resort lets you

play two luxurious courses. At 7,433 yards

long, the immaculate Wales National is

one of the largest courses this side of the

Atlantic, while the Lake course is

dominated by a 20 acre lake and has

water coming into play on 12 holes.

The completegolf package

Royal Porthcawl Golf Club

Dinas Powis Golf Club

Southerndown Golf Club



27/52

Breathtaking backdropsNo matter how well your game goes, youll

certainly remember the spectacular views

and breathtaking backdrops of playing a

round at perfectly designed courses such

as Southerndown, St Marys, Pyle and

Kenfig, Brynhill, Dinas Powis, The Grove,

Wenvoe Castle, Coed Y Mwstwr, Maesteg,

The Glamorganshire, and RAF St Athan.

In addition to having two pristine parkland

courses, Cottrell Park is also home to

state-of-the-art golf simulators, the firstof their kind in the UK and Ireland. Watch

where you are going right, or wrong, and

work on your game ready for next time. Itll

give you the perfect excuse to come back.

Offthetee

Pyle and Kenfig Golf Club Cottrell Park Golf Club

andaputttowinChippingin



28/52

Fancy a dirty weekend?Wheelies and whoops

A former mining site near Maesteg has

been completely transformed into Wales

first national-standard BMX bike track.

Thirty years after the Coegnant Colliery at

Caerau was mined for the final time, the

earth has been moved in a different way

to create a brand new facility where you

can experience one of the most modern

and exciting Olympic sports.

Seven thousand tonnes of soil has been

shifted to build the Llynfi BMX track,where riders of all ages and abilities can

take their bikes with them to race around

a circuit of challenging berms and

whoops BMX talk for bends and

jumps.

Some of those jumps are over two metres

high, and friends and family can watch all

of all of the thrills and spills from the many

spectator areas at the venue.

Two wheels or four?

Show your mountain bike some real

action in the forests and heritage hills

north of Bridgend, such as the new trails

leading from Blaengarw, or dust down

your family bikes and meander along the

many local cycle routes and trails.

On two wheels is also one of the best

ways to see our coastline, as most of ourbeaches are linked by country roads and

lanes. If youre better on four wheels, then

race your friends and family on the fast

straights and hairpin bends of the South

Wales Karting Centre in Llandow or Race

Hire Indoor Karting near Bridgend.

Turn it up a notch

Switching up the adrenaline levels even

further, the Adventures Activity Centre

near Porthcawl lets you have a go at

several high octane sports. Whizz throughthe mud by getting to grips with a quad

bike, or conquer your fear of heights by

tackling the high ropes course, climbing

tower and aerial zip slide.

If you like the sound ofactivities such as mountain

biking, horse riding,

paintballing and quad biking

then get your heart pounding

with an activity break in

the Glamorgan Heritage

Coast and Countryside.

Adrenaline seekers had

best stay somewhere with

a washing machine after a

weekend of this


Cycling in the Ogmore Valley

Llynfi BMX Track

Adventures, Porthcawl


29/52

Sharp shooters can also take a shot in the

centres purpose-built Speedball arena,while further paintball action can also be

enjoyed with Task Force, just off the A48

near Cowbridge.

Surf and turf

Weve already mentioned the excellent

surfing conditions, and our coastline is

also ideal for trying your hand at bush-

craft, scuba diving, rock climbing and sea

kayaking. You dont need to be super-fit,

just be ready to try something new! You

can also explore the coast andcountryside on horseback,

with local riding centres

catering for riders of all

ages and experience levels.

Boardgames

Adrenalinerush

Gloriousmud!


Kite Surfing, Rest Bay

Task Force paintball Horse trekking, Ogmore-By-Sea


30/52

Whether youve got a carfull of kids to keep

entertained, want to make

back-up plans for a rainy

day, or are on the look-out

for a unique experience

during your visit, here are

ideas of some of the best

places to go and things to

do. This is only a snapshot

though further

inspiration can be found

on our websites.

Please refer to page 34 for

all attraction telephone

numbers and websites.

Top 5

for little ones

Go for a swim at Splashland, the indoor

swimming complex at Trecco BayHoliday Park in Porthcawl, which isopen to the public.

Have fun on the rides along the

promenade at Barry Island followedby a paddle in the sea.

Take a trip to see the farm animals at

the Amelia Trust Farm near Barry. Itsa working farm with a variety of

livestock, and entrance is free.

After an hour or so at one of the local

indoor play centres, such as AdventureIsland in Barry Island orWiggliesFarm Park in Bridgend, children aresure to sleep all the way home!

Walk around the picturesque

Wilderness Lake in Porthcawl. Its ahidden gem where you can feed the

ducks.

Top 5

for culture

See a performance at the St DonatsArts Centre. Its a unique venue withinthe grounds of a medieval castle

overlooking the sea.

Visit Ecodysgu in Tondu, a centre foralternative therapy and traditional

crafts, willow weaving and woodland

jewellery.

Enjoy live shows all year round at theGrand Pavilion in Porthcawl, MaestegTown Hall and the Memorial Hall and

Theatre in Barry.

Visit Coed Hills Rural Artspace,Wales leading venue for art in the

environment.

Movie buffs can enjoy a cinematic

experience with a twist by watching a

film against the backdrop of the

Glamorgan Heritage Coast at the unique

Cinema by the sea in Southerndown.

Take5



Wild Spirit Bushcraft


31/52

Top 5

on a rainy day

Stock up on popcorn and watch a film

at the Odeon Cinema, next to theBridgend Designer Outlet byjunction 36 of the M4.

Hit the shops at the BridgendDesigner Outlet. There are top namestores and bargains galore.

Go quad biking at the Adventures

Activity Centre near Porthcawl. Therain will only add to the mud!

Practice your sharp shooting at Wales

number one Quasar centre in BarryIsland. You can battle it out in the

specially designed indoor arena.

Brave the weather with a day at thebeach. Good fun, whatever theweather!

Top 5

fun for free

Cross the stepping stones at OgmoreCastle. Great fun and great scenery,but not so great if you fall in the river!

Take the family back to your childhood

with a sand sledging day at MerthyrMawr sand dunes.

Cycle or walk along the spectacular

barrage from Penarth Marina to

Cardiff Bay, and take in some amazingviews of the Millennium Centre and

Millennium Stadium.

Walk a section of the Heritage Coast,part of the newly unveiled 870-mile-

long Wales Coast Path.

Many of our events are free, such as the

Feastival in Bridgend and the summerprogramme of events at Barry Island.

Top 5

for something different

Learn how to survive in the wild with

Wild Spirit Bushcraft, based atMerthyr Mawr.

Go potty at the Ewenny CraftCentre, the oldest family-run potteryin Wales. Watch the experts at work, or

throw a pot for yourself.

Get involved in one of our quirky events!

One of the most unique is theElfsteddfod in Bridgend town centreat Christmas time where we try to

gather together as many people dressed

as elves as possible!

How many people does it take to

change a light bulb in a lighthouse? And

just how big are those bulbs? Find out

by taking a tour of Nash Pointlighthouse.

Take an open doors tour around Hut 9,

the prisoner of war camp at Island Farm,Bridgend.


Bridgend Feastival Bridgend Designer Outlet

Nash Point lighthouse


32/52

Top 5

for nature

A natural lake is set on the edge of a

beautiful sand dune system at the

Kenfig National Nature Reserve.The wetlands and scrub are home to

wild orchids, butterflies and birds, and

the reserve is situated where the town

of Kenfig once stood, before it

succumbed to the sands in the 1400s.

Look out for the nature themed events

at Dyffryn Gardens such as bat nights,autumn tree-gazing walks and the

fungal foray where you can learn about

Dyffryns varied mushroom population.

AtWarren Mill Farm near Cowbridgeyoull find farm animals, a play area, and

walks through unspoilt countryside, all

situated around a natural four acre

coarse lake. Visit Cosmeston Lakes Country

Park and stride along the boardwalkthrough tall bulrushes and reed beds or

wander the fine broad-leaved

woodland to see a variety of birds,

foxes and other creatures in their

natural habitat.

Nature trails, bird hides and paths let

you discover Parc Slip Nature Parksunique environment of wetlands,

woodlands and meadows.

Top 5

for grown-ups

Wine and dine in one of our rustic

country pubs or award winning

restaurants such as The Fig Tree inPenarth.

Enjoy a pampering day of relaxing

health treatments at theVale Hotel

Golf & Spa Resort or Coed yMwstwr Hotel, Coychurch.

Spend time at Llanerch Vineyard,Wales oldest and largest commercial

vineyard. With woodland walks,

vineyard tours, and wine tastings, you

can work up an appetite for a delicious

lunch, or a traditional high tea with a

local flavour. Food lovers can also

indulge in a course at the new cookery

school.

Cruise down the Bristol Channel, goacross to England or tour a remote

island onboard the traditional cruise

ship, The Balmoral, or the worlds lastsea-going Paddle Steamer TheWaverley. Both sail from Penarth Pier

and Porthcawl harbour during the

summer months.

Pop into Cardiff. The capital is just onour doorstep and any stay in the

Glamorgan Heritage Coast and

Countryside isnt complete without avisit to Cardiff.

Top 5

castles

Originally the stronghold of a major

Norman lordship, Coity Castlemanaged to withstand a battering from

Owain Glyndwr in 1404 and was

eventually abandoned at the end of the

16th century.

Youd be hard pushed to find a moreidyllic setting than Ogmore Castle.Situated beside the river, the castle was

built to guard a strategic fording point.

Occupied as a home since the

thirteenth century, Fonmon Castle isa magnificent Medieval Castle. A guided

tour of this property is a must.

The remains of an early Norman castle

stand proudly on a hill dominating

Bridgend town. Look out for

Newcastles richly carved decorationon the south gateway.

Surrounded by woodland and the

shifting sands of Merthyr Mawr, the

remains of Candleston Castle areparticularly romantic. The castle was

once a 14th century fortified manor

house and was inhabited until the last

century by the powerful Cantelupe

family.


Cosmeston Lakes Country Park

Llanerch Vineyard

Coity Castle


33/52

Top 5

for teenagers

Choose from loads of activities such as

quad biking, climbing and speedball at

the Adventures Activity Centrenear Porthcawl.

Get on board and learn how to surf at

one of the many local surfing

academies.

Ride Wales first national-standard BMX

bike track at Coegnant, Caerau. The

Llynfi BMX track features a startinghill, 90 degree turns and a variety of

jumps.

Go horse riding along the beach with

the Ogmore Riding Centre.Complete novices welcome, and

experienced riders too.

Whizz around the track at the SouthWales Karting Centre, Llandow. Thecircuit is 870m long and is the only fully

floodlit outdoor Kart circuit in Wales.

Top 5

parks

Based around a former 1780s

Ironworks, Bedford Park in CefnCribwr contains fascinating country

walks and easy to follow nature trails.

Porthkerry Country Park in Barry is aspacious park next to the sea with an

imposing viaduct. The park has plenty ofwoodland, a pitch and putt golf course,

caf, and open meadows perfect for a

kick-about.

Bryngarw Country Park containswoodlands, water features, formal

gardens, nature trails and plenty of open

spaces for children to run and play,

including an adventure playground.

One of the most popular parks in South

Wales, Cosmeston Lakes Country

Park is easy to walk around as it is flat,with lots to explore, a play area and caf

too. Its also a fantastic spot for a picnic.

At the Garw Fechan Forest Park,miles of forestry stretch from the Garw

Valley to the Llynfi Valley in Maesteg.

Its a great place for walking, cycling and

orienteering, with breathtaking views.

Top 5

spectacular views

Barry Island is best known for

Whitmore Bay beach, but dont missout on the amazing views you can get if

you walk to the tip of Friars Point at the

western end of the beach.

The view across the Llynfi Valley from

Llangynwyd is absolutely breathtaking.

The Bwlch has excellent views on aclear day of the Ogmore Valley to the

south and in the distance the Vale of

Glamorgan and the sea. To the north

you can also see the historic mining

valleys of the Rhondda and Cynon and

the Brecon Beacons in the distance.

From the top of Blaengarw on the

ridgeway you can look down the GarwValley at ancient woodlands, conifer

forests, and moorland.

If you walk down from the Plough and

Harrow pub, along the track through the

woods you will reach Monknash beach.

From here you will be treated to some

of the finest views of the HeritageCoasts cliffs and amazing rockformations.


Llynfi BMX Track Ogmore Valley


34/5234 www.bridgendbites.com

Adventures Activity Centre 01656 782300 www.adventureswales.co.uk

Adventure Island Indoor Play Centre, Barry Island 01446 733344 www.adventureislandwales.com

Amelia Trust Farm, Nr Bonvilston 01446 782030 www.ameliatrust.org.uk

Bedford Park 01656 725155 www.bridgendbites.comBridgend Designer Outlet 01656 665700 www.bridgenddesigneroutlet.com

Bridgend Elfsteddfod 01656 654906 www.bridgendbites.com

Bryngarw Country Park 01656 725155 www.bryngarwhouse.co.uk

Candleston Castle, Bridgend 01656 654906 www.bridgendbites.com

Cinema by the sea, West Farm, Southerndown 01656 880465 www.barnatwestfarm.com

Coed Hills Rural Artspace, Nr Cowbridge 01446 774084 www.coedhil ls.co.uk

Coed y Mwstwr Hotel, Coychurch 01656 860621 www.coed-y-mwstwr.com

Coity Castle, Bridgend 01443 336000 www.cadw.wales.gov.uk

Cosmeston Lakes Country Park, Penarth 029 2070 1678 www.visitthevale.com

Cresseys Surf School 07502 124030 www.cresseyssurfacademy.com

Dyffryn Gardens, St Nicholas 029 2059 3328 www.visitthevale.com

Ecodysgu, Tondu 01656 728137 www.ecodysgu.co.uk

Ewenny Pottery 01656 653020 www.ewennypottery.com

Fonmon Castle, Rhoose 01446 710206 www.castleswales.com

Garw Fechan Forest Park 0779 222 8334 www.bridgendbites.com

Garw Valley 01656 654906 www.bridgendbites.com

Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl 01656 815995 www.grandpavilion.co.uk

Heritage Coast Centre, Southerndown 01656 880157 www.visitthevale.com

Hut 9 01656 643164 www.islandfarm.fsnet.co.uk

Kenfig National Nature Reserve 01656 743386 www.bridgendbites.com

Llanerch Vineyard 01443 222716 www.llanerch-vineyard.co.uk

Llynfi Valley BMX Track 01656 810225 www.bmxtalk.com

Llynfi Valley 01656 654906 www.bridgendbites.comMaesteg Town Hall 01656 733269 www.maestegtownhall.com

Memorial Hall and Theatre, Barry 01446 738622 www.memorialhalltheatre.co.uk

Merthyr Mawr 0845 1306 229 www.ccw.gov.uk

Nash Point Lighthouse 07850 047721 www.nashpoint.co.uk

Newcastle, Bridgend 01443 336000 www.cadw.wales.gov.uk

Ocean Quest 01656 783310 www.ocean-quest.co.uk

Odeon Cinema, Bridgend 01656 647476 www.odeon.co.uk

Ogmore Castle, 01443 336000 www.cadw.wales.gov.uk

Ogmore Riding Centre 01656 880856 www.rideonthebeach.co.uk

Ogmore Valley 01656 654906 www.bridgendbites.com

Parc Slip Nature Park 01656 724100 www.bridgendbites.comPorthcawl Surf School 07583 348013 www.porthcawlsurf.co.uk

Porthkerry Country Park, Barry 01446 733589 www.visitthevale.com

Quasar, Barry Island 01446 421611 www.barryislandquasar.com

Simon Tucker Surfing Academy 01656 772415 www.surfingexperience.com

Southerndown Surf School 07964 985404 [email protected]

South Wales Karting Centre, Llandow 01446 795568 www.swkc.co.uk

Splashland, Trecco Bay Holiday Park 08443 353750 www.parkdean.com

St Donats Arts Centre 01446 799100 www.stdonats.com

Task Force Paintball, Cowbridge 029 2059 3900 www.taskforcepaintball.co.uk

The Balmoral and The Waverley boat trips 0845 130 4647

The Cardiff Waterbus, Penarth Marina 07940 142409 www.cardiffcats.com

Warren Mill Farm, Bonvilston 01446 781274 www.warrenmillfarm.co.uk

Wiggleys Fun Farm 01656 766578

Wilderness Lake in Porthcawl 01656 642721 www.bridgendbites.com

Wild Spirit Bushcraft 07920 422230 www.wildspiritbushcraft.co.uk

Take 5 Contacts


35/52

inthe

MapguidesDiscover alltheareahas

tooffer

TakeyourpickThingstodoandplaces

tovisit

Get more outof your visit

Dont miss out on our FREE mini guides.

They are easy to order - simply visit our

websites or contact one of the TouristInformation Centres listed on the back

cover of this brochure.

inthe

townsfascinating

villageslegendary

PastandpresentThestoriesbehindourtownsAtasteofvillagelifeOver30villagestoexplore

Barry Bridgend Blaengarw Cowbridge LlantwitMajor Maesteg Penarth


Llanerch Vineyard

South Wales Karting Centre, Llandow

Bridgend Designer Outlet

Bridgend Elfsteddfod



Making the Grade A Guide to Quality Assurance

All the accommodation featured in this

publication has been independently

assessed so you can make your choice in

confidence, knowing that each place to

stay has been given a rating according to

the quality and facilities on offer. Theseratings mean that you can be sure of

standards and choose the

accommodation thats just right for you.

Visit Wales/AA are the only checking

agents in Wales, checking out over 5,000

places.

STARS are your guide to quality. The Star

Quality Grading Schemes apply to all

types of accommodation.

What do our star ratings mean?

Accommodation operators are gradedbetween one and five stars based on the

overall quality of the experience and the

facilities available.

Simple, practical, no frills

Well presented and well run

Good level of quality

and comfort

Very Good

Excellent

The advice is to always check with an

establishment before booking to check

that the accommodation offers the

services and facilities that meet your

needs they will only be too pleased to

help

Look out for that extra-

special property that has

been awarded Visit Wales

Gold Award, given for

exceptional standards of

hospitality, comfort and

food in serviced

accommodation.

Watch out for this sign as

these places have achieved a

Croeso Award in recognition

of their exceptional Warm

Welsh Welcome.

Please note:

All gradings and awards were correct at

the time of going to press. Occasionally,

it may not have been possible to

undertake a grading.

This situation is clearly identified by

Awaiting Grading appearing within the

advertisement/entry.

Grading assessments are on-going and

improvements made by establishments

may have resulted in a revision since

publication. Please check when booking.

Further information on gradings and

awards is available from Visit Wales,

Tel: 0845 010 8020

email: [email protected]

Web: www.wales.gov.uk/tourism

Any problems?

In the unfortunate event that you do

encounter problems with your chosen

accommodation, please refer to

http://wales.gov.uk/topics/tourism/contac

tus/complaints/consumercomplaints/ for

further guidance.

Accommodation symbols

v Caf/Restaurant on park

P Charge for fuel

Close to walking routes

O Close to cycling routes

s Coach parties welcome

f Cots available

a Golf course within 20 min drive

V Garden for guests use

smoking area provided

5 Electric hook-up on caravan

& camping site

O Evening entertainment

S Evening meals by arrangement

^ Facilities for visitors with

hearing difficulties

l Facilities for visitors withsight difficulties

F Ground floor bedrooms available

} Gym/Health Club

y Laundry facilities

C Licensed

G Lift

I Linen provided free of charge Major credit cards accepted

} Parking facilites

C Pets welcome by arrangement

P Showers on caravan& camping site

n Special diets catered for

T Use of organic produce

9 Swimming pool (indoor/outdoor)

% Tea/Coffee facilities in bedrooms

( Television in bedroom/self catering

) Television Lounge

[ Totally non-smoking

S Train station nearby (3 miles)

B Bus stop nearby (0.5 miles)

J Welsh spoken

WiFi Available@ Internet Access

Access statement prepared

Wales Association of

Self Catering Operators

Welcome Host

Warm Welsh Welcome Award

Cyclists Welcome

Walkers Welcome

Green Dragon


37/52www.bridgendbites.com 37

Porthkerry Road, Barry, Vale of Glamorgan CF62 7XY

(01446) 740069 (01446) 746600 [email protected] www.bw-mountsorrelhotel.co.uk

A traditional hotel offering a

warm and friendly welcome, in

an ideal location to explore the

Vale and Heritage coastline.

Only eight miles from the

cosmopolitan city of Cardiff,

with local train station within

5 minute walk and Cardiff

Airport a short drive away.Free entry into our indoor

pool. Free Wi-Fi. Discos some

weekends please enquire.

Mount Sorrel Hotel

Single: from 57.45 to 86.45

Double: from 73.40 to 152.90

Family: from 83.40 to 168.80

No of Rooms: 42, (42 en-suite)

Open: 1-12

Special short breaks (seasonal and subject to

availability), Please contact us for details.

}15 a v s f} C G n BF9%(S

H2

Bryngarw House nestling in

113 acres of country parkland.Each of the nineteen bedrooms

is en suite and has its own unique

style, direct dial telephones,

television, trouser press, hairdryer

and hospitality tray. Award

winning restaurant for evening

meals, Sunday lunches and

special occasions.

Eat - Drink - Relax - Enjoy - Sleep

Bryngarw House

Single: from 55Double: from 70Family: from 130No of Rooms: 19, (19 en-suite)

Open: 1-12Reduced Rate Special Offer Short Break

B&B 2 people 2 nights from: 140

D, B&B 2 people 2 nights from: 160

}20 v O a V f ^F y C n % B S

D6

Barry Hotels

Bridgend Hotels

Bridgend Hotels

Bryngarw Country Park, Brynmenyn, Bridgend CF32 8UU

(01656) 729009 (01656) 729007 [email protected]

www.bryngarwhouse.co.uk

Few settings are more tranquil

than this secluded Victorianmansion, perched on a Welsh

hillside and set in 17 acres of

woodland.The perfect base for

exploring the Heritage Coast.

On your return enjoyour award-

winning two rosette Eliot

Restaurant or take advantage

of our leisure club with a fully

equipped gym, sauna and

steam room.

Coed Y Mwstwr Hotel

Single: from 135

Double: from 180No of Rooms: 35, (35 en-suite)

Open: 1-12

Short breaks and special offers available

}150 . v s f } y C G n % ( S

E5

Coychurch, Bridgend CF35 6AF

(01656) 860621 (01656) 868122 [email protected]

coed-y-mwstwr.com

Best Western Heronston Hotel isa perfect venue to explore the

whole of Southern Wales; situated

between the capital city of Cardiff

and the cosmopolitan city of

Swansea plus only minutes from

the dramatic Glamorgan Heritage

Coastline. Excellent restaurant and

bar plus leisure facilities. Nearbygolf, horse riding, cycling and walking.

Best Western Heronston Hotel

Single: from 69

Double: from 79Family: from 89


Open: 1-12

See website for special offers

}150 v O a V s S F } y C G C nT 9

)% . B (S @ f

D4

Ewenny Road, Bridgend CF35 5AW

(01656) 668811 (01656) 767391 [email protected]

www.bw-heronstonhotel.co.uk

At Court Colman, you'll betreated as a friend coming tostay, not just a traveller passingthrough. A family home until

just a few decades ago, it stillfeels like one, so you can beassured of a warm welcome.Nestled at the foot of the GarwValley, its a peaceful retreat but

easily accessible from the M4 or rail mainline. The 30 comfortable bedroomsare complimented by the award winning Bokhara Brasserie which was voted

the best curry restaurant in Wales in 2009 & 2011 at the British Curry Awards.

Court Colman Manor

Single: from 55 to 70

Double: from 75 to 160

Family: from 95 to 105

Executive Suites: from 110


Open: 1-12

Short breaks available

Special Offer short break rate:

B&B 2 people per night: from 75 to 85

D, B&B 2 people per night: from 90 to 110

}100 . v s f C G C % (

C5

Pen-y-fai, Bridgend CF31 4NG (01656) 720212 (01656) 724544 [email protected]

www.court-colman-manor.com

A beautiful 15th century

manor house renovated to thehighest standards. Easy access

to the M4 between Cardiff andSwansea near to the HeritageCoast and championship golf.A warm friendly andwelcoming atmosphere. Greatfood in our award winningrestaurant using the finest localand organic products.

The Great House

Single: from 85

Double: from 125

Family: from 175No of Rooms: 12, (12 en-suite)

Open: 1-12


B&B 2 people 2 nights: from 225

D, B&B 2 people 2 nights: from 300

}20 v OaV sfF}yCCnT%)SB@

C4

High Street, Laleston, Bridgend CF35 5AW

Tel: (01656) 657644 enquiries@great-house-laleston.co.ukwww.great-house-laleston.co.uk


38/5238 www.bridgendbites.com

A busy, personally run

hotel, situated on seafrontwithin a few minutes of

town centre, picturesque

harbour and Royal

Porthcawl Golf Club. The

hotel has a comfortable

lounge bar and restaurant

which enjoys a first class

reputation for its fine

cuisine.

Atlantic Hotel


Double: from 95 to 110Family: from 100 to 120


Open: 1-12

}18 . v s f y C G n B % (

B4

Porthcawl Hotels

West Drive, Seafront, Porthcawl CF36 3LT

(01656) 785011 [email protected]

(01656) 771877 www.atlantichotelporthcawl.co.uk

Relax in this 16th Century

coaching inn boasting roaringlog fires, fine home cooked

food, individually designed

bedrooms and a warm Welshwelcome. Dine in the unique

stone vaulted restaurant,

lounge, Real Ale bar or Oscars.

Within easy reach of the M4,a perfect base for shopping,

sightseeing or touring this

beautiful part of Wales.

Bear Hotel

Single: from 75

Double: from 105

Family: from 130


Open: 1-12Special Offer short break rate:Please ring for details of short breaks andspecial offers. Or why not stay in one of ourluxury apartments or cottages.

}100 v s f y C n B F % ( a

F3

Cowbridge Hotels

High Street, Cowbridge,Vale of Glamorgan CF71 7AF

(01446) 774814 [email protected] www.bearhotel.com

This charming 16th Century

hotel, once the home of the

Sheriff of Glamorgan, is abeautifully appointed hotel.The Heritage restaurant offers

excellent cuisine and light meals

are available in the bar. Afternoon

teas are served on the patio or in

the lounge. Situated in the old

part of this historic town, the

hotel is the ideal place to relax or from which to explore the many attractions

of the Heritage Coast.

West House Country Hotel

Single: from 60

Double: from 75

Family: from 135

Special Offer short break: D,B&B 2

people 2 nights from 125


Open: 1-12

}46 v O a V s f F y C n T % ( [ S@

E2Llantwit Major Hotels

West Street, Llantwit Major, Vale of Glamorgan CF61 1SP

(01446) 792406 [email protected] www.westhouse-hotel.co.uk

At Premier Inn Bridgend

Central we provide cleanand comfortable en suite

bedrooms in a well looked

after environment. We

offer all you can eat

Premier breakfast during

your stay in which children

under 15 can eat for free.

Situated ideally for leisure

users as we are next to

the Bridgend Designer Outlet Village and just off junction 36 of the M4.

Premier Inn Bridgend Central

Family Room: from 29


}60 S asflF G C nT % ( [ SB s@

D5

The Derwen, Junction 36, M4, Bridgend CF32 9SH

01656 646200 (08701) 112931 [email protected] www.premierinn.com

Bridgend Hotels

The Masons Arms Hotel is a well established family run hotel and has

historically served the local community and visitors alike over the years withtrue Welsh hospitali ty.The beautiful air conditioned restaurant is highly

commended and provides elegant surroundings to enjoy the excellent cuisine

locally sourced. The delightful individually dressed bedrooms have been

designed for utmost comfort and convenience.

Ideally located one mile off M4, junction 36, two minutes from Bridgend

Designer Outlet. Follow A4061 to Bryncethin and go straight at the traffic lights

and the hotel is on the right.

Masons Arms Hotel

Single: from 45

Double: from 65

Family: from 65


Open: 1-12


B&B 2 people 2 nights: from 130

D, B&B 2 people 2 nights: from 150 to 170

}25 . v s O y C n T J B S % ( S

D6

Bryncethin, Bridgend CF32 9YR

(01656) 720253 (01656) [email protected]

www.masonshotel.com


39/52www.visitthevale.com 39

Porthcawl InnsAwaitingGrading

The Rose and Crown is a

high quality tavern offering

great food, real ales and

beautiful guest rooms,

making it an easy choice. Just

minutes from the coast at

Porthcawl, the Rose and

Crown has been beautifully

refurbished and serves awide selection of cask ales,

wines and high quality food

in informal surroundings.

The Rose and Crown

Single: from 45

Double: from 45


Open: 1-12

}15 v f C B n S % (

B4

Heol y Capel , Nottage, Porthcawl CF36 3ST


Vale Countryside Inns

Village inn with restaurant

and rooms in the heart of

the Vale of Glamorgan.Wood burning stoves,

excellent home produced

food, fine wines and

comfortable surroundings.

Ideal base for touring the

wonderful countryside.

Fox and Hounds

Single: from 60

Double: from 80

Family: from 95


Open: 1-12

}30 v aV f C n %([

G2

Llancarfan, Nr Barry, Vale of Glamorgan CF62 3AD


AwaitingGrading

With newly appointed

en-suite bedrooms, thiswell established hostelry

has been family run for25 years. It is in the

perfect rural location, just

5minutes from Cardiff, 5

minutes from the airport

and 5 minutes from the

coast. Offering a daily

menu of fresh local produce . Also on site is an indoor childrens play barn. You

can enjoy a cosy relaxing atmosphere with a drink in front of a roaring fire.

The Three Horseshoes

Single: from 50

Double: from 70Family: from 90

Special offer short breaks rate: on application

No of Rooms: 3, (3 en-suite)Open: 1-12

}30 v aV f C n %( [

G2

Moulton, Vale of Glamorgan CF62 3AB


The Ewenny Farm guest house enjoys

a superb location nestling in 2 acresof beautiful her itage Vale of Glamorgan

parkland and close to the Heritage

Coast with magnificent beaches.

The property enjoys the River Ewenny

flowing through the grounds and offers

guest fishing if required. The guest

house offers travellers, holidaymakersand businessmen comfort, good food

and a warm friendly relaxed

atmosphere. Just 10 minutes from Junction 35 of the M4.

Ewenny Farm Guest House



Family: from 90 to 110


Open: 1-12

}20 f } y n [ TJ B ^ l F % (S

D4

St Brides Road, Ewenny, Nr Bridgend, Vale of Glamorgan CF35 5AX (01656) 658438 (01656) 655565www.ewennyfarm-guesthouse.co.uk [email protected]

Bridgend Guest Houses and B&Bs

Situated in a quiet backwaterof the historic village of

Ewenny, in the Vale ofGlamorgan within easy access of

Bridgend and Cowbridge . We

offer superior Bed and Breakfast

accommodation for the

discerning traveller. Our rooms

are stylish and comfortable, with

Freeview, Wi-Fi, and deluxe

ensuites, and panoramic views

of the Welsh countryside.

Ewenny Woods Bed and Breakfast

Single: from 45

Double: from 65

Special offers available for stays

of 3 nights or more


Open: 1-12

}6 f y [ T B % ( S O a V

D4

The Trip, Ewenny, Bridgend, Vale of Glamorgan CF35 5BZ


New 4 star guesthouse

designed to gold businessstandard. Charming rural

setting alongside the river

Ogmore. Bedrooms all

en-suite, with Wi-Fi. Full

Welsh breakfast and

private car park.

Close to the town centre,

railway station, junction 36 and Bridgend Designer Outlet. Porthcawl, Ogmore

beaches and golf courses nearby. Within walking distance to Bridgend Rugby

Club and adjoining Route 4 of the National Cycle Network.

Hazelwood Guest House

Single: from 52.50

Double: from 75 to 85No of Rooms: 6, (6 en-suite)

Open: 1-12

Special Offer short break rate:B&B 2 people 2 nights 140 to 170

}20 . f n T B F % ) ( S

D5

Tondu Road, Bridgend, CF31 4LJ

(01656) 647780 (01656) 667282 [email protected]

www.hazelwood-house.co.uk



Feel at home at Mair's and enjoy the manyfacilities normally found only at expensive

accommodation. Mair's Bed and Breakfast

offers you homely accommodation with a truly

Welsh welcome. Mair's welcomes disabled

visitors, having some ground floor rooms and

some facilities for disabled persons. Within easy

access to Bridgend town centre, bus and

railway stations.

Mairs Bed & Breakfast



Family: from 75


Open: 1-12

}10 . y f n [ T J B F C % ( S

D4

9 Coychurch Road, Bridgend, CF31 3AR

(01656) 655442 Mobile: 07768 [email protected]

www.mairsbedandbreakfast.co.uk

Cowbridge Guest Houses and B&Bs

A busy, personally run guest

house, recently refurbished. One

mile from Junction 36 of the M4

and two minutes walk from

Bridgend town centre , bus and

train stations. Ideal access to

Bridgend Designer Outlet, beaches,

golf cources, cycle tracks, rugby

ground, Princess of Wales Hospital,Cardiff and Swansea. Children

Welcome.

Alexandra Guest House

Single: from 35

Double: from 55

Family: from 65


Open: 1-12

f n % ( [S B y O a

D5

44 Coity Road, Bridgend, CF31 1LR

(01656) 650761 Moblie: [email protected]

www.alexandraguesthouse.com

We are a family run guest

house with a friendlyatmosphere located three

miles from the picturesque


and one mile from

Bridgend town centre .

We are ideally situated for

access to both Cardiff and

Swansea via rail or road

and only one mile from Bridgend Railway and Coach Stations.

New Inn Guest House


Double: from 50 to 60Family: from 70 to 80

Reduced rate: Special offer short break: single 34

No of Rooms: 16 (16 en-suite)Open: 1-12

}15 . y n [ I B F s C % J ( S

C4

113, Ewenny Road, Bridgend, CF31 3LN

(01656) 654757 (01656) 649321 [email protected]

www.newinnwales.com

Tremains Guest House a family

run, was opened in 1992 can

accommodate up to 10 people.All rooms are en-suite and one

on ground flood disabled

friendly; all rooms include

Tea/Coffee facilities, Flat screen

television, DVD Player. Five

minutes walking distance fromtown centre. Off street parking.

Non-Smoking.

Tremains Gues

Documents

Glamorgan Heritage Brochure 2012