Top 5 - Visit Wales

Transcription

Top 5 - Visit Wales

Wales
2012-13
Cardiff Connections
Stunning scenery so close to the capital.
Gavin and Stacey
See what the TV duo loved about Barry Island.
It’s now or never!
Porthcawl’s Elvis Festival is the king of quirky events.
Nearest beaches for millions
And discover the sensational Heritage Coast.
Bridgend County and the Vale of Glamorgan.
Two counties, one PROPER holiday.
Barry Island ı Bridgend ı Cowbridge ı Llantwit Major ı Maesteg ı Penarth ı Porthcawl
Dunraven Bay, Southerndown
Two counties
One proper holiday
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. We’ve got 28 miles
of coastal scenery that lets
you explore dramatic cliffs,
golden family beaches,
legendary villages,
fascinating towns and
ancient castles.
This brochure gives you a taste of
everything 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.
www.bridgendbites.com
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
Throughout the brochure you’ll notice our Millennium Stadium, a performance at the
two websites www.bridgendbites.com and Wales Millennium Centre, or some top
www.visitthevale.com. Both are full of
class football, why not stay less than half
extra information, photos and video clips an hour away among our stunning
to help you find out more about the area countryside and coastline.
and what you can do and see here.
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.
Whitmore Bay, Barry Island
2
Royal Porthcawl Golf Club
Our beach life doesn’t stop there though.
Escape the crowds and head off for a
weekend along the protected Glamorgan
Rest Bay, Porthcawl
Bridgend Mashup
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!
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
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.
Sand, sea and surf
14 - 15
All shook up!
16 - 17
Talk of the towns
18 - 21
Out and About
Hidden histories
22 - 25
To help you plan all of your
days 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.
The complete golf package
26 - 27
Fancy a dirty weekend
28 - 29
Take 5
30 - 34
Accommodation
36 - 48
A92
M90
GLASGOW
EDINBURGH
M8
A74
A1(M)
M6
M62
Take your pick
50
Easily accessible
50
Map
51
Hull
Holyhead
MANCHESTER
A5
M6
M1
BIRMINGHAM
A487
Fishguard
Pembroke
Swansea
M5
C ARDIFF
M1
BRISTOL
Glamorgan Heritage Coast
Bridgend County
Vale of Glamorgan
M4
A38
Exeter
Plymouth
M4
A36
M3
Southampton
Portsmouth
Harwich
M25
LONDON
M2
Dover
M20
Folkestone
Channel
Tunnel
www.visitthevale.com
3
Our entire coastline spans
a total 28 miles and at the
heart of it is a particularly
special 14-mile stretch
that was awarded Heritage
Coast status in 1972.
Peregrine Falcon
4
The Glamorgan Heritage Coast features
dramatic cliffs, amazing rock formations,
secluded romantic coves, all backed by
rolling countryside. The unique
characteristics and conditions of the
seashore have resulted in a coastline that
is home to a vast array of species, while it
is also a real draw for bird-watchers who
can look out for Bar-Tailed Godwits,
Choughs, Fulmars and Peregrine Falcons.
One of the best ways to explore the area,
especially its most remote parts, is by
lacing up your walking boots to tackle the
Heritage Coast Path. The path begins in
the east at Aberthaw, and lets you either
look down on, or walk through, most of
the area’s beaches. When you reach the
stepping stones at Ogmore Castle, the
path then leads you around one of the
most fascinating landscapes in the UK –
the Merthyr Mawr sand dunes.
The dunes are one of those places that,
once visited, you will never forget. Be
careful not to get lost as you explore the
maze of pathways and dunes, in the
closest place Wales has to a desert. Kids
will love tumbling down the dunes, and
don’t forget to take a sledge with you to
ride down the Big Dipper, the biggest sand
dune in Europe.
Make the most
of our coast
Dunraven Bay, Southerndown
…
Tired legs
& sore bums.
wet feet…
Wouldn’t change a thing!
5
Pink Bay, Porthcawl
Walk this way
Improve your wellbeing
and 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.
As well as the Wales Coast Path, you’ll also
find dozens of fantastic walking routes
inland 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.
Covering 870 miles around the country’s
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 you’ll 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 pure
relaxing pleasure of a coastal walk, but it
also gives more serious walkers an
invigorating experience as it overlooks
such striking surroundings.
6
trekking
Great for
or strolling
Wales Coast Path near Llantwit Major
or just st
opping and
admiring
the view
7
Get set for the seaside
You 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…
Great su
rf
d
Great san
Great time
8
Rest Bay, Porthcawl
9
3 Rest Bay, Porthcawl
Beach
guide
6 Newton Bay, Porthcawl
A lovely sheltered sandy bay which
stretches all the way round to Ogmore.
Golden sands that sweep up to a
rocky shoreline which is backed by
acres of common ground.
} {= W C
z
} {= W C
Great for: All sorts of water sports,
particularly surfing. You’ll also find
plenty of space to sunbathe and relax.
4 Sandy Bay, Porthcawl
7 Ogmore-By-Sea
A beautiful flat sandy bay sheltered by
Porthcawl’s harbour.
} {= W C
1
Great for: Dogs! They are allowed on
the beach all year round and the
Beachcombers café allows dogs outside
and will even provide water for your dog.
A wide sand and pebble beach.
Access dependent on the tide level of
the Ogmore river.
} {=(Seasonal)
WC
Great for: Sunbathing, sandcastles,
donkey rides and the Coney Beach
Amusement Park. Porthcawl town
centre and promenade are also
nearby.
z
Great for: Walks that will put colour in
your cheeks, and exploring the nearby
Merthyr Mawr sand dunes.
8 Dunraven Bay,
2
Southerndown
Depending on the tide, at most times
it’s a sand and pebble bay which is
connected to the Heritage Coast path.
3
4
5
} {=(Seasonal)
WC
6
z
Great for: Surfing, kayaking and rock
pooling with little ones.
7
9 Nash Point, Marcross
1 Sker Beach, Porthcawl
The hidden jewel of Porthcawl’s
beaches, this is a remote sandy beach
which backs on to Kenfig National
Nature Reserve.
A rocky shore and rugged cliff
scenery. Guided tours are available at
nearby Nash Point lighthouse.
8
} WC
} {=
WCz
(at Kenfig)
Great for: Spectacular rock formations
and views.
Great for: Nature. Sker Beach is home
to wild orchids, insects and wildlife.
The beach is naturally unspoilt and
has views across to Swansea and the
Gower.
2 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.
10
9
10
5 Trecco Bay, Porthcawl
This well sheltered sandy and rocky
beach is close to excellent facilities
for the family.
} {= W C
z
Great for: Families, as it is so close to
the Trecco Bay Holiday Park, which is
also open to the public.
11
10 Cwm Colhugh,
Llantwit Major
Rock pools & sand with cliff top scenery.
} {= W C
z
Great for: Surfing and coastal walks all
year round. The Heritage Coast path
joins up with the beach and offers
some amazing walks and views.
11 Summerhouse Point,
16 Whitmore Bay,
Boverton
Barry Island
A flat rock beach on a quiet part of
the coast.
A wide sandy beach close to cafés,
attractions and amusement arcades.
} {=
} {= W C
(at certain times)
Great for: Walkers, ramblers and
fishermen.
z
Great for: Traditional seaside fun, fish
and chips, ice cream, sandcastles and
sunbathing. Beach wheelchairs
available for hire during the summer
from Tourist Information Centre.
12 The Leys, Aberthaw
Very rocky, next to Aberthaw Power
Station.
17 Jackson’s Bay,
}C
Barry Island
Great for: One of the best shore
angling venues in South Wales’.
A small sandy bay with a footpath
linking around to Whitmore Bay.
C
13 Fontygary Bay, Rhoose
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 don’t remove anything
that is firmly attached to it.
Great for: A quieter alternative to
Whitmore Bay, with coastal walks.
A sheltered beach backed by cliffs. A
mixture of sand, pebbles and rock
pools.
18 Lavernock Point,
C
near Penarth
Great for: Getting away from it all.
A small sandy beach with coastal
walks nearby.
14 Porthkerry, Barry
} WC
Great for: History – it was from here
that Marconi received the first radio
transmission across water in 1897.
A wide pebble beach adjoining
Porthkerry Country Park.
} {= W C z
Great for: The combination of a
beach and country park. Includes an
adventure playground and nature trails.
19
Key:
12
13
14
15
16 17
15 Cold Knap, Barry
18
}
{=
Car Park
W
Snacks available
C
C
Dogs welcome all year round
19 Penarth seafront
A wide pebble beach with coastal
walks nearby.
Steps lead down from the esplanade
to the beach, which is a mix of stone
and shingle.
} Cz
} {= W C z
Great for: Windsurfing and sea fishing.
The conditions and location are
perfect for both.
Great for: Sea fishing and the Pier,
beautiful gardens and range of places
to eat and drink.
Toilets
Dogs banned between
1 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 going
to press
11
Familiar to millions
The beach at Whitmore Bay
Generations have been
enjoying the seaside fun
and 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 you’re
wrapping up for a wintry walk at the
seaside or along the nearby coastal paths,
then don’t 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.
Smuggler’s Cove Crazy Golf
During the summer you’ll 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, Marco’s
café and more.
12
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 you’ll 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 Island
Nessa’s ‘slots’ arcade, where she worked in the first series.
2. Boofy’s Chip Shop, Western Shelter, Barry Island
Gavin and Stacey's chippy of choice.
3. Marco’s Coffee and Ice Cream Bar, Barry Island
Home of Peroni, the dog featured in the opening credits,
and where Stacey works in the third series.
Stacey, G
avin, Smit
hy
& Nessa
4. The Square, Barry Island
This is where Dave’s 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 Saint’s Church Hall, Victoria Road, Penarth
The setting for Gwen’s Barn Dance birthday bash.
7. King Square, outside the Town Hall in Barry
Nessa’s human statue took Gwen
and Jason by surprise.
8. Trinity Street, Barry
This is the street on which Gwen, Stacey,
Doris and Uncle Bryn all lived.
9. The Tadross Hotel, 271 Holton Road, Barry
This was used for the christening of Neil,
the baby, in the third series.
Gavin & Stacey
in the Square
10. St Peter’s Church, Peterston-Super-Ely
Used as the venue for Nessa and
Dave’s wedding that never was.
ue
uman stat
Nessa’s h
Ice creams on the promenade
Rides and amusements galore!
13
Porthcawl Promenade
Sand, sea and surf
This adrenaline packed
seaside 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
World class golf with a view
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.
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.
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 are
many local water sports operators to
assist you.
Rest Bay, Porthcawl
14
Splashing Time
Coney Beach Pleasure Park
Back to nature
Memories of your holiday
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.
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
While at Sker don’t forget to visit Kenfig National Nature Reserve amazing quirky events taking place in Porthcawl. We have every
and try out the new family trail at Kenfig Pool. Read the story to your kind of music from the Celtic Festival in March to Jazz on the
children and follow the interactive map, can you spot the wildlife? Beach in April. There are also surfing and cycling competitions
and don’t forget the internationally renowned Porthcawl Elvis
Fun for all the family
Festival in September. We even have a Christmas morning swim!
For extra fun and excitement don’t 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.
White knu
ckles
White sands…
White waves…
15
Porthcawl Elvis Festival
The Glamorgan Heritage
Coast 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.
Elvis definitely isn’t dead. Visit Porthcawl
during September and you will spot ‘The
King’ everywhere! You’ll 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, the
largest 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. It’s a unique,
and sometimes surreal, event that is
perfect entertainment for a weekend
away.
Bridgend Feastival
16
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 you
agree 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 of
your outfit, then why not get all shook up
and sing at one of the open-mic events.
It’s 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 a
smile. Your tastebuds will definitely be
tickled by the sight of the cookery demos,
tasting tents and food stands that sprawl
around the town centre’s streets, while
you’ll 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 be
store at the next Feastival?
The home of Welsh culture
A matter of good taste
Show time
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 world’s 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. It’s a big honour for
the Vale of Glamorgan to host the
Eisteddfod in 2012, and it’s the first time
that the county has held the event since it
came to Barry in 1968.
See Cowbridge at its most vibrant during
the town’s annual food and drink festival.
Created in 2004 out of the 750th
anniversary celebration of the town’s
original founding, the festival now attracts
more than 15,000 visitors who pour into
the town’s streets over a weekend at the
end 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.
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 craft
stands, 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.
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!
Got a funny feeling?
Join in with
‘Bridgend
Giggles’
for all
things
funny! The
annual comedy
festival takes place at some of the area’s
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.
l
Food festiva
And that’s not all. There’s 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
Workmen’s Hall.
To find out full details, dates and times of
all our events please visit our websites.
Moooo
Family time
Merthyr Mawr Christmas Pudding Run
17
Ogmore Valley
Bridgend
Garw Valley carnival
Blaengarw heritage sculpture
Bridgend Elfsteddfod
18
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. It’s also a particularly good
place to go if you are looking for leisure
clothing 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
area’s 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, waymarked nature trails, open spaces, and a
year 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 cafés and restaurants. Many
people believe that the town took its
name from the 1425 Old Bridge which
was built across the river Ogmore, and the
many 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.
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 town’s 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
town’s waterfront area is currently
undergoing regeneration, with a number
of exciting projects in the pipeline.
Porthkerry Country Park
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 in
August, 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 café. 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.
Bridgend Indoor Market
Fun…
Shop…
Relax
19
Penarth Marina
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 you’ll love
Cowbridge High Street. The town is often
referred to as the Bond Street of Wales
and has numerous unique, family-owned
shops selling up-market clothes for men
and women as well as jewellery, leather
goods, shoes, antiques and crafts.
Physic Garden, Cowbridge
Llantwit Major
20
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 streets
and old inns.
Llantwit Major’s 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.
Eating out in Cowbridge is always a treat,
whether you’re looking for a lunchtime
bite or a three-course meal. The town has
a wealth of history dating back to Roman
Maesteg
times, while the South Gate on Town Mill
Road shows the only surviving gateway of
Travel north from the M4 and the scenery
the original walled town.
changes as the visitor is greeted with the
steep sided valleys and mountains of the
It is an extremely rare example of
Heritage Hills within the Valleys Regional
medieval town gates in Glamorgan and
Park.
dates from the early 14th century.
Cowbridge’s 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.
St Illtud’s Church, Llantwit Major
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.
The most important early Christian
settlement in Wales was at Llantwit Major,
where St Illtud founded a church and
religious school in around 500AD.
At their centre is the ancient market town
of Maesteg, standing at the head of the
Llynfi Valley. The town’s origins can be
traced back to the establishment of ironmaking 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 find
a very different landscape. Vast areas of
forest now provide fantastic walking and
cycling routes with magnificent views in
every direction.
Penarth Pier
Maesteg also has an interesting claim to
fame in that the first official performance
of the Welsh National Anthem was at
Maesteg’s 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.
Maesteg 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
For the more active a new international
summer months you can also take to the
BMX track at Caerau will tempt bikers of all sea to explore the Bristol Channel on board
abilities to a turn around the track. Then
the historic Balmoral cruise ship or
cycle or walk down the new community
Waverley paddle steamer from Penarth
route to Maesteg admiring the scenery
Pier.
and artworks, following the route of the
Penarth Marina is just across the water
Dyffryn Llynfi Porthcawl railway.
from Cardiff Bay, and if you are visiting
the capital for a show or sporting fixture,
Penarth
then you can get there in minutes from
Penarth by walking or cycling across the
Penarth’s Victorian and Edwardian
Barrage or by taking a water-taxi.
founders created a resort of great
elegance and beauty, and the present day
town is just as full of charm and character.
it Major
Historic Llantw
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
Penarth’s seafront is also home to a
graceful Esplanade, beautiful gardens,
restaurants and cafes. It’s the perfect
place for a stroll and it is only a short uphill
walk back to the town centre.
n Hall
Maesteg Tow
Lunch in
Cowbrid
ge
21
Dyffryn Gardens, St Nicholas
Hidden histories
Thanks to the passion of
local 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.
22
Visit the interactive ‘Explore and More’
touch-screen kiosks at Dyffryn Gardens
Visitor Centre, Cowbridge High Street, St
Illtud’s 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 Glamorgan
Heritage 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
Quentin’s Castle near Cowbridge, picture
the 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 castle’s
extensive ruins date back to the 14th
century and include tall walls, towers and a
gatehouse.
Coity Castle
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 Wales
at 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
Explore and More kiosk
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 the
Glamorgan 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.
23
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 and
Christian devotion. In 1141 it became a
Priory of the Benedictine Abbey of St
Peter, Gloucester.
Other atmospheric churches include St
Illtud’s 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.
There’s old. There’s really old.
And there’s Tinkinswood.
chamber required engineering skill and
resourcefulness that is astounding even
today, revealing much about the incredible
ingenuity of our Neolithic ancestors.
The spirits aren’t only
behind the bar…
One of the area’s oldest pubs, the Plough
and 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,
ship’s 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.
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
With the cargo looted, the bodies of the
Burial Chamber was built in 4000BC,
dead
sailors were said to have been
making it even older than Stonehenge.
brought to the Plough and Harrow –
either by the monks or by the wreckers –
It is unclear why 6000 years ago a 36before they were buried. To this day, the
tonne capstone measuring around nine
pub is said to be haunted by a number of
metres long and four metres wide was
brought to Tinkinswood to create a burial restless spirits.
chamber to honour the dead. Building the
24
Llangwnwyd Church
Newcastle, Bridgend
St Donats Castle
Coity Castle
The ancient Welsh tradition of the Mari
Llwyd also has close links to the village.
The ancient custom marks the passing of
The old hilltop village of Llangynwyd is
the
darkest days of mid-Winter and
home to many historic tales and customs.
involves
animal skulls, songs and rhymes.
One story centres around the poet and
Llangynwyd
is one of the few remaining
bard Will Hopcyn, who was born there in
places
where
the tradition can still be seen
the 1700s. Will’s ill fated love of local maid
in
its
purest
form
every New Year’s Eve.
Ann Thomas is said to be the basis of the
old Welsh legend, ‘The Maid of Cefn Ydfa’.
For more stories from yesteryear, order a
The story goes that Ann’s parents didn’t
copy
of our Fascinating Towns and
approve of the romance and forbid her to
Legendary
Villages handbook – see page
see Will. Ann was then forced to marry
35
for
details.
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.
Romantic tales and traditions
One Histo
ric Garde
n
ies
Uncover our hidden histor
t!
astle ques
Go on a c
25
Royal Porthcawl Golf Club
The complete
golf package
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 for
most 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 Island’s piratethemed ‘Smuggler’s 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 and
little hitters can also practise their swings
at floodlit driving ranges such as those
found at the Bridgend Golf Complex and
St Andrew’s Major Golf Club, among
others.
Southerndown Golf Club
also find a clubhouse that is arguably the
finest 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.
Unique challenges
You’ll 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 best
British 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
26
Dinas Powis Golf Club
Pyle and Kenfig Golf Club
e t ee …
O ff th
Cottrell Park Golf Club
Chipping in…
…and a p
utt to win
Breathtaking backdrops
No matter how well your game goes, you’ll
certainly remember the spectacular views
and breathtaking backdrops of playing a
round at perfectly designed courses such
as Southerndown, St Mary’s, 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 first
of their kind in the UK and Ireland. Watch
where you are going right, or wrong, and
work on your game ready for next time. It’ll
give you the perfect excuse to come back.
27
Cycling in the Ogmore Valley
Fancy a dirty weekend?
If you like the sound of
activities 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…
Llynfi BMX Track
28
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’.
Adventures, Porthcawl
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 our
beaches are linked by country roads and
lanes. If you’re 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.
Some of those jumps are over two metres
high, and friends and family can watch all Turn it up a notch
of all of the thrills and spills from the many
spectator areas at the venue.
Switching up the adrenaline levels even
further, the ‘Adventures Activity Centre’
Two wheels or four?
near Porthcawl lets you have a go at
several high octane sports. Whizz through
Show your mountain bike some real
the mud by getting to grips with a quad
action in the forests and heritage hills
bike, or conquer your fear of heights by
north of Bridgend, such as the new trails
tackling the high ropes course, climbing
leading from Blaengarw, or dust down
tower and aerial zip slide.
Kite Surfing, Rest Bay
Task Force paintball
Horse trekking, Ogmore-By-Sea
Sharp shooters can also take a shot in the
centre’s purpose-built ‘Speedball’ arena,
while further paintball action can also be
enjoyed with Task Force, just off the A48
near Cowbridge.
Surf and turf
We’ve already mentioned the excellent
surfing conditions, and our coastline is
also ideal for trying your hand at bushcraft, scuba diving, rock climbing and sea
kayaking. You don’t need to be super-fit,
just be ready to try something new! You
can also explore the coast and
countryside on horseback,
with local riding centres
catering for riders of all
ages and experience levels.
Board ga
mes
ush
aline r
Glorious mud!
Adren
29
Wild Spirit Bushcraft
Take 5
Whether you’ve got a car
full 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.
30
Top 5
for little ones
Top 5
for culture
• Go for a swim at Splashland, the indoor
swimming complex at Trecco Bay
Holiday Park in Porthcawl, which is
open to the public.
• See a performance at the St Donats
Arts Centre. It’s a unique venue within
the grounds of a medieval castle
overlooking the sea.
• Have fun on the rides along the
promenade at Barry Island followed
by a paddle in the sea.
• Visit Ecodysgu in Tondu, a centre for
alternative therapy and traditional
crafts, willow weaving and woodland
jewellery.
• Take a trip to see the farm animals at
the Amelia Trust Farm near Barry. It’s
a working farm with a variety of
livestock, and entrance is free.
• Enjoy live shows all year round at the
Grand Pavilion in Porthcawl, Maesteg
Town Hall and the Memorial Hall and
Theatre in Barry.
• After an hour or so at one of the local
indoor play centres, such as Adventure • Visit Coed Hills Rural Artspace,
Wales’ leading venue for art in the
Island in Barry Island or Wigglies
environment.
Farm Park in Bridgend, children are
sure to sleep all the way home!
• Movie buffs can enjoy a cinematic
experience with a twist by watching a
• Walk around the picturesque
film against the backdrop of the
Wilderness Lake in Porthcawl. It’s a
Glamorgan Heritage Coast at the unique
hidden gem where you can feed the
Cinema by the sea in Southerndown.
ducks.
Nash Point lighthouse
Bridgend Feastival
Bridgend Designer Outlet
Top 5
on a rainy day
Top 5
fun for free
Top 5
for something different
• Stock up on popcorn and watch a film
at the Odeon Cinema, next to the
Bridgend Designer Outlet by
junction 36 of the M4.
• Cross the stepping stones at Ogmore
Castle. Great fun and great scenery,
but not so great if you fall in the river!
• Learn how to survive in the wild with
Wild Spirit Bushcraft, based at
Merthyr Mawr.
• Take the family back to your childhood
with a sand sledging day at Merthyr
Mawr sand dunes.
• Go potty at the Ewenny Craft
Centre, the oldest family-run pottery
in Wales. Watch the experts at work, or
‘throw’ a pot for yourself.
• Hit the shops at the Bridgend
Designer Outlet. There are top name
stores and bargains galore.
• Go quad biking at the Adventures
Activity Centre near Porthcawl. The
rain will only add to the mud!
• Practice your sharp shooting at Wales’
number one Quasar centre in Barry
Island. You can battle it out in the
specially designed indoor arena.
• Brave the weather with a day at the
beach. Good fun, whatever the
weather!
• Cycle or walk along the spectacular
barrage from Penarth Marina to
Cardiff Bay, and take in some amazing
views of the Millennium Centre and
Millennium Stadium.
• Walk a section of the Heritage Coast,
part of the newly unveiled 870-milelong Wales Coast Path.
• Get involved in one of our quirky events!
One of the most unique is the
Elfsteddfod in Bridgend town centre
at 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
• Many of our events are free, such as the
just how big are those bulbs? Find out
Feastival in Bridgend and the summer
by taking a tour of Nash Point
programme of events at Barry Island.
lighthouse.
• Take an open doors tour around Hut 9,
the prisoner of war camp at Island Farm,
Bridgend.
31
Cosmeston Lakes Country Park
Coity Castle
Llanerch Vineyard
Top 5
for nature
Top 5
for grown-ups
Top 5
castles
• 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.
• Wine and dine in one of our rustic
country pubs or award winning
restaurants such as The Fig Tree in
Penarth.
• Originally the stronghold of a major
Norman lordship, Coity Castle
managed to withstand a battering from
Owain Glyndwr in 1404 and was
eventually abandoned at the end of the
16th century.
• Enjoy a pampering day of relaxing
health treatments at the Vale Hotel
Golf & Spa Resort or Coed y
Mwstwr Hotel, Coychurch.
• You’d be hard pushed to find a more
idyllic setting than Ogmore Castle.
Situated beside the river, the castle was
built to guard a strategic fording point.
• Look out for the nature themed events
at Dyffryn Gardens such as bat nights, • Spend time at Llanerch Vineyard,
Wales’ oldest and largest commercial
autumn tree-gazing walks and the
vineyard.
With woodland walks,
• Occupied as a home since the
fungal foray where you can learn about
vineyard
tours,
and
wine
tastings,
you
thirteenth century, Fonmon Castle is
Dyffryn’s varied mushroom population.
can work up an appetite for a delicious
a magnificent Medieval Castle. A guided
• At Warren Mill Farm near Cowbridge
lunch, or a traditional high tea with a
tour of this property is a must.
you’ll find farm animals, a play area, and
local flavour. Food lovers can also
• The remains of an early Norman castle
walks through unspoilt countryside, all
indulge in a course at the new cookery
stand proudly on a hill dominating
situated around a natural four acre
school.
Bridgend town. Look out for
coarse lake.
Newcastle’s richly carved decoration
• Cruise down the Bristol Channel, go
on the south gateway.
• Visit Cosmeston Lakes Country
across to England or tour a remote
Park and stride along the boardwalk
island onboard the traditional cruise
through tall bulrushes and reed beds or
ship, ‘The Balmoral’, or the world’s last • Surrounded by woodland and the
shifting sands of Merthyr Mawr, the
wander the fine broad-leaved
sea-going Paddle Steamer ‘The
remains
of Candleston Castle are
woodland to see a variety of birds,
Waverley’. Both sail from Penarth Pier
particularly
romantic. The castle was
foxes and other creatures in their
and Porthcawl harbour during the
once
a
14th
century fortified manor
natural habitat.
summer months.
house and was inhabited until the last
century by the powerful Cantelupe
• Nature trails, bird hides and paths let
• Pop into Cardiff. The capital is just on
family.
you discover Parc Slip Nature Park’s
our doorstep and any stay in the
unique environment of wetlands,
Glamorgan Heritage Coast and
woodlands and meadows.
Countryside isn’t complete without a
visit to Cardiff.
32
Llynfi BMX Track
Ogmore Valley
Top 5
for teenagers
Top 5
parks
Top 5
spectacular views
• Choose from loads of activities such as
quad biking, climbing and speedball at
the Adventures Activity Centre
near Porthcawl.
• Based around a former 1780’s
Ironworks, Bedford Park in Cefn
Cribwr contains fascinating country
walks and easy to follow nature trails.
• Get on board and learn how to surf at
one of the many local surfing
academies.
• Barry Island is best known for
Whitmore Bay beach, but don’t miss
out on the amazing views you can get if
you walk to the tip of Friars Point at the
western end of the beach.
• Porthkerry Country Park in Barry is a
spacious park next to the sea with an
• The view across the Llynfi Valley from
imposing viaduct. The park has plenty of
Llangynwyd is absolutely breathtaking.
woodland, a pitch and putt golf course,
• The Bwlch has excellent views on a
café, and open meadows perfect for a
clear day of the Ogmore Valley to the
kick-about.
south and in the distance the Vale of
• Bryngarw Country Park contains
Glamorgan and the sea. To the north
woodlands, water features, formal
you can also see the historic mining
gardens, nature trails and plenty of open
valleys of the Rhondda and Cynon and
spaces for children to run and play,
the Brecon Beacons in the distance.
including an adventure playground.
• From the top of Blaengarw on the
• One of the most popular parks in South
ridgeway you can look down the Garw
Wales, Cosmeston Lakes Country
Valley at ancient woodlands, conifer
Park is easy to walk around as it is flat,
forests, and moorland.
with lots to explore, a play area and café
too. It’s also a fantastic spot for a picnic. • If you walk down from the Plough and
Harrow pub, along the track through the
woods you will reach Monknash beach.
• At the Garw Fechan Forest Park,
From here you will be treated to some
miles of forestry stretch from the Garw
of the finest views of the Heritage
Valley to the Llynfi Valley in Maesteg.
Coast’s cliffs and amazing rock
It’s a great place for walking, cycling and
formations.
orienteering, with breathtaking views.
• Ride Wales’ first national-standard BMX
bike track at Coegnant, Caerau. The
Llynfi BMX track features a starting
hill, 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 South
Wales Karting Centre, Llandow. The
circuit is 870m long and is the only fully
floodlit outdoor Kart circuit in Wales.
33
Take 5 Contacts
Adventures Activity Centre
Adventure Island Indoor Play Centre, Barry Island
Amelia Trust Farm, Nr Bonvilston
Bedford Park
Bryngarw Country Park
Candleston Castle, Bridgend
Cinema by the sea, West Farm, Southerndown
Coed Hills Rural Artspace, Nr Cowbridge
Coed y Mwstwr Hotel, Coychurch
Coity Castle, Bridgend
Cosmeston Lakes Country Park, Penarth
Cressey’s Surf School
Dyffryn Gardens, St Nicholas
Ecodysgu, Tondu
Ewenny Pottery
Fonmon Castle, Rhoose
Garw Fechan Forest Park
Garw Valley
Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl
Heritage Coast Centre, Southerndown
Hut 9
Kenfig National Nature Reserve
Llanerch Vineyard
Llynfi Valley BMX Track
Llynfi Valley
Maesteg Town Hall
Memorial Hall and Theatre, Barry
Merthyr Mawr
Nash Point Lighthouse
Newcastle, Bridgend
Ocean Quest
Odeon Cinema, Bridgend
Ogmore Castle,
Ogmore Riding Centre
Ogmore Valley
Parc Slip Nature Park
Porthcawl Surf School
Porthkerry Country Park, Barry
Quasar, Barry Island
Simon Tucker Surfing Academy
Southerndown Surf School
South Wales Karting Centre, Llandow
Splashland, Trecco Bay Holiday Park
St Donats Arts Centre
Task Force Paintball, Cowbridge
The Balmoral and The Waverley boat trips
The Cardiff Waterbus, Penarth Marina
Warren Mill Farm, Bonvilston
Wiggleys Fun Farm
Wilderness Lake in Porthcawl
Wild Spirit Bushcraft
34
01656 782300
01446 733344
01446 782030
01656 725155
01656 665700
01656 654906
01656 725155
01656 654906
01656 880465
01446 774084
01656 860621
01443 336000
029 2070 1678
07502 124030
029 2059 3328
01656 728137
01656 653020
01446 710206
0779 222 8334
01656 654906
01656 815995
01656 880157
01656 643164
01656 743386
01443 222716
01656 810225
01656 654906
01656 733269
01446 738622
0845 1306 229
07850 047721
01443 336000
01656 783310
01656 647476
01443 336000
01656 880856
01656 654906
01656 724100
07583 348013
01446 733589
01446 421611
01656 772415
07964 985404
01446 795568
08443 353750
01446 799100
029 2059 3900
0845 130 4647
07940 142409
01446 781274
01656 766578
01656 642721
07920 422230
www.adventureswales.co.uk
www.adventureislandwales.com
www.ameliatrust.org.uk
www.bridgenddesigneroutlet.com
www.bryngarwhouse.co.uk
www.barnatwestfarm.com
www.coedhills.co.uk
www.coed-y-mwstwr.com
www.cadw.wales.gov.uk
www.cresseyssurfacademy.com
www.ecodysgu.co.uk
www.ewennypottery.com
www.castleswales.com
www.grandpavilion.co.uk
www.islandfarm.fsnet.co.uk
www.llanerch-vineyard.co.uk
www.bmxtalk.com
www.maestegtownhall.com
www.memorialhalltheatre.co.uk
www.ccw.gov.uk
www.nashpoint.co.uk
www.ocean-quest.co.uk
www.odeon.co.uk
www.rideonthebeach.co.uk
www.porthcawlsurf.co.uk
www.barryislandquasar.com
www.surfingexperience.com
www.southerndownsurfschool@live.co.uk
www.swkc.co.uk
www.parkdean.com
www.stdonats.com
www.taskforcepaintball.co.uk
www.cardiffcats.com
www.warrenmillfarm.co.uk
www.wildspiritbushcraft.co.uk
Get more out
of your visit
in the
Map guideshas to offer
Discover all the area
Llanerch Vineyard
Take your pics kto visit
Things to do and place
fasc
South Wales Karting Centre, Llandow
towinnatsing villaleggenedary
s
in the
Past and presen
t
The stories beh
ind our towns
A taste of village
Over 30 villages
life
to explore
Barry ı Bridgend
ı
Blaengarw ı Cowb
ridge
ı Llantwit Major
ı Maesteg ı Pen
arth
Don’t miss out on our FREE mini guides.
They are easy to order - simply visit our
websites or contact one of the Tourist
Information Centres listed on the back
cover of this brochure.
35
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. These
ratings mean that you can be sure of
standards and choose the
accommodation that’s 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.
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 extraspecial 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.
What do our star ratings mean?
Accommodation operators are graded
between one and five stars based on the
overall quality of the experience and the
facilities available.
H
Simple, practical, no frills
HH
Well presented and well run
HHHH
Good level of quality
and comfort
Very Good
HHH
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: quality.tourism@wales.gsi.gov.uk
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.
HHHHH Excellent
Accommodation symbols
v Café/Restaurant on park
P Charge for fuel
Close to walking routes
O Close to cycling routes
s Coach parties welcome
f Cots available
a
V
Golf course within 20 min drive
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 with
sight difficulties
36
F
Ground floor bedrooms available
}
y
C
G
I
Ò
}
C
P
Gym/Health Club
) Television Lounge
[ Totally non-smoking
Laundry facilities
S
Licensed
B Bus stop nearby (0.5 miles)
J Welsh spoken
n
T
9
%
(
Lift
WiFi Available
Linen provided free of charge
Major credit cards accepted
Train station nearby (3 miles)
@
Internet Access
Parking facilites
Access statement prepared
Pets welcome by arrangement
Wales Association of
Self Catering Operators
Showers on caravan
& camping site
Welcome Host
Special diets catered for
Warm Welsh Welcome Award
Use of organic produce
Cyclists Welcome
Swimming pool (indoor/outdoor)
Walkers Welcome
Tea/Coffee facilities in bedrooms
Green Dragon
Television in bedroom/
self catering
Barry Hotels
Bridgend Hotels
Mount Sorrel Hotel
H2
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.
}15 a v s f } C G n B F Ò 9 % ( S
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.
Best Western Heronston Hotel
D4
Best Western Heronston Hotel is
a 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. Nearby
golf, horse riding, cycling and walking.
}150 v O a V s
)%. B(S
S F } y C G ÒCnT 9
@f
Single: from £69
Double: from £79
Family: from £89
Open: 1-12
See website for special offers
Ewenny Road, Bridgend CF35 5AW
% (01656) 668811 7 (01656) 767391
; reception@bestwesternheronstonhotel.co.uk
4 www.bw-heronstonhotel.co.uk
Porthkerry Road, Barry, Vale of Glamorgan CF62 7XY
% (01446) 740069 7 (01446) 746600
; reservations@mountsorrel.co.uk 4 www.bw-mountsorrelhotel.co.uk
Bridgend Hotels
Bryngarw House
D6
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
Court Colman Manor
C5
At Court Colman, you'll be
treated as a friend coming to
stay, not just a traveller passing
through. A family home until
just a few decades ago, it still
feels like one, so you can be
assured of a warm welcome.
Nestled at the foot of the Garw
Valley, it’s a peaceful retreat but
easily accessible from the M4 or rail mainline. The 30 comfortable bedrooms
are complimented by the award winning Bokhara Brasserie which was voted
the best curry restaurant in Wales in 2009 & 2011 at the British Curry Awards.
}100 . v s f C G Ò C % (
}20 v
OaVf
^F y ÒC n % B S
Single: from £55
Double: from £70
Family: from £130
Single: from £55 to £70
Double: from £75 to £160
Family: from £95 to £105
Executive Suites: from £110
Open: 1-12
Reduced Rate Special Offer Short Break
B&B 2 people 2 nights from: £140
D, B&B 2 people 2 nights from: £160
E5
Open: 1-12
Short breaks and special offers available
% (01656) 860621 7 (01656) 868122
Coychurch, Bridgend CF35 6AF
; hotel@coed-y-mwstwr.com
4 coed-y-mwstwr.com
7 (01656) 724544
C4
A beautiful 15th century
manor house renovated to the
highest standards. Easy access
to the M4 between Cardiff and
Swansea near to the Heritage
Coast and championship golf.
A warm friendly and
welcoming atmosphere. Great
food in our award winning
restaurant using the finest local
and organic products.
}20 v
Single: from £135
Double: from £180
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
The Great House
Few settings are more tranquil
than this secluded Victorian
mansion, perched on a Welsh
hillside and set in 17 acres of
woodland. The perfect base for
exploring the Heritage Coast.
On your return enjoy our awardwinning two rosette Eliot
Restaurant or take advantage
of our leisure club with a fully
equipped gym, sauna and
steam room.
}150 . v s f } y C G n Ò % ( S
Short breaks available
Pen-y-fai, Bridgend CF31 4NG % (01656) 720212
; experience@court-colman-manor.com
4 www.court-colman-manor.com
Bryngarw Country Park, Brynmenyn, Bridgend CF32 8UU
% (01656) 729009 7 (01656) 729007
; bryngarw.house@bridgend.gov.uk
4 www.bryngarwhouse.co.uk
Coed Y Mwstwr Hotel
Open: 1-12
OaV
sfF}yCÒCnT%)SB @
Single: from £85
Double: from £125
Family: from £175
Open: 1-12
B&B 2 people 2 nights: from £225
D, B&B 2 people 2 nights: from £300
High Street, Laleston, Bridgend CF35 5AW
% Tel: (01656) 657644 ; enquiries@great-house-laleston.co.uk
4 www.great-house-laleston.co.uk
37
Cowbridge Hotels
Bridgend Hotels
Masons Arms Hotel
D6
Bear Hotel
F3
Relax in this 16th Century
coaching inn boasting roaring
log fires, fine home cooked
food, individually designed
bedrooms and a warm Welsh
welcome. 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.
}100 v s f y C n B F Ò % (
The Masons Arms Hotel is a well established family run hotel and has
historically served the local community and visitors alike over the years with
true Welsh hospitality. 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.
Single: from £75
Double: from £105
Family: from £130
a
Open: 1-12
Please ring for details of short breaks and
special offers. Or why not stay in one of our
luxury apartments or cottages.
High Street, Cowbridge, Vale of Glamorgan CF71 7AF
% (01446) 774814
; enquiries@bearhotel.com 4 www.bearhotel.com
Llantwit Major Hotels
West House Country Hotel
E2
This charming 16th Century
hotel, once the home of the
Sheriff of Glamorgan, is a
beautifully 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.
}25 . v s O y C n T J B S Ò % ( S
}46 v
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
Bryncethin, Bridgend CF32 9YR
% (01656) 720253 7 (01656) 720253
; masonsarms@googlemail.com
4 www.masonshotel.com
O a V s f F yC Òn T % ( [ S@
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
West Street, Llantwit Major, Vale of Glamorgan CF61 1SP
% (01446) 792406
; enq@westhouse-hotel.co.uk 4 www.westhouse-hotel.co.uk
Porthcawl Hotels
Premier Inn Bridgend Central
D5
Atlantic Hotel
At Premier Inn Bridgend
Central we provide clean
and 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.
B4
A busy, personally run
hotel, situated on seafront
within 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.
}60 S as flF G Ò C n T % ( [ S B s @
}18 . v s f y C G n B Ò % (
Family Room: from £29
The Derwen, Junction 36, M4, Bridgend CF32 9SH
% 01656 646200 7 (08701) 112931
; bridgendcentral@premierinn.com 4 www.premierinn.com
38
Open: 1-12
West Drive, Seafront, Porthcawl CF36 3LT
% (01656) 785011 ; enquiries@atlantichotelporthcawl.co.uk
7 (01656) 771877 4 www.atlantichotelporthcawl.co.uk
Bridgend Guest Houses and B&Bs
Porthcawl Inns
The Rose and Crown
Awaiting
Grading
B4
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 a
wide selection of cask ales,
wines and high quality food
in informal surroundings.
D4
The Ewenny Farm guest house enjoys
a superb location nestling in 2½ acres
of beautiful heritage 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, holidaymakers
and businessmen comfort, good food
and a warm friendly relaxed
atmosphere. Just 10 minutes from Junction 35 of the M4.
}20 f } y n [ T J B ^ l F Ò % ( S
}15 v f C B n S % (
Single: from £45
Double: from £45
Ewenny Farm Guest House
Open: 1-12
Open: 1-12
St Brides Road, Ewenny, Nr Bridgend, Vale of Glamorgan CF35 5AX
% (01656) 658438 7 (01656) 655565
4 www.ewennyfarm-guesthouse.co.uk
; ewennyfarmguesthouse@hotmail.co.uk
Heol y Capel, Nottage, Porthcawl CF36 3ST
% (01656) 784850 ; roseandcrown@sabrain.com
4 www.roseandcrownporthcawl.com
Vale Countryside Inns
Fox and Hounds
G2
Ewenny Woods Bed and Breakfast
}30 v
}6 f y [ T B Ò % ( S
aV f C Ò n % ( [
Single: from £45
Double: from £65
Special offers available for stays
of 3 nights or more
Open: 1-12
Single: from £60
Double: from £80
Family: from £95
Awaiting
Grading
G2
With newly appointed
en-suite bedrooms, this
well established hostelry
has been family run for
25 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 children’s play barn. You
can enjoy a cosy relaxing atmosphere with a drink in front of a roaring fire.
}30 v
aV f C Ò n % ( [
Single: from £50
Double: from £70
Family: from £90
Special offer short breaks rate: on application
Open: 1-12
Moulton, Vale of Glamorgan CF62 3AB
% (01446) 710428 ; 3horseshoespub@gmail.com
4 www.3horseshoespub.co.uk
OaV
Open: 1-12
The Trip, Ewenny, Bridgend, Vale of Glamorgan CF35 5BZ
% (01656) 766421 ; info@ewennywoods.co.uk
4 www.ewennywoods.co.uk
Llancarfan, Nr Barry, Vale of Glamorgan CF62 3AD
%(01446) 781287 ; jjjmillard@aol.com
4 www.foxandhoundsllancarfan.co.uk
The Three Horseshoes
D4
Situated in a quiet backwater
of the historic village of
Ewenny, in the Vale of
Glamorgan 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.
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.
Hazelwood Guest House
D5
New 4 star guesthouse
designed to gold business
standard. 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.
}20 . f n T B F Ò % ) ( S
Single: from £52.50
Open: 1-12
B&B 2 people 2 nights £140 to £170
Tondu Road, Bridgend, CF31 4LJ
% (01656) 647780 7 (01656) 667282
; anne@hazelwoodtravellodge.co.uk
4 www.hazelwood-house.co.uk
39
Bridgend Guest Houses and B&Bs
Alexandra Guest House
D5
Tremains Guest House
D4
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 from
town centre. Off street parking.
Non-Smoking.
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.
Oa
f Ò n % ( [S B y
Single: from £35
Double: from £55
Family: from £65
}15 . y n B F C % ) ( [ S
Single: from £29
Twin: from £44
Open: 1-12
Oa
No of Rooms: 7, (7 en-suite) Single and
twin rooms only.
Open: 1-12
25-27 Tremains Road, Bridgend, CF31 1TZ
% (01656) 768285 7 (01656) 768285
Mobile: 07885 314095
; TremainsGHouse@aol.com 4 www.tremainsguesthouse.co.uk
44 Coity Road, Bridgend, CF31 1LR
% (01656) 650761 Moblie: 07960954246
; welshbigbird@aol.com
4 www.alexandraguesthouse.com
Cowbridge Guest Houses and B&Bs
Mair’s Bed & Breakfast
D4
Feel at home at Mair's and enjoy the many
facilities 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.
}10 . y f n [ T J B F Ò C % ( S
Single: from £45
Double: from £70
Family: from £90, Children welcome over 12 years
B&B 2 people 2 nights from £130
9 Coychurch Road, Bridgend, CF31 3AR
% (01656) 655442 Mobile: 07768 286303
; mairbandb@hotmail.com
4 www.mairsbedandbreakfast.co.uk
New Inn Guest House
C4
E3
Siân and John offer you a
relaxed and friendly welcome
to their 15th Century farm
house. Peaceful rural setting
only 3 miles from Cowbridge,
Llantwit Major and the
Heritage Coast. Scrumptious
Welsh breakfast in oak
beamed dining room with
real fire. Free Wi-Fi.
Please see our entry under
Cowbridge self-catering.
}4 f n J B Ò % ( S
Single: from £50
Double: from £70
40
Open: 1-12
View our video, availability and
special offers on our website.
Moorshead Farm
}15 . y n [ I B F s Ò C % J ( S
113, Ewenny Road, Bridgend, CF31 3LN
% (01656) 654757 7 (01656) 649321
; newinn654@aol.com
4 www.newinnwales.com
aV
Welsh St Donats, Cowbridge, Vale of Glamorgan CF71 7ST
% (01446) 774451
; enquiries@bydd.co.uk 4 www.bydd.co.uk
We are a family run guest
house with a friendly
atmosphere 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.
Reduced rate: Special offer short break: single £34
No of Rooms: 16 (16 en-suite)
Open: 1-12
F4
Stay at Bryn-y-Ddafad for a
truly Welsh experience you
will never forget. Discover
this magical corner of Wales
within easy reach of the
vibrant city of Cardiff. Relax
in a peaceful, rural location
with panoramic views and
sample our scrumptious
Welsh breakfast.
Ground floor annex. N.G.S approved garden - Open by appointment.
Free Wi-Fi. Please see our entry under Cowbridge self-catering.
}6 . f y n [ T F Ò % ) (
Open: 1-12
Family: from £75
Bryn-Y-Ddafad Country Guest House
Oa
Open: 1-12
Moorshead Farm, Sigingstone, Nr Cowbridge, Vale of Glamorgan CF71 7LP
% (01446) 773261 ; enquiries@moorsheadfarm.com
4 www.moorsheadbedandbreakfast.com
Porthcawl Guest Houses and B&Bs
Olivia House
B4
Olivia House is a stylish and
exclusive boutique style B&B.
located only 50 metres from the
seafront with many bars, restaurants
and within walking distance from
Royal Porthcawl Golf Club. We offer
an unbeatable welsh breakfast and
complimentary tea/coffee, welsh
water, toiletries. Also use of towelling
robes and free Wi-Fi.
OaV
n% ) [ B@
Single: from £50
Double: from £75
Family: from £100
Open: 1-12
(Closed for Christmas)
44 Esplanade Avenue, Porthcawl, CF36 3YU
% Tel: 01656 789022 Mobile. 07968841992
; annettedegraaf@hotmail.co.uk
4 www.oliviahouse.com
Barry Farmhouses
Blue Seas Guest House
B4
New Farm
Blue Seas can be found in the
12th century village of Newton
situated in South Wales’ most
popular holiday resort, Porthcawl.
Come and join us and enjoy our
family run bed and breakfast,
situated on the waters edge
overlooking the idylic Newton
Beach, adjacent to Trecco Bay.
Cast your eyes a little further to explore the Glamorgan Heritage Coast and
surrounding countryside. A perfect location for all your holiday activities. Private
bathroom available on request.
}10 . s n B F C % ) ( v
Single: from £35
Double: from £50
Family: from £65
Oaf
@
H2
A 500 acre family working farm where
you may witness the busy yard banter.
Enjoy a farmers breakfast in our 17th
Century beamed dining room.
Charming country rooms offereing
warmth and modern facilities. Situated
ideally for Cardiff and coast, off the main
coastal city road. A warm Welsh
welcome awaits you.
OaV
}10 f n B % ) ( S
Open: 1-12
Single: from £30
Double: from £50
Family: from £65 plus cost of children
sharing under 12 £10, under 15 £15
72 Beach Road, Porthcawl, CF36 5NE
% (01656) 786540 Mobile: 07711651703 7 (01656) 788713
; rg@blueseasbnb.co.uk 4 www.blueseasbnb.co.uk
Ò
Open: 1-12
Port Road West, Barry, Vale of Glamorgan, CF62 3BT
% (01446) 735536 ; sarahardy_newfarm@hotmail.com
Mobile: 07764 412909 4 www.newfarmbarry.co.uk
Vale Countryside Farmhouses
St Sebastian House
Awaiting
Grading
B4
Just a minute’s walk from the seafront, you can be
sure of a warm welcome at St Sebastien House. We
are a family run guest house, offering comfortable
accommodation, good food, and those little extras
that make your stay special, close to all amenities and
the M4, families welcome.
}2
Oaf S Òn % ) [ @
Single: from £40
Double: from £60
Family: from £70
Open: 1-12
30 Esplanade Avenue, Porthcawl, CF36 3YU
% 01656 771594 Mobile. 07985 650746
; st.sebastienhouse@gmail.com
4 www.saintsebastienhouse.org
Sutton Mawr Farm B & B
G2
Set in 14 acres of quiet scenic
countryside yet only 15
minutes to Cardiff. Luxury
bedrooms with en-suites are
set around a charming French
style courtyard. Fabulously
comfortable beds. Delicious
breakfast using farm produce.
Family, disabled and dog
friendly. Ideal for groups sleeps
up to 24. Free Wi-Fi. Highly recommended. Please also see our advert for our
railway carriage and cottage under Vale of Glamorgan self catering.
} 12 f n TC%}) ( F Ò S
Single: from £70
y S CO
a
Open: 1-12
Sutton Mawr, Weycock Road, Barry,Vale of Glamorgan CF62 3AA
Mobile: 07971 865963 % (01446) 749549
; victoriaj1@sky.com 4 www.suttonmawrfarm.co.uk
41
Bridgend Self Catering
EcoDysgu
C6
Visitors to EcoDysgu find
themselves breathing in the
freedom of 42 acres of
ancient woodland, pasture and
workshop space. Everyone
helps to create trails,
sculptures, willow huts and
compost toilets. Workshops
available. The accommodation
is a Bunk House purpose built
to accommodate up to 12
people. Café facilities available.
}30 . v T B F % S
Group Accommodation
Number of rooms: 4
Single: from £17.50 Adults
£15 Children
C5
Set in a beautiful rural location
surrounded by woods and farmland
yet only 5 minute drive from J36, M4.
Delightful, easy access apartment,
furnished/equipped to a high standard.
Forming part of the owner's detached
bungalow, fully self contained and
private, park right outside your front
door. Close to Park Slip Nature Reserve
for walking and cycling. Conveniently located for shopping at the Bridgend
Designer Outlet, and exploring the countryside and heritage coast. 30 minute
drive to the cities of Cardiff and Swansea. Sorry no pets and strictly no smoking.
2 Dormitories and 2 Single Rooms
Open: 1-12
For Short Breaks and Special Offers
please ring for details
Heronston Barn Cottage
No of Units: 1
Units sleep: 2
Weekly rate: per unit from £280 to £350
Rate per unit for 3 nights from £180 to £210
D4
OaV f F y I[I (S
Ty Maen Cottage
C6
Self catering accomodation
conveniently located to the
M4 in the peaceful Darren
Valley. Property is a
converted barn with superb
views of the surrounding
countryside, provides home
from home comforts, a
lovely garden, ample private
parking, kenneling and drying
facilities. It benefits from all amenities being close at hand.
}2
No of Units: 1 each unit sleeps 4
Rate per unit for 3 nights
Weekly rate: per unit from £275 (low season) from £200 (low season)
£350 (high season)
£525 (high season)
Open: 1-12
OaVf
yI)[ B S
No of Units: 1 (sleeps 6)
Weekly rate: from £400
Short break: available from £250
Open: 1-12
Ty Maen Farm, Llangynwyd, Maesteg CF34 0EH
% (01656) 730171 Mobile: 07702740003
; tymaencottage@aol.com
4 www.ty-maen.co.uk
Heronston Hall, Heronston Lane, Bridgend, CF31 3AX
% (01656) 655997
; holiday@heronston.co.uk 4 www.heronston.co.uk
Miners Cottage
B5
Yr Hen Beudy Bach
Overlooking Margam valley and
Swansea Bay this beautifully
appointed Cottage has been in
the family for almost 200 years.
Situated on a quiet private lane,
this spacious cottage has a high
standard throughout and is a
perfect home from home. It
boasts a fully equipped kitchen,
with a dining area big enough to invite friends! A large bathroom with separate
power shower and double bath, beautifully decorated bedrooms with Egyptian
cotton bed linen and towels provided. Being 5 minutes from J37/38 of the M4
it’s perfect for relaxing or exploring. Wireless and fuel included too.
C6
Enjoy luxury self catering accommodation set in
peaceful Darren Valley countryside Outside offers
a private garden, patio and parking spaces. Inside
offers cosy accommodation with a log burner, spiral
staircase and freeview TV. We are situated close to
the Glamorgan heritage Coast, cycle tracks and
Bridgend Designer Outlet village.
}1 . f y [ B I C ( S @
}2
No of Units: 1
Units sleep: 5
Rate per unit for 3 nights from £225 to £340
No of Units: 1
Units sleep: 2 +cot
Weekly rate: per unit from £290 (low season)
£450 (high season)
Open: 1-12
Kenfig Hill, Bridgend, CF33 6DP
% (07971) 950772 7 (07971) 606377
; cottage@minerscottage.com 4 www.minerscottage.com
Open: 1-12
Cwm Risca Lane, Off New Road, Tondu, Bridgend, CF32 0EH
% (01656) 723783 Mobile: 07974 690328
; aclswnynant@hotmail.co.uk 4 www.swnynant.com
This newly converted barn
is ideally located for
exploring South Wales,
participating in outdoor
pursuits or just enjoying a
relaxing break. The cottage
sleeps four and is fully
equipped to the highest
standard. The attractive
garden includes parking for
three cars and secure storage
for sporting equipment.
42
OaV
}2 . y B F [ I ) S
Tondu House Farm, Tondu, Bridgend, CF32 3HF
% (01656) 728137 7 (01656) 728137
; ecodysguecolearn@aol.com 4 www.ecodysgu.co.uk
}3
Swn Y Nant
OaVf
I y ) . BS
Rate per unit for 3 nights
from £185 (low season)
£315 (high season)
Open: 1-12
Uwch-Y-Felin, Garth Fach, Llangynwyd, Maesteg CF34 0EH
% 01656) 733688 Mobile: 07810 364658
; byron.lambert@virgin.net 4 www.yrhenbeudybach.co.uk
Bridgend Self Catering
Ty Gwyneth
C5
Betws Bunkhouse
Awaiting
Grading
C6
A spacious cottage near our working
farm, just seven minutes from the M4
Junction 36. Perfect for extended family
get togethers or for groups of friends
chilling out. Take glorious walks with
sweeping rural views, surf the waves,
enjoy some fishing, a round of golf or
with WiFi access simply surf the net in a
cosy environment. There is widescreen
TV. Shopping or cinema is also an option, with the McArthur Glen Designer
Outlet nearby and Cardiff and Swansea just half an hour away! Gower and the
Brecon Beacons are also an easy drive.
} . f y I Ò C (
Number of Bedrooms: 4
Number en-suite: 1
Ffordd y Gyfraith, near Bridgend, CF32 0BS
% 07872 823366
; gaina@gainamorganmedia.co.uk
4 www.tygwyneth.co.uk
Romany Caravan at Ty Gwyneth
Brand new purpose built 44 bed bunkhouse accommodation situated north
of Bridgend, 5 miles from Junction 36 of the M4, providing affordable
accommodation in a Welsh village setting. Ideal base for those enjoying the
great outdoors, visitors enjoy easy access to the picturesque Bridgend Valleys,
local cycle tracks and Mountain Biking at Afan. The Ecolodge overlooks the
Llynfi Valley with views facing southwards towards the Heritage Coast. Cardiff,
Swansea and the Heritage Coast are easily accessible for activities and events.
Discounted group packages available.
C5
Our Romany Caravan is a traditional
gypsy wagon, formerly travelling along
the lanes of West Wales but now
settled in a relaxing garden
overlooking our beef and sheep farm.
It’s just minutes from the M4 at
Junction 36 but tucked into a rural
oasis with wonderful views. You can
snuggle in the caravan, watching the
stars and listening to the sounds of
the countryside, yet know you’re not
too far from all the amenities. And there is internet access! Our gypsy holiday
comes complete with a comfortable Vardo, plus a cabin with toilet, hot water,
shower, and washing facilities – and we’ve supplied a microwave and electric
kettle just in case! There is also a terrace and bbq area.
}
OV y [ B
}8
OaB
SF I ) S B J
Open: 1-12
Single Occupancy: from £20 per room per night
Double Occupancy: from £20 per room per night
Nightly Rate from £15, Group Rates available
No of Units: 1
Units sleep: 2
Weekly rate: per unit from £50 per night
Open: 1-12
Number of units: 4 Dorm
Bunkhouse 5 Bunks per Dorm,
2 Leaders Rooms 1 Bunk in
each. Total: 44 beds
Ffordd y Gyfraith, near Bridgend, CF32 0BS
% 07872 823366
; gaina@gainamorganmedia.co.uk
Betws Boys & Girls Club,The Old Council School, Heol Dewi Sant, Betws CF32 8TA
% : (01656) 725997 Mobile: 07814392299
; info@yobz.co.uk
Cowbridge Self Catering
Cwm Tawel
Awaiting
Grading
C6
}
OV y
E3
Moorshead Farm Cottages
Delightful stone cottages.
Woodburning stoves,
heating, fully equipped
kitchens. Converted from
buildings next to our 15th
Century farmhouse in
peaceful rural setting. Village
pub serving food a short
walk. Cowbridge and
Llantwit Major 3 miles.
Cowbridge B&B.
Whether you are looking for activity and
adventure, or a relaxing break, Cwm Tawel –
The Quite Valley - offers a unique and
unforgettable experience. Just 15 minutes from
J36 of the M4, in its own secluded Valley, we have
beautiful, authentic yurts from Mongolia. Each
one has been furnished with an eclectic blend of
rustic and ethnic furniture. Thick Kilim rugs, fluffy
sheepskins and plump cushions around the central log burner create an inviting space
to sit and relax. Each Yurt has beds enough for five, but you will need to bring your
own bedding.You also have an outside bbq area and camp kitchen supplied with
everything you will need for outdoor cooking. Our tipis are a little simpler and can
sleep up to eight people; they also have a log burner inside and rugs on the floor.
}4 f y [ J B F I C Ò ( S
Number of units: 4
Open: 1-12
Number of bedrooms to each unit: 1
Weekly rate per unit: from £250 to £600
No of Units: 4 (sleeps 2-4)
Weekly rate: from £240 to £420
Open: 1-12
Lletty Brongu, Llangynwyd, Maesteg CF34 0EB
% 07905 466 884
; cwmtawel@gmail.com 4 www.cwmtawel.org.uk
Moorshead Farm, Sigingstone, Nr Cowbridge,
Vale of Glamorgan CF71 7LP
% (01446) 773261
; enquiries@moorsheadfarm.com 4 www.moorsheadfarm.com
43
F3
The Apartments at Crossways Manor
Two exceptional self catering apartments within this 17th Century manor
house situated in the heart of the Vale, 1 mile south of the delightful Roman
market town of Cowbridge. Both apartments are fully equipped with 3
bedrooms each. Lovely grounds of over 6 acres, tennis court, terrace, BBQ.
Free WiFi. Dog and family friendly. 2 pub/restaurants within a short stroll and
plenty more nearby. Great beaches, cliff walks, golf, horse riding, walking, surfing,
castles and gardens. A great base for business or pleasure.
}12+ f y n [ I Ò C % (
No of Units: 2,The Manor Apartment sleeps 8/9 and
has wheelchair access.The Prince’s Apartment is on
1st floor , sleeps 6/7 accessed from the main staircase
Open: 1-12
Weekly rate:The Prince’s Apartment
£695, The Manor Apartment £795
Rate per unit for short stays and long
breaks: on application
Cowbridge, Vale of Glamorgan CF71 7LJ
% (01446) 773171 ; info@crosswayshouse.co.uk
7 (01446) 771707 4 www.crosswayshouse.co.uk
Six stone cottages converted from a group of Victorian model farm buildings
adjacent to an Elizabethan listed farmhouse on a four hundred-acre working
farm. The interiors of the cottages have sympathetically retained many original
architectural features. All cottages have full central heating, TV and are carpeted
and furnished throughout. Specimen carp lake, superb coarse fishing. Private
farm walks. Internet access available.
No of Units: 6, (sleeps 2-8)
Weekly rate: from £250 - £550
Short stays on application
Open: 1-12
Treguff Farm, St Mary Church, Nr Cowbridge, Vale of Glamorgan CF71 7LT
% (01446) 751342
; cottages@treguff.co.uk 4 www.treguff.co.uk
F3
Vale Holiday Homes Ltd
F4
Characterful stone cottages
set in 78 acres of unspoilt
famland 3 miles north of the
historic market town of
Cowbridge. Clean, cosy and
comfortable ‘Home from
Home’ with fully equipped
kitchens, central heating,
internet access etc. Just a
couple of miles from J34 of
M4, ideally situated for
visiting Cardiff, Swansea,
Brecon Beacons and the
stunning Heritage coastline.
Adjacent to a listed Tudor
farmhouse in the Welsh
countryside, two period cottages
(one with log fire) providing
accommodation for 2 to 6 people.
Spacious accommodation equipped
to a high standard with free WiFi
connection. Convenient to M4
(junction 33), the Heritage Coast
and Cowbridge. Millennium Trail on
doorstep. Plenty of country pubs and restaurants in the surrounding area.
}6
OaVfFyI[SB@
Weekly rate: : From £325 to£600
Rate per unit for 3 nights:
From £175 to £300
Open: 1-12
Fishweir Farm, St Mary Church, Cowbridge, Vale of Glamorgan CF71 7LT
% (029) 2022 7477(day) Mobile: 07740 951540
; geoff@bevanmc.co.uk 4 www.fishweir.co.uk
44
F3
}20 I y F C ( @
OaV
Fishweir Cottages
Treguff Farm Cottages and Lakes
}10 f y [ B F I Ò ( S
No of Units: 5 (sleeps 2, 4 or 6)
OaV@
Rate per unit for 3 nights: on
application
Open: 1-12
Llwyn Nwydog Farm, Cowbridge Road, Talygarn, Pontyclun CF72 9JU
% (01446) 774144 Mobile: 07890 888492
; info@valeholidayhomes.co.uk
4 www.valeholidayhomes.co.uk
Llantwit Major Self Catering
Y-Bwthyn-Bach
F4
Lougher Moor Country Cottages
E2
Your comfort is assured in our
tastefully furnished cottage
situated in a peaceful rural
location 3 miles N.E of
Cowbridge, an ideal base to
explore south east Wales. Fully
equipped ground floor
accommodation, 2 flat screen
TV’s/DVD player. Free Wi-Fi.
Twin or double bedroom.
Laundry service. Access to
stunning N.G.S approved garden.
Cowbridge guest houses.
aV
}2 f y [ F I Ò (
Short breaks rate for 3 nights
£180 to £210
Tastefully converted barns with beamed ceilings and beautifully furnished to a
very high standard including lovely new bathrooms. Set in secluded grounds
with tranquil wildlife area and private nature trail including a lake which is home
to moorhens, coots, ducks and during the summer months a variety of
butterflies, dragon flies and also a visiting kingfisher. A great location for
exploring the area, with its wealth of places to see and to suit all tastes.
An afternoon tea tray is provided to welcome you to Lougher Moor for the
start of your holiday.
Please enquire or visit our website for
availability and special offers.
Open: 1-12
Bryn-y-Ddafad, Welsh St Donats, Vale of Glamorgan Cowbridge CF71 7ST
% (01446) 774451
; enquiries@bydd.co.uk 4 www.bydd.co.uk
Windmill Farm Cottages
F4
Converted farm
buildings offering quality
accommodation with
panoramic views
adjacent to our working
farm. Quiet rural
location with fishing, golf
and leisure facilities
close by. Convenient
for junctions 34/35 of
the M4. 20 minutes from central Cardiff and 10 minutes from the market
town of Cowbridge.
}7 f I Ò y ( S
C
OaV
}6 [ f y T B F I C 9 ( S a
Rate per unit for 3 nights: from £150
Open: 1-12
V
Rate per unit for 3 nights: from £200 to £350
Open: 1-12
Windmill Farm, Llansannor, Nr Cowbridge, Vale of Glamorgan CF71 7TF
% (01446) 772470
; enquiries@windmillfarm.co.uk 4 www.windmillfarm.co.uk
Morfa Lane, Llantwit Major, Vale of Glamorgan CF61 2YT
% (01446) 796988
; enq@loughermoor.co.uk 4 www.loughermoor.co.uk
Fossil Cottage
D2
Oak Lodge
E2
An ideal base to explore
the beautiful Vale of
Glamorgan. Set in a quiet
location only 1 mile from
the Glamorgan Heritage
Coast and historical town
of Llantwit Major.
Comfortably furnished with
well equipped kitchen, flat
screen TV/DVD player.
Private garden.
More than a holiday let,
Fossil Cottage is home
from home. Comfortable
and relaxing it’s the perfect
place to stay. Set within
the Heritage Coast
countryside. Easy walking
distance to the beach and
our local pub which serves
good food. We are just 11
miles from junction 35 of the M4 motorway. Well placed for Cardiff and
Swansea and the historic towns and villages of South Wales. Sorry no pets.
}4 f y [ B I ( S
Rate per unit for 3 nights: from £255
OaVS
Open: 1-12
c/o Tenby House, Beach Road, Marcross,
Nr Llantwit Major Vale of Glamorgan CF61 1ZG
% (01656) 890449
; fossilholiday@aol.com 4 www.fossilcottage.co.uk
}1 y B F I C ( S
V
Weekly rate: from £295 - £495
Rate per unit for 3 nights: from £210 to £275
Open: 1-12
Woodside Hamlet, Llantwit Major Vale of Glamorgan CF61 1BD
% (01446) 750974 Mobile: 07516 844535
; jmedwards50@sky.com 4 www.oaklodgellantwit.co.uk
45
Penarth Self Catering
The Wagon House
D2
Marconi Holiday Village
Awaiting
Grading
E2
The Wagon House is a
converted farm barn in a
peaceful rural setting on a
working farm. Stone walls
and original beams.
Comfortably and beautifully
furnished. Situated on the
Heritage Coast and just five
minutes walk to the beach.
Nearby is the historical St
Donats castle and many
other places of interest.
}4 . f y [ B F I ( S a
Weekly rate: From £200 low season, from £450
high season
V
Rate per unit for 3 nights: From £180
low season, from £220 high season
Open: 1-12
Village House, Marcross, Llantwit Major, Vale of Glamorgan CF61 1ZG
% (01656) 890218
; wagon.house@hotmail.co.uk 4 www.wagonhouse.co.uk
Farmers Barns
Awaiting
Grading
Spacious 3 bedroom, 6 berth holiday bungalows and smaller 2 bedroom,
4 berth self-catering holiday bungalows on peaceful holiday village just 6 miles
from Cardiff city centre. Most of our units are situated on the first or second
row and have spectacular views across the Bristol Channel. Facilities include
outdoor swimming pool and paddling pool open in the high season only,
playground, public house, beer garden and laundry. A supermarket is located
just a mile from the village.
E2
}100 P y C B F I Ò 9(high season only) ( ) S a V O
Five individual cottages accommodating 2 – 6 people set around a courtyard.
Perfect for couples or groups of up to 20 people. A Welsh speaking family
farm set within the Heritage Coast, eco friendly renovations, contemporary oak
kitchens, lime wash finishes and handcrafted beds. Included in your stay is the
under floor heating, luxury cotton bed linen, towels, deep filled duvets, antique
Welsh blankets and free Wi-Fi. New for 2012 – six unique wooden chalets
sleeping 4-30 people overlooking our mystical valley!
Weekly rate: from £240 low season to £380
high season.
Rate per unit for 3 nights: from
£275 low season and from £300
high season
Open: 3-12
Lavernock Point, Ford Road, Penarth Vale of Glamorgan CF64 5XQ
% (029) 2070 7310 Mobile: 07584 513756
; steve@lavernockpoint.com 4 www.lavernockpoint.com
Porthcawl Self Catering
Dan-y-Graig Farm Cottage
B4
Relax and unwind in comfort and
fabulous surroundings – take a well
earned break at Dan-y-Graig Farm
Cottage; perfect for a wonderful
short break or holiday.The cottage
lies with a ten-minute walk from the
village of Newton which has a two
mile stretch of beach and a vast
expanse of stunning sand dunes. This
is also part of the Heritage Coast and offers miles of walking and is ideal for
those looking for activities such as cycling, horse riding and golf.
} F
}10 f F y I C ( [ S B J
Weekly rate: From £325 Low Season and
from £795 High Season
aVO
Rate per unit for 3 nights: : From
£200 Low Season and from £600
High Season
Open: 1-12
Rosedew Farm, Beach Road, Llantwit Major, Vale of Glamorgan CF61 1PZ
% (01446) 793002 Mobile: 0773 943 8696
; davies@farmersbarns.co.uk 4 www.farmersbarns.co.uk
46
aVyB@)
@
No of Units: 1 Each Unit sleeps: 3
Weekly Rate from: £300 (Low Season) Weekly Rate
per unit from: £450 (High Season)
Open: 1-12
Elder Drive, Porthcawl. CF36 5RH
% (01656) 771989 Mobile: 07896616192
; green1354man@live.co.uk
4 www.danygraigfarmcottage.co.uk/
Porthcawl Self Catering
Teach Eireann
B4
Ty-Hapus
Awaiting
Grading
aVy ) B@
O a V fFC) ( B
f [I
No of Units: 1 sleeps: 8-10
Weekly Rate from:
£349 (Low Season) to £579 (High Season)
Price on application
Open: 1-12
No of Units: 1 sleeps: 6
Weekly Rate from:
£300 Low Season to £550 High Season
Short breaks (3 nights) from:
£150 (Low season) to £255 (High Season)
42 Mackworth Road, Porthcawl. CF36 5BT
% 00 353 86 2559508
; dave@teacheireann.com
4 www.teacheireann.com
B4
Spacious well-equipped 5 bedroomed
house, furnished to a high standard with a
new kitchen and separate dining room. Just
4 miles from J37/M4 and only 500 metres
from a lifeguarded beach. Only a few minutes
walk from numerous shops, restaurants, pubs
and free parking. Close by is Rest Bay, surfers
and golfers welcome.
Teach Eireann is a Self Catering
Bungalow set in a cul-de-sac 500yds
from the beautiful beach of
Porthcawl. It’s ideal for small groups
and family breaks, sleeping up to six
in three bedrooms. Short breaks are
catered for to suit golfing, fishing,
horse-riding parties, all available
locally. Surfing is available on
Porthcawl beach or Rest Bay, a short
distance away. Trecco Bay Caravan
Park is within walking distance so don’t be disappointed if you can’t stay with
friends, stay here and enjoy all the fun.
Open: 1-12
New Road, Porthcawl. CF36 5DD
% : (01452) 721431 or 721635 Mobile: 07738064378
; tyhapusporthcawl@gmail.com
4 www.ty-hapus.com
Vale Countryside Self Catering
The Granary and Coach House
B4
Hafod Lodge
G4
The ideal place to relax in comfort.
Tastefully converted from traditional
farm buildings and located on a
working dairy farm. The Granary and
Coach House are furnished and
equipped to a high standard offering
spacious accommodation for up to
8 people in the Coach House and 6
people in The Granary. Conveniently
situated near the M4 close to golf courses, heritage coast, castles and many
places of interest. The Coach House is particularly suitable for the disabled
visitor. Please contact us for details. Wireless internet connection in all cottages.
}5 F % f [ y I (
Weekly rate: The Granary from £490
The Coach House from £580
Short breaks available - off peak
Open: 1-12
On the doorstep of Cardiff, this luxury private lodge in the grounds of 17th
Century castle has an outdoor heated gated pool for the safety of children, for
guests sole use with picturesque gardens. Situated in the country, yet only 2
minutes from junction 34 of the M4 and 15 minutes from Cardiff city centre.
4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, large fully equipped kitchen, beamed lounge with
open fireplace. Large heated conservatory. Close to a championship golf course
and health spa, cycle routes, quad biking and walking footpaths.
Tytanglwyst Farm, Pyle, Bridgend, CF33 4SA
% (01656) 745635 or (01656) 740224 7 (01656) 745635
; info@tytanglwystholidaycottages.co.uk
4 www.tytanglwystholidaycottages.co.uk
Ty Tanglwyst Farm Holiday Cottages
B4
Swallow and Ivy Cottages both offer
a high standard of accommodation
and comfort, tastefully furnished and
fully equipped with central heating
and wood burning stoves. Convenient
to M4 (Junction 37), half hour to
Cardiff or Swansea, 3 miles to the
seaside town of Porthcawl. Situated
on a working dairy farm where you
are welcome to see the cows being milked or take a walk in our ancient
woodland. Wireless internet connection in all cottages.
}5 F % f [ y I (
2 units (Swallow & Ivy Cottages) Weekly Rate from: £350
2 units (The Granary & Coach House) Weekly Rate from: £490 Granary, £580 Coach House
Short breaks available off peak
Open: 1-12
Tytanglwyst Farm, Pyle, Bridgend, CF33 4SA
% (01656) 745635 or (01656) 740224 7 (01656) 745635
; info@tytanglwystholidaycottages.co.uk
4 www.tytanglwystholidaycottages.co.uk
}10 f y B F I Ò C 9 ( S
No of Units: 1, (sleeps 14)
Weekly rate: £1000 to £1700
from £800 to £1700
aV
Open: 1-12
Hensol Castle, Hensol, Vale of Glamorgan CF72 8JX
% (01443) 493000 7 (01443) 405700 Mobile: 07779 614643
; info@fore-corners.co.uk 4 www.fore-corners.co.uk
47
Vale Countryside Self Catering
Llantwit Major Caravan & Camping
Parc Coed Machen Country Cottages
H4
Enjoy peaceful rural surroundings
at our lovely cottages situated in a
courtyard of converted farm
buildings. Four 2 bedroom cottages
and one 3 bedroom house all
identically equipped, kitchens with
dishwasher and microwave, living
areas fully furnished with TV,
Freeview and DVD. Bathrooms
with bath and shower. Nearest
rural self-catering cottages to Cardiff City, Millennium Stadium and Millennium
Centre. Level 3 disabled category. Convenient for junction 34 of the M4.
a
}8 f y J F I Ò (
Acorn Camping and Caravanning
v
No of Units: 5 (each sleeps 2 to 6)
Short breaks 2 nights minimum
Weekly rate: from £390 Low Season rate on application
to £540 High Season
Open: 1-12
E3
We are a small peaceful
family owned rural site
situated on the Heritage
Coast surrounded by
farmland. We have a
modern amenity
building, children’s indoor
and outdoor play area
and a shop with
takeaway. We are a
family orientated site and operate a quiet time between 11pm and 7am.
Holiday static caravans available for sale.
ay 5 Ò C P SB
Tents: x40 – from £11.50 per night
Touring Pitches: x 45 – from £15.50 per night
Open: 1st February 30th November
Heol St-y-Nyll, St Brides Super Ely, Nr Cardiff, Vale of Glamorgan CF5 6EZ
% (01446) 760684 / 760612 7 (01446) 760289
; prtrivett@hotmail.com
4 www.parccoedmachen.co.uk
Ham Lane South, Llantwit Major, Vale of Glamorgan CF61 1RP
% (01446) 794024
; info@acorncamping.co.uk 4 www.acorncamping.co.uk
Porthcawl Caravan & Camping
Sutton Mawr Farm Cottage & Railway Carriage
G2
Awaiting
Grading
Trecco Bay Holiday Park
Delightful ground floor
cottage in beautiful rural
setting. Living room with
sofa bed and cosy fire, fully
fitted kitchen with washing
machine, bathroom/shower
main and twin bedrooms all
with televisions. Own
private garden. Very stylish
with every comfort. Also romantically restored railway carriage ‘Gypsy Rose’
with cosy double cabin bed and electric wood burning stove. Close to M4,
Barry, Cowbridge, Cardiff and Penarth. Free Wi-Fi. Please also see our entry
under Vale Countryside farmhouses.
}12 f } n T C S ) Ò ( S I y F [ C
Oa
Open: 1-12
please contact for
information
No of Units: 2 (Cottage sleeps 6, Gypsy Rose sleeps 2)
Daily rate: Cottage from £150 Gypsy Rose from £70
Weekly rate: Cottage from £750 Gypsy Rose from £300
Sutton Mawr, Weycock Road, Barry, Vale of Glamorgan CF62 3AA
Mobile: 07971 865963 % (01446) 749549
; victoriaj1@sky.com 4 www.suttonmawrfarm.co.uk
Cowbridge Caravan & Camping
Llandow Caravan & Camping Park
D3
‘A top 100 UK Park’ set
in the heart of the Vale.
Only 3 miles from the
Heritage Coast and 20
mins from Cardiff. Clean,
heated facilities with
unlimited hot showers,
childrens play area, shop
and free Wi-Fi! Caravan
storage and seasonal
pitches also available.
}20 y 5 Ò C P S
Tents: x 20 - from £13 per night
(based on 2 sharing)
Touring Caravans: x 80 - from £13
(based on 2 sharing)
@
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Top quality caravan holiday homes
Central heating & double glazing available
Kids’ clubs from tots to teens
Splashland indoor swimming pool with pirate ship
Wet Play Zone
800 seat Showdome with award winning entertainment
Coast Bar and Kitchen
Sportsman Bar
Adventure play area
Adventure golf
}300 v f O y C % B S F I Ò C 9 ) (
Open: 1st February 30th November
Llandow, Nr Cowbridge, Vale of Glamorgan CF71 7PB
% (01446) 794527 7 (01446) 796460
; info@llandowcaravanpark.com 4 www.llandowcaravanpark.com
48
Enjoy an excellent choice of facilities to keep all the family happy just two
miles from Porthcawl and steps away from its own Blue Flag Beach.
Number of Pitches / Units:
Open: February to November
Static 262 (sleeps 4-8)
Static unit per week from £199 to £879
Static unit for 3 or 4 nights from £126 to £637
Porthcawl, CF36 5NG
% (08443) 353750
; via www.parkdean.com
4 www.parkdean.com
B4
Wales Coast Path
Discover the shape
of a nation
LLANDUDNO
HOLYHEAD
RHYL
FLINT
Wales’s newest
attraction will be
open in Spring 2012
Fancy an 870 mile stroll?
The Wales Coast Path is your
answer, stretching continuously
from near Chester in the north
to Chepstow in the south.
CHESTER
BANGOR
CAERNARFON
NEFYN
PORTHMADOG
HARLECH
ABERSOCH
ABERDARON
BARMOUTH
The Path is for everyone and
gives you a chance to explore
any part of coastal Wales, to
meet the locals and enjoy the
fresh air and scenery. Consider
this your invitation to step out
and enjoy our new national
endeavour, even if you don’t
walk the whole thing!
ABERDOVEY
ABERYSTWYTH
ABERAERON
CARDIGAN
FISHGUARD
ST DAVID’S
CARMARTHEN
PEMBROKE
TENBY
LLANELLI
CHEPSTOW
SWANSEA
Work to create the Wales Coast Path is
co-ordinated by the Countryside Council for Wales
and delivered on the ground by local authorities. It is
funded by the Welsh Government, the European Regional
Development Fund and the coastal local authorities.
For further information: www.ccw.gov.uk
NEWPORT
PORTHCAWL
CARDIFF
BARRY ISLAND
Photographs © Crown copyright (2011) Visit Wales
take your pick
For FREE copies of any THREE Holiday Area brochures please
tick the appropriate boxes and send to:
The Glamorgan Heritage Coast and Countryside is one of the Holiday Areas within Wales.
Here are the others, each area has its own distinct character.
Visit Wales, Dept G18, PO Box 1, Cardiff CF24 2XN
The Isle of Anglesey
Tel 01248 713177 or 01407 762622
email: tourism@anglesey.gov.uk
www.visitanglesey.co.uk
Llandudno and Colwyn Bay
Tel: 01492 876413
Email: llandudnotic@conwy.gov.uk
www.visitllandudno.org.uk
Rhyl and Prestatyn
Tel 01745 344515/355068
email: rhyl.tic@denbighshire.gov.uk
www.rhyl-prestatyn.co.uk
The North Wales Borderlands
Tel 01978 292015
email: tourism@wrexham.gov.uk
www.northwalesborderlands.co.uk
Snowdonia Mountains and Coast /
Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr
Tel 01341 281485 (24hr)
email: tourism@gwynedd.gov.uk
www.visitsnowdonia.info
Mid Wales and the Brecon Beacons
Tel 01597 825748
email: tourism@powys.gov.uk
www.exploremidwales.com
Ceredigion – Cardigan Bay
Tel 01970 612125
email: brochure@ceredigion.gov.uk
www.tourism.ceredigion.gov.uk
Pembrokeshire
Tel 0844 888 5115
email: tourism@pembrokeshire.gov.uk
www.visitpembrokeshire.com
Carmarthenshire – Carmarthen Bay
Tel 01267 231557
email: marketing@carmarthenshire.gov.uk
www.discovercarmarthenshire.com
Swansea Bay, Mumbles, Gower,
Afan and the Vale of Neath
Tel 01792 468321
email: tourism@swansea.gov.uk
www.visitswanseabay.com
The Valleys
Heart and Soul of Wales
Tel 029 2088 0011
email: tourism@caerphilly.gov.uk
www.thevalleys.co.uk
Cardiff, Capital of Wales
Tel 08701 211258
email: visitor@cardiff.gov.uk
www.visitcardiff.com
The Wye Valley and Vale of Usk
Tel 01633 644842
email: tourism@monmouthshire.gov.uk
www.visitwyevalley.com
ACTIVITIES FOR ALL
Wales is the UK’s activity capital. Find out more
with the help of these FREE action-packed
guides and take a look at the websites.
Fishing
www.fishing.visitwales.com
Golf Wales
www.golfasitshouldbe.com
The Isle of Anglesey
Pembrokeshire
Llandudno &
Colwyn Bay
Carmarthenshire –
Carmarthen Bay
Rhyl & Prestatyn
The North Wales
Borderlands
Swansea Bay, Mumbles,
Gower, Afan & the Vale
of Neath
Snowdonia Mountains &
Coast/Eryri
Mynyddoedd a Môr
The Valleys - Heart and
Soul of Wales, Capital of
Wales
Cardiff
Mid Wales &
the Brecon Beacons
Wye Valley & Vale of
Usk
Ceredigion –
Cardigan Bay
Name (please print):.................................................................................
Address (please print): ............................................................................
...........................................................................................................................
Post Code: ....................................................................................................
For FREE copies of the activity guides please tick the
appropriate boxes and send to:
Visit Wales, Dept H18, PO Box 1, Cardiff CF24 2XN
Fishing Wales
Golf Wales
Name (please print):.................................................................................
Address (please print): ............................................................................
...........................................................................................................................
Post Code: ....................................................................................................
easily accessible
This special part of Southern Wales is easy to get to. Did you know that it is only just over two hours from London to Cardiff or
Bridgend by rail, coach or car. It is the same story from Britain’s major airports with speedy road and rail links. Better still you can fly
direct to Cardiff Airport.
Traveline Cymru
Traveline Cymru provides an all Wales information
service. Tel: 0871 2002233 www.travelinecymru.info
By Coach
National Express provides a nation-wide network
of express bus services to Cardiff and Bridgend
and daily express services from the main UK
airports.
For further information contact:
Tel: National Express Go By Coach
08717 818181 www.nationalexpress.com
By Train
London Paddington to Cardiff – just 2 hours (with
connections to Barry and Penarth)
London Paddington to Bridgend 2 hours 30
minutes (with connections to Maesteg)
www.nationalrail.co.uk
Tel: National Rail Enquiries
08457 484950 (Local call rates apply)
Via the Channel Tunnel Eurostar
Tel: Eurostar 08705 186186
www.eurostar.com
Eurotunnel
Tel: Reservations 08705 353535
www.eurotunnel.com
By Sea
Services operating across the Irish Sea
• Dublin to Holyhead/Rosslare to Fishguard
Irish Ferries Tel: UK Reservations
08705 171717 www.irishferries.com
• Dun Laoghaire/Dublin to Holyhead/
Rosslare to Fishguard
Stena Line
Tel: 08705 707070 www.stenaline.co.uk
By Air
Cardiff Airport is the perfect arrival point for
visitors to Wales. Situated in the heart of the Vale
A92
M90
of Glamorgan and just 19km from Wales’ capital
GLASGOW
city, Cardiff Airport provides easy access to/from
EDINBURGH
M8
all parts of the country. A rail link connects
A74
Cardiff Airport to Cardiff Central and Bridgend.
A1(M)
Trains run in each direction every hour, with
M6
onward connections possible to other
destinations on the rail network.
M62
Hull
For further information:
Holyhead
MANCHESTER
Tel: 01446 711111 www.cwlfly.com
M6
M1
A5
By Car
BIRMINGHAM
A487
The M4 motorway brings motorists
Fishguard
M5
Pembroke
right to the doorstep of Wales’ capital
M4
M1
CARDIFF
Swansea
Harwich
M25
and the Heritage Coast. Look for
BRISTOL
Heritage Coast
LONDON
M4
junction numbers 33 through to 37.
M2
A36
A38
Exeter
Plymouth
50
M3
Southampton
Portsmouth
M20
Folkestone
Dover
Channel
Tunnel
The Barn at West Farm
Cinema and Cafe
Llangynwyd
m
m
Vineyard
TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES
The expert and welcoming staff at
Tourist Information Centres around
the area are there to ensure that you
get the most from your visit. They
offer independent assistance with the
planning of routes and the booking of
accommodation. You will find information on places to
visit and events as well as unusual momentoes of Wales.
All centres offer an independent, local and national
accommodation booking service, for which a small
charge is made - indeed, any Tourist Information
Centre in England or Scotland is also able to book
accommodation in Wales for you.
Look out for this sign, the sign of a warm Welsh
welcome and a quality information service.
Tourist Information Centres are usually
open daily between 10.00 and 17.30 please telephone to check.
Open All Year
Bridgend Tourist Information Centre at
Bridgend Designer Outlet, The Derwen,
Bridgend CF32 9SU
Tel: (01656) 654906 Fax: (01656) 646523
Email: bridgendtic@bridgend.gov.uk
London
For visitors in London wanting to go to Wales, the
London Visit Wales Centre will be happy to help.
Visit Britain, Thames Tower,
Black’s Road, London. W6 9EL
Tel: (08701) 211251
Bridgend County Borough Council
Countryside & Tourism,
Civic Offices,
Angel Street,
Bridgend. CF31 4WB
Tel: (01656) 815332 Monday – Friday
Tel: (01656) 654906 Weekends
Email: tourism@bridgend.gov.uk
Website: www.bridgendbites.com
Cyngor Bwrdeistref Sirol
County Borough Council
Vale of Glamorgan
Tourism Unit,
Dock Office, Barry Docks,
Barry, CF63 4RT
Tel: (01446) 747171
Email: tourism@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk
Website: www.VisitTheVale.com
Cardiff International Airport
(Self service) Arrivals Hall
Tel: (01446) 747171
Porthcawl
Old Police Station, John Street,
Porthcawl, CF36 3DT
Tel: (01656) 786639 Fax: (01656) 782387
Email: porthcawltic@bridgend.gov.uk
Seasonal
(In winter telephone calls only)
Barry Island
The Promenade, The Triangle,
Barry Island, CF62 5TQ
Tel: (01446) 747171
Email: barrytic@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk
Penarth
Penarth Pier, The Esplanade,
Penarth, CF64 3AU
Tel: (029) 2070 8849
Email: penarthtic@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk
Printed on Woodfree Silk paper.
Designed by:
Mediadesign (01874) 730748
Printed by:
Westdale Press Ltd. (029) 2066 2600
© Glamorgan Heritage Coast &
Countryside Marketing Consortium
Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy in this
brochure, the publishers can accept no liability whatsoever for any
errors, inaccuracies or omissions, or for any matter in any way
connected with or arising out of the publication of this
information. This brochure may not be reproduced in part or in
whole without the prior consent of the publishers.
BD/VGA1/12

Top 5 - Visit Wales

Transcription

Similar documents

Modern Offices To Let – 7,500 sq ft 1 BOCAM PARK, BRIDGEND

1st Floor, Unit 3, Bocam Park 1st Floor, Unit 3, Bocam Park

Glamorgan Heritage - Bridgends Heritage

Park and Seaside Walk Leaflet

Bocam Park_Bridgend.indd

Glamorgans heritage Coast 2011 Brochure

HEART ATTACK - KNOW THE SYMPTOMS Poster

21 Llys Pentre, Broadlands - Herbert R Thomas

“Yes?!” said Barry to some of them, before realising it would take too

K Lite - Discount Scooters

Barrywoods Crossing - Ferguson Properties Inc