Visit the Vale

Our Coastline

You're never very far from the coast in the Vale of Glamorgan, and it's a coastline that has a stunning mix of sandy beaches, spectacular views and wild cliffs.

 

Barry Island

If you are looking for sandcastles and family fun then the traditional resort of Barry Island ticks every box. Whatever time of year you visit, it's ideal. If the sun is shining then stock up on ice-cream or candy floss and enjoy the promenade, amusements, funfair and beautiful beaches. If you're wrapping up for a wintry walk at the seaside, don't miss out on some of the finest coffee in South Wales to warm you up.

 

Glamorgan Heritage Coast

At the heart of the Vale of Glamorgan is a 14-mile stretch of protected coastline which was awarded Heritage Coast status in 1972. The area features secluded romantic coves, interesting wildlife, exhilarating walks, all backed by dramatic cliffs and rolling countryside. Two golden beaches are also found along the Heritage Coast at Southerndown and Ogmore-by-Sea, both of which are extremely popular with surfers.  Read more about our coastal management and interpretation.

 

So many stories to tell

The two lighthouses at Nash Point are a testament to the treacherous nature of a coast once famous for its wrecks and smugglers. Right in the middle of the coastline is St Donats Castle, now a world famous education centre called Atlantic College.

 

The castle was once the home of American media magnate William Randolph Hearst who entertained his Hollywood friends there during the 1940s and early 50s. Where else but here could you walk the same beach that Charlie Chaplin strolled along or the same road that Bing Crosby and Bob Hope followed?

 

Penarth

Only a few miles from Cardiff, Penarth has been a magnet for holidaymakers and day visitors for over a century. An elegant Victorian town, it is known as the Garden By The Sea, with its superb parks next to a magnificent pier, broad promenade and beaches, while the town's marina is an attraction for yacht owners and admirers. 

 

Llantwit Major  

Another of the Vale of Glamorgan's coastal towns is Llantwit Major, where ancient stone buildings line tiny narrow streets. The town's beach is a mix of pebbles, rock pools and sand, with amazing cliff-top scenery. Cliff walks are all signposted with leaflets available from the Llantwit Major Vistor Centre.

 

 

Find out more about all of the beaches in the Vale.

 

Over here!

 

Walking the Heritage Coast

 

Sea kayaking

 

Heritage Coast

 

Surf's up!

 

 

Choose from our mini guides

If you'd like to find out more about our villages, days out, towns, country parks or ways to get active in the Vale, you can order free copies of our Glamorgan Heritage Coast and Countryside mini guides.

 

 

Contact

Tel: 01446 747171

Email: barrytic@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk

Vale of Glamorgan Council, Civic Offices, Holton Road, Barry CF63 4RU, Tel: (01446) 700111