Barry War Museum & Heritage Centre
Explore Barry’s wartime heritage through immersive exhibits and community stories at this free, volunteer-run museum near Barry Island.
The Barry War Museum & Heritage Centre in Barry, South Wales, is a community-run museum dedicated to commemorating the local impact of the World Wars. It features immersive exhibits including a WW1 trench and a WW2 Anderson shelter, alongside displays on Barry’s railway, docks, and ancient history. Located just 100 yards from Barry Island, this free museum offers a unique glimpse into wartime life and the town’s heritage, open weekly on Wednesdays from 11am to 2pm.
A brief summary to Barry War Museum
- Tourist Railway, Station Approach Rd, Barry, CF62 5TH, GB
- +447443870136
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 11 am-2 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Wednesdays between 11am and 2pm for regular opening hours and a quiet experience.
- Check for special event days, such as VE and VJ Day commemorations, for talks and live 1940s music.
- The museum is free to enter; consider leaving a donation to support its community efforts.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Barry Island for a full day of local exploration.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services from Barry town center to Barry Island run frequently, with a journey time of approximately 15–20 minutes. From Barry Island, the museum is a short 2-minute walk. Bus fares typically range from £2 to £4.
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Train
Barry Island railway station is the nearest train stop, about 100 yards from the museum. Trains from Cardiff take around 30 minutes. Tickets cost between £4 and £8 depending on the time and ticket type.
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Car
Driving to the museum is possible with parking available near Barry Island. Expect a 20–30 minute drive from Cardiff. Parking fees vary but generally cost around £3–£5 for a few hours.
Barry War Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Barry War Museum
Community-Driven Tribute to Wartime History
The Barry War Museum & Heritage Centre stands as a heartfelt tribute to the people of Barry and their experiences during the World Wars. Established and operated by local volunteers, the museum preserves and presents the stories of those who lived through turbulent times. It offers visitors an intimate look at the realities of war through authentic displays and carefully recreated environments.Immersive Exhibits Bringing History to Life
Central to the museum are its immersive exhibits, including a meticulously reconstructed World War I trench and a World War II Anderson shelter. These installations allow visitors to step back in time and gain a tangible sense of the conditions faced by soldiers and civilians alike. Complementing these are displays detailing Barry’s significant railway and dockyard heritage, highlighting the town’s strategic importance during wartime.Celebrating Local Heritage Beyond the Wars
Beyond its wartime focus, the museum also explores Barry’s broader history, featuring exhibits on the town’s ancient past and industrial development. This wider historical context enriches understanding of the community’s evolution and resilience. The museum’s role as a cultural hub is further emphasized by its hosting of talks, commemorative events, and community activities that engage visitors of all ages.Accessible and Welcoming Experience
Situated just a stone’s throw from Barry Island, the museum is easily accessible for visitors exploring the area. It welcomes individuals, families, schools, and groups, offering a free entry policy supported by donations. Open primarily on Wednesdays from 11am to 2pm and select Sundays, the museum encourages visitors to immerse themselves in the local history at a relaxed pace.Preserving Memory Through Education and Engagement
The Barry War Museum places strong emphasis on education and remembrance. It actively commemorates significant wartime anniversaries, such as VE and VJ Days, with special talks and displays. Through these efforts, it fosters a connection between past and present generations, ensuring that the sacrifices and stories of Barry’s wartime community continue to be honored.A Living Heritage Space Rooted in Community Spirit
More than a static collection, the museum embodies the spirit of community involvement and pride. Volunteers maintain and develop the exhibits, and local contributions shape its ongoing narrative. This dynamic approach makes the Barry War Museum a unique destination where history is not only preserved but lived and shared.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
WWII Coast Artillery Search Light Emplacement
0.7 km
Explore a pivotal WWII coastal defense site in Barry, where history meets stunning views of the Bristol Channel.
Visit the Vale
10.8 km
Explore the Vale: Your gateway to stunning landscapes, rich heritage, and unforgettable experiences in a picturesque region.
Ship Weather Vane - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
10.8 km
A dynamic copper and steel ship weather vane celebrating Cardiff Bay’s maritime heritage atop the historic Pilotage Office.
The Scott Antarctic Memorial Cardiff Bay
10.9 km
A poignant memorial in Cardiff Bay honoring Captain Scott and his Antarctic expedition, set against a historic maritime backdrop.
The Open Boat 'Daffodil'
10.9 km
Explore Cardiff Bay aboard the 'Daffodil' for a unique boat tour experience filled with history, stunning views, and local insights.
Mount Stuart Square
10.9 km
Victorian grandeur meets maritime history in Cardiff's iconic coal-trade square.
Pierhead Building
11.0 km
Explore the Pierhead Building, Cardiff's historic landmark showcasing Welsh maritime heritage and culture.
Roald Dahl Plass
11.0 km
Where industrial heritage meets modern culture—Cardiff's iconic plaza named for author Roald Dahl.
The Senedd
11.0 km
Discover The Senedd, an architectural gem in Cardiff, where modern design meets the heart of Welsh democracy and culture.
Wales Millennium Centre
11.1 km
Discover the artistic heart of Cardiff at the Wales Millennium Centre, a premier venue for live performances and cultural events in a stunning architectural setting.
Roath Lock
11.2 km
Discover Roath Lock, Cardiff’s iconic BBC drama village blending cutting-edge production with waterfront heritage charm.
Premier Inn Cardiff Bay hotel
11.2 km
Comfortable, accessible, and modern hotel steps from Cardiff Bay’s cultural and waterfront attractions.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
11.3 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
Principality Stadium
11.5 km
Experience the energy and excitement of Principality Stadium, Cardiff's premier venue for sports, concerts, and unforgettable events.
Water Towers by Amber Hiscott & David Pearl
11.5 km
Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
Unmissable attractions to see
Barry Island Pleasure Park
0.1 km
Classic seaside fun meets nostalgic charm at Barry Island Pleasure Park, a vibrant family-friendly amusement destination by the Welsh coast.
Whitmore Bay - Barry Island
0.3 km
Lively golden sands, family fun, and scenic coastal walks combine at Whitmore Bay, Barry Island’s beloved seaside retreat.
Jackson’s Bay
0.6 km
A serene sandy cove on Barry Island offering peaceful coastal walks, geological wonders, and year-round dog-friendly beach access.
Jackson's Bay
0.7 km
A peaceful sandy cove on Barry Island offering coastal charm, geological interest, and year-round dog-friendly visits.
Romilly Park
1.3 km
A historic Victorian park in Barry blending heritage charm with family-friendly recreation and tranquil green spaces.
Barry Castle
1.5 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Barry Castle, a medieval manor house with a storied past nestled in the heart of Barry, Wales.
King Square, Barry
1.7 km
Historic King Square in Barry blends Edwardian civic pride with vibrant community life in the heart of this Welsh town.
Cold Knap beach
1.7 km
Tranquil pebble beach and serene gardens with scenic views, family-friendly walks, and free parking near Barry’s charming coastline.
Bronze age mound
2.3 km
Explore a commanding Bronze Age burial mound overlooking Porthkerry Bay, a silent witness to ancient Welsh funerary traditions and prehistoric life.
Porthkerry Country Park
2.7 km
Explore 220 acres of woodland, meadows, and pebble beach framed by a majestic Victorian viaduct in this vibrant coastal country park.
St Lythans Burial Chamber
5.8 km
Step back 6,000 years at St Lythans Burial Chamber, a mysterious Neolithic tomb nestled in the tranquil Welsh countryside near Cardiff.
The Garden Cafe
6.1 km
A peaceful garden retreat in Wenvoe offering cozy indoor and scenic outdoor dining nestled in nature’s embrace.
National Trust - Dyffryn Gardens
6.1 km
Explore 55 acres of Edwardian garden rooms, exotic plants, and woodland arboretum surrounding a grand Victorian mansion near Cardiff.
Cosmeston Medieval Village
6.7 km
Step into 1350 at Cosmeston Medieval Village, a free, wheelchair-friendly historic site nestled in scenic lakeside surroundings near Penarth.
Cosmeston Lakes Country Park & Medieval Village
6.8 km
Explore tranquil lakes, vibrant wildlife, and a living medieval village in this scenic country park near Penarth.
Essential places to dine
Finnegans Inn
0.1 km
Discover the perfect blend of delicious food and vibrant atmosphere at Finnegans Inn - your go-to grill and sports bar in Barry.
The Dining Room
0.1 km
A refined British dining experience blending coastal charm and fresh seafood in the heart of Barry’s vibrant seaside scene.
Barry Island Brewers Fayre
0.8 km
Classic British pub dining with family-friendly warmth, scenic waterfront views, and hearty meals near Barry Island Beach.
Premier Inn Barry Island Cardiff Airport hotel
0.8 km
Comfortable waterfront hotel near Cardiff Airport with easy access to Barry Island beaches, city attractions, and family-friendly entertainment.
The Little Olive
1.0 km
Cozy Italian dining with authentic flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Barry’s Broad Street.
Seashore Grill
5.2 km
Seashore Grill offers relaxed coastal dining with sea views, hearty meals, and live music in the heart of Sully, Penarth.
Three Horseshoes Country Inn
5.3 km
A cozy countryside inn near Barry offering hearty food, comfy rooms, and family-friendly fun in a tranquil Welsh setting.
The Humble Onion
5.9 km
A hidden gem in Dinas Powys serving refined Welsh bistro dishes with masterful technique and warm hospitality.
Beefeater Walston Castle
6.8 km
A modern, family-friendly steakhouse in Wenvoe offering hearty British classics with warm service and a relaxed atmosphere.
Ego at The Schooner Inn, Penarth
7.3 km
Mediterranean flavors meet coastal charm at Ego at The Schooner Inn, Penarth’s beloved seaside pub-restaurant.
The Fox and Hounds Pub
7.3 km
A cozy gastropub in scenic Llancarfan offering hearty food, warm hospitality, and charming rooms for a perfect countryside escape.
Blue Anchor Inn
8.0 km
Discover Welsh hospitality at Blue Anchor Inn - where delicious food meets stunning views in East Aberthaw.
Home
8.4 km
Experience innovative fine dining with a warm, intimate atmosphere at Home by James Sommerin in Penarth’s historic Royal Buildings.
Sid’s Restaurant and Bar With Rooms
8.6 km
Seaside dining and cozy stays with stunning views on Penarth’s historic Esplanade, blending fresh cuisine and warm hospitality.
The Red Lion
8.8 km
A welcoming village pub in Bonvilston offering hearty homemade meals, cozy charm, and friendly hospitality near Cardiff.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hyper Value
0.1 km
Explore Hyper Value in Barry for unique gifts and discounts that capture the charm of the local culture, perfect for every tourist's shopping spree.
The Beach Hut/Barrybados Gift Shop
0.2 km
Discover authentic Welsh souvenirs and beach accessories at Barrybados, a charming gift shop capturing Barry Island’s seaside spirit.
The Beach Shop
0.4 km
Authentic Welsh gifts and seaside treasures on Barry Island's charming Western Shelter promenade.
Gallery Boutique
1.1 km
Discover unique women’s fashion and personalized service at Gallery Boutique, a stylish gem on Barry’s High Street.
Curiosity Shop
3.0 km
Explore timeless antiques and hidden treasures at Curiosity Shop, Barry’s charming destination for vintage lovers and history seekers.
The Queen B Boutique
8.5 km
Elegant occasion wear and personalized service combine at The Queen B Boutique, Penarth’s charming fashion and gift destination.
Gifts At No. 9
8.6 km
Discover charming, beautifully curated gifts with personal service at Penarth’s beloved boutique on Windsor Road.
Shore
8.7 km
A charming coastal gift shop on Penarth’s Esplanade, perfect for seaside souvenirs and nautical-themed treasures with a local touch.
Antoinette Antiques and Vintage Clothing
8.9 km
Discover Cardiff’s largest vintage hat collection and timeless antiques in a historic Pumping Station setting.
Cardiff Bay Retail Park
9.5 km
Value-packed shopping hub amid Cardiff Bay's waterfront allure—superstores, groceries, and easy parking for practical pit stops.
B&M Home Store
9.6 km
Discover incredible deals on home essentials and unique items at B&M Home Store in Cardiff Bay - your go-to discount shop!
Londis
9.9 km
Your friendly local convenience store in St Athan, offering fresh groceries and daily essentials with welcoming service and convenient hours.
The Spotted Zebra Company
10.0 km
Charming gift shop in St Athan offering unique Welsh fashion accessories and local treasures that capture the essence of Welsh culture.
Zia Boutique
10.9 km
Discover handpicked jewellery, homeware, and gifts at this independent gem in Cardiff Bay's Mermaid Quay—a stylish haven since 2011.
Mermaid Quay
10.9 km
Discover Mermaid Quay in Cardiff Bay: a vibrant shopping center with stunning views, delightful dining options, and a lively atmosphere for all.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Enzo
0.2 km
A cozy, friendly bar on Barry’s seafront offering Welsh lagers, cocktails, and a relaxed coastal vibe with inviting indoor and outdoor seating.
Cherry Orchard
1.9 km
A modern, family-friendly pub in Barry offering great ales, tasty meals, and a welcoming atmosphere in a charming historic setting.
Ocean Lounge
3.8 km
Charming coastal pub nestled in Porthkerry Caravan Park offering stunning sea views, local ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in South Wales.
The Sully Inn
4.0 km
A stylish gastropub in Sully offering locally sourced dishes and a warm, inviting atmosphere for dining and socializing.
The Flying Club
4.9 km
A friendly, affordable bar in Rhoose offering unique planespotting views and a cozy atmosphere near Cardiff Airport.
The Captains Wife
5.3 km
Rustic coastal pub in Penarth offering hearty British fare, cask ales, and a cozy seaside atmosphere.
The Highwayman Inn
5.7 km
Rustic British pub in Rhoose famed for hearty portions, classic dishes, and a warm, lively atmosphere.
Star Inn
5.9 km
Cosy village pub in Dinas Powys offering classic dishes, a friendly atmosphere, dog-friendly spaces, and seasonal celebrations year-round.
The Six Bells
6.1 km
Historic Welsh village pub with medieval roots, cozy fires, and locally sourced fare in the heart of Penmark.
Fontygary Inn
6.3 km
A friendly traditional pub in Rhoose offering hearty meals, local ales, and a vibrant community atmosphere in the heart of the Vale of Glamorgan.
Gin 64
8.3 km
Discover Penarth’s chic gin bar offering extensive selections, expert cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
The Grange Pub
10.5 km
A vibrant community pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, offering quality local beers, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Lo Lounge
10.8 km
Industrial-chic waterfront bar in Cardiff Bay serving cocktails, street food, and live tunes amid stunning sunset views and pet-friendly vibes.
The Dock
10.9 km
A waterside bar and kitchen in Mermaid Quay — bright windows, bay views, live music and big‑screen sport for daytime dining through late-night sessions.
The Bar
10.9 km
A stylish cocktail bar and restaurant in Cardiff’s Canton, offering craft drinks, live music, and a welcoming vibe for all occasions.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Coco Cubanas
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant weekend nightlife and energetic dance scene at Coco Cubanas, Barry’s premier late-night club on Broad Street.
Bar Cocoa
1.0 km
Experience Barry’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Bar Cocoa, a lively nightclub where music and dancing keep the party going until the early morning.
The Vaults
11.0 km
Dive into Cardiff’s iconic underground club housed in a historic former bank, where techno beats and vibrant nightlife come alive beneath the city streets.
Cabaret at Wales Millennium Centre
11.1 km
Dive into Cardiff Bay's sizzling hub of drag, burlesque, comedy, and live music at Cabaret – where inclusive performances sparkle with pop culture magic and high-energy fun.
Walkabout - Cardiff
11.5 km
Discover the ultimate sports bar experience in Cardiff, offering vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and live sports in a lively atmosphere.
Popworld - Cardiff
11.7 km
Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
Fuel Rock Club
11.7 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Clwb Ifor Bach
11.7 km
Cardiff's gritty Welsh club heart: live music legends, late-night dances, and cultural rebellion on historic Womanby Street since 1983.
Metros
11.7 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
Revolution Cardiff
11.8 km
Discover the energy of Revolution Cardiff, where delicious food and innovative cocktails meet vibrant nightlife in the heart of the city.
For Your Eyes Only
11.8 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
12.0 km
Immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of The Live Lounge Cardiff, where live music, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife await.
The CUBE
12.1 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
12.1 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
Yates - Cardiff
12.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Yates in Cardiff, where great food, drinks, and sports come together in a lively setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Cultural Heritage
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
