Porthkerry Country Park: A Coastal Woodland Haven in Barry

Explore 220 acres of woodland, meadows, and pebble beach framed by a majestic Victorian viaduct in this vibrant coastal country park.

4.7

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Home
United Kingdom
Glamorgan
Porthkerry Country Park

Porthkerry Country Park spans 220 acres of tranquil woodland and meadowland nestled in a sheltered valley leading down to a pebble beach and dramatic cliffs. This versatile park offers nature trails, picnic areas, a children’s playground, and a café, making it ideal for families, dog walkers, and nature lovers. The park also features the striking Victorian Porthkerry Viaduct and a rewilded former golf course, enhancing its rich biodiversity and visitor appeal.

A brief summary to Porthkerry Country Park

Park Rd, Barry, CF62 3BY, GB
+441446733589
Duration: 1 to 4 hours
Budget
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Bring a picnic blanket to enjoy the spacious grassy areas; note that BBQs are not allowed.
Visit early in the morning for peaceful woodland walks and better chances of wildlife sightings.
Dogs are welcome but should be kept on leads near sensitive wildlife areas.
Download the park’s app for interactive trails and stories about the park’s history and ecology.
Check out the rewilded former golf course area, now a thriving habitat with boardwalk access.

Getting There

Car

Driving from Barry town center takes approximately 10-15 minutes via main roads. Free parking is available on weekdays, with a small charge on summer weekends. The terrain is mostly flat with paved paths from the car park to main attractions.
Bus

Local bus services connect Barry town center to stops near Porthkerry Country Park, with a journey time of around 20 minutes. Services run regularly but check schedules for weekend frequency. Walking from the bus stop involves a gentle 10-minute uphill walk.
Cycling

The park is accessible via the National Cycle Network and the Wales Coastal Path. Cycling routes offer scenic approaches and bike parking is available near the main entrance. The terrain includes some gentle slopes suitable for most cyclists.
Walking

For those nearby, walking to the park is a pleasant option, with well-maintained paths through Barry’s Garden Suburb area. Expect a 20-30 minute walk on mixed terrain including paved and natural trails.

Porthkerry Country Park location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures
Windy Conditions

Discover more about Porthkerry Country Park

Natural Landscape and Wildlife Richness

Porthkerry Country Park is a vast 220-acre expanse of woods and meadowland situated in a sheltered valley that gently descends to a pebble beach along the South Wales coastline. The park’s diverse habitats include shaded woodlands with a gentle stream, open grassy fields, and spectacular cliffs that provide stunning coastal views. It is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest, home to rare species such as the purple gromwell plant, the wasp spider, and the UK's largest population of the True Service Tree. The park’s rewilding project transformed a former golf course into a mosaic of ponds, wildflower meadows, and salt marshes, attracting amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals, including returning grass snakes.

Historical and Cultural Significance

The park’s history stretches back centuries, with the name 'Porthkerry' derived from Ceri ap Caid, a local king linked to ancient Briton resistance against Roman invasion. The landscape was shaped in the 19th century by the Romilly family and features the iconic Victorian Porthkerry Viaduct, a 19-arched railway structure rising 110 feet above the woods, once vital for coal transport. Cliff Wood Cottage, dating from the late 16th century and rebuilt in the 1790s, adds a touch of local folklore, reputedly once home to a witch named Ann Jenkins. During World War II, the park served as a military site with coastal defenses, adding layers to its rich heritage.

Visitor Experience and Amenities

Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including walking along nature trails, picnicking in expansive grassy areas, and exploring the pebble beach. The park features a well-equipped children’s playground near the main car park, and a café offering refreshments. Picnic tables and benches are conveniently placed near parking areas. Horse riding is permitted on main roads with a permit. The park is dog-friendly, with ample space for dogs to run, though leads are recommended near wildlife habitats. Educational panels and an app enhance the visitor experience by sharing the park’s natural and historical stories.

Community Engagement and Conservation Efforts

Porthkerry Country Park exemplifies collaborative conservation, with local groups and organizations actively involved in habitat management, wildlife monitoring, and rewilding efforts. Partnerships with entities like the NHS, Cardiff Rivers Group, and the Innovate Trust support environmental education and provide opportunities for people with disabilities to engage in conservation work. The park’s ranger team and volunteers maintain trails, manage meadows, and protect rare species, ensuring the park remains a vibrant ecosystem and a valued community resource.

Scenic Highlights and Seasonal Appeal

The park’s coastal location offers spectacular panoramas of the Bristol Channel and the dramatic cliffs that frame the pebble beach. Early mornings provide serene light for nature observation and photography, with opportunities to spot butterflies, damselflies, and other wildlife. The park is accessible year-round, with its mild coastal climate supporting diverse flora and fauna. Seasonal events and guided walks, such as bat spotting evenings, add to its appeal as a destination for nature enthusiasts and families alike.

Accessibility and Visitor Information

Porthkerry Country Park is accessible by car, with parking available near the café and playground. The terrain includes woodland paths, open fields, and beach access, suitable for a range of fitness levels. Facilities include restrooms and picnic areas, though barbecues are not permitted. The park is well connected to the National Cycle Network and the Wales Coastal Path, making it a popular stop for walkers and cyclists. Visitors are encouraged to respect wildlife habitats and follow park guidelines to preserve its natural beauty.

Discover The Senedd, an architectural gem in Cardiff, where modern design meets the heart of Welsh democracy and culture.

Unmissable attractions to see

Bronze age mound

0.4 km

Explore a commanding Bronze Age burial mound overlooking Porthkerry Bay, a silent witness to ancient Welsh funerary traditions and prehistoric life.

Cold Knap beach

1.2 km

Tranquil pebble beach and serene gardens with scenic views, family-friendly walks, and free parking near Barry’s charming coastline.

Barry Castle

1.3 km

Explore the evocative ruins of Barry Castle, a medieval manor house with a storied past nestled in the heart of Barry, Wales.

Romilly Park

1.5 km

A historic Victorian park in Barry blending heritage charm with family-friendly recreation and tranquil green spaces.

Whitmore Bay - Barry Island

2.5 km

Lively golden sands, family fun, and scenic coastal walks combine at Whitmore Bay, Barry Island’s beloved seaside retreat.

Barry Island Pleasure Park

2.7 km

Classic seaside fun meets nostalgic charm at Barry Island Pleasure Park, a vibrant family-friendly amusement destination by the Welsh coast.

Barry War Museum

2.7 km

Explore Barry’s wartime heritage through immersive exhibits and community stories at this free, volunteer-run museum near Barry Island.

Jackson’s Bay

3.3 km

A serene sandy cove on Barry Island offering peaceful coastal walks, geological wonders, and year-round dog-friendly beach access.

Jackson's Bay

3.4 km

A peaceful sandy cove on Barry Island offering coastal charm, geological interest, and year-round dog-friendly visits.

King Square, Barry

3.5 km

Historic King Square in Barry blends Edwardian civic pride with vibrant community life in the heart of this Welsh town.

Fonmon Castle

4.2 km

Explore Fonmon Castle, a rare medieval fortress in South Wales with centuries of history and stunning rococo interiors.

St Lythans Burial Chamber

5.5 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

5.6 km

A peaceful garden retreat in Wenvoe offering cozy indoor and scenic outdoor dining nestled in nature’s embrace.

National Trust - Dyffryn Gardens

5.7 km

Explore 55 acres of Edwardian garden rooms, exotic plants, and woodland arboretum surrounding a grand Victorian mansion near Cardiff.

Tinkinswood Burial Chamber

6.4 km

Explore Tinkinswood, Wales’ awe-inspiring 6,000-year-old Neolithic burial chamber crowned by Europe’s largest capstone.

Essential places to dine

The Little Olive

2.2 km

Cozy Italian dining with authentic flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Barry’s Broad Street.

Premier Inn Barry Island Cardiff Airport hotel

2.5 km

Comfortable waterfront hotel near Cardiff Airport with easy access to Barry Island beaches, city attractions, and family-friendly entertainment.

Premier Inn Barry Island Cardiff Airport hotel

Barry Island Brewers Fayre

2.6 km

Classic British pub dining with family-friendly warmth, scenic waterfront views, and hearty meals near Barry Island Beach.

The Dining Room

2.6 km

A refined British dining experience blending coastal charm and fresh seafood in the heart of Barry’s vibrant seaside scene.

Finnegans Inn

2.6 km

Discover the perfect blend of delicious food and vibrant atmosphere at Finnegans Inn - your go-to grill and sports bar in Barry.

Three Horseshoes Country Inn

3.5 km

A cozy countryside inn near Barry offering hearty food, comfy rooms, and family-friendly fun in a tranquil Welsh setting.

The Fox and Hounds Pub

4.9 km

A cozy gastropub in scenic Llancarfan offering hearty food, warm hospitality, and charming rooms for a perfect countryside escape.

Blue Anchor Inn

5.3 km

Discover Welsh hospitality at Blue Anchor Inn - where delicious food meets stunning views in East Aberthaw.

The Roost

7.0 km

A charming countryside pub blending modern comfort, home-cooked classics, and lively entertainment in St Athan near Barry.

Beefeater Walston Castle

7.3 km

A modern, family-friendly steakhouse in Wenvoe offering hearty British classics with warm service and a relaxed atmosphere.

The Red Lion

7.4 km

A welcoming village pub in Bonvilston offering hearty homemade meals, cozy charm, and friendly hospitality near Cardiff.

The Humble Onion

7.8 km

A hidden gem in Dinas Powys serving refined Welsh bistro dishes with masterful technique and warm hospitality.

Seashore Grill

7.9 km

Seashore Grill offers relaxed coastal dining with sea views, hearty meals, and live music in the heart of Sully, Penarth.

The Bush Inn

9.6 km

A charming Welsh country pub in Cowbridge offering hearty British fare, cosy atmosphere, and friendly service in a picturesque village setting.

Ego at The Schooner Inn, Penarth

9.7 km

Mediterranean flavors meet coastal charm at Ego at The Schooner Inn, Penarth’s beloved seaside pub-restaurant.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Gallery Boutique

2.0 km

Discover unique women’s fashion and personalized service at Gallery Boutique, a stylish gem on Barry’s High Street.

The Beach Shop

2.5 km

Authentic Welsh gifts and seaside treasures on Barry Island's charming Western Shelter promenade.

The Beach Hut/Barrybados Gift Shop

2.6 km

Discover authentic Welsh souvenirs and beach accessories at Barrybados, a charming gift shop capturing Barry Island’s seaside spirit.

Hyper Value

2.7 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.

Curiosity Shop

5.2 km

Explore timeless antiques and hidden treasures at Curiosity Shop, Barry’s charming destination for vintage lovers and history seekers.

Londis

7.2 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

7.3 km

Charming gift shop in St Athan offering unique Welsh fashion accessories and local treasures that capture the essence of Welsh culture.

Antoinette Antiques and Vintage Clothing

10.5 km

Discover Cardiff’s largest vintage hat collection and timeless antiques in a historic Pumping Station setting.

Antoinette Antiques and Vintage Clothing

Bargain Booze Select Convenience

10.6 km

Your friendly local convenience store in Llantwit Major offering a wide range of beers, wines, spirits, tobacco, and vaporisers at great prices.

The Queen B Boutique

10.8 km

Elegant occasion wear and personalized service combine at The Queen B Boutique, Penarth’s charming fashion and gift destination.

Gifts At No. 9

10.8 km

Discover charming, beautifully curated gifts with personal service at Penarth’s beloved boutique on Windsor Road.

Shore

11.0 km

A charming coastal gift shop on Penarth’s Esplanade, perfect for seaside souvenirs and nautical-themed treasures with a local touch.

Cardiff Bay Retail Park

11.3 km

Value-packed shopping hub amid Cardiff Bay's waterfront allure—superstores, groceries, and easy parking for practical pit stops.

B&M Home Store

11.3 km

Discover incredible deals on home essentials and unique items at B&M Home Store in Cardiff Bay - your go-to discount shop!

Litus Gifts

11.5 km

Discover unique treasures and thoughtful gifts in the heart of historic Llantwit Major at Litus Gifts.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Ocean Lounge

1.4 km

Charming coastal pub nestled in Porthkerry Caravan Park offering stunning sea views, local ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in South Wales.

The Flying Club

2.2 km

A friendly, affordable bar in Rhoose offering unique planespotting views and a cozy atmosphere near Cardiff Airport.

Bar Enzo

2.6 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

2.9 km

A modern, family-friendly pub in Barry offering great ales, tasty meals, and a welcoming atmosphere in a charming historic setting.

The Highwayman Inn

2.9 km

Rustic British pub in Rhoose famed for hearty portions, classic dishes, and a warm, lively atmosphere.

The Six Bells

3.5 km

Historic Welsh village pub with medieval roots, cozy fires, and locally sourced fare in the heart of Penmark.

Fontygary Inn

3.7 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.

The Sully Inn

6.5 km

A stylish gastropub in Sully offering locally sourced dishes and a warm, inviting atmosphere for dining and socializing.

Star Inn

7.8 km

Cosy village pub in Dinas Powys offering classic dishes, a friendly atmosphere, dog-friendly spaces, and seasonal celebrations year-round.

The Captains Wife

8.0 km

Rustic coastal pub in Penarth offering hearty British fare, cask ales, and a cozy seaside atmosphere.

Gin 64

10.6 km

Discover Penarth’s chic gin bar offering extensive selections, expert cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.

The Bar

12.1 km

A stylish cocktail bar and restaurant in Cardiff’s Canton, offering craft drinks, live music, and a welcoming vibe for all occasions.

Vale Of Glamorgan Inn

12.1 km

A cozy Welsh pub in Cowbridge offering real ales, homemade food, and a lively beer garden with friendly service.

The Grange Pub

12.1 km

A vibrant community pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, offering quality local beers, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.

Lo Lounge

12.7 km

Industrial-chic waterfront bar in Cardiff Bay serving cocktails, street food, and live tunes amid stunning sunset views and pet-friendly vibes.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

Coco Cubanas

2.2 km

Experience the vibrant weekend nightlife and energetic dance scene at Coco Cubanas, Barry’s premier late-night club on Broad Street.

Bar Cocoa

2.2 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

12.9 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

13.0 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

13.1 km

Discover the ultimate sports bar experience in Cardiff, offering vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and live sports in a lively atmosphere.

Fuel Rock Club

13.2 km

Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.

Popworld - Cardiff

13.2 km

Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.

Clwb Ifor Bach

13.2 km

Cardiff's gritty Welsh club heart: live music legends, late-night dances, and cultural rebellion on historic Womanby Street since 1983.

Revolution Cardiff

13.3 km

Discover the energy of Revolution Cardiff, where delicious food and innovative cocktails meet vibrant nightlife in the heart of the city.

Metros

13.3 km

Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.

For Your Eyes Only

13.3 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

13.5 km

Immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of The Live Lounge Cardiff, where live music, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife await.

The CUBE

13.6 km

Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.

Tiger Tiger Cardiff

13.7 km

A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.

Yates - Cardiff

13.7 km

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Yates in Cardiff, where great food, drinks, and sports come together in a lively setting.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Porthkerry Country Park with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Porthkerry Country Park: A Coastal Woodland Haven in Barry

A brief summary to Porthkerry Country Park

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Car

Bus

Cycling

Walking

Porthkerry Country Park location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Porthkerry Country Park

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Porthkerry Country Park

Natural Landscape and Wildlife Richness

Historical and Cultural Significance

Visitor Experience and Amenities

Community Engagement and Conservation Efforts

Scenic Highlights and Seasonal Appeal

Accessibility and Visitor Information

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

WWII Coast Artillery Search Light Emplacement

Visit the Vale

Hensol Castle

Landsea Gardens Cardiff Bay Viewing Deck

Landsea Square - Cardiff Bay

Panorama Stone - Cardiff Bay Art Trail

Ship Weather Vane - Cardiff Bay Art Trail

Ianto's Shrine

Mount Stuart Square

The Open Boat 'Daffodil'

Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower

The Scott Antarctic Memorial Cardiff Bay

Roald Dahl Plass

Pierhead Building

The Senedd

Unmissable attractions to see

Bronze age mound

Cold Knap beach

Barry Castle

Romilly Park

Whitmore Bay - Barry Island

Barry Island Pleasure Park

Barry War Museum

Jackson’s Bay

Jackson's Bay

King Square, Barry

Fonmon Castle

St Lythans Burial Chamber

The Garden Cafe

National Trust - Dyffryn Gardens

Tinkinswood Burial Chamber

Essential places to dine

The Little Olive

Premier Inn Barry Island Cardiff Airport hotel

Barry Island Brewers Fayre

The Dining Room

Finnegans Inn

Three Horseshoes Country Inn

The Fox and Hounds Pub

Blue Anchor Inn

The Roost

Beefeater Walston Castle

The Red Lion

The Humble Onion

Seashore Grill

The Bush Inn

Ego at The Schooner Inn, Penarth

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Gallery Boutique

The Beach Shop

The Beach Hut/Barrybados Gift Shop

Hyper Value

Curiosity Shop

Londis

The Spotted Zebra Company

Antoinette Antiques and Vintage Clothing

Bargain Booze Select Convenience

The Queen B Boutique