Cowbridge South Gate: The Last Medieval Gateway of Glamorgan

Discover Cowbridge South Gate, the last surviving medieval gateway in Glamorgan, where history and charm meet in the heart of a Welsh market town.

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Cowbridge South Gate

Cowbridge South Gate is a historic medieval gateway located on Church Street in Cowbridge, Wales. Dating back to the early 14th century, it is the only surviving town gate of the original four that once guarded this walled market town. The gate stands as a tangible reminder of Cowbridge’s medieval heritage and its role as a strategic and commercial hub in the Vale of Glamorgan. Surrounded by charming streets and local shops, it offers visitors a glimpse into the town’s rich past.

A brief summary to Cowbridge South Gate

Church St, Cowbridge, CF71 7AG, GB
Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

Visit early in the morning for a quieter atmosphere and the best light for photography.
Explore the nearby streets for unique local shops and cafes to experience Cowbridge’s community vibe.
Check local event calendars for festivals or markets that may be taking place during your visit.
Take time to walk along the remnants of Cowbridge’s medieval walls near Old Hall Gardens.

Getting There

Car

Driving from Cardiff to Cowbridge South Gate takes approximately 30-40 minutes via the A4232 and A4119. Parking is available in Cowbridge town center, with typical fees around £1-£2 per hour.
Public Transport

From Cardiff Central, take a train to Bridgend (20-30 minutes), then catch bus 303 to Cowbridge (about 30 minutes). Bus lines X2 and 321 also serve Cowbridge with stops near the Town Hall, a 1-minute walk from South Gate. Train fares range from £5-£7; bus fares are approximately £2.
Walking

Once in Cowbridge, the South Gate is easily accessible on foot via Church Street. The terrain is flat and suitable for all mobility levels, making for a pleasant stroll through the historic town center.

Cowbridge South Gate location weather suitability

Any Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Cowbridge South Gate

A Medieval Portal Preserved Through Centuries

Cowbridge South Gate is the sole remaining medieval gateway of the four that once punctuated the defensive walls of Cowbridge, a market town in the Vale of Glamorgan, Wales. Constructed in the early 14th century, the gate originally served as a fortified entrance controlling access and toll collection for this important settlement. Its vaulted structure and stone construction reflect typical medieval defensive architecture. Over the centuries, while the other gates were lost, the South Gate has endured, standing as a rare surviving relic of Glamorgan’s medieval urban fabric.

The Historical Significance of Cowbridge’s Defences

Cowbridge’s walls and gates were integral to its identity as a medieval borough, granted its first charter in 1254 by Richard de Clare, Lord of Glamorgan. The town’s layout, with one long street and burgage plots, remains largely medieval in origin. The South Gate’s preservation offers insight into the town’s role as a fortified market center on a key east-west route through Glamorgan, tracing back to Roman times. The gate’s presence today connects visitors to Cowbridge’s layered history, from Roman settlement to medieval borough and beyond.

Setting and Surroundings in a Picturesque Market Town

Located on Church Street, the South Gate stands prominently amidst Cowbridge’s quaint streets lined with Georgian houses, independent shops, and cafes. The town’s atmosphere is one of historic charm blended with vibrant community life. Nearby attractions include Old Hall Gardens and the remains of Cowbridge’s town walls, which can be traced around the town core. The gate’s stone facade and narrow passageway evoke a sense of stepping back in time, inviting exploration of Cowbridge’s heritage-rich environment.

Architectural Features and Preservation

The South Gate is characterized by its low, narrow stone archway, originally vaulted, constructed from local stone. Its robust medieval masonry has been maintained carefully, making it a significant architectural landmark. The gate’s design reflects its defensive purpose, controlling access while allowing passage along Church Street. Its survival is notable as it is the only remaining gate in all the former walled towns of Glamorgan, underscoring its rarity and importance in Welsh heritage.

Visitor Experience and Local Culture

Visitors to Cowbridge South Gate can enjoy a peaceful stroll through the historic town center, exploring the surrounding streets that offer unique shops, local delicacies, and a welcoming community ambiance. Early morning visits provide quieter moments and excellent photographic opportunities of the gate’s medieval stonework. The town hosts various markets and festivals throughout the year, enhancing the cultural experience near this historic landmark.

Connecting Past and Present

Cowbridge South Gate stands as a testament to the town’s enduring legacy, bridging its medieval past with contemporary life. It symbolizes Cowbridge’s historical importance in the Vale of Glamorgan and invites visitors to reflect on the layers of history embedded in this charming Welsh market town. The gate is not only an architectural treasure but also a cultural touchstone that enriches the visitor’s understanding of the region’s heritage.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Visit the Vale

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WWII Coast Artillery Search Light Emplacement

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WWII Coast Artillery Search Light Emplacement

Fforest Fawr

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Experience the serene beauty of Fforest Fawr, a captivating woodland in Wales, perfect for hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching amidst stunning landscapes.

Llandaff Cathedral

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A Welsh Coal Mining Experience

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Explore the rich history of Welsh coal mining at Rhondda Heritage Park, a captivating local history museum with engaging exhibits and a charming café.

Cardiff City Stadium

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Mountain View Ranch

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Discover the beauty of the Welsh countryside at Mountain View Ranch, where adventure meets nature for unforgettable experiences.

River Cruises

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Explore Cardiff's rich history and stunning architecture from the serenity of the water with unforgettable river cruises through the heart of the city.

Bute Park

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Discover the beauty and tranquility of Bute Park, Cardiff's premier urban park and a hub of culture and nature in the heart of the city.

Animal Wall

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Principality Stadium

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Queen Anne Square

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Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower

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A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.

Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower

Cardiff Castle Museum

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Explore Cardiff Castle Museum, a historic landmark that invites you to dive into the rich heritage of Wales with captivating exhibits and stunning architecture.

Cardiff Castle

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Unmissable attractions to see

St Quentin's Castle

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Explore the evocative ruins of St Quentin's Castle, a medieval stone fortress perched above the Welsh countryside near Cowbridge.

Old Beaupre Castle

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Discover Old Beaupre Castle, a hidden Tudor manor with stunning Renaissance architecture nestled in the tranquil Vale of Glamorgan countryside.

The Old Swan Inn

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Hensol Castle

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Hensol Castle Distillery

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Brynna Woods

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Fonmon Castle

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Ewenny Priory

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St Donat's Castle and Arts Centre

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Vale of Glamorgan

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Nash Point Lighthouse

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Castell Coety

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Tinkinswood Burial Chamber

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Hut 9, Island Farm

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Billy Wynt

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Essential places to dine

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The Bush Inn

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

The Fox at Penllyn

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The Barley Mow

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A cozy Welsh pub in Graig Penllyn offering fresh local fare, seasonal ales, and a warm community atmosphere near Cowbridge.

The White Lion

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A vibrant Welsh country pub and hotel offering exceptional food, warm hospitality, and cozy accommodations in picturesque Ystradowen.

The Cwtch Restaurant

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A cosy Welsh dining haven in Llantwit Major offering modern British cuisine with fresh seafood, steaks, and warm hospitality.

Illtud's 216

6.4 km

Cozy restaurant and bar in Llantwit Major offering homemade dishes, warm ambience, and attentive service in a historic setting.

Pantruthyn Farm Table Table

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The Roost

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Harvester Old Mill Bridgend

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The Fox and Hounds Pub

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Golden Mile Inn

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The Red Lion

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Llanerch Vineyard Restaurant

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Award-winning vineyard dining with seasonal Welsh cuisine, scenic vineyard views, and expert wine pairings in a charming countryside setting.

Llanerch Vineyard Hotel

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Experience luxury and tranquility in Wales’ only vineyard hotel, where scenic beauty meets exquisite dining and elegant accommodations.

Discover Scandinavian-inspired smart casual fashion at Visage, Cowbridge’s boutique for unique ladies’ clothing beyond the high street.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Vale Of Glamorgan Inn

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The Sycamore Tree

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Lamb & Flag

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Pipeworks Bar

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The Plough & Harrow

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The Six Bells

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The Coach

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The Highwayman Inn

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Fontygary Inn

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The Little Bar On The Bridge

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The Flying Club

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Ocean Lounge

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Cherry Orchard

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Bar Enzo

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Star Inn

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Nightclubs & after hour spots

Coco Cubanas

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Bar Cocoa

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Eclipse Nightclub

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Squares Night club

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Fuel Rock Club

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Clwb Ifor Bach

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For Your Eyes Only

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Popworld - Cardiff

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Metros

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Walkabout - Cardiff

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Be At One - Cardiff

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Retro

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Tiger Tiger Cardiff

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The CUBE

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Yates - Cardiff

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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

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Cowbridge South Gate: The Last Medieval Gateway of Glamorgan

A brief summary to Cowbridge South Gate

Local tips

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

Getting There

Car

Public Transport

Walking

Cowbridge South Gate location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Cowbridge South Gate

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Cowbridge South Gate

A Medieval Portal Preserved Through Centuries

The Historical Significance of Cowbridge’s Defences

Setting and Surroundings in a Picturesque Market Town

Architectural Features and Preservation

Visitor Experience and Local Culture

Connecting Past and Present

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Visit the Vale

WWII Coast Artillery Search Light Emplacement

Fforest Fawr

Llandaff Cathedral

A Welsh Coal Mining Experience

Cardiff City Stadium

Mountain View Ranch

River Cruises

Bute Park

Animal Wall

Principality Stadium

Queen Anne Square

Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower

Cardiff Castle Museum

Cardiff Castle

Unmissable attractions to see

St Quentin's Castle

Old Beaupre Castle

The Old Swan Inn

Hensol Castle

Hensol Castle Distillery

Brynna Woods

Fonmon Castle

Ewenny Priory

St Donat's Castle and Arts Centre

Vale of Glamorgan

Nash Point Lighthouse

Castell Coety

Tinkinswood Burial Chamber

Hut 9, Island Farm

Billy Wynt

Essential places to dine

Hare & Hounds

The Bush Inn

The Fox at Penllyn

The Barley Mow

The White Lion

The Cwtch Restaurant

Illtud's 216

Pantruthyn Farm Table Table

The Roost

Harvester Old Mill Bridgend

The Fox and Hounds Pub

Golden Mile Inn

The Red Lion

Llanerch Vineyard Restaurant

Llanerch Vineyard Hotel

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Happy Days Vintage Home Store

Cancer Research UK

Stwff-Stuff

Goose Island Cowbridge

FatFace

Cocoplum

Willow In White Bridal Co

Tallia Cowbridge

Your Ethical home

The Original Welsh Candle Co

WHSmith