Discover the Charm of Visit the Vale
Explore the Vale: Your gateway to stunning landscapes, rich heritage, and unforgettable experiences in a picturesque region.
Nestled in the heart of the Vale, this Municipal Department of Tourism offers a gateway to the region's rich heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture. Whether you're exploring historical sites, indulging in local cuisine, or participating in outdoor adventures, Visit the Vale serves as your ultimate resource for an unforgettable experience.
A brief summary to Visit the Vale
Local tips
- Visit during the spring or fall for the best weather and stunning natural colors.
- Check out local events and festivals for a taste of authentic culture.
- Stop by the department early in your trip to gather maps and insider tips.
- Don't miss the scenic viewpoints; they offer breathtaking photo opportunities.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving, the Vale of Glamorgan is easily accessible from major roads. From Cardiff, take the A4232 towards Barry. Continue on the A4232, then follow signs for the A4050 towards Barry. Once in Barry, follow local signs for Visit the Vale. There is parking available at various locations in Barry, but check for any parking fees that may apply.
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Public Transportation
To reach Visit the Vale by public transport, you can take a train from Cardiff Central Station to Barry. Trains run regularly, and the journey takes approximately 30 minutes. Once you arrive at Barry train station, exit the station and follow the signs towards the town center, where Visit the Vale is located. You may need to walk about 10-15 minutes from the station to get there. Make sure to check the train schedule for any potential costs and travel times.
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Bus
Another option is to take a bus from Cardiff to Barry. Several bus services run between Cardiff Central Bus Station and Barry. Look for service numbers such as 304 or 305. The bus journey typically takes around 40-50 minutes. Upon arriving at Barry, you can walk to Visit the Vale, which is located in the town center. Again, check for fares and schedules prior to your journey.
Discover more about Visit the Vale
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Visit the Vale
0.0 km
Explore the natural beauty and rich history of the Vale of Glamorgan at Visit the Vale, your gateway to unforgettable Welsh adventures.
Tinkinswood Burial Chamber
6.5 km
Explore Tinkinswood Burial Chamber, an ancient Neolithic site near Cardiff, rich in history and surrounded by breathtaking Welsh landscapes.
St Lythans Burial Chamber
7.4 km
Explore the St Lythans Burial Chamber in Wenvoe, Cardiff, a stunning neolithic landmark that unveils the mysteries of ancient Wales.
Vale of Glamorgan
7.4 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of the Vale of Glamorgan, a ravine that enchants nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Bronze age mound
8.9 km
Discover the ancient secrets of the Bronze Age Mound in Barry, a historical landmark steeped in rich archaeological significance.
King Square, Barry
10.4 km
Experience the heart of Barry at King Square, a vibrant town square filled with history, culture, and local charm in Wales.
Llantrisant Guildhall
10.6 km
Experience the historical beauty and cultural significance of Llantrisant Guildhall, a captivating museum in the heart of Wales.
Brynna Woods
10.7 km
Discover the tranquility and natural beauty of Brynna Woods, a peaceful nature reserve in Pontyclun, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
Barry War Museum
10.8 km
Explore the rich military history of Barry at the Barry War Museum, where artifacts and stories bring the past to life for every visitor.
WWII Coast Artillery Search Light Emplacement
11.4 km
Discover the historical significance of the WWII Coast Artillery Search Light Emplacement in Barry, a vital piece of Britain's military heritage.
Fforest Fawr
14.8 km
Experience the serene beauty of Fforest Fawr, a captivating woodland in Wales, perfect for hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching amidst stunning landscapes.
Bute Park
15.5 km
Explore Bute Park, Cardiff's serene city park featuring lush gardens, historical landmarks, and the perfect spot for relaxation and outdoor events.
Principality Stadium
15.5 km
Experience the energy and excitement of Principality Stadium, Cardiff's premier venue for sports, concerts, and unforgettable events.
Animal Wall
15.5 km
Explore Cardiff's Animal Wall, a historical landmark adorned with whimsical sculptures that showcase the city's rich artistic heritage and charm.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
15.5 km
Explore the historic Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower, a stunning architectural gem reflecting the city's rich heritage and vibrant culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cowbridge South Gate
3.7 km
Discover the charm and history of Cowbridge South Gate, a stunning landmark that embodies the rich heritage of this picturesque Welsh town.
St Quentin's Castle
3.9 km
Explore St Quentin's Castle in Cowbridge, a captivating historical site showcasing medieval architecture and breathtaking views of the Vale of Glamorgan.
Fonmon Castle
5.4 km
Explore Fonmon Castle, a historical gem in the Vale of Glamorgan, featuring stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and fun activities for the whole family.
Hensol Castle
6.2 km
Explore Hensol Castle, a stunning Gothic masterpiece surrounded by lush gardens, blending history with modern luxury in the heart of Wales.
Hensol Castle Distillery
6.3 km
Explore Hensol Castle Distillery: A unique blend of history and craftsmanship in spirit distillation in the heart of Wales.
The Garden Cafe
6.9 km
Discover the tranquility of The Garden Cafe in Wenvoe, Cardiff, where delicious food meets serene outdoor beauty.
National Trust - Dyffryn Gardens
6.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of Dyffryn Gardens, a must-visit destination for nature lovers near Cardiff.
Porthkerry Country Park
8.6 km
Explore the stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and historic viaducts of Porthkerry Country Park, a must-visit natural retreat in Barry.
Barry Castle
9.4 km
Discover the enchanting history of Barry Castle, a medieval treasure in Wales that captivates visitors with its timeless charm and scenic beauty.
Romilly Park
9.6 km
Experience the serene landscapes and vibrant gardens of Romilly Park in Barry, a perfect getaway for relaxation and family fun.
Cold Knap beach
9.7 km
Experience the tranquil beauty and family-friendly atmosphere of Cold Knap Beach, a top tourist attraction in Barry, Wales.
St. Fagans National Museum of History
9.9 km
Experience the vibrant history and culture of Wales at St. Fagans National Museum of History, Cardiff's premier open-air attraction.
St Fagans Castle
10.1 km
Explore the historical elegance of St Fagans Castle, a stunning manor house set within a beautiful landscape, showcasing Welsh culture and heritage.
St Donat's Castle and Arts Centre
10.5 km
Experience the enchanting St Donat's Castle and Arts Centre, where history meets creativity along the breathtaking Welsh coastline.
Billy Wynt
10.5 km
Explore the historical landmark Billy Wynt in Llantrisant, where stunning views and rich heritage await every visitor.
Essential places to dine
The Bush Inn
1.2 km
Discover The Bush Inn: A cozy pub in Cowbridge offering delightful Welsh cuisine and a warm atmosphere for tourists.
Hare & Hounds
2.9 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality at Hare & Hounds - a charming pub and restaurant in Aberthin offering delicious food and local brews.
The Fox and Hounds Pub
3.7 km
Discover the flavors of Wales at The Fox and Hounds Pub - where traditional meets contemporary in a cozy gastropub setting.
The Red Lion
4.0 km
Discover The Red Lion in Bonvilston - A charming restaurant offering delicious British cuisine amidst the stunning Welsh countryside.
The White Lion
4.9 km
Discover the heart of Ystradowen at The White Lion - where delicious food meets warm hospitality in a charming pub setting.
The Roost
5.0 km
Experience delightful dining at The Roost in Saint Athan – where generous portions meet exceptional service in a cozy setting.
Three Horseshoes Country Inn
5.5 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality at the Three Horseshoes Country Inn - your cozy retreat in Barry with delicious food and family-friendly fun.
The Fox at Penllyn
6.3 km
Experience traditional British hospitality at The Fox at Penllyn, where delicious food meets charming surroundings in the heart of Wales.
Blue Anchor Inn
6.4 km
Discover the charm of Blue Anchor Inn in East Aberthaw – where local flavors meet stunning coastal views.
The Barley Mow
6.5 km
Discover The Barley Mow: A charming pub in Cowbridge offering delightful cuisine and local ales in an inviting atmosphere.
Llanerch Vineyard Restaurant
6.9 km
Experience exquisite dining amidst breathtaking vineyards at Llanerch Vineyard Restaurant – where culinary artistry meets natural beauty.
Llanerch Vineyard Hotel
6.9 km
Experience luxury at Llanerch Vineyard Hotel—where breathtaking vineyards meet exceptional dining in Wales.
The Cwtch Restaurant
7.3 km
Experience exquisite modern British and Welsh cuisine at The Cwtch Restaurant in Llantwit Major, where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Illtud's 216
7.4 km
Experience exceptional dining at Illtud's 216 in Llantwit Major - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
The Old Swan Inn
7.4 km
Discover The Old Swan Inn in Llantwit Major - where traditional Welsh cuisine meets cozy gastropub charm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Havard & Havard Antiques
3.3 km
Explore Havard & Havard Antiques in Cowbridge for a unique selection of vintage furniture and decorative treasures steeped in history.
Sovereign Antiques
3.3 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and rich history at Sovereign Antiques in Cowbridge, a must-visit for collectors and history enthusiasts.
Colours of Cowbridge
3.4 km
Explore unique fashion at Colours of Cowbridge, a charming ladies' clothing shop in the heart of Cowbridge, offering a stunning selection and personalized service.
Square Spot
3.4 km
Discover unique styles at Square Spot, Cowbridge's charming clothing shop that combines quality fashion with a delightful shopping experience.
West Hampton
3.5 km
Explore West Hampton, a charming gift shop in Cowbridge, offering unique Welsh souvenirs and handcrafted treasures for every traveler.
Visage
3.5 km
Explore Visage, Cowbridge's premier ladies' clothing boutique, offering stylish fashion and a unique shopping experience in a charming setting.
E91
3.6 km
Explore E91 in Cowbridge for a unique clothing experience that blends local charm with stylish fashion options.
WHSmith
3.6 km
Explore WHSmith in Cowbridge for a delightful mix of books, stationery, and local crafts, perfect for every traveler.
Minnie May Closet - Boutique
3.6 km
Explore the elegance of Minnie May Closet - your go-to boutique in Cowbridge for unique fashion and local designs.
FatFace
3.6 km
Discover stylish and comfortable fashion at FatFace in Cowbridge, a destination for eco-conscious shoppers and fashion enthusiasts alike.
The Vintage HQ
3.6 km
Explore The Vintage HQ for unique vintage clothing and accessories in Cowbridge, a must-visit destination for fashion lovers.
Cocoplum
3.6 km
Discover unique designer ladies' clothing at Cocoplum, Cowbridge's premier boutique for fashion-forward shoppers.
The Original Welsh Candle Co
3.6 km
Discover the artistry of candle-making at The Original Welsh Candle Co in Cowbridge, where fragrant memories await every visitor.
Your Ethical home
3.6 km
Explore 'Your Ethical Home' in Cowbridge for sustainably crafted candles that fill your space with warmth and ethical charm.
Tallia Cowbridge
3.6 km
Explore Tallia Cowbridge for a unique shopping experience filled with stylish clothing and local charm in the heart of Cowbridge.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Vale Of Glamorgan Inn
3.7 km
Experience the warm hospitality and local flavors of Cowbridge at the Vale of Glamorgan Inn, a must-visit bar for tourists in Wales.
The Six Bells
5.2 km
Experience the heart of Welsh culture at The Six Bells, a cozy pub in Penmark, Rhoose, offering delicious food, local brews, and a warm atmosphere.
The Highwayman Inn
6.5 km
Experience the warmth and hospitality of The Highwayman Inn, a quintessential British pub in Rhoose, offering delicious meals and local ales.
The Flying Club
7.2 km
Explore The Flying Club in Rhoose, where great drinks meet a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for tourists seeking local charm and relaxation.
Fontygary Inn
7.3 km
Discover the cozy warmth and local flavors of Fontygary Inn, a must-visit pub and restaurant in the heart of Vale of Glamorgan.
Pipeworks Bar
8.3 km
Discover the unique charm of Pipeworks Bar in Pontyclun, a welcoming pub with an extensive drink selection and a vibrant atmosphere.
Ocean Lounge
8.6 km
Discover the charm of Ocean Lounge in Porthkerry, a perfect pub retreat with stunning coastal views and delightful local fare.
The Sycamore Tree
9.0 km
Discover the charm of The Sycamore Tree, a cozy pub in Colwinston, perfect for enjoying local ales and delicious meals in a warm atmosphere.
Cherry Orchard
9.5 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Cherry Orchard Pub in Barry, a perfect spot for food, drinks, and local hospitality.
Lamb & Flag
10.3 km
Experience the warmth of Welsh hospitality at the Lamb & Flag, a cozy pub offering hearty dishes and local ales in the heart of Wick.
Bar Enzo
10.7 km
Discover the heart of Barry at Bar Enzo, a charming bar offering a delightful array of drinks and a friendly atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
The Plough & Harrow
11.0 km
Experience traditional Welsh hospitality at The Plough & Harrow, a charming pub in Monknash offering local ales and delicious food.
Star Inn
12.7 km
Discover the heart of Dinas Powys at Star Inn, where traditional pub charm meets a modern dining experience in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Sully Inn
13.2 km
Experience the best of Welsh cuisine at The Sully Inn, a charming gastropub with stunning coastal views and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Coach
13.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Coach, a beloved pub in Bridgend, offering delicious food and a diverse selection of drinks.
