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 Vale: Your gateway to stunning landscapes, rich heritage, and unforgettable experiences in a picturesque region.
WWII Coast Artillery Search Light Emplacement
11.4 km
Explore a pivotal WWII coastal defense site in Barry, where history meets stunning views of the Bristol Channel.
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.
Ogmore Castle
15.0 km
Discover the medieval charm and natural beauty of Ogmore Castle, a must-visit historical site in the Vale of Glamorgan.
River Cruises
15.4 km
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
15.5 km
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.
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 the Animal Wall in Cardiff, a historical landmark filled with whimsical animal sculptures that tell the story of the city's rich heritage.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
15.5 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
Cosmeston Lakes Country Park & Medieval Village
15.5 km
Experience the natural beauty and historical charm of Cosmeston Lakes Country Park & Medieval Village - a perfect getaway for nature lovers and history buffs.
Cosmeston Medieval Village
15.5 km
Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Middle Ages at Cosmeston Medieval Village, a captivating historical landmark in Vale of Glamorgan.
Cardiff Castle Museum
15.6 km
Explore Cardiff Castle Museum, a historic landmark that invites you to dive into the rich heritage of Wales with captivating exhibits and stunning architecture.
Queen Anne Square
15.6 km
Explore Queen Anne Square in Cardiff: A serene gem filled with history, beautiful architecture, and perfect spots for relaxation and photography.
Firing Line Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier
15.7 km
Explore the rich military heritage of Wales at the Firing Line Museum, set within the historic Cardiff Castle in the heart of Cardiff city.
Cardiff Castle
15.7 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Cardiff Castle, a treasure in the heart of Wales that combines culture, beauty, and adventure.
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 the evocative ruins of St Quentin's Castle, a medieval stone fortress perched above the Welsh countryside near Cowbridge.
Fonmon Castle
5.4 km
Explore Fonmon Castle, a rare medieval fortress in South Wales with centuries of history and stunning rococo interiors.
Hensol Castle
6.2 km
Experience the grandeur of a historic Gothic Revival castle set in rolling Welsh countryside, perfect for weddings, events, and luxurious stays.
Hensol Castle Distillery
6.3 km
Discover the unique blend of history and craft gin making in the atmospheric cellars of 17th-century Hensol Castle.
Tinkinswood Burial Chamber
6.5 km
Explore Tinkinswood, Wales’ awe-inspiring 6,000-year-old Neolithic burial chamber crowned by Europe’s largest capstone.
The Garden Cafe
6.9 km
A peaceful garden retreat in Wenvoe offering cozy indoor and scenic outdoor dining nestled in nature’s embrace.
National Trust - Dyffryn Gardens
6.9 km
Explore 55 acres of Edwardian garden rooms, exotic plants, and woodland arboretum surrounding a grand Victorian mansion near Cardiff.
St Lythans Burial Chamber
7.4 km
Step back 6,000 years at St Lythans Burial Chamber, a mysterious Neolithic tomb nestled in the tranquil Welsh countryside near Cardiff.
The Old Swan Inn
7.4 km
Historic gastropub in Llantwit Major offering cozy charm, fresh local dishes, and a welcoming garden retreat.
Vale of Glamorgan
7.4 km
Discover the Vale of Glamorgan’s stunning coastline, historic towns, and tranquil countryside just west of Cardiff.
Porthkerry Country Park
8.6 km
Explore 220 acres of woodland, meadows, and pebble beach framed by a majestic Victorian viaduct in this vibrant coastal country park.
Bronze age mound
8.9 km
Explore a commanding Bronze Age burial mound overlooking Porthkerry Bay, a silent witness to ancient Welsh funerary traditions and prehistoric life.
Barry Castle
9.4 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
9.6 km
A historic Victorian park in Barry blending heritage charm with family-friendly recreation and tranquil green spaces.
Essential places to dine
The Bush Inn
1.2 km
A charming Welsh country pub in Cowbridge offering hearty British fare, cosy atmosphere, and friendly service in a picturesque village setting.
Hare & Hounds
2.9 km
Rustic charm meets refined dining at Hare & Hounds, Aberthin’s beloved pub and restaurant with locally inspired, flavour-packed cuisine.
The Fox and Hounds Pub
3.7 km
A cozy gastropub in scenic Llancarfan offering hearty food, warm hospitality, and charming rooms for a perfect countryside escape.
The Red Lion
4.0 km
A welcoming village pub in Bonvilston offering hearty homemade meals, cozy charm, and friendly hospitality near Cardiff.
The White Lion
4.9 km
A vibrant Welsh country pub and hotel offering exceptional food, warm hospitality, and cozy accommodations in picturesque Ystradowen.
The Roost
5.0 km
A charming countryside pub blending modern comfort, home-cooked classics, and lively entertainment in St Athan near Barry.
Three Horseshoes Country Inn
5.5 km
A cozy countryside inn near Barry offering hearty food, comfy rooms, and family-friendly fun in a tranquil Welsh setting.
The Fox at Penllyn
6.3 km
Experience authentic Welsh pub charm and hearty cuisine in the cozy countryside setting of The Fox at Penllyn near Cowbridge.
Blue Anchor Inn
6.4 km
Discover Welsh hospitality at Blue Anchor Inn - where delicious food meets stunning views in East Aberthaw.
The Barley Mow
6.5 km
A cozy Welsh pub in Graig Penllyn offering fresh local fare, seasonal ales, and a warm community atmosphere near Cowbridge.
Llanerch Vineyard Restaurant
6.9 km
Award-winning vineyard dining with seasonal Welsh cuisine, scenic vineyard views, and expert wine pairings in a charming countryside setting.
Llanerch Vineyard Hotel
6.9 km
Experience luxury and tranquility in Wales’ only vineyard hotel, where scenic beauty meets exquisite dining and elegant accommodations.
The Cwtch Restaurant
7.3 km
A cosy Welsh dining haven in Llantwit Major offering modern British cuisine with fresh seafood, steaks, and warm hospitality.
Illtud's 216
7.4 km
Cozy restaurant and bar in Llantwit Major offering homemade dishes, warm ambience, and attentive service in a historic setting.
Miskin Arms
8.0 km
A cozy and quality-driven restaurant and bar in Pontyclun, serving fresh local meats and fish with a welcoming atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Havard & Havard Antiques
3.3 km
Discover exquisite Welsh country furniture and unique antiques in the heart of Cowbridge at Havard & Havard Antiques.
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
Discover stylish ladies' fashion with a personal touch in the heart of historic Cowbridge at Colours of Cowbridge boutique.
Square Spot
3.4 km
Discover curated fashion and local charm at Square Spot, Cowbridge’s boutique clothing destination on Eastgate.
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
Discover Scandinavian-inspired smart casual fashion at Visage, Cowbridge’s boutique for unique ladies’ clothing beyond the high street.
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
A welcoming High Street staple in Cowbridge offering books, stationery, local crafts, and everyday essentials with friendly service and convenient hours.
Minnie May Closet - Boutique
3.6 km
Discover curated fashion and personalized service at Minnie May Closet, a stylish boutique in the heart of historic Cowbridge.
FatFace
3.6 km
Contemporary British fashion for the whole family in the heart of Cowbridge's charming high street.
The Vintage HQ
3.6 km
Discover sustainable vintage and designer fashion treasures with expert care at The Vintage HQ in Cowbridge.
Cocoplum
3.6 km
Discover exclusive designer ladies' fashion in Cowbridge’s charming boutique, blending elegance with personalized style advice.
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.
The Original Welsh Candle Co
3.6 km
Discover luxury hand-poured Welsh soy candles that evoke the spirit and beauty of Wales at The Original Welsh Candle Co in Cowbridge.
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
A cozy Welsh pub in Cowbridge offering real ales, homemade food, and a lively beer garden with friendly service.
The Six Bells
5.2 km
Historic Welsh village pub with medieval roots, cozy fires, and locally sourced fare in the heart of Penmark.
The Highwayman Inn
6.5 km
Rustic British pub in Rhoose famed for hearty portions, classic dishes, and a warm, lively atmosphere.
The Flying Club
7.2 km
A friendly, affordable bar in Rhoose offering unique planespotting views and a cozy atmosphere near Cardiff Airport.
Fontygary Inn
7.3 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.
Pipeworks Bar
8.3 km
A cozy micro bar in Pontyclun offering craft keg beers, ciders, and gins in a friendly, unique atmosphere with occasional live music.
Ocean Lounge
8.6 km
Charming coastal pub nestled in Porthkerry Caravan Park offering stunning sea views, local ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in South Wales.
The Sycamore Tree
9.0 km
A charming countryside pub in Colwinston offering hearty meals, warm hospitality, and a welcoming atmosphere in the Vale of Glamorgan.
Cherry Orchard
9.5 km
A modern, family-friendly pub in Barry offering great ales, tasty meals, and a welcoming atmosphere in a charming historic setting.
Lamb & Flag
10.3 km
Historic Welsh pub in Wick offering hearty British fare, lively entertainment, and a warm community atmosphere.
Bar Enzo
10.7 km
A cozy, friendly bar on Barry’s seafront offering Welsh lagers, cocktails, and a relaxed coastal vibe with inviting indoor and outdoor seating.
The Plough & Harrow
11.0 km
A cozy traditional pub in Monknash offering fresh local cuisine, real ales, and warm hospitality in the scenic Vale of Glamorgan.
Star Inn
12.7 km
Cosy village pub in Dinas Powys offering classic dishes, a friendly atmosphere, dog-friendly spaces, and seasonal celebrations year-round.
The Sully Inn
13.2 km
A stylish gastropub in Sully offering locally sourced dishes and a warm, inviting atmosphere for dining and socializing.
The Coach
13.4 km
Historic Bridgend brewpub blending 19th-century charm with modern craft beers, lively events, and a welcoming community vibe.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Coco Cubanas
9.8 km
Experience the vibrant weekend nightlife and energetic dance scene at Coco Cubanas, Barry’s premier late-night club on Broad Street.
Bar Cocoa
9.8 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.
Fuel Rock Club
15.6 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Clwb Ifor Bach
15.6 km
Cardiff's gritty Welsh club heart: live music legends, late-night dances, and cultural rebellion on historic Womanby Street since 1983.
For Your Eyes Only
15.8 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Popworld - Cardiff
15.8 km
Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
Walkabout - Cardiff
15.8 km
Discover the ultimate sports bar experience in Cardiff, offering vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and live sports in a lively atmosphere.
Metros
15.9 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
15.9 km
Immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of The Live Lounge Cardiff, where live music, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife await.
Retro
15.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cardiff at Retro, where nostalgia meets fun in a lively bar and nightclub atmosphere.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
16.0 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
The CUBE
16.0 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Yates - Cardiff
16.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Yates in Cardiff, where great food, drinks, and sports come together in a lively setting.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
16.1 km
Cardiff's largest nightclub ignites Greyfriars Road with 1,500-capacity energy, state-of-the-art production across themed rooms, and epic nights from club beats to private spectacles.
Pulse
16.2 km
A city-centre LGBTQ+-friendly bar that becomes a neon-lit nightclub after dark, blending casual daytime dining with late-night DJs and themed club nights.
