Just west of Cardiff lies a stunning stretch of dramatic coastline that offers groups the perfect
destination, with a mix of breathtaking landscapes, outdoor activities, historic sites, and a welcoming atmosphere, all easily accessible from the capital.
With easy access from junctions 33-35 of the M4, and a friendly team to help you plan your group visit, it’s a destination you won’t want to miss.
Here are some of our highlights…
Outstanding Natural Scenery
• The Glamorgan Heritage Coast. A 14 mile stretch of stunning coastline rich in geological features and wildlife.
• The Wales Coast Path. Featuring Penarth Pier and Pavilion, Nash Point lighthouse, countless castles and caves, and a direct link to the capital city via the Cardiff Bay Barrage.
• No fewer than 14 beaches. From the seaside resort offering fun for all; Barry Island and the decadent Victorian resort of Penarth, to the perfect locations for exploring the natural rockpools and cliff faces of the lesser developed western coastline along the Glamorgan Heritage Coast.
A variety of activities and places to visit
Outdoor lovers will revel in the range of activities to experience.
• A walkers paradise: The Vale of Glamorgan Heritage Coast offers 5 outstanding scenic routes, while 5 inland walks explore deep into the Vale’s countryside. Check out the 10 Vale Trails and choose your favourite. Local guides welcome you to explore with them and delight in sharing their knowledge and experience of walking the Vale.
• Adventure sports: Our coastline is a popular spot for water-based activities, making it a great spot for an adventurous group outing. Check out our activity providers here. Choose from Bike Hire, Kart Kingdon, Llandow Circuit, OBS Water sports, Paintball, Sup Boarding and much more.
• Castles and Gardens: Enjoying the outdoors doesn’t always have to mean an adrenaline rush, we also have plenty to entertain those who prefer a slightly slower pace of exploration. Check out our places to visit and find historic castles including St Donats Castle who offer guided tours in the summer, country parks, and stunning gardens like those found at the National Trust Dyffryn House & Gardens, and the Physic Garden nestled in the heart of the market town of Cowbridge.
• There are several fantastic golf courses in the area, such as the Vale Resort and Cottrell Park Golf Resort, which cater to groups.
Take alook at out Attractions and Activities pages for more infomation.
History and Heritage
For those that love to delve into the rich and varied history that Wales has to offer, here are some ideas that might inspire your group visits:
• Visit Neolithic burial chambers of Tinkinswood and St Lythans with links to Arthurian legend.
• At St Cadoc’s Church in Llancarfan wonder at the discoveries made dating back to the 15th Century or explore the Vale’s hidden past in many of the Castles that are dotted along the coastline and beyond; Ogmore Castle, St Quentin’s, Old Beaupre and Fonmon to name but a few.
• Discover the fine collection of Celtic carved stones - Britain’s oldest seat of Christian learning at St Illtuds Church and Galilee Chapel in Llantwit Major.
• Walk in the footsteps of Iolo Morgannwg, romantic poet and visionary who shaped Welsh literature and culture, taking in the beautiful market town of Cowbridge and beyond.
• Cowbridge District Museum and Barry War Museum both bring history to life through fascinating exhibitions.
Take a look at our Heritage pages to find out more about the heritage sites in the Vale.
Food and drink
As one might expect in a county so rich in glorious countryside, we have an incredible variety of local producers who delight in sharing with you the fruits of their labours.
• The Vale has an surprising number of vineyards all growing the best grapes for a variety of local wines. Both well established, Llanerch Vineyard and Glyndwr Vineyard welcome groups for wine tasting tours. The more recent smaller vineyards, also welcome groups to experience and learn more about viticulture.
• Hensol Castle Gin Distillery welcome groups to the U.K.’s only full scale gin distillery in the cellars of a in a 17th century grade 1 listed castle.
• Award winning Forage Farm Shop & Kitchen prides itself on selling the very best in local goods, and Cowbridge Farmers Marker, held each Saturday morning in the town allows you to meet the producers themselves.
Check out our Producers page to find out more.
Towns to explore
The Vale’s four town each have a charm of their own and offer a wealth of options for group visits.
Cowbridge
• Experience the charm and culture of Cowbridge, a historic 13th-century market town where boutique shopping, award-winning food and drink, ancient walls, and tranquil gardens await. Follow the Blue Plaque Trail, unwind in the Physic Garden, taste local wines at Glyndwr Vineyard, and enjoy lively markets, festivals, and warm hospitality, all just 12 miles from Cardiff, in the heart of the rural Vale.
Penarth
• Plan a group trip to picturesque Penarth, where you can stroll the scenic esplanade and visit the historic Penarth Pier, explore charming shops and gardens, enjoy coastal walks with sweeping views, and easily visit nearby Cardiff and Cardiff Bay, all with a warm, welcoming seaside atmosphere.
Barry and Barry island
• Barry offers the perfect group escape, where golden beaches, lively parks, and fun attractions meet fascinating heritage — from Roman ruins and medieval chapels to dinosaur footprints. Enjoy seaside adventures, explore famous 'Gavin and Stacey' filming spots, stroll vibrant shopping areas like Goodsheds, and soak up coastal views — all just minutes from Cardiff by train or bus. Take a look at our Group Visit Guide to Barry Island to help you plan your visit
Llantwit Major & the Glamorgan Heritage Coast
• Discover Llantwit Major, a charming medieval town rich in Welsh history, home to Britain's oldest seat of learning and stunning coastal walks along the Glamorgan Heritage Coast — explore ancient churches, fossil-filled beaches, hidden bays, and historic castles, all just 15 miles from Cardiff, perfect for a group day out or longer stay
Gavin & Stacey
What’s occurin’? Group tours are in for a real treat in Barry Island — the iconic home of Gavin and Stacey! Follow in the footsteps of your favourite characters with visits to famous filming locations like Marco’s Café, Trinity Street, and Nessa’s Slots, and soak up the fun seaside vibe that made the show a classic. Perfect for fans and first-timers alike, Barry promises a warm welcome, great photo ops, and plenty of 'tidy' memories to take home
General Tourist Information
If you require any further information, we would be very happy to help you plan your visit.
Email: tourism@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk
Visit Southern Wales
The Vale makes for a great base for visiting the wider Southern Wales region. Take a look at the films below for inspiration of all the places to visit within easy reach of the Vale then see Southern Wales to start planning your trip.
