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Cowbridge

Cowbridge is a small market town located in the Vale of Glamorgan, South Wales, United Kingdom.

Birds eye view of Cowbridge

Resting between the sea, the country and the city, the market town of Cowbridge

 

Cowbridge is known for its picturesque high street, which is lined with independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as its historic buildings and architecture. The town has a population of around 3,500 people and is surrounded by rolling hills and farmland. The nearby coastline, including the beaches at Ogmore-by-Sea and Southerndown, is also within easy reach.

There are many places to explore near Cowbridge

Multicoloured beach huts in Barry

Barry Island

This seaside resort town is located a few miles south of Cowbridge and offers a range of attractions, including beaches, amusement parks, and a pleasure pier.

 

Shetland ponies in sunny Pembrokeshire

The Wales Coast Path

This long-distance walking trail follows the Welsh coastline and offers a variety of routes and terrains to explore.

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Sandy beach on a cloudy day

The Glamorgan Heritage Coast

This scenic coastline stretches from Porthcawl to Aberthaw and offers stunning views, walking trails, and wildlife spotting opportunities.

 

Many colours of tulips growing in the wild

Dyffryn Gardens

This National Trust property is located near St. Nicholas and features beautiful gardens, a Victorian mansion, and a tearoom.

 

Sand dunes on a sunny summers day

Merthyr Mawr Sand Dunes

This natural wonder is located near Bridgend and features some of the largest sand dunes in Europe, as well as a historic village and castle.

Purple grapes in a vineyard

Llanerch Vineyard

This award-winning vineyard is located just outside Cowbridge and offers tours, tastings, and a restaurant.

 

Ariel view of Ogmore Castle

Ogmore Castle

This ruined castle is located near the village of Ogmore-by-Sea and offers stunning views of the coastline and river.

Beach with cliffs and sunny blue sky

Southerndown Beach

This picturesque beach is located a few miles south of Cowbridge and is popular with surfers and families.

Cardiff Millenium Centre in the sun

Cardiff

The capital city of Wales is located a short drive from Cowbridge and offers a range of attractions, including Cardiff Castle, the National Museum Cardiff, and the Millennium Centre.

There are many activities to try in Cowbridge

Clothing boutique with pendant lighting

Shopping

Explore the town's independent shops and boutiques, which offer a range of products, from fashion and homeware to local produce and gifts.

Mountain biker in a forest

Cycling

Hire a bike and explore the countryside and coastal trails around Cowbridge.

Man walking across field

Hiking

Take a leisurely walk or a challenging hike through the nearby countryside or coastal paths.

Golf course on a sunny day

Golfing

Play a round of golf at one of the many golf courses near Cowbridge, including the Vale Resort Golf Course and the Southerndown Golf Club.

Two people horse riding in the countryside

Horse riding

Go horse riding through the nearby hills and countryside with one of the many equestrian centres in the area.

Shelf full of red wine

Wine tasting

Visit the Llanerch Vineyard, located just outside Cowbridge, and taste some of the award-winning wines produced on site.

Spa.jpg

Spa day

Relax and rejuvenate at one of the nearby spas, such as the Vale Resort Spa or the Bear Hotel Spa.

Group of people eating outdoors

Food and drinks tours

Take a food and drink tour of Cowbridge and the surrounding area, sampling local produce and culinary delights.

Woman surfing on a cloudy day

Surfing

Head to the nearby beaches at Ogmore-by-Sea and Southerndown and try your hand at surfing.

Fisherman out on a lake at dusk

Fishing

Try fishing in one of the many rivers or lakes in the area, such as the River Ogmore or the Llandow Trout Fishery. 

Cowbridge FAQs

Cowbridge is a market town located in the Vale of Glamorgan, a county in South Wales, United Kingdom. It is situated approximately 7 miles west of the Welsh capital city of Cardiff, and about 4 miles east of the coastal town of Bridgend.

There are two primary schools in Cowbridge:

  1. Ysgol Iolo Morganwg
  2. Y Bont Faen Primary School

There is also one secondary school in the town: Cowbridge Comprehensive School.

In addition to these, there are several independent schools in the surrounding area, including St John's College, which is a co-educational independent school located in nearby Cardiff.

Properties in Cowbridge had an overall average price of £539,286 over the last year.

(Stats taken from Rightmove, April 2023)

Cowbridge is a small town in the Vale of Glamorgan, and as such, it has limited public transportation options compared to larger cities. There is a bus service available.

Some popular attractions in Cowbridge include Cowbridge Physic Garden, The Bear Hotel, Cowbridge Farmers Market, St Quentin's Castle, Vale of Glamorgan Heritage Coast and Ogmore Castle. 

Cowbridge has a long and interesting history that dates back to the Roman occupation of Britain. The town is thought to have been founded in the early 12th century by Robert Fitzhamon, a Norman lord who built a castle nearby at St. Quentin. The town grew in importance during the medieval period as a center for trade and commerce, with a weekly market being established in the 13th century.

Cowbridge has a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels. Here are some good places to stay in Cowbridge:

  1. The Bear Hotel
  2. The Cowbridge Cabins
  3. Llanerch Vineyard Hotel
  4. Ty Haf at Tyglyn Lodge (B&B)
  5. Y Bont-Fawr (B&B)

Cowbridge is a lively town with a vibrant community and several popular events throughout the year. Here are some examples:

  1. Cowbridge Food and Drink Festival
  2. Cowbridge Christmas Market
  3. Cowbridge Music Festival
  4. Cowbridge Agricultural Show
  5. Cowbridge Late Night Shopping

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