Southerndown Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more with our comprehensive travel guide to Southerndown, in South Wales.


Southerndown is a beautiful village located on the south coast of Wales. Its stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality make Southerndown a great destination for visitors of all ages.

Introduction to Southerndown

Surrounded by sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and lush countryside, Southerndown is widely known for its breathtaking panoramic views over the Bristol Channel. This quaint village is truly a treat to behold, with its whitewashed cottages, charming streets, and friendly people who make visitors feel right at home.

List of Places to Visit in Southerndown

The following are some of the must-visit places in and around Southerndown:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Dunraven Castle: A fortified mansion built in the 1800s, the castle is now in ruins, but still offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
  • St. Bridget’s Church: This ancient church dates back to the 12th century and is a great example of the local architecture.

Natural Attractions of Southerndown: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Southerndown Beach: Stretching over a mile long, this sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing, surfing, sailing, and swimming.
  • Ewenny Woods: A beautiful woodland located a short distance from Southerndown, which offers fantastic hiking and walking trails through its forests.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southerndown

Southerndown is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, as there are plenty of challenging hiking and biking trails to be explored. Here are a few routes that we recommend:

  • The South Wales Coastal Path: This trail runs along the entire coast of South Wales and passes through Southerndown.
  • Ewenny Pottery Trail: A 5.5-mile circular walk that passes through scenic woodland and the ancient Ewenny Priory.

Best Things to Do in Southerndown: Activities and Tours

  • Surfing lessons: Southerndown beach is perfect for surfing, and there are plenty of surfing schools that offer lessons for beginners and advanced surfers.
  • Horse riding: Take a horse ride along the stunning Welsh coastline with a local stable.
  • Boat tours: Take a boat tour of the Bristol channel and see the beautiful coastline of Wales in a different light.

Week-Long Itinerary for Southerndown

Day 1: Visit Dunraven Castle and explore the scenic surroundings. Day 2: Spend the day at Southerndown Beach and take a surfing lesson or go for a swim. Day 3: Head into the countryside to explore the beautiful woodland trails of Ewenny Woods. Day 4: Take a boat tour of the Bristol Channel and get close to the local marine life. Day 5: Take a tour of St. Bridget’s Church and learn about its history. Day 6: Go horse riding along the coastline or take a leisurely bike ride around Southerndown. Day 7: Spend the day relaxing on the beach or visit a local attraction you missed earlier in the week.

Food and Drink Scene of Southerndown

Southerndown is famous for its delicious local cuisine, which features fresh seafood, Welsh lamb, and locally sourced produce. Here are a few must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Welsh rarebit: A traditional Welsh dish made with toasted bread and a cheese sauce.
  • Laverbread: A local delicacy made from laver seaweed, which is often served with bacon and eggs.
  • Welsh cakes: A type of scone made with mixed fruits and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Welsh beer: Wales has a rich history of brewing and has several local breweries in the area.
  • Penderyn Whisky: Named after the local mountain range, Penderyn whisky is a unique and delicious Welsh whiskey that must be tried when visiting Southerndown.

Where to Stay in Southerndown: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of different accommodation options to suit every budget and preference in Southerndown, from cozy guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • The Atlantic Hotel: Located right on Southerndown Beach, this hotel offers stunning sea views and comfortable rooms.
  • The Plough and Harrow Pub: A local pub offering comfortable and affordable accommodation in a traditional setting.
  • Ewenny Farm Guesthouse: A family-run guesthouse located in the picturesque Ewenny countryside.

What to Buy in Southerndown: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting Southerndown, be sure to buy some traditional Welsh souvenirs to take home with you. Here are some of the best products to look out for:

  • Welsh slate products: Slate products are a specialty in Wales and make great souvenirs.
  • Welsh woolen products: Wales has a rich tradition of producing high-quality woolen products.
  • Welsh cakes: A box of these delicious cakes makes an ideal gift for friends and family.

Local Culture and Customs of Southerndown

Wales has a rich and fascinating cultural heritage, with many unique customs and traditions that are celebrated by its people. Be sure to ask the locals about their customs and traditions, and learn about the local history and folklore.

Best Time to Visit Southerndown

The best time to visit Southerndown is during the summer months (June-August), when the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea is perfect for swimming and water sports.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southerndown

Do:

  • Be respectful of the local culture and customs
  • Try the local seafood and Welsh cuisine
  • Explore the scenic countryside and coastline

Don’t:

  • Drink and drive
  • Litter or damage the local environment and wildlife
  • Be loud and disrespectful in public places

Safety and Health

Safety in Southerndown

Southerndown is a safe and friendly place to visit. However, visitors should take the usual precautions to ensure their safety, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Southerndown

There are no specific health risks associated with traveling to Southerndown. Visitors should ensure they have adequate medical insurance and take the usual precautions for travel.

Getting to Southerndown: Transportation Options and Logistics

Southerndown is easily accessible by air, train, and bus.

Airports Near Southerndown

  • Cardiff International Airport: The closest airport to Southerndown, located approximately 21 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Southerndown

  • Bridgend Bus Station: Located 8 miles from Southerndown, Bridgend Bus Station offers regular services to and from Southerndown.
  • Llantwit Major Bus Station: Located 11 miles from Southerndown, Llantwit Major Bus Station also offers regular services to and from Southerndown.

Other Options

  • Train: The nearest train station is Bridgend, approximately 8 miles away from Southerndown, with regular services to and from London and other major cities.
  • Car: Southerndown is easily accessible by car, with the M4 motorway offering easy access to the region.

How to Get Around in Southerndown

Southerndown is a small village, and walking is the most convenient way to get around. However, there are also plenty of bike rental shops and local buses available for those who want to explore the surrounding countryside.

Where to Go Next from Southerndown: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Cardiff: The capital city of Wales is approximately 18 miles away from Southerndown and is home to many cultural and historical sites.
  • Porthcawl: A popular seaside resort located 5 miles from Southerndown, Porthcawl offers plenty of outdoor activities and attractions.

Conclusion

Southerndown is a beautiful and charming destination with plenty to offer visitors. From stunning natural scenery to fascinating historical sites, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Southerndown offers the perfect balance of both.