The Glamorgan Heritage Coast

Fourteen miles of unspoilt, natural coastline and simply breath taking scenery. With an abundance of stunning beaches overlooked by dramatic clifftops the Glamorgan Heritage Coast provides the perfect backdrop to an area rich in geology and unforgettable wildlife, perfect for exploring.

Enjoy Dunraven Bay & Gardens, Ogmore Castle with stepping stones across the river, cliff-top walks, and beaches for rock pooling, surfing and sandcastles.

The tidal range of the Glamorgan Heritage Coast is the second highest in the world after the Bay of Fundy in Canada, and this along with the dramatic blue lias cliffs creates stunning seascapes to rival any coastline in Britain. 

Combined with wooded valleys, spectacular wildlife and 2000 years of human habitation, this coastline truly unique. Whether you’re looking for an easily accessible beach with family friendly facilities, somewhere for a short amble or challenging walk, activities to stimulate the children, or just wish to  escape, you will find the perfect place to  visit along the Glamorgan Heritage Coast.

Which  beach will you choose?

Ogmore  By Sea. A sprawling beach with  golden sands and views accross to Merthyr Mawr sand dunes.

Dunraven Bay. Large sandy beach a favourite with families with rock pools for exploring and seasonal facilities.

Cwm Nash. Off the beaten  track, a secluded and spectacular beach. Perfect for escaping the crowd.

Cwm Col-huw at Llantwit Major. A pleasant mixture of rock and sandy beach with rockpools, cliff top walks and café.

Aberthaw. A rocky beach popular with  fishermen.

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Find out about all the beaches along out coastline here and read all about our Vale Beach Trail here.

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Dog Friendly

With most beaches welcoming dogs all year round, the Glamorgan Heritage Coast is the perfect place to bring your best friend for a doggy day out, or better still; a doggy friendly holiday. Find out more about our doggy friendly beaches here

A Walkers Paradise

The Vale of Glamorgan is a fantastic destination for walking and 5 of our 10  Vale Trails take in the splendour of our coastline. Check out our Walking page to discover a world of coastal and countryside walks on your doorstep including the last manned lighthouse in Wales (automated as recently as 1998) right on the Glamorgan Heritage Coast.

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There's nowhere quite as steeped in history as the Glamorgan Heritage Coast with each beach, church, castle and public house having many a tale to tell. Hear more about this beautiful area's intriguing past here..

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Natural Vale

Be inspired by nature. The Glamorgan Heritage Coast is a nature lovers dream. Check out our gallery to see just some of the wildlife you will find on your visit to our coastline.

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Indulge in a bit of history

For more on the areas' rich history you may like to see our Themed Guides. Read all about the many characters that lived here and how their colourful lives still live on in the fascinating locations you'll visit while your here. Ogmore Castle, the Plough and Harrow Pub, Dunraven Castle, and many more all come alive through the stories of those who lived, and died here.

Or why not download our activity sheets for younger visitors to discover the Glamorgan Heritage Coast while learning all about our history at the same time. What will you learn of the Dunraven Wreckers or the terrible tale of Cap Coch? Little kids (and big ones too!) will love all the activities as they explore this fascinating coastline.

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Get digital

Check out the Glamorgan Heritage Coast AR app and see the ill-fated Frolic Steam Packet sail by, the Iron Age Hill Fort at Dunraven Bay and Dunraven Castle rise from its ruins. Or download the Vale Tales App. Based on the 10 Vale Trails, the GPS triggered storytelling App brings to life the true tales of time gone by. There are sad tales, mysterious tales, romantic and historical tales, all brought to you by Iolo Morgannwg, the Welsh master of the tall tale himself.

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Safety first

Please be aware  that the tides change quickly along this coastline, please check the tide times before setting out, especially if you plan to walk along the beaches or  spend time in the smaller coves.

The cliffs here are fascinating but dangerous and liable to rock falls without warning.  Please do not climb the cliffs, pull loose stones, sunbathe or walk close to the cliffs.

Before you head out walking along our beautiful trails, on our cliff tops s or around water, make sure you’re properly prepared so you can enjoy your day out safely. The Adventure Smart website has more information on how to make a good day better.    

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Gallery

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