Winter is a wonderful time to visit the Vale of Glamorgan. The region transforms into a peaceful retreat with its crisp coastal air, dramatic seascapes, and fewer crowds. Whether you're strolling along quiet beaches under the winter sun or exploring the countryside wrapped in frost, the Vale's natural beauty shines through. Add to that a host of festive events, from Christmas markets to winter walks, and it becomes an ideal winter destination.
Blissful Beaches
The Vale coastline attracts sandcastle builders and surfers, fossil hunters and history buffs, and is absolutely perfect for walking, hiking and wildlife lovers throughout the year. Approximately 25 miles of the Wales Coast Path run along our coast, and 14 miles of this is made up by the world famous and dynamic Glamorgan Heritage Coast.
During the winter season, some might argue that our beaches are at their best, with stunning sunrises and sunsets against the backdrop of glistening waters, they make the perfect places to blow away those cobwebs and enjoy the sea air.
So put on your walking shoes, and get ready to explore our beaches!
Winter walks
There’s no better place for walking, and whether you prefer those clifftop walks that truly celebrate our coastline at its best and (quite literally!) take your breath away, or the more sheltered woodland and countryside walks, our 10 Vale Trails will suit all tastes. Bring your boots, it may get a little muddy, but we know you will love walking in the Vale.
Festive feasts
After a day on the beach, or a stomp on a fabulous walk, you will most definitely have built up a healthy appetite in readiness for the feasts you can enjoy at our great café, bars, pubs and restaurants. Hearty menus await, all lovingly prepared using the best in local ingredients, so sit back and fill your bellies and dine in some of the very best places you can find. With so much choice, let us inspire you. Take a look at our Food & Drink page and you can choose which suits you and your fellow guests the most.
Show love and Shop Local
Never is there a better time to visit our High streets. You might want to find the perfect gift or are looking to find some delicious local ingredients and you will find exactly what you need, any maybe even something which you didn’t know you needed but couldn’t resist, when you shop in the Vale. Each of our four towns are quintessentially different, but one thing is for certain in each; our friendly traders will all provide you with the warmest welcome and share with you their expert knowledge and passion for all that they sell.
Take a look at our Show Love.Shop Local page and Shop Local this Christmas and be sure to follow @ValeTownCentres this Christmas
Winter walkies
Did someone say ‘Walkies?’ All, yes that’s right, all of our beaches are doggy friendly during the winter, so you and your best friend will be spoilt for choice when it comes to winter walkies in the Vale. Make sure you look out for the Paws in the Vale logo to find all the local shops, cafes, restaurants and places to stay that are waiting to welcome you and your dog.
Christmas events
We are jam packed full of the best Christmas events this year. There’s something for all the family to choose from, and with events both indoors and out, you will be entertained whatever the weather. So get that Christmassy feeling started and plan your visit around your event. Check out our Events page to find out what’s happening…and keep checking, as more and more events are added as plans are confirmed.
Perfect break
It’s a long old winter not to enjoy some well deserved ‘me’ time so plan your perfect winter get-away in the Vale. Curl up in beautiful surroundings and enjoy the cosiness our accommodation providers can offer. Fireside retreats, a little lap of luxury, restaurants with rooms all waiting to welcome you. There’s loads to choose from on our accommodation section.
