Bridgend Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Bridgend Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Bridgend packs a surprising punch when it comes to places to visit. I always tell people not to miss Merthyr Mawr Sand Dunes (CF32 0LS), which featured in the film Lawrence of Arabia. These massive dunes include the 'Big Dipper' - the second highest sand dune in Europe at 200 feet tall.

Bryngarw Country Park (CF32 8UU) scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor and offers 113 acres of woodland, gardens and riverside walks. Open daily 7:30am-dusk with free entry (£3 parking). The oriental gardens are particularly worth seeing in spring.

History buffs should check out Newcastle Castle (CF31 4HS, 4/5 on TripAdvisor). It's a 12th-century Norman castle with impressive views across the town. The ruins are free to visit and open 24/7.

We've found Bridgend Designer Outlet (CF32 9SU) is great for rainy days. With over 90 stores offering discounts up to 60%, it's Wales' biggest outlet centre. Open Monday-Friday 10am-8pm, weekends 10am-6pm.

Pet Friendly

Bringing your dog to Bridgend? You're in luck! Many cottages welcome pets and some even provide dog beds, bowls and treats. Always check if there's an extra charge before booking.

Rest Bay Beach (CF36 3UP) is dog-friendly year-round and offers a massive stretch of sand for running. The coastal path from here to Porthcawl is stunning and has several dog-friendly cafés along the route.

For woodland walks, try Parc Slip Nature Reserve (CF32 0EW). It's got 300 acres of varied habitats with well-marked trails. The on-site café welcomes dogs and serves decent coffee and cake.

The Wyndham Arms (CF31 1JE) in Bridgend town centre is a top dog-friendly pub with water bowls and treats available. Their Sunday roasts are excellent too. Most cottages with hot tubs have enclosed gardens, but always double-check the boundaries are secure before letting your dog roam free.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Bridgend

Kenfig National Nature Reserve (CF33 4PT) is my absolute must-visit. This massive sand dune system contains Kenfig Pool, the largest natural lake in South Wales. The reserve covers 1,300 acres and is home to rare orchids and wildlife. One visitor wrote: "Like stepping into another world - we saw dragonflies, butterflies and even a grass snake basking in the sun." Open daily with free entry but £2 parking.

Porthcawl's beaches deserve their own mention. Rest Bay is a Blue Flag beach popular with surfers (equipment hire available from Porthcawl Surf School). Sandy Bay is more family-oriented with traditional seaside attractions. Newton Beach offers a quieter experience with rock pools at low tide. After a day at the beach, that hot tub back at your cottage will feel even better!

Mountain View Ranch (CF83 1NG) is brilliant for families. This 100-acre farm park features a Gruffalo trail, archery, axe throwing and fairy forest. One TripAdvisor reviewer noted: "Worth every penny. Our kids (5 and 8) were entertained for hours and didn't want to leave." Open 9:30am-5pm daily, adults £9.95, children £12.95, under 2s free.

What's the best time to visit Bridgend?

July and August offer the warmest weather (average 19°C) but are busiest. May and September provide a good balance of pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter visits (November-February) mean quieter attractions but some seasonal businesses close. The Elvis Festival in Porthcawl (late September) is worth planning around - either to attend or avoid, depending on your taste!

Do I need a car in Bridgend?

While Bridgend has train connections to Cardiff (20 mins) and Swansea (30 mins), a car is recommended for exploring the countryside and coastal areas. Many cottages with hot tubs are in rural locations with limited public transport. If you don't drive, check with your host about local taxi services.

Where's the best place to eat in Bridgend?

Franco's Restaurant (CF31 3BT) consistently tops local recommendations for Italian food. For something special, try The Grove Golf Club (CF32 0QP) which offers excellent Sunday lunches. Cosy Corner Tearoom in Porthcawl (CF36 3UW) serves amazing Welsh cakes and cream teas. For pub grub, The Pelican (CF32 0LR) in Ogmore has great food and river views.

Can I go surfing in Bridgend?

Yes! Rest Bay in Porthcawl is a renowned surfing spot with consistent waves suitable for all abilities. Porthcawl Surf School offers lessons and equipment hire. Coney Beach also has decent waves but is usually busier. After a day in the water, your cottage hot tub will be the perfect place to warm up!

Are there any good walks near Bridgend?

The Wales Coast Path runs through Bridgend County, with the section from Ogmore to Porthcawl particularly scenic. Bryngarw Country Park offers accessible woodland trails. For a challenge, try the Ogwr Ridgeway Walk - a 13-mile route with spectacular views across the county.

What should I pack for a hot tub cottage break in Bridgend?

Besides swimwear for the hot tub, bring walking shoes for coastal paths, waterproofs (Welsh weather is unpredictable) and beach gear if visiting in summer. Most cottages provide towels, but check if they supply separate ones for hot tub use. A torch is useful for rural properties and don't forget binoculars for wildlife spotting at Kenfig Nature Reserve.

1. Visit Bridgend Official Tourism Site
2. Bridgend Council Leisure Information
3. Southern Wales Tourism Guide