St Brides Major Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your St Brides Major Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

St Brides Major sits in a brilliant spot for exploring the Vale of Glamorgan. I've found this area offers a perfect mix of beaches, countryside and historic sites all within easy reach of your cottage with a hot tub.

Dunraven Bay (CF32 0RT) is just 5 minutes away by car and scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. It's open 24/7 and costs nothing to visit. The beach is part of the Glamorgan Heritage Coast and has impressive rock formations and fossil-hunting opportunities.

Nash Point Lighthouse (CF61 1ZH) is worth the 15-minute drive. Open weekends 2pm-5pm (April-September), this working lighthouse offers tours for £4 per adult. TripAdvisor gives it 4.5/5, with visitors praising the views and knowledgeable guides.

Ogmore Castle (CF32 0QP) is just 3 miles away. These atmospheric ruins are free to visit and open daily from 10am until 4pm. The stepping stones across the river add a bit of adventure if you're steady on your feet!

Pet Friendly

Many cottages in St Brides Major welcome dogs and the area is brilliant for four-legged visitors. We've found most beaches nearby allow dogs year-round, which is a massive bonus compared to many UK coastal spots.

The Farmers Arms pub (CF32 0SE) in the village welcomes dogs in the bar area and garden. They even keep treats behind the bar! The food is proper pub grub with generous portions - their Sunday roast is particularly good.

For walks, try the Wales Coast Path which passes close to the village. The section between Southerndown and Nash Point offers spectacular views and plenty of sniffing opportunities for your dog.

If your dog needs a wash after beach adventures, check if your cottage has outdoor washing facilities. Many hot tub cottages include these knowing how sandy dogs can get! Otherwise, bring old towels specifically for dog-drying duties.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in St Brides Major

Southerndown Beach (CF32 0RT) is absolutely stunning. The dramatic cliffs provide a backdrop that changes colour throughout the day. At low tide, the beach expands massively, revealing rock pools teeming with marine life. I recommend visiting early morning when you might have the place to yourself apart from a few dog walkers. The car park charges £5 for all-day parking, but it's free if you arrive before 8am.

St Bridget's Church (CF32 0SE) sits at the heart of the village and dates back to the 12th century. The churchyard contains fascinating old gravestones and a medieval preaching cross. It's usually open during daylight hours and is free to visit. The church holds regular services on Sundays at 11am if you want to experience a traditional Welsh village congregation.

Dunraven Walled Gardens (CF32 0RT) are a hidden gem next to Southerndown Beach. These restored Victorian gardens are free to enter and open daily from 10am to 4pm. The contrast between the formal gardens and wild coastline just beyond the walls makes for great photos. One visitor commented: "A peaceful oasis with beautiful planting - we spent hours here just enjoying the tranquility."

Is St Brides Major good for families?

Yes! The beaches are perfect for kids with rock pools, fossil hunting and safe swimming areas at low tide. Many cottages with hot tubs are family-friendly with enclosed gardens. The village has a playground and attractions like Fonmon Castle (15 minutes away) offer family activities during school holidays.

When is the best time to visit St Brides Major?

May to September offers the best weather, but April and October can be lovely with fewer crowds. Winter brings dramatic coastal storms best viewed from your cottage hot tub! The village pub stays open year-round, though some attractions have reduced hours outside summer.

Do I need a car in St Brides Major?

Yes, a car is essential. While the village has a small shop and pub, public transport is limited. The nearest train station is Bridgend (6 miles away) and buses are infrequent. Having a car lets you explore the coast properly.

Are there good restaurants nearby?

The Farmers Arms in the village serves good pub food. For something special, try The Plough & Harrow in Monknash (10 minutes' drive) - their locally-sourced menu gets rave reviews. Cobbles Kitchen in Ogmore (5 minutes away) does excellent breakfasts and lunches.

Can I see wildlife near St Brides Major?

Absolutely! The coastline attracts seabirds including peregrine falcons. Atlantic grey seals are often spotted off Southerndown Beach. Merthyr Mawr Warren nature reserve (10 minutes away) has rare butterflies and plants. Bring binoculars!

Is the hot tub usable year-round?

Yes, cottage hot tubs are typically maintained at around 38°C regardless of season. Many guests say winter is magical - imagine watching stars on a clear night while staying toasty in your tub! Most cottages provide robes for the dash back indoors.

Helpful links:

1. Visit the Vale of Glamorgan Official Tourism Site
2. Southerndown Beach Information
3. Glamorgan Heritage Coast Guide
4. Ogmore Castle Visitor Information