Historic sites

Visit the historic Workman’s Hall in the mining town where ‘Calon Lan’ was written. 

Step back in time at Coity Castle. Built around 1100AD, it was repaired in the late medieval era after Owain Glyndwr attacked it in 1404.

Hut 9, Island Farm, is the historic World War II hut where 70 prisoners, German top officers, escaped in 1945. See period artefacts, learn about the daily life and how the great escape took place in March 1945.

Rich in medieval and Roman history, the area is home to Kenfig National Nature Reserve. It is one of Wales’s finest wildlife habitats, and by Kenfig Pool, you’ll find the historic Prince of Wales Inn.

Amidst the mountains at the Llynfi Valley’s head, Maesteg developed in the Industrial Revolution. Built in 1881, the historic town hall is now an exciting arts centre.

The village is one half chocolate box thatched cottages, and one half mighty sand dunes with an array of wildlife. Candleston Castle, a 15th century fortified mansion house, sits at the edge of the dunes. A little further along stands the 15th century Dipping Bridge. 

For great views of the town, climb through historic Newcastle Hill to the castle. In the 1180s, Henry II refortified this Norman stronghold.

Porthcawl’s Museum is located in the town’s Old Police Station and collections span social, maritime, and military themes. 

The well-preserved, late medieval St John’s House is protected as a Grade II listed building, described as the oldest habitable building in the Bridgend area.

This village was once a thriving port. During the 17th century, it was the only harbour between Aberthaw and Briton Ferry. Visit its imposing limestone church, and St John’s ‘magical’ well.

This is a small village with a big history. It was the birthplace of the 18th century philosopher Richard Price, whose writings are incorporated in the United States of America’s Constitution.

Discover Yr Hen Dŷ (The Old House), which is South Wales’s oldest inn. Welsh history runs through this pretty hilltop village like the legend of ‘The Maid of Cefn Ydfa’ whose ill-fated characters are buried at Llangynwyd churchyard.