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in the county of Bridgend

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About Bridgend

The Vale of Glamorgan has some splendid valley's and old market town's. Bridgend is an old established market town with a long history. It stands in a spot where the Ogmore, Garw and Llynfi valley's meet, at a point where the waters of the Ogmore River surges towards the sea.

Above the town, a wooded hill shows the remains of an old Norman castle, this echoes the drama of the region in early times when because of constant raiders there was the need to build fortifications.

In more recent times, coal played an important part in the life of the town. In the 17th century the valley's north of the town opened up coal mines, with the Llynfi valley being the first. Iron works and Brickworks were also established in the region, but throughout Bridgend retained its identity as a market town with no coal fields of its own.

During the World War II Bridgend had an important munitions factory and a Prisoner of War Camp. Unlike its near neighbours of Swansea and Cardiff, the town was never blitzed. Following the war years, the town grew at a rapid pace, factories set up and new housing developed. It also became the headquarters for the South Wales Police. Later, Margaret Thatcher's government was to lead to a period of social unrest and the closure of the valley's mines.

Today, the town remains a popular gathering place on market days, it also acts as a base for people wishing to discover hidden valley's and the counties beautiful heritage coast which is backed by high hills with stunning sea and coastal views. There are many charming little bays offering excellent sailing and good opportunities for surfing. Bridgend offers the unique experience of a lovely Welsh market town combined with valley landscapes, a golden coast, and a wealth of visitor attractions.

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Recommended attractions near Bridgend

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All attractions in Bridgend
All attractions in Bridgend
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Hotels & Accommodation in Bridgend

	Best Western Heronston Hotel Ewenny Road, Ewenny, Bridgend, Gwent and Glamorgan, Scotland (1.1 miles, 1.7 km) Situated in the heart of Glamorgan, the Heronston Hotel is ideally placed for business or pleasure. Only four miles from Junction 35 off of the M4 and minutes away from the dramatic heritage coastline... More info and book online.. Price from £60.00
	Court Colman Manor Pen-Y-Fai, Bridgend, Gwent and Glamorgan, Scotland (1.9 miles, 3.0 km, direction NW) Situated within easy reach of Bridgend, Cardiff and Swansea is this Grade 2 Georgian manor. The hotel has more than six acres of terraced lawns, an ornamental fish pond, Victorian rose walk and arbour... More info and book online.. Price from £50.00
	Days Inn Bridgend Cardiff M4 Junction 36, Sarn, Bridgend, Gwent and Glamorgan, Scotland (2.2 miles, 3.5 km, direction N) This newly refurbished hotel became Welcome Break's 19th Days Inn property in December 2006. The hotel has had a complete refurbishment including new deluxe Hypnos beds in all rooms, the addition ... More info and book online.. Price from £25.00
	St Mary's Hotel Golf & Country Club St Mary's Hill, Pencoed, Bridgend, Gwent and Glamorgan, Scotland (4.6 miles, 7.5 km, direction E) This luxurious 16th century converted farmhouse retains its original character with beamed ceilings and stone walls. A warm and friendly atmosphere, 1st class service and three star luxury privately o... More info and book online.. Price from £69.00
	Blue Seas Bed and Breakfast 72 Beach Rd Newton, Porthcawl, Bridgend, Argyll and Bute, Scotland (4.7 miles, 7.6 km, direction SW) Blue Seas can be found in the 12th century village of Newton, situated in South Wales most popular holiday resort Porthcawl. Come and join us and enjoy our family run bed and breakfast, situated on th... More info and book online.. Price from £48.00

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Nearby travel help

Bridgend Station	(0.3 miles, 0.5 km)
Wildmill Station	(0.9 miles, 1.4 km)
M4 Junction 36	(1.7 miles, 2.7 km, direction N)
M4 Junction 35	(3.6 miles, 5.8 km, direction E)
Cardiff International Airport	(12.5 miles, 20.0 km, direction SE)
Bristol International Airport	(38.3 miles, 61.6 km, direction E)
Bridgend to London	(148.9 miles, 239.6 km, direction E)