Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cardiff, Wales to Penarth, Wales

Driving from Cardiff, Wales to Penarth, Wales is a beautiful journey that offers a blend of both nature and city views. The drive is approximately 11.9km, and one can enjoy a scenic view of green fields, rolling hills, and the beautiful coastline. There are several places to stop and relax along the way, and in this article, we will highlight the top five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Cardiff to Penarth.

Cardiff, City Road Food (CRF)

The first stop on our journey is the City Road Food (CRF) in Cardiff. This vibrant street is known for its diverse range of food, from Indian and Chinese cuisines to kebabs and Mexican delicacies. City Road is a melting pot of culture, and tourists can indulge in unique and authentic food experiences at incredibly affordable prices.

A must-try dish while here is the traditional Welsh Cawl, served with freshly baked bread. The restaurant’s cozy ambiance and friendly staff make for a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience.

1. Cosmeston Lakes Country Park

Our first stop once on the road is the Cosmeston Lakes Country Park. A hidden gem in the Vale of Glamorgan, it offers stunning views of the countryside, woodland paths, and lakeside walks. This park is home to different species of birds, making it a great spot for birdwatching.

Tourists can also engage in water sports such as kayaking and canoeing. Cosmeston Lakes Park is the perfect way to start the journey, with its relaxing and serene ambiance.

A perfect food to try here is freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam.

2. Ogmore Castle

The second stop is the stunning Ogmore Castle. As its name suggests, it is a fortress that dates back to the 12th century. It is one of Wales’ historical landmarks and is located on the coast of the Ogmore River.

The castle is a great place to explore, and history buffs will enjoy the guided tours that are available. One can also enjoy the beautiful sea views from the castle walls. A popular food to eat while exploring the castle is a Welsh rarebit, a delicious cheese sauce poured over toasted bread.

3. Southerndown Beach

Southerndown Beach is our next destination, and it is a hidden gem located on the coast of the Vale of Glamorgan. The beach is a great spot to relax and sunbathe, with its towering cliffs and stunning views. Southerndown welcomes visitors all year round, and its crystal-clear waters make it an ideal place for swimming, surfing and fishing.

The beach also has a charming little cafe that offers freshly made sandwiches and a wide range of cakes and pastries.

4. Llandough Hospital

Our fourth stop is probably the most unexpected one. Llandough Hospital is a ten-story structure that is visible from miles away. It has a unique architectural design that makes it an interesting sight to behold.

Tourists can get a guided tour of the hospital, and learn about its history and role in the healthcare system. Llandough hospital is an exhilarating stop that will leave you with a new perspective.

While here, visitors can try a classic Welsh dish known as the Glamorgan sausage.

5. Penarth Pier

Our final stop on this journey is the stunning Penarth Pier. This pier dates back to 1890 and has been a popular tourist destination ever since. The pier offers stunning views of the Welsh coast, and visitors can relax and enjoy the fresh sea breeze.

Penarth Pier has a charming tearoom that serves delightful sea-themed goodies such as crab sandwiches, fish and chips, and ice creams.

Journey's End

A drive from Cardiff, Wales to Penarth, Wales is an incredibly exciting journey full of unique and unexpected surprises. The five places that we highlighted in this article offer a great blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether it is exploring the ruins of Ogmore Castle or savoring a crab sandwich at Penarth Pier, this trip offers something for everyone.

So pack your bags and embark on this wonderful adventure, we guarantee that you will not regret it.