Whether you’re looking for magical shopping experiences, heartwarming festive events or delicious seasonal food and drink - Bridgend County is the perfect destination to make unforgettable Christmas memories! Through scenic landscapes, award-winning restaurants and a warm welcome in our town centres - explore the Christmas charm that Bridgend County has to offer!
Visit the Coed for quaint festive experiences
A charming country hotel nestled amongst beautiful woodland, The Coed Y Mwstwr Hotel really does know how to host the best festive experiences! Expect a crackling log fire, twinkling Christmas lights and a cosy, quaint setting! Enjoy seasonal events such as Festive Afternoon Tea with Santa on 23rd December or Carols by Candlelight on 20th December. The cosy ambiance and friendly staff make Coed the ideal spot to relax and indulge in a scrumptious seasonal feast.
Enjoy a magical shopping experience at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet
For a truly enchanting shopping experience, head to McArthur Glen Bridgend - offering a wide selection of stores, incredible Christmas decorations and lots going on to entertain shoppers and spread Christmas joy! From high-end fashion brands to homeware and gift shops, you'll find something for everyone on your list, and there’s extra sparkle at this time of the year with performances and activities to immerse yourself in the magic of the season. Hear stories from Santa, write letters to the North Pole or capture Christmas photo memories with loved ones at the festive selfie areas!
Find unique gifts through our festive town centres
Within Bridgend County, the towns of Maesteg, Porthcawl, and Bridgend each have their own distinct charm at Christmas. Maesteg captures the essence of a traditional Christmas with its market square, high street and historical buildings. In the seaside town of Porthcawl you’ll find gift shops, boutique stores and independents, and in Bridgend, the town centre offers a mix of familiar high street brands, unique outlets and an indoor market in the Rhiw Shopping Centre to explore. Artisan markets also feature regularly in Bridgend County’s calendar, with Green Top Markets holding events in Bridgend and Porthcawl showcasing unique creations from local crafters.
If you’re searching for your perfect Christmas tree - out of town outlet Pyle Garden Village is also a fantastically festive place worth a visit this Christmas, with a mix of retailers offering home interiors, clothing, food and drink, pet products and gardening goodies! With so many varied shopping opportunities, you'll find plenty of gift options this Christmas in Bridgend County!
A foodie’s Christmas wish come true
It’s no wonder that Bridgend County has cemented a reputation as a South Wales foodie hotspot - with diverse dining options and top-quality restaurants, cafes and bars. Whether you're searching for a hearty traditional Welsh Christmas dinner or seeking international culinary delights, Bridgend County is the perfect place to take a foodie adventure! If you’re looking to take some foodie treasures home with you - find fresh local produce through our award-winning food retailers and check out Kenfig Nature Reserve Farmers Market for tasty, home-made treats!
Join in with Christmas Day fun in Porthcawl
One of the most renowned Christmas events in Bridgend County is the Porthcawl Christmas Swim. Held annually on Christmas morning, this quirky tradition attracts participants from far and wide who brave the icy waters in support of local charities. Whether you’re taking the plunge or just there to soak up the great atmosphere, the Porthcawl Christmas Swim is undoubtedly a unique and heartwarming event that embodies the festive spirit of giving.
Wind down with post-Christmas walks
After the excitement of Christmas has passed, Bridgend County provides a perfect setting for relaxing post-Christmas walks. Take a leisurely stroll along the Wales Coast Path, explore serene woodlands, enjoy panoramic views from the mountains or wander through charming villages. Find out more about Bridgend County walking routes here.
Give yourself the gift of a Bridgend County getaway…
With endless opportunities to immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit, put Bridgend County on your Christmas list and explore the area during December and beyond! With luxurious hotels, unique stays and year-round events - you’ll want to come back time and time again! Check out accommodation options here, and plan ahead with our What’s on page.
