As spring arrives, Bridgend County becomes a vibrant mix of outdoor adventure, family-friendly events, and cultural exploration. From coastal thrills to peaceful nature reserves, this is the perfect season to get out and experience everything the area has to offer.
Family fun at Porthcawl
No Fit State Circus has arrived at Porthcawl, bringing with it jaw-dropping acrobatics and theatrical performances for an unforgettable experience for all ages. There are still some tickets available between the 17th and 19th April - but hurry, they’re selling out fast! Studt’s Fun Fair will also be bringing family fun to Porthcawl this spring, open on weekends and school holidays, offering classic rides, games, and seaside nostalgia - perfect for families looking to make the most of brighter days.
Unique experiences at the Coed Y Mwstwr Hotel
This spring, the Coed y Mwstwr Hotel is hosting a series of unique events designed to relax, inspire, and entertain guests in its beautiful countryside setting. Highlights include the popular Bee Experience paired with a delightful afternoon tea, taking place on 12th May and 9th June, with additional dates planned later in the year - perfect for those curious about nature and local produce.
The Soul Reset on 20th April offers a rejuvenating escape focused on wellbeing and mindfulness, while the Charity Race Day on 18th June promises an exciting and sociable occasion in support of a great cause. Alongside these special events, guests can also enjoy the hotel’s brand-new padel courts, adding a fun and active dimension to any stay.
Foodie finds at Forest Feastival
The much-loved Forest Feastival is returning this spring to Candleston Woods, bringing a series of immersive woodland dining experiences from 17th April to 10th May 2026. Set across four long weekends, this unique event combines some of the best street food traders and chefs from Wales and beyond, serving up a globally inspired feast beneath the trees. Visitors can expect far more than just food, with roaming circus performers, live music, family-friendly entertainment, marshmallow fire pits, and a relaxed festival atmosphere that transforms after dark into a more grown-up experience with DJs and communal campfires. With flexible session times and a stunning coastal woodland setting, Forest Feastival offers a memorable day or night out that blends nature, flavour, and entertainment in one unforgettable experience.
Magical nature reserves and parks
With longer days and milder weather, spring is ideal for exploring Bridgend’s natural beauty. At Bryngarw Country Park, you’ll find over a hundred acres of meadows, woodlands, and gardens, along with activities for everyone. This spring, visitors can take part in a Wellbeing Wander Through Nature (19th April, 17th May, plus more dates), or celebrate the beauty of birdsong with a guided Dawn Chorus walk (2nd and 3rd May), as well as children’s activity Build a Bug Hotel Workshop on 27th May. As well as hosting fantastic seasonal activities - Bryngarw Park is also just a fantastic spot for picnics, wildlife spotting, or simply unwinding in nature.
For more places to get out and about in nature, Bridgend County boasts superb national nature reserves at Kenfig and Merthyr Mawr, both offering beautiful, vast sand dune areas to explore which open out onto golden beaches and are part of the Wales Coast Path. Home to rare plants and diverse wildlife - days out in Kenfig National Nature Reserve or Merthyr Mawr Warren National Nature Reserve are perfect for walkers, photographers, families and nature lovers.
As well as coastal nature havens, Bridgend County has plenty of beautiful in-land areas offering miles of scenic walking or cycling routes with breathtaking views as you take in the fresh spring air. Check out the Spirit of Llynfi Woodland, Parc Slip Nature Reserve, Ogmore Washeries, The Great Glamorgan Way and Parc Calon Lan for natural adventures in Bridgend’s beautiful valleys.
Keeping active on land and sea
If you’re feeling more active, Bridgend County’s coastline is a hotspot for surfing, particularly around Rest Bay, where consistent waves attract beginners and experienced surfers alike. At Rest Bay Watersports Centre you’ll find places to hire gear or book a surf lesson with Porthcawl Surf School, as well as coastal educational sessions for children from Beach Academy Wales and food and drink with fantastic views of the sea at Rest Bay Cafe Bar. With the added convenience of parking and toilets at Rest Bay, it’s a great place to enjoy watersports and coastal activities.
If golfing is your favourite way of staying active - you’ll find plenty to enjoy in Bridgend County - with six scenic courses set against rolling countryside and coastal backdrops. Find out more about golf courses here.
Shopping and Leisure
If you’re looking for a more relaxed day out, head to McArthur Glen Bridgend, where you can browse over 90 designer and high-street brands at discounted prices. With cafés, restaurants, a children’s play area and even a cinema, it’s an easy way to mix shopping with leisure and make it a full day out for all the family.
For an independent shopping experience in Bridgend County, the town centres of Porthcawl, Bridgend and Maesteg offer a warm welcome, where friendly local communities and unique finds make your shopping experience one to remember. Keep an eye on our What’s On section for details of local events.
Bridgend County’s historical gems
Bridgend County is a treasure-trove of places and attractions steeped in history. In Bridgend town centre, the Bridgend Heritage Trail weaves together the area’s rich past through landmarks and buildings, including St John’s House, which is thought to be Bridgend’s oldest dwelling and has springtime open days on the 25th April, 10th May and 30th May.
In Porthcawl, the museum has a fascinating collection of artefacts that bring history to life. Alongside its captivating exhibits, an exciting programme of events and lectures is planned for 2026, including a lively Medieval Day on 2nd May. Porthcawl Museum also welcomes visitors every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 11am to 3pm - perfect for an inspiring day out.
In Maesteg, the town hall has been at the heart of the community since it first opened in 1881. The Grade II listed building has hosted a wide range of notable events and figures, reflecting its long-standing cultural importance. After a major redevelopment completed in 2024, it has been transformed into a modern arts and community hub with a theatre, cinema, library, and café. This spring, the venue continues that legacy with events tied to Maesteg’s 200th celebrations, including a dedicated history talk on 18th April exploring the building’s past.
Bridgend County is also home to impressive ancient ruins to be explored through the grounds of Coity Castle, Newcastle Castle, and Candleston Castle - as well as Ogmore Castle nearby, offering a fascinating glimpse into many past centuries.
Food and Drink
No visit to Bridgend County is complete without sampling the local food scene. From cosy cafés to award-winning restaurants, there’s something to suit every taste. Whether you’re after a hearty Welsh meal, fresh seafood by the coast, or a relaxed brunch after a morning walk, you’ll find plenty of excellent dining options across the county. Click here to see some of Bridgend County’s fantastic Food and Drink options.
Making the most of springtime
Bridgend County in spring is all about variety - unique experiences, peaceful nature retreats, rich history, and great food all come together to create a destination that truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a family day out, a weekend getaway, or simply looking for new places to explore, spring is the perfect time to experience this corner of Wales. Find accommodation options here.
.jpg)
