Looking for somewhere to getaway for the festive season? From unique Christmas shopping to some of Wales' best festive meals, Bridgend County offers a selection of sparkling stays for every visitor. To narrow down your choice, we've come up with a selection of ideas to help you enjoy a festive stay in Bridgend!
1. Enjoy a taste of Wales in Laleston
Relish the taste of Wales this Christmas at Leicesters Restaurant in Laleston, Wales' Hotel Restaurant of the Year 2016 & 2017. Guests will enjoy a festive menu featuring roast Glamorgan turkey, homemade Christmas pudding for just £21 for two courses. If you are around long enough, be sure to take a short walk across the road to experience The Black Rabbit whose unique festive flavours include maple and mustard gammon and Christmas pudding creme brulee.
Stay in: The Great House Hotel - Home to Leicesters Restaurant, this 3* hotel and Grade II listed building is perfect for those wantint to enjoy a festive tipple with their food. Stay overnight and enjoy a festive afternoon tea, available every day 3pm - 5pm. Double rooms from £105 per person.
2. Explore the breathtaking trails of Bridgend County
Located along the beautiful Glamorgan Heritage Coast, with hiking highlights like the Gawr Valley, Bridgend County is perfect for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors this winter. Taking the Gawr Valley Circular route or simply stroll along the golden sands of Bridgend's Blue Flag beaches.
Stay in: Coed y Mwstwr Hotel - This dog friendly hotel is perfect for dog walkers looking to curl up by the fire after a long day outside. As well as the hotel's festive afternoon tea, Coed y Mwstwr even treats pooches to their own special afternoon tea! Guests can also enjoy evening entertainment throughout December, from James Bond nights (Fridays 7th, 14th, 21st December) to Viva Las Vegas (Saturdays 8th, 15th, 22nd December). Rooms from £100 in December. Festive Family Lunch, £15.95 per child, £32.95 per child. Party events from £39.95.
3. Discover the unique gems of Bridgend's historic market town
As a 16th century market town stooped in history, Bridgend has long relished the reputation as a bustling shoppers' paradise. Today, the 18th century Market Bell still hands in Rhiw Shopping Centre, home not long to many high street shops but also more than thirty stalls selling local produce and gifts. This year visitors can support Bridgend's independent shops by buying at least one Christmas present from a local stall. Pledge your support by tagging a photo of your gift with #YuleLoveBridgend. Open 11am - 4pm.
Stay in: Cae Court Hotel - Nestled on the banks of the River Ogmore, this boutique hotel is perfect for discovering Bridgend County's historic gems. Take the stepping stones up to Ogmore Castle before enjoying a relaxing stay with White Company toiletries to Egyptian cotton bedding in each room. Double rooms from £159 per night for two people.
4. Switch off by the sea in Porthcawl
Porthcawl is home to everything from diamonds and designer dresses to delicious pastries and cosy independent cafes. The main shopping area is centred around John Street, just a stone's throw from the Esplanade. Be sure to visit Pyle Garden Village where you can enjoy tea with Santa or learn the art of Elfery in Elf School.
Stay in: Olivia Guesthouse - located opposite Porthcawl's Esplanade, this boutique guesthouse is far from average. Think lavish golds, velvets and decadent wallpaper. The best bit of all? Olivia Guesthouse's impressive breakfast banquet is sure to match any festive feast you'll have planned this December! Rooms from £95 per night.
5. Watch your gifts being made in Ewenny
This traditional pottery workshop has been handcrafting unique pieces since the 17th century. Visitors to the workshop can observe the pots being made and view the finished wares in the showroom. This Christmas, Ewenny Pottery will be selling handmade gifts and Christmas trinkets. Pay a visit to the Ewenny Garden Centre before stopping off for a tasty treat in the cafe.
Stay at: Best Western Heronston Hotel & Spa - You'll find the Best Western Heronston Hotel and Spa just down the road. Indulge in the hotel's sauna, steam room and luxury indoor pool or get the lest of your Christmas shopping done in the nearby McArthur Glen shopping outlet, located just 3 miles from the hotel. Rooms from £67.50.
6. Take a reindeer trail around Bryngarw Country Park
Children visiting Bridgend County will love this wooden Reindeer Trail in Bryngarw Country Park. Help Santa find his reindeer around the park or meet the man himself. Green Santa will be welcoming visitors to his Grotto on 1st - 2nd December with plenty of treats in store. Reindeer Trail from 8th - 16th December.
Stay in: Court Coleman Hotel - This elegant manor house hotel is just a ten-minute drive from Bryngarw Country Park, located just outside of Bridgend. If you're not a fan of all the trimmings, enjoy one of the hotel restaurant's award-winning curries. Standard double room from £150 per night.
