Visit Wales with Ease - Part 3
A writers journey through South Wales
Dear Friend
How are you today? I’m thrilled that so many of you are enjoying my “Visit Wales with Ease” series, it’s been a real joy to write, even though I was worried it wasn’t going to be of interest, silly me.
Today I’d like to showcase literary treasures and inspiring local haunts of South Wales. It’s a region I’ve called home for over 30 years, moving from Mid Wales to Cardiff at the tender age of 17 to work in HSBC, all because I wasn’t quite sure whether University was for me. Eventually, I decided to leave banking in exchange for a Food Science degree in Cardiff Met, and to this day I’ve never left this vibrant city. There are so many hidden gems and beloved spots I’d like to share with you, especially ones that have captured my heart and fuelled my creativity over the past three decades.
South Wales is a tapestry of contrasts - from the bustling streets of Cardiff, this capital city is brimming with culture and history, to the serene coastlines of the Vale of Glamorgan. So for me, it’s a place where urban energy seamlessly blends with rural charm, where ancient castles stand alongside modern architecture, and where the spirit of Welsh literature and art thrives in every corner. It really is a special place to live and an exciting region to visit. So you if do get the opportunity, I highly recommend you book somewhere to stay near Cardiff, I reckon you’d love some of my local hangouts.
For all the writers and literary enthusiasts, this region of Wales is a treasure trove of inspiration. Did you know you can walk in the footsteps of Roald Dahl in Cardiff Bay?
I’m going to highlight just a handful of the countless places that make South Wales a writer’s paradise. From the iconic Wales Millennium Centre to the magnificent Merthyr Mawr Sand Dunes, each location offers its own unique flavour of inspiration. But know that these are merely a taste of what South Wales has to offer. I regularly stumble upon quirky and interesting places to journal in, all just sat there waiting to be discovered, each with its own story to tell.
As I take you on this virtual journey, I invite you to see South Wales through my eyes, as a home, a muse and an endless source of wonder. Whether you’re an aspiring writer seeking to unblock your creativity, a journaling enthusiast looking to capture new experiences or simply a curious traveler eager to explore this beautiful country there is something here to captivate your heart and soul.
I hope you enjoy reading about the following five remarkable locations that offer unique experiences for the wordsmith traveler…
Wales Millennium Centre - Cardiff Bay
This building is the equivalent of the Sydney Opera House, a jewel standing proud in all its golden tones. Situated in the vibrant Cardiff Bay Area, near the childhood home of Roald Dahl, this venue stands as a beacon of Welsh arts and culture.
What makes is special:
- It’s striking architecture stops you in your tracks, the building’s copper colour dome bears inscriptions in Welsh and English, it’s such an innovative design, award winning in fact.
- The Centre is home to multiple performance spaces, housing a variety of musicals, literary events and local community projects.
- The Roald Dahl connection in the nearby Norwegian Church Arts Centre celebrates the famous author’s Cardiff roots.
For the writers, the Wales Millennium Centre offers a wealth of inspiration, from its architectural beauty to the diverse performances and events it hosts all year round. I love hanging out in the contemporary reception area, it’s the perfect place to people watch. I usually get cosy on one of the corner sofas, alongside the cafe and journal ideas for my Substack.
I’m actually hosting my first Substack Wales IRL Meet Up with
in the Wales Millennium Centre on the 11th September, from 11am. If you’d like to join us for a couple of hours, leave a message in the comments section or send me a DM.
The surrounding Cardiff Bay area, with its mix of historic and modern elements, and endless rows of cafes and restaurants, would provide you with plenty of rich material for descriptive writing or character studies.
Nestled in the heart of Penarth, only a few minutes drive from where I live, is one of my favourite local cafes to drink coffee and write in my journal. This delightful venue is filled with “Hygge” vibes all year round.
What makes it special:
- You’ll find the most authentic Danish pastries and quality coffee. It’s heaven for a sweet toothed midlife woman like myself!
- The “Hygge” atmosphere is so soothing, it’s the Danish concept of cosiness and it certainly captures your heart and soul, whatever the weather is like outside.
- It is a prime people watching spot. Although I’ve lost a few hours sat daydreaming out of the window wondering where all the busy people are off to.
- Over the years I’ve got to know quite a few of the regular customers and friendly staff. I love being part of the local community, and cafes like Brod offer the biggest Danish/Welsh welcome.
For the writers, this delightful hub is the perfect environment for morning writing rituals or afternoon brainstorming sessions. The Danish influence offers a unique cultural perspective and not too far aways form the main city vibes.
Forage Farm Shop & Cafe - Cowbridge
This super lovely farm shop/delicatessen and cafe is located near the market town of Cowbridge, celebrating local produce and rural living. It really is a delightful venue to go alone or with friends and family.
What makes it special:
- It offers a wide range of local and artisan products. Known to inspire food writers and those interested in sustainable living.
- The on-site kitchen serves a delicious selection of dishes, all made with local ingredients.
- Its rural setting offers a slice of Welsh country life. On sunny days it's rather nice to sit on the grass, near the farm animals, to write or read, so remember to take your picnic blanket and embrace the countryside air.
For the writers, Forage provides a window into Welsh culture and cuisine. It’s an excellent spot for unlocking creativity, exploring themes being in nature or simply enjoying a peaceful writing session in a rustic setting.
West Farm - Ogmore by Sea
Located near the dramatic Heritage coast, West Farm offers a coastal retreat for writers looking for solitude and natural beauty. I often drive the 45 minutes from home to spend a few hours being mesmerised by the ocean. The main hub of the venue is the cafe bar, if it’s too busy, the lounge area is super comfortable with quality plush sofas, which if you’re lucky have all to yourself during their quiet periods. It’s very much a ‘home away from home’ vibe.
What makes it special:
- Self-catering cottages provide privacy and space for focused writing. The ocean views are unbelievably dramatic and the stormier the day, the better I say.
- The on-site cafe and bar offers sustenance when you need it the most, complimented by plenty of socialising opportunities, but only if you’re craving upbeat conversation with the locals.
- Live music events on the weekend, gives you the chance to unwind and lose yourself in the acoustic tones.
- Proximity to the coast is perfect for contemplative walks. When you step out of West Farm you’re literally on the Welsh coastal path, which stretches around the edge of Wales for over 800 miles. One of my dreams is to take three months off work and walk along it, stopping off at local taverns and glamping sites. Maybe it’s time I invested in a camper van.
For the writers, West Farm combines the comfort of a ‘home away from home’ vibe with the inspiration from the coastal landscape. The delightful mix of solitude and community events allows you to tailor your experience to your writing needs.
Merthyr Mawr Sand Dunes - near Bridgend
For all the dog lovers, this is the second largest sand dune system in Europe. Merthyr Mawr offers a unique landscape for literary exploration. Miles upon miles of golden sand carves a path from the car park to the edge of the ocean. It should take you just under an hour to walk the length of the path from car to ocean.
What makes it special:
- It’s a vast, dramatic landscape, so much so, these dune shave been used as film locations. There is a glamping site at Candleston Woods which hosts food festivals , local events and bespoke weddings, it’s a super magical place.
- The rich biodiversity is home to rare plants and animals. My ridgebacks have a field day chasing the clever hares, thank goodness they dart into the shrubbery away from danger or being fodder for brunch.
- Nearby, Candleston Castle ruins add a touch of history to the natural wonder.
- If you’re looking for varied terrain, you’ll be spoilt from forests to dunes to the Ogmore River. I could quite happily rent a cottage near here, it’s very quaint in the neighbouring village.
For the writers, Merthyr Mawr provides an extraordinary setting for journaling and is the perfect backdrop for fiction. The changing landscape throughout the day offers different moods and atmosphere to capture in words. I think you’d love it here.
I thought I’d create some writing opportunity ideas for you, just in case if you ever visit some my favourite South Wales locations…
- Use the Wales Millennium Stadium as a setting for a short story or play.
- Practice descriptive writing by capturing the sights, smells and tastes at Brod Danish Bakery.
- Engage in nature journaling at West Farm or Merthyr Mawr Sand Dunes.
- Write a piece on sustainable living, inspired by Forage Farm.
- Create character sketches based on people you’ve observed in these diverse locations.
Here are a few more delightful places to visit in South Wales, don’t forget to take your journal…
Escape to a secluded sandy cove at Jacksons Bay - Barry
Get cosy in the intimate Touring Club - Penarth
Wander around the magical grounds of Cardiff Castle - Cardiff
Daydream in the enchanting Plas Llanmihangel - Vale of Glamorgan
Escapism at its best when you stay at Hide St Donats - Llantwit Major
In my humble opinion, South Wales offers a rich tapestry of urban culture, coastal beauty and rural charm. From the bustling arts scene of Cardiff to the tranquil shores of Southerndown, from the cosy bakeries to vast sand dunes, this region, my home, provides endless inspiration for writers of all genres. If you ever visit, please don’t hesitate to contact me, as I’d happily meet you for a cuppa in one of my local haunts.
Tomorrow, as the final instalment of my four part “Visit Wales with Ease” series, I’ll invite you to explore my favourite region of Wales, the wild West. A place that stole my heart. A location where I’m likely to live out my final years. So please join me tomorrow, as I promise to uncover more hidden treasures for your literary adventures.
Until the next time
Take care and stay safe xx
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You have convinced me to plan a Welsh tour before my Scottish. Next year xxxxx
So beautiful in every way. Definitely on my list now.