Celtic Ocean Home :  Places, Towns & Cities : Cowbridge

Cowbridge, Vale of Glamorgan

Cowbridge, a historic, bustling market place, celebrates 750 years as a Chartered town.

******************************

About Cowbridge

Following archaeological digs in the town, it is known that the Romans established a base here. There could have been a connection with the 2nd Augustan Legion that was based at the Fortress of Isca (See Caerleon). Cowbridge lies on the A48 Roman Road that runs from Chepstow, via Cowbridge, to the fortress at Carmarthen.

A busy market town in medieval times, Cowbridge was one of the stops on the main London to Swansea stage coach route, and central to the farming community in this part of Glamorgan. The Quarter Sessions were held here with the authority to handle serious criminal cases. Punishments ranged from fines to deportation, or death on the gallows at Stalling Down, just outside the town.

There are many, attractive and interesting shops selling better-end clothing, jewellery, antiques, and gifts that are 'different'.

If you want a meal or just a coffee, there's a variety of excellent pubs and restaurants. The Bear Hotel caters for visitors who want modern day comforts, but wish to experience the old charm and character of a 12th century hostelry.

Cowbridge is an ideal and pleasant location for those wishing to tour the locality or to stop-over.

Directions

Nearest towns: Bridgend, Llantrisant, Llantwit Major, Barry, Cardiff Wales Airport, Cardiff.