Visit Dunraven Bay – Southerndown Beach
Dunraven Bay, also known as Southerndown Beach, sits on the Glamorgan Heritage Coast in South Wales. It is backed by limestone cliffs and opens out into a wide sandy beach at low tide. The setting feels open and calm, with big skies and views across the Bristol Channel. It is around 30 minutes from Cardiff and easy to reach by car.
The beach has soft, sandy areas along with rocky sections that appear when the tide is high. Surrounded by towering cliffs, creating a beautiful backdrop that makes for perfect photos.
Swimming is popular, especially during the summer when lifeguards are on duty. If you enjoy water sports, you can try surfing or kayaking in the waves. The bay gets good waves from Atlantic swells and is popular with surfers and bodyboarders, especially when conditions are right.
When the tide goes out, the rock pools become visible, and they’re great for exploring. You can discover all sorts of fascinating sea creatures hiding in the pools.
Fossils can be found in loose rocks, especially at low tide. Common finds include ancient oyster shells known as “Devil’s Toenails.” Do not hammer rocks or damage cliffs.
Wildlife enthusiasts will love this place as well. The area is home to many birds, including the rare chough. It’s a fantastic spot for birdwatching, so keep your eyes peeled!
Dogs are not allowed on the beach from 1 May to 30 September. Outside these dates, dogs are allowed. Dogs can use the cliff paths and nearby areas all year if kept on a lead.
This beach is …
Low tide is best if you want space, sand, and rock pools. Tide times change daily, so it is worth checking before you go. Summer visits are good for swimming, with lifeguards on duty.
What to see and do
Discover more in the area
Places to stay
Dunraven Bay has a small number of cottages and B&Bs. More options are available in Llantwit Major and Bridgend. Summer bookings fill up fast.
Have a great day out by the coast
Header Photo by Nick Russill on Unsplash
Getting To Dunraven Beach
Beach Location
Southerndown, Bridgend CF32 0RP
Parking
Yes. There are two main car parks. The lower car park is closer to the beach and is paid. An upper overflow car park is also available, usually paid in peak season.
Nearest Train
Station
Getting to the beach
Map of Dunraven Beach
Why is Dunraven Bay famous from TV?
Dunraven Bay was used as ‘Bad Wolf Bay’ in the Doctor Who TV series. An iconic filming location in Wales, it appeared in several key episodes.
Matt Smith’s first Doctor Who scenes shot here in 2009.
It has also featured in BBC series Merlin and Sherlock, as well as Bob Dylan film Hearts of Fire (1987) scenes.
Explore the Welsh coastline
What’s On along the Coast
Throughout the year there are a series of events and festivals taking place along the Coast. Find out What’s On from food festivals to cultural and sporting events.
Read more from the blog here