With Wales’ coastal path and the Glamorgan Heritage Coast, the Vale is an ideal location for explorers – and there’s plenty of top-notch places for visitors to eat or stay when visiting - particularly in Penarth.

For instance, The Touring Club opened earlier this year with a curated range of wines, beers, and food. It was founded by Welsh chef Bryn Williams and offers locally sourced small plates that evolve with the seasons.

The venue has an intimate feel and those at the bar can watch their food and drinks being prepared – but what stands out is the Coravin system which means wines can be poured without removing the cork. This means visitors get a fresher taste by the glass.

Another notable spot in Penarth is Michelin star-chef James Sommerin’s restaurant Home, which opened in 2021.

Run by Mr Sommerin and his own family, the team aims to create an eating journey where guests feel like they belong. They offer a four or eight course ‘surprise menu’ for lunches and dinners which is based around seasonal produce. They also run intimate cookery demonstrations where guests can learn the art for themselves.

Further afield, notable places to eat or drink in the Vale of Glamorgan include:

• The Goodsheds in Barry, which allows people to order different cuisines from food outlets while sitting together on shared tables;
• Craft Republic in Barry, which offers craft beers, wine, cocktails, and Barry Island Spirits – including the award-winning Barry Island Gin and Rum;
• Hiraeth in Llysworney, which was named in the Michelin guide within eight months of opening, has two AA rosettes for culinary excellence, and is in the Good Food Guide 2023;
• The Fox in St Brides Major, which is well known for freshly sourced, local food drawing inspiration from the seasons.

But what about places to stay?

Penarth makes an impact once more – with luxury rooms which float on Penarth Marina opened by The Deck (restaurant and bar).

The rooms (or pods) can be twin or king size and include walk-in showers, remote control blinds, fluffy robes, television, and fridges. Find out more at thedeckpenarth.co.uk/rooms-at-the-deck/

There’s also Holm House – the 1920s house was once part of Penarth’s “millionaires row” and has been renovated into a boutique hotel.

This was the chosen residence of Harry Styles after he performed at Cardiff Principality Stadium earlier this year.

Further afield in the Vale of Glamorgan, there is:

• Goodstays in Barry – a collaboration between Goodsheds and The Urban Space – which includes a mix of one and two bed luxury serviced apartments;
• Llanerch Vineyard, a countryside hotel based on a working vineyard – it has a variety of rooms and an award-winning restaurant boasting two AA rosettes;
• West Farm Southerndown Retreat, which is made up of three luxury farmhouse apartments with nautical themes and located on the doorstep of the Glamorgan Heritage Coast.