Nestled within the beautiful landscapes of South Wales, Glamorgan bursts with a vibrant mixture of bustling urban areas, charming small towns, and picturesque countryside expanses. This historic county, which is split into Mid, South, and West Glamorgan, has a welcoming, close-knit community spirit contrasting with the freshness of modern living.

Our area guide will delve into the rich tapestry that Glamorgan offers, from fast-paced Cardiff, Swansea's cultural haven, to serene coastal towns like Bridgend and the awe-inspiring Brecon Beacons. We will help you explore minimal traffic facilities, top-class educational institutions, shopping extravaganza, and the property landscape of Glamorgan.

History of Glamorgan

Glamorgan, or Morgannwg in Welsh, has a long and rich history dating back to the Roman times, when it was part of the Roman province of Britannia. Rich in resources, the county played an integral part in the United Kingdom's industrial revolution, with significant mining and steel industries. Glamorgan was officially split into West, Mid, and South in the 1974 county reorganisation. Each area has its own distinct historical identity — Cardiff's transformation from a small town to a thriving capital city, Swansea's resiliency in rebuilding after WWII damage, and the timeless rural charm of towns like Llantwit Major and Neath.

Top 3 Landmarks

1. Cardiff Castle, in the heart of the capital city, is a symbol of Cardiff's rich heritage, offering a blend of Roman, Norman and Victorian architecture. 2. The Swansea Market, the largest indoor market in Wales, provides a true taste of Welsh culture and is a must-visit for food lovers. 3. To the north, the stunning Brecon Beacons National Park boasts natural beauty that attracts outdoor enthusiasts from around the world.

Landmarks we Love

• Wales Millennium Centre - A must-visit for art lovers, located in Cardiff Bay. This iconic venue hosts world-class operas, ballets, and musical shows.
• Penarth Pier - Located in Penarth, this charming Victorian pier commands stunning views of the Bristol Channel and is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.
• Neath Abbey - This 12th Century Cistercian monastery in Neath is a wonderful example of medieval architecture and is steeped in history.
• St. Fagans National Museum - Situated in Cardiff, it's one of Europe's leading open-air museums, showcasing the historical lifestyle, culture, and architecture of Wales.
• Margam Country Park - Known for its beautiful gothic-style mansion and extensive grounds, located in Port Talbot, provides a great day out for all the family.

Top 10 things to do in Glamorgan

• Visit Cardiff Bay - An exciting waterfront development with an array of wonderful restaurants and cafes.
• Stroll through Swansea Marina - Equipped with beautiful sailing boats and modern apartments.
• Brecon Mountain Railway Journey - Take a steam train ride through the breathtaking landscapes of the Brecon Beacons.
• Explore AFAN forest park - A paradise for cyclists, known for its world-class mountain biking trail.
• Gower Heritage Centre - Get a sense of traditional Welsh life at this charming rural attraction in Gower.
• Ogmore-by-Sea - For stunning coastal scenery, head to this seaside village near Bridgend.
• Visit the Royal Mint - Learn about the magical process of money-making in Llantrisant.
• National Botanic Garden - Spend a peaceful day among exotic and rare plants in Carmarthenshire.
• Relax at Swansea Beach - Known for its sandy coast and gently rolling surf.
• Merthyr Tydfil - Visit Cyfarthfa Park and museum, shopping complexes and restaurants.

Our recommended areas to live in Glamorgan

• Penarth - Known as ‘the garden by the sea’, Penarth marries coastal living with easy access to Cardiff. It boasts a warm community spirit, a well-regarded comprehensive school, and charming Victorian architecture.
• Swansea - With its vibrant cultural scene and stunning Marina, Swansea offers affordable housing, great schools, and local amenities. Excellent transport links make commuting a breeze.
• Neath - Its family-friendly, friendly atmosphere, along with its proximity to both Swansea and the stunning Gower coastline, makes it a great place to settle. It’s also home to a thrice-weekly market and two golf clubs.
• Newport - This thriving coastal city offers the ideal balance of work and leisure. Notable features are Friars Walk shopping centre, top-rated schools like St Julian's School, and an array of outdoor spaces.
• Barry - A bustling coastal town known for its beaches, Barry Island Pleasure Park and annual events. With excellent schools and transport links, and an array of local amenities, it’s a favorite among families.

Best schools in Glamorgan

Glamorgan offers outstanding educational opportunities with a range of prestigious schools. Cardiff High School, Bishop of Llandaff and Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Plasmawr are all highly rated for secondary education, while primaries such as Coryton Primary, Radnor Primary, and Lakeside Primary have a stellar reputation. Swansea features excellent schools such as Bishopston Comprehensive, Olchfa School and Gowerton School. Additionally, the Welsh medium education available across Glamorgan provides a culturally rich learning environment. For higher education, Cardiff University, Swansea University, and The University of South Wales are leaders in their respective fields, adding to Glamorgan's academic prestige.

Transport links in Glamorgan

Glamorgan has excellent transport links to the rest of the UK. Its heart, Cardiff, is just over 2 hours by train from London and has an International airport. Swansea also offers direct train lines to London and other major cities across the UK. The M4 motorway runs through the region, providing easy road access. Additionally, local bus and tram services are widely available, making public transportation a breeze. For those preferring an active commute, the state-of-the art Cycling Superhighway in Cardiff provides a new level of convenience.

In conclusion, Glamorgan offers a happy blend of city vibrancy and rural tranquillity, rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're a young professional, part of a growing family, or in your golden years, there's a spot in Glamorgan that's perfect for you. Unrivalled educational opportunities, excellent transport links, and a robust property market make it a fantastic place to call home. A warm Welsh welcome awaits you in Glamorgan.