No family wants to leave their four-legged friend in the dog house this summer. Luckily, with a selection of charming local pubs, cafes and brilliant beaches, Bridgend County is the ideal host for dog-friendly destinations. Here are a few of our favourites that can be found across the county:
Paw-fect Pubs...
Farmers Arms in Nottage
Like many of our destinations, Farmers Arms in Nottage warmly welcomes furry companions to relax in the bar area of their classic pub. Enjoy a day out in the surrounding countryside and reward yourself with home-cooked food and real ales whilst your four-legged friend enjoys a well-deserved rest.
https://www.thefarmersarmsnottage.co.uk/
The Jolly Sailor in Newton
Unwind in The Jolly Sailor's bar, moments away from the mighty Merthyr Mawr sand dunes. Give your dogs the run-around amongst the rolling dunes before ending your adventures at the Jolly Sailor, where they'll happily provide hydrating refreshments for both you and your companion.
The Globe Inn, Porthcawl
Just a short walk from three of Porthcawl's wonderful beaches; Newton Beach, Trecco Bay and Sandy Bay, you can pause for a pitstop at The Globe Inn. With welcoming old-school interiors, you and your pooch will feel perfectly at home in this classic establishment.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Globe-Inn/168510599829887
Saltwater Inn, Porthcawl
Set besides Porthcawl marina, enjoy the nautical themes of the Saltwater Inn after a stroll overlooking the coastal views. Be sure to tuck into a pint of Saltwater Hop - 10% of every pint sold goes directly to the Porthcawl RNLI.
www.saltwaterinn.co.uk
Canine-loving cafes…
Potting Shed, Newton
Feed your hunger with light bites at the dog-friendly cafe tucked away in Newton, Porthcawl. The Potting Shed offers a variety of deli dishes that you can enjoy while your best friend relaxes at your side.
Coffi and Co, Porthcawl Harbour
Located in the iconic Jennings Building, sandwiched between the marina and the sea, head to Coffi & Co to indulge in Coffee, their iconic Coffi-Cocktails and fresh food. Soak up the summer sun and seaside views with man's best friend outside on terrace deckchairs.
coffico.uk/locations/porthcawl
Pet-friendly afternoon tea (and a workout)
And for the ultimate dog-friendly break there's the Coed y Mwstwr Hotel which, on top of dog-friendly rooms for overnight stays, are now offering a doggy afternoon tea. Pamper your pet with an afternoon of indulgence with this menu featuring a homemade some doggy delights including bacon and peanut butter bone biscuits and salmon & sweet potato brownies.
And if they've overindulged, the hotel is now also home to a pup agility course where they'll be able to work off those extra calories.
Dog-friendly beaches...
Newton Bay Beach
Unlike the neighbouring Rest Bay, dog owners will rejoice over being able to visit Newton Bay throughout the summer months. Walk along the sandy beach of Porthcawl's easterly bay which ends at Newton Point. Positioned beside the iconic Merthyr Mawr sand dunes, this area is a great destination to unwind and appreciate the coastal air.
Sker Beach
Kenfig Sands (known locally as Sker Beach) is the most westerly of Porthcawl's beaches and is only accessible by walking from Rest Bay or the Kenfig National Nature Reserve. Generally sandy and flat, it is mostly used by locals, making it one of the quieter beaches in Porthcawl and dogs are allowed year round.
Pink Beach
A 15-minute walk from Rest Bay, Porthcawl's quieter beach is popular with locals and surfers; it has a steep pebble bank down to the golden sand. The rocks at the top of the beach have a unique pink marbling effect - hence the name Pink Bay.
And finally… a photoshoot for your pooch!
Bryngarw Country Park have teamed up with Katrina Bartlett Media to offer a full day of doggy photo shoots on 2nd August. For just £5 you'll get a ten minute mini-shoot either at the indoor pop-up studio or outside if the weather allows. You'll receive one edited digital image of your pooch with extra shots also available.
http://www.bryngarwcountrypark.co.uk/
