Penarth Beach

Penarth Beach, located in the charming seaside town of Penarth in the Vale of Glamorgan, is a delightful coastal spot backed by an elegant esplanade framed by cliffs and gentle slopes. The beach features a mix of pebbles and sand, with more sand revealed at low tide, making it ideal for beachcombing or taking a stroll along the water’s edge.

From the seafront, visitors are treated to sweeping views across the Bristol Channel, often spotting the islands of Flat Holm and Steep Holm on clear days. Above the beach stands the iconic Victorian Penarth Pier, complete with its restored Art Deco Pavilion, which hosts exhibitions, live music, a small cinema and a café overlooking the sea.

The promenade features a selection of restaurants as well as a couple of options for traditional fish & chips.  There are also public toilets open during daytime hours.

Ascending into Penarth town centre from the beach means tackling a gentle hill through Alexandra Gardens and past Victorian residences before reaching the town’s heart. This scenic uphill walk rewards visitors with tree‑lined streets, independent cafés, boutique shops and historic buildings such as the Windsor Arcade and St Augustine’s Church, showcasing Penarth’s refined Victorian heritage.