Attractions and Places To See around Rhoose - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Rhoose, a village in the Vale of Glamorgan, offer a diverse range of points of interest. The area is characterized by its dramatic coastal landscapes, historical structures, and significant natural features like Rhoose Point, the most southerly point of mainland Wales. Visitors can explore ancient sites, impressive Victorian engineering, and protected coastlines. The region provides opportunities for coastal walks and discovering local heritage.
Best attractions and places to see around Rhoose
- The most popular attractions is Porthkerry Viaduct, a historical site that stands at 110 feet (33m) high. This impressive 16-arch structure is an example of Victorian engineering and is located within Porthkerry Park.
- Another must-see spot is Llantwit Major Heritage Centre and The Old White Hart, a religious building and historical site. This town is known for its 13th-century St Illtyd's Church, one of Wales's oldest parish churches and a Grade I listed building.
- Visitors also love Nash Point Lighthouse and Cliffs, a natural monument offering scenic coastal walks along the Glamorgan Heritage Coast. This area features dramatic cliffs and an iconic 19th-century lighthouse.
- Rhoose is known for its historical sites, natural monuments, and religious buildings. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient burial chambers to significant coastal features.
- The attractions around Rhoose are appreciated by the komoot community, with 5 highlights featuring 16 photos and receiving 30 upvotes.
Last updated: July 17, 2026
Porthkerry Viaduct
Highlight • Historical Site
It's located in Porthkerry Park, where there's also a wonderful little café serving delicious food and drinks, Mrs Marcos.
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Llantwit Major Heritage Centre and The Old White Hart
Highlight • Religious Site
Llanilltud Fawr is named for the Llan of Saint Illtud, the Llan was home to the Monastery of Illtud and the College known as Côr Tewdws. Llantwit would grow into one of the most esteemed centres of Christian culture in the Celtic world. At its peak it attracted over 2000 students, including princes, numerous eminent clergymen and revered saints. The institutions were destroyed by the raiding Vikings in 987, but the monastery was rebuilt by the Normans in 1111 and continued to be a centre of learning until it was disbanded in 1539 during the Dissolution of the Monasteries. The 13th-century St Illtyd's Church, built near the ancient monastery, is a Grade I listed building and one of the oldest parish churches in Wales.
In the 20th century, the modern town developed rapidly to accommodate Royal Air Force personnel from the St Athan base. The medieval cobbled streets and buildings of the 15th and 16th centuries remain.
Colhugh Beach is a popular surfing venue and has the remnants of an Iron Age fort and some of the finest examples of Jurassic Period fossils in Wales. The pebble beach and its clifftops are protected by the Glamorgan Heritage Coast, which stretches for 14 miles (23 km) from Gileston to the east to Southerndown and Newton Point to the west.
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Nash Point Lighthouse and Cliffs
Highlight (Segment) • Natural Monument
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Barry Dock Office
Highlight • Other
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Tinkinswood Burial Chamber
Highlight • Monument
According to legend, anyone who spends the night here on the evenings before May Day, St John’s Day or Midwinter Day will die, go mad or become a poet.
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Tips from the Community
This imposing building stands out from the relatively flat surroundings and harks to a by-gone era. Impressive stature!
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Bring earplugs with you
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Ugly but kinda impressive grave - looks like concrete built... This Neolithic (New Stone Age) tomb is topped with one of largest capstones in Britain. Measuring a massive 24ft/7m by 15ft/4.5m and weighing around 40 tons (as much as an articulated lorry). Experts reckon that at least 200 individuals would have been required to hoist it into place. Excavations have uncovered the remains of over 50 people, along with broken pottery and flint tools. https://www.visitwales.com/de/attraction/historic-site/tinkinswood-burial-chamber-cadw-1843268
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Tinkers Burial Chamber, also known as Tinkers Grave, is located in the Vale of Glamorgan, Wales. It is a notable prehistoric burial site characterized by its megalithic structure. Here are some key points about this site: Key Features: Historical Context: Tinkers Burial Chamber dates back to the Neolithic period, approximately 4,000 to 5,000 years ago. It is considered a burial tomb used by ancient communities. Structure: The chamber consists of a series of large stones arranged in a particular configuration, often covered by a mound of earth. This type of burial site is referred to as a dolmen or cromlech. Folklore and Local Legends: The site is steeped in local folklore. It is often associated with stories of itinerant workers or "tinkers," who were believed to be metalworkers or travelers. The site is sometimes considered to have supernatural associations. Archaeological Importance: Tinkers Burial Chamber is significant for understanding prehistoric burial practices and the social structures of ancient communities in this region. Archaeological studies have provided insights into the rituals and beliefs of the time. Location and Accessibility: The burial chamber is located in a scenic area of the Vale of Glamorgan, which is known for its natural beauty and historical sites. It is accessible to the public, making it a popular spot for visitors interested in history and archaeology. Easy to access with laybys to park in near by and easy to access via walking paths.
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Porthkerry Viaduct is a notable railway viaduct located near Porthkerry Park in the Vale of Glamorgan, Wales. It was built in the mid-19th century (completed in 1887) to carry the Barry Railway over the Porthkerry Valley. The structure features a series of elegant arches and is constructed from local sandstone, making it both a functional piece of infrastructure and a striking landmark in the area. The viaduct is approximately 1,200 feet long and stands about 100 feet high at its tallest point, with 13 arches. It is an excellent example of Victorian engineering and is often appreciated for its aesthetic appeal as well as its historical significance. The surrounding area is popular with walkers and nature enthusiasts, thanks to the scenic views and nearby parkland. Today, while the Barry Railway is no longer in operation, the Porthkerry Viaduct remains an important heritage site and is a popular spot for photography and sightseeing.
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Tinkinswood Burial Chamber is a Neolithic tomb topped with one of the largest capstones in Britain. Measuring 24 feet (7 m) by 15 feet (4.5 m) and weighing as much as an articulated lorry, experts think it would have taken at least 200 people to hoist the massive stone into place.
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The marvellous 16-arch Porthkerrry Viaduct stands at a whopping 110 feet (33m) high. It was designed and engineered by James and William Szlumper and was originally built to carry coal to Barry Docks. It's located in Porthkerry Park, where there's also a wonderful little café serving delicious food and drinks, Mrs Marcos.
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Use the footpath from Dimlands Road ( East of the Atlantic College ) to the coast path . There is parking on Dimlands road and then the Coast path in front of the college , Nash point and through Marcross and down to the church at the back of the college . A great circular walk
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Rhoose?
Rhoose is situated on the dramatic Glamorgan Heritage Coast, offering stunning natural beauty. You can visit Nash Point Lighthouse and Cliffs for scenic coastal walks and dramatic clifftop views. Rhoose Point, the most southerly point of mainland Wales, is another significant natural feature, designated as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation with diverse landscapes including lakes, grasslands, and reed beds. Colhugh Beach near Llantwit Major is known for its pebble beach, Jurassic fossils, and remnants of an Iron Age fort.
Are there historical sites to visit in the Rhoose area?
Yes, the area around Rhoose is rich in history. You can explore the impressive Porthkerry Viaduct, a 16-arch Victorian engineering marvel located within Porthkerry Park. The ancient St Lythans Burial Chamber, a Neolithic tomb dating back to 4000 BC, offers a glimpse into prehistoric times. Additionally, the nearby town of Llantwit Major features the Llantwit Major Heritage Centre and The Old White Hart, home to St Illtyd's Church, one of Wales's oldest parish churches.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Rhoose?
The Rhoose area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, especially for walking and running along the coast. The Welsh Coastal Path runs through Rhoose, offering numerous opportunities for hiking. You can find various routes, including easy hikes like the 'Rhoose Point – Rhoose Point loop from Cardiff Airport' or more challenging running trails such as the 'Walls Pool – Breaksea Point loop from Rhoose'. For more detailed routes, explore the Easy hikes around Rhoose or Running Trails around Rhoose guides.
Are there any family-friendly attractions or activities in Rhoose?
Absolutely! Porthkerry Viaduct is located within Porthkerry Park, which is a popular spot for recreation and features a café, making it ideal for families. The St Lythans Burial Chamber offers an interesting historical outing for all ages, and the Llantwit Major Heritage Centre and The Old White Hart provides cultural insights in a historical setting.
Where can I go for a coastal walk near Rhoose?
The Glamorgan Heritage Coast, which Rhoose is part of, offers excellent coastal walking opportunities. A popular choice is the walk along the cliffs to Nash Point Lighthouse and Cliffs, providing dramatic sea views. You can also explore the paths around Rhoose Point, which is the most southerly point of mainland Wales and features diverse coastal landscapes. Many sections of the Welsh Coastal Path are accessible from Rhoose.
What is Rhoose Point and why is it significant?
Rhoose Point is the most southerly point of mainland Wales. It is significant not only for its geographical location but also as a designated 'Site of Importance for Nature Conservation'. The area boasts scenic lakes, grassland, dramatic cliffs, reed beds, ponds, and diverse scrub, supporting a rich ecology and biodiversity. You can also find a stone circle and standing stone erected in 2000 marking this unique spot.
Can I find cycling routes around Rhoose?
Yes, there are several road cycling routes available around Rhoose. You can embark on rides like the 'Ogmore-by-Sea Beach – Porthkerry Viaduct loop from Barry' or the 'Café Velo – Coffi Co Lounge loop from Rhoose Cardiff International Airport'. These routes vary in difficulty, offering options for different fitness levels. For more details and route maps, check out the Road Cycling Routes around Rhoose guide.
What is the history behind the Porthkerry Viaduct?
The Porthkerry Viaduct is an impressive 16-arch structure, standing at 110 feet (33m) high. It was designed and engineered by James and William Szlumper and completed in 1887. Its original purpose was to carry the Vale of Glamorgan Railway, primarily transporting coal to Barry Docks, making it a significant example of Victorian industrial engineering.
Is there an aviation museum nearby?
Yes, for aviation enthusiasts, the South Wales Aviation Museum is located in St Athan, which is a short distance from Rhoose. It offers a dedicated day out to explore various aircraft and aviation history.
What is the best time of year to visit Rhoose for outdoor activities?
The Glamorgan Heritage Coast, including Rhoose, is beautiful year-round. However, for the most comfortable outdoor activities like walking and cycling, late spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) generally offer milder weather and fewer crowds. Summer months are also popular, though can be busier, especially on weekends.
What is the Llantwit Major Heritage Centre?
The Llantwit Major Heritage Centre and The Old White Hart is situated in the historic town of Llantwit Major, known for its significant Christian heritage. The area was once home to a major center of Christian culture, and the 13th-century St Illtyd's Church, one of Wales's oldest parish churches and a Grade I listed building, is a key highlight.
Where can I see a lighthouse near Rhoose?
You can visit Nash Point Lighthouse and Cliffs, an iconic 19th-century Grade II listed building located along the Glamorgan Heritage Coast. It was de-manned in 1998 and now operates automatically, but still offers a striking landmark and excellent views.
Most popular routes around Rhoose
Most popular attractions around Rhoose
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