Bryngarw Country Park, Brynmenyn, Bridgend CF32 8UU, Wales
Nestled on the edge of Bridgend, this deceptively big park offers you and your dog the perfect adventure playground all year round. Set across 100 acres of parkland, visitors can enjoy the perfect blend of woodland, open meadows, riverside paths and cultured gardens - providing your dog with an abundance of sights, smells and terrains.
Overview
Whether you’re looking for a new local favourite or want to give your furry friend a fun-filled adventure as you pass through, Bryngarw Country Park is not going to disappoint. Set across 100 acres of parkland, there’s a perfect blend of woodland, open meadows, riverside paths and cultured gardens to explore.
We recommend starting at the visitor centre and following the woodland trails through the heart of the park. The riverside walk along the River Garw is equally rewarding, with either route providing plenty of opportunities for your dog to get familiar with the resident squirrels that often roam around.
For those that want to stretch their legs and burn some energy off further, there are a plethora of interconnected paths and fields which combine grassy woodland and country trails – perfect for any training or free running your dog may want.
For The Dogs
Dogs can be off-lead across most of the park, with plenty of space for a good run through the woodland and open meadows. The whole park is a great off-lead experience in general, and there are enough quiet trails that should appeal to those dogs that need a little more space away from people or paws.
If you do venture off beyond the initial paths to the country trails don’t be surprised if you bump into some horses in the fields. Whilst they are friendly enough, it’s worth making sure you keep your dog within sight and ensure that their recall is good.
Opening Hours
None as such but daylight it recommended.
Parking
There is a car park at the visitor centre which is the best starting point for your walk. Parking is free.
Once you’ve parked up at the visitor centre we recommend following the woodland trails through the heart of the park, which provides a peaceful setting no matter what season you visit. Alternatively you can try the riverside walk that runs adjacent to the River Garw which offers an equally relaxing environment for your dog to sniff away to their heart’s content.
Whilst Bryngarw is an excellent all-season adventure, we recommend visiting in the autumn or spring to fully appreciate the exceptionally well-maintained gardens. This might mean your adventure has the potential to be a mucky one given the number of trail paths but fear not – the country park has recently installed a handy dog wash facility enabling your pooch to head home in top condition!
Some of the walking routes across the park do double up as local cycle paths so it’s worth keeping your eyes open and ensuring your dog doesn’t inadvertently knock any bikers into the hedgerow!
The visitor cafe is certainly worth a visit to unwind after your adventure. Whilst Bryngarw House – one of the most popular wedding venues in South Wales, found on the grounds – is not dog friendly inside, they do a mean afternoon tea that you can enjoy outside with your dog.
