Eating Out and Things to Do in Bridgend: A Local’s Guide.
- lvckr5
- Aug 23
- 2 min read
Looking for things to do in Bridgend? You might be surprised by just how much there is nearby. between the Vale of Glamorgan and the South Wales Valleys, it has a brilliant mix of restaurants, countryside, coastline and shopping—all within easy reach of our Happy Days Stays properties.
Mediterranean flavours at Poco Poco
Poco Poco is a firm local favourite in the heart of Bridgend. Its menu combines traditional Mediterranean cooking with a modern twist, including tapas, fresh fish, meat dishes and tempting desserts.
The friendly atmosphere makes it equally good for a relaxed dinner, a celebration or one of those evenings when nobody feels like cooking. It’s especially convenient for guests staying at our Bridgend property and easily reached by car from our other homes.
Shopping and Indian street food at Mowgli
For something packed with flavour, head to Mowgli Street Food at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Bridgend.
Mowgli serves Indian home-style and street-food dishes designed for sharing. The restaurant’s fairy lights, greenery and famous swing seats make the surroundings every bit as memorable as the food.
With dozens of shops at the outlet, you can browse the bargains first and eat afterwards—or start with lunch and shop once you’re suitably fuelled. There’s ample free parking, and the restaurant offers vegan and gluten-friendly choices.
Head to the coast
Porthcawl is just a short drive from Bridgend and makes a lovely addition to your stay. This traditional Welsh seaside town has sandy beaches, a sweeping promenade, a harbour and plenty of places to stop for coffee, lunch or dinner.
Take a walk along the seafront, breathe in the sea air and finish with fish and chips on the prom. Sometimes the simplest days are the best ones.

Food, music and themed nights at Cheetahs
Cheetahs Bar & Grill on Dock Street is known for its bold décor, lively atmosphere and themed parties.
The venue serves food alongside entertainment and gets thoroughly involved when major events arrive in Porthcawl. If you’re visiting during the Elvis Festival, Halloween or another celebration, check its social pages to see what’s happening and book ahead.

More Things to do in Bridgend and Nearby.
Food and the coast are only the beginning. Depending on which Happy Days Stays property you choose, you could also explore:
The mountain-biking and walking trails of Afan Forest Park
Bryngarw Country Park
Coity Castle
Merthyr Mawr’s towering sand dunes
McArthurGlen Designer Outlet
The beaches and promenade at Porthcawl
Enjoy the best of both worlds
Whether you fancy Mediterranean food in Bridgend, Indian sharing plates after a spot of shopping or dinner followed by a breezy coastal walk, there’s always something nearby to enjoy.
Stay with Happy Days Stays and use one of our comfortable, welcoming properties as your base for discovering South Wales.
Ready for your next Welsh getaway?



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