Porthkerry Country Park

Porthkerry Country Park includes 220 acres of woodland and meadowland, a pebble beach, and a dramatic Victorian viaduct. Cliffwood is a Site of Special Scientific Interest on account of rare species such as the purple gromwell and the true service tree. They grow alongside other endangered species that enjoy the mild climate of Barry’s south-facing cliffs.

Did you know that Porthkerry takes its name from Ceri ap Caid, king of Essyllwg? He was the nephew of the great tribal chief Caractacus, who held off the Roman invasion for a decade. But his capture and defeat was a turning point in the Roman invasion with many of the ancient Briton tribes admitting defeat. Rome recognised Ceri’s nobility (and perceived obedience)  and appointed him as governor of one of the South Wales tribes. He assembled a significant maritime trading fleet, expanding the port and naming it Port Ceri.

Another ancient story is of The Fox People of Porthkerry Woods. Listen below!

An app is available to download which will make exploring the park even more enjoyable:

• Meet Henry Ringham, whose company was brought in to repair the viaduct after it started to collapse.
• Find out about the potions Ann Jenkin, the witch of Cliff Wood Cottage made and the spells she may have cast.
• See Cwm Ciddy sawmill appear on top of its foundations and see how it was worked from the pond above it
• and collect GPS triggered trails…

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Porthkerry park is a wonderful local asset that residents enjoy all year round. With plenty of paths for walking and cycling, a large playground, open spaces for play and exercise, as well as a great caff!  Here is a Tai Chi group taking advantage of the space it has to offer.