The village of St Brides Major, and the surrounding countryside, enjoys breathtaking views of the coastal and rural walks that take you back in time.

Footpaths and bridal paths are clearly signposted and well detailed on ordinance survey maps. The area makes the ideal location for a day out, whether you fancy a cycle, run, walk, horse ride, or a leisurely drive just to take in the scenery.

Ogmore Castle is a Norman motte and bailey type structure of earth and timber, established by William de Londres circa 12th century. It's one of many ancient historical ruins that can be seen in the surrounding area. You can almost imagine the soldiers of the past marching along the 400 year old stepping stones, which cross the river Ewenny to neighbouring Merthyr Mawr.

Be careful if you venture over the stepping stones to the thatched "postcard" village of Merthyr Mawr, as the tide at Ogmore-by-sea can turn quickly and the stepping stones will soon be covered with water. If the stones are flooded, you may have to hitch a ride over on horseback as this is popular horse riding country!

Travelling out of St Brides Major, heading towrds the market town of Bridgend, lies the parish of Ewenny. The village of Ewenny is famous for its "Ewenny potteries", and is also home to Ewenny Priory which was established by William de Londres, and has been serving the community since the 12th Century.

In nearby Castle upon Alun, the area is now predominately made up of agricultural land as the Vale is well known for its arable farming due to its rich soil which is of a clay base. The only hint of change to this traditional countryside is the transition from horse power of the four-legged variety, to farming machinery relied upon today.