Looking for ways to keep the family entertained this Easter? From hidden garden gems and countryside trails to chocolate experiences and seaside favourites, South Wales is packed with days out to make the most of the spring break. Whether you’re planning a relaxed walk, a fun-filled adventure with the kids or simply somewhere new to explore, there’s plenty happening across the region to suit all ages and interests.
1. Easter adventures at Dyffryn Gardens, named as one of the UK’s best hidden gem attractions
Within a new report by the National Lottery, Dyffryn Gardens has recently been highlighted by Gavin and Stacey star and National Lottery Ambassador Joanna Page as one of the UK’s hidden gems. The new research showed that 83% of people are actively hunting for hidden gems over crowded hotspots.
Despite its impressive 55-acres of beautiful restored landscaped gardens, one place many visitors overlook is Dyffryn Gardens. Visitors can explore grand Edwardian lawns, themed garden rooms, an arboretum and glasshouse, while children can enjoy natural outdoor play spaces hidden within the grounds.
From 28 March to 12 April Dyffryn will host a family-friendly Easter trail, where children can interact with 10 activities including marble egg runs, chicken croquet and dress-up fun around the gardens before collecting a chocolate reward at the end. Simply come along to enjoy the fresh air and spring colours, let off some energy and make lasting Easter memories as a family. Trails cost £3.50 per person (plus normal admission costs), with no booking needed.
2. Discover the new trail linking Welsh woodlands, beginning in the Vale of Glamorgan
This spring, families and nature lovers alike can discover a brand-new walking route linking forests across South Wales, starting in the Vale of Glamorgan. The Welsh Government just launched the first 80km pilot section of the Llwybr Coedwig Cymru Trail, which will eventually form part of a nationwide route across Wales.
The newly launched stretch runs through the scenic Porthkerry Country Park in Barry before heading inland through forests across south Wales and to the Pont Walby Viaduct. The trail explores 12 national forest sites and 24 woodlands, and follows existing footpaths – meaning sections are accessible to a wide range of walkers, cyclists, horse riders and some wheelchair users. Broken down into easy-to-follow short sections, enjoy this new free outdoor adventure in south Wales this Easter!
Explore the Vale of Glamorgan section from Porthkerry Country Park to Hensol Forest or Hensol Forest to Llantrisant Forest.
3. New Easter chocolate tasting experience at award-winning Forage Farm Shop
With its panoramic views of the Welsh countryside, Easter is a wonderful time of year at Forage Farm Shop & Kitchen. Those with a sweet tooth can enjoy Forage’s special chocolate-themed tasting menu that is being launched for Easter.
Taking place from Thursday 2nd to Saturday 4th April, the limited-run ‘Chocolate Fusion’ tasting menu will explore chocolate in both sweet and savoury dishes. Rather than focusing solely on desserts, the evening menu is designed to show how cocoa can be used in unexpected ways, paired with seasonal ingredients and bold flavours.Alternatively, return for a more traditional Easter meal – previously voted by the Good Food Guide in the Top 50 Sunday Roasts in Britain, the restaurant will offer its famous roasts on Easter Sunday and bank holiday Monday.
Looking to extend your stay? On-site the Cowbridge Cabins welcome families in the ‘Sycamore’ cabin or the ‘Hazel’ Pod and are located only a ten minute walk into the charming market town of Cowbridge.
4. Seaside, street food and sweet treats in Barry
Barry Island has long been a beloved family destination and continues to beckon visitors for a classic seaside experience across the Easter break. Golden beaches and colourful beach huts characterise Barry Island’s Whitmore Bay, where adults will be able to recreate their own childhood beach days with fish and chips, amusement rides, ice cream and arcades.
To refuel, head inland to the UK’s first urban highstreet, Goodsheds, a lively hub for global street food, independent traders and unique local crafts set inside repurposed railway carriages and shipping containers. From trying Obscene Desserts’ crispy easter egg cheesecake special to joining one of their Easter egg decorating workshops (Sat 4th April, limited spots available), there is plenty to keep families entertained beyond the beach.
5. Family animal adventures await at Amelia Trust Farm
Families looking for an affordable countryside day out this Easter can head to Amelia Trust Farm, a 160-acre rural sanctuary just outside Barry offering woodland walks and a wide variety of rescue animals, from donkeys and alpacas to guinea pigs and reptiles.
Running from Monday 30 March to Friday 3 April, the farm’s five-day Big Easter Event fundraiser promises plenty to keep children entertained. As well as exploring the grounds, tickets to the Big Easter Event include tractor rides, the chance to meet the Easter Bunny, and a farm-wide Easter trail with a chocolate prize for every child who completes it. There will also be activities including face painting, lawn games, food stalls and opportunities to meet small animals.
The site itself offers plenty to explore, with woodland walks, wildlife spotting areas, picnic spots and the onsite Green Leaf Café. For those looking for something extra, the farm also offers a range of bookable experiences, from alpaca and pygmy goat walking to VIP animal encounters and ‘farmer for a day’ sessions.
As well as offering a fun family day out, the event helps raise vital funds for the farm’s work supporting vulnerable and disadvantaged young people across South Wales. Big Easter event tickets (£9.60, £10.50 with donation) and normal tickets (£5.00, £5.50 with donation), children under 2 go free.
