“BARRY ISLAND? Oh, where you going to have the wedding reception? On the log flumes?” – as Pam put it – has proven to be an unfair assessment of a Welsh seaside town with more to offer than just its Pleasure Park.
Once the site of the world’s busiest coal port, the non-island on the coast of Cardiff was firmly put on the map by Gavin & Stacey in the noughties.
Now, the series is back after five years for one final Christmas Day episode with the Barry and Billericay crew – and fans might be looking to step into the set with a stay in South Wales.
Here’s what’s occurring in Barry Island from Gavin & Stacey backdrops to beaches and beyond.
Best time to travel for price, weather and crowds
Barry is at its best on sunny summer days and once the Christmas festivities kick off in mid-November – although these seasonal events can draw in crowds that will make things busy on the bumper cars.
Step into Christmas 2024 with the annual light turn on by Santa on 22 November in King Square. The Christmas market of over 30 traders, live music, funfair rides and street entertainment will carry on selling stocking stuffers until 7pm on Saturday 23 November.
What to do
Jackson’s Bay
This golden cove more closely resembles the Costa del Sol than Wales and is arguably the best of the five beaches in “Barrybados”. Secluded under the steep cliffs Jackson’s Bay is a dream for bathing in summer with a wood burning, barrel sauna – Môr a Sawna – ready to warm up those who brave the frigid waters come winter.
Barry Island Pleasure Park
There have been thrills, entertainment and sticks of candy floss at Barry Island Pleasure Park since 1897. With waltzers, a 32-seater space machine and an annual winter wonderland, this icon of the Barry coastline is sure to be a scream.
Take a Gavin & Stacey tour
To ride the wave of Barry’s Gavin & Stacey fame, take the official guided tour by mini-coach to play Nessa’s slots, tour Gwen and Stacey’s home and see the church where Nessa nearly married your tour guide – “Dave”.
Where to eat
Hungry Shark Fish & Chips
The British seaside is the perfect pairing with fish…
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