Jacksons Bay - Barry

Barry is the largest town in South Wales, and Barry Island is a vibrant seaside resort with a rich maritime history.  Today visitors to Barry Island will find plenty of amusements, cafes, parks and family-friendly beaches.

Jackson’s Bay is a pleasant sandy cove backed by cliffs and plenty of greenery.  The 170-meter long beach slopes gently into the sea.  A harbour wall lies to the east of the beach, at the end of which is a small lighthouse, although there is no access onto the harbour wall.  The cove faces south-east, and has views over the Bristol Channel, which has the second highest tidal range in the world. Care needs to be taken in the water because of the risk posed by submerged rocks and strong currents. Care also needs to be taken near the cliffs, which may be unstable in some areas.

The beach is used by kayakers and is popular with local families.  The soft, golden sand is just the right consistency for building sandcastles. There are public toilets immediately adjacent to the slipway leading down to the beach, but no other facilities. On the far side of the beach, a concrete path leads over the rocks to Clements Colly Walk, right next to the shore.

From Redbrink Crescent, a steep, level path leads down to the beach.  It is possible to get pushchairs down this path although care needs to be taken because of the incline. Immediately behind the cliffs backing the beach is a grassy area popular with dog walkers.  The Wales Coastal Path passes through this area.