Southerndown Beach

A spectacular view as you wend your way down Beach Road in Southerndown, down from the Three Golden Cups pub, it opens right out across the Bristol Channel and then down the sheer cliff top to the beach below.
A tentative gasp as you engage 1^st gear to crawl down the incredibly steep hill to the little car park at the bottom — or if you prefer, park at the top and walk down (just remember you have to go back again!).
The beach is pebbly and rocky at high tide but extends dramatically as the tide goes out, revealing golden sands and lovely rock pools on the exposed wave cut platform (remember that term from 3^rd yr geography — not much else mind).
Surfers love the place (westerly facing), sun worshippers and even fossil hunters too; the massive, domineering cliffs bounding the beach are full of dead creatures’ imprints — just watch out for big lumps that fall off regularly.
Behind the beach, steep undulating hills provide walking excursions and exploring and there are the ghostly ruins of Dunraven Castle up at the top to wander round (in a black cape would be best). Apparently a couple of the Dr Who episodes were filmed here too.
Fantastic place — definitely recommended.