Cowbridge together with Aberthin and Llanblethian has been accredited as a Walkers are Welcome (WaW) town. 

The WaW body is a UK-wide programme which aims to boost tourism and the local economy in small towns and more than 100 destinations have been awarded the accreditation.  

Several businesses in Cowbridge, together with Valeways, the Vale of Glamorgan Council and Cowbridge with Llanblethian Town Council endorsed the application submitted by Gareth Simpson, Paul Cottrell and Rebecca Exley. 

It will strengthen the area's reputation as a walking destination with local shops, hotels, pubs, cafés, restaurants and other businesses expected to experience increased footfall.   

Nia Hollins, senior rural regeneration officer at the Vale council, said: "For Cowbridge to be recognised as a WaW town is something that we particularly support as it further endorses the Vale as a walking destination. 

"Cowbridge itself is perfectly placed to gain this endorsement as it forms the heart of our walking community with many walks accessible from the town, and with good transport links to the capital city for visitors, it makes for the perfect destination to be marketed as a Walkers are Welcome town." 

Only a small number of towns in Wales have been awarded WaW status, with the closest being Chepstow and Crickhowell. 

Learn more about Walkers are Welcome here.