Bridgend

Bridgend is a town in south Wales and the administrative centre of Bridgend County Borough. It lies on the south coast of Wales, roughly halfway between Cardiff and Swansea, near the M4 corridor. The town has a history dating back to medieval times and developed from a market settlement centered on a bridge over the River Ogwr.

Historically part of Glamorgan, Bridgend grew in the 19th century with the arrival of the railway and related industries, expanding from a rural market town into a regional centre. In the late 20th century its economy shifted toward retail and services, while manufacturing and light industry remained present. Today the area combines shopping, public services, and proximity to rural and coastal landscapes.

Bridgend is governed as part of Bridgend County Borough, with local government provided by the Bridgend County Borough Council and a town council for Bridgend proper. The town hosts educational institutions such as Bridgend College and several secondary schools, including Bryntirion Comprehensive School and Cynffig Comprehensive School.

Transport links are strong. Bridgend railway station sits on the South Wales Main Line, offering regular services to Cardiff, Swansea, and other destinations, with onward connections to national networks. The town’s location near the M4 motorway provides convenient road access to destinations across Wales and beyond. The surrounding area offers parks, historic sites, and access to coastal and countryside scenery.