One of Southerndown’s most picturesque cliff-top properties is being transformed into an exciting new coastal destination, providing a much-needed boost to the local economy when it opens this summer.

West Farm Southerndown Coastal Retreat, formally The Barn at West Farm, will include a new café, luxury self-catering accommodation and an events and wedding space, all set within the converted barn which sits on the cliff tops between Dunraven Bay and Ogmore-by-Sea.

The new café at West Farm will be open all-year round, offering light lunches, snacks and cakes made with local ingredients, as well as a selection of high-quality coffees. With a laid-back feel and stylish interior, the dog-friendly café will also include a relaxed lounge area and outdoor seating for between 80-100 people, set in the property’s large courtyard overlooking the sea.

West Farm Southerndown Coastal Retreat will also feature three luxury self-catering properties, including a renovated farmhouse and two high-end apartments, all set on the clifftop next to some of the best beaches in Wales.

The spacious farmhouse at West Farm will sleep 16-18 guests and the Tusker Apartment will sleep 6-8 guests. The smaller Nash Apartment, with its own private hot tub, is ideal for a couple or a small family, sleeping two guests in the bedroom with room for two extra in a mezzanine bed level.

The café and accommodation at West Farm are set to open in June 2021 in line with Welsh Government COVID guidelines at the time.

“West Farm sits in one of the most enviable locations in South Wales,” said Katie Phillips, Project Director for West Farm Southerndown Coastal Retreat. “It is on one of the most popular routes for walkers and cyclists, a short walk to some of the best beaches in Wales and has incredible views over the sea.

“Everyone in the area knows and loves the property, so we wanted to create something that Southerndown could be proud of and rely on, including a great quality local café where everyone feels welcome from cyclists and dog walkers, to local families and tourists visiting our beautiful coast.

“As restrictions lift in Wales, we also hope to hold lots of exciting events at West Farm, including live music, art exhibitions and family events.

“We are proud to be breathing new life into this local treasure and supporting the region’s economy wherever we can. The construction team on site are all local builders, trades and craftspeople, and we are already talking to local food and drink suppliers to ensure the café offers a true taste of the area using the best Welsh ingredients.

“We’d love to hear from any local businesses or organisations who would like to work with us in any capacity. We also want our team to be local wherever possible too, so that they can share their passion for Southerndown and our stunning Welsh coastline with our guests. There will be lots of new job opportunities in the coming weeks.”

West Farm Southerndown Coastal Retreat will also include a unique event and wedding space, but there are no plans for weddings this year. A waiting list for couples to express their interest in weddings from 2022 and beyond has been opened, but bookings will not be finalised until Welsh Government restrictions are significantly eased to avoid disappointing couples.

Katie Phillips added: “We know that there are so many couples who would love to have a beautiful coastal wedding here. It is a dream venue. However, until we can offer our couples the very best experience, without strict restrictions, for now we will only be taking names to be added to our waiting list for next year.”

To join the wedding waiting list, email info@westfarmsoutherndown.com