From Southerndown through Ogmore-by-Sea, and up the Ogmore river to Ogmore Castle and Merthyr Mawr.

Back down the north-west side of the Ogmore river and to Porthcawl, walking through some very extensive sand dunes (the second largest in Europe apparently) which can make walking difficult, although a shoe full of fine sand works wonders for the exfoliation of dead skin, I’m told.

Porthcawl, like many seaside towns, in England and Wales, had a slight feeling of faded glory, with some empty (or charity) shops, but a friendly charm and still some Victorian and Edwardian architecture. Also, a closed “amusement” park, rivalling Barry Island and Southend-on-Sea. We followed the coast path to Sker Rocks, just beyond Royal Porthcawl Golf Club.

We were staying at a hotel in Bridgend, which, like all towns, looks a lot better when the sun’s out.