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Barry Island is a coastal area of Barry and amazingly has the second highest tidal range in the world. The area used to be a peninsula until the 1880's when it became linked with the
main town of Barry as the expansion of the town progressed.

"The Island" as it is locally known used to be famous for its large Butlins holiday camp complex but this was closed in 1996 and residential properties have since been built in its place. Some of these properties now boast wonderful views across the Bristol Channel.

Barry Island beach also known as Whitmore Bay is a large arc of golden sand which is popular with visitors during the summer period. The water shelves gently and the seafront
has bustling seaside shops for those seeking souvenirs etc. Barry island has recently become even more popular with tourists following the recent success of tv comedy Gavin and Stacey as it was on these sand s that some fo the filming took place and the very last shot of the final series pans out over this sandy shore.

Barry Island has always been known for its Fairground / Pleasure Park which opened in its early days in 1897. Over many decades, the fairground as been a huge attraction drawing visitors from far and wide. It's most famous ride "The Scenic Railway" dominated te site in the mid 20th century but suffered extensive wind damage in 1973 and was subsequently removed from the park.

The park today is a shadow of its former self with the number of rides reduced significantly and the area in need of investment. However, on a warm summers day "The Island" will still be packed with families enjoying this magnificent stretch of sand beach.