Churches

All Saints', Southerndown

All Saints' Church was built in 1968, replacing an earlier mission church.

Ewenny Priory Church

"The most atmospheric Romanesque space in Wales" (T J Hughes, Wales's Best One Hundred Churches). Ewenny Priory is the most complete and impressive Norman church in South Wales and one of the finest examples of a fortified church building in Europe. It was completed by 1126; in 1141 it became a Priory of the Benedictine Abbey of St Peter, Gloucester. The nave of the Priory, with its rounded arches and thick pillars, is in use as the parish church. The Pulpitum Screen, dividing the two parts of the church, is the work of Alexander Beleschenko, and was installed in July 2006. The eastern or monastic end contains the tombs of the de Londres family, a medieval altar and a reproduction of the watercolour of the Priory painted by J.P.W. Turner in 1795. Much of the Priory's outer defensive walls and towers remain. Not only did they protect the Priory, but played a part in the Norman subjection of South Wales.

St Bridget's Church, St Brides Major

The Norman origins of St Bridget's Church are seen in the round-headed chancel arch. The church was rebuilt in the 14th century and heavily restored in 1851. Of particular interest are the monuments in the chancel to the Butler and Wyndham families. A 13th century incised slab shows Sir John le Botiler in full armour; a 16th century tomb-chest of John and Jane Butler has the couple lying recumbent, he in armour, with their children as 'weepers' shown on the side.