Kenfig national nature reserve is an area of both natural and historical importance. At the heart of the reserve is Kenfig pool, which is teeming with life of all varieties. The pool was formed when the waters drainage was blocked by the development of coastal dune systems. At its deepest point it is approximately 12 and a half feet deep. However swimming there is very dangerous and forbidden!

In my opinion the best thing about Kenfig is the vast wildlife. Kenfig has a large population of birds that was once attracted by an island made around 1760 by Thomas Mansel Talbot of Margam to attract wildfowl for hunting.

Birds have been going there ever since, and so two bird hides have been built which are easy to get to. This has caused a large bird watching community to gather there to catch a glimpse at the rare birds.

However if you are not a trained ornithologist then you can just go and feed the ducks or watch the many swans that live in the pool.

There is also a massive variety of insects. In the summer, it is an amazing sight to see the dragonflies hunting over the pond in the afternoon.

In front of all this is the reserve centre in which you can ask for directions around the reserve and start the circular walk to the beach. I warn you however, it is three miles long over grassland, and so if you have trouble walking, it is probably best not to do that walk! Parking is free!