Penarth lies in the Vale of Glamorgan, South Wales. Penarth is on the north shore of the Severn estuary between Cardiff Bay to the north east and the town of Barry to the southwest. It is a superbly elegant Victorian town, proud of retaining its heritage, boasting superb parks and gardens and a range of stores, gift shops and galleries. | As with many British holiday resorts it owes its development to the Victorian and Edwardian fashion of visiting the seaside. Penarth was never a brash "kiss me quick" seaside resort such as its near neighbour Barry Island but rather an exclusive resort and residential area for the better off.
The pebble beach has a backdrop of fine Edwardian buildings with a Yacht Club, and "Italian Gardens". The winding pathways of the Alexandra Gardens lead to the town centre and its Cardiff style Arcades, and an eclectic mix of shops including high quality organic and fair trade. | Within Penarth a walk to Penarth Headland offers views over Cardiff Bay and the new Marina. A walk along the Esplanade in the opposite direction leads to Lavernock Point and fine views of the Bristol Channel, the islands of Flat Holm and Steep Holm and the north Somerset coast.