With Cowbridge being the most affluent town in South Wales, and possibly the entire country, it…read morecomes as no surprise that they have a couple of galleries, despite being a small market town. This is the more conventional of the two in that it is curated by the owners and displays an ever-changing stream of work by local and internationally acclaimed artists. The other, Sue McDonagh Artist Studio & Gallery, as the name suggests, is a personal endeavour on the part of the artist-owner Sue McDonagh. I appreciate both galleries immensely., and feel tat they enrich the creative wealth of the town considerably. These galleries, coupled with the fact that there are a wealth of artisans working in the town also, means that the cultural heritage of the town is assured. The price tags accompanying the work regularly exhibited here can be hefty, but with a good selection of prints, which you can either self-frame, or draw on the services of the gallery, and their expertise in this field, there is an eminently affordable means of putting something fine on your walls.

It's such a shame that Kingfisher gallery is closed on a Sunday because it's exactly the kind of…read moreplace you'd stroll around on a lazy day out in Cowbridge. Still, it's a great little gallery that stocks paintings and sculptures by local and well established artists. If you don't have the budget of a collector, fear not because some prints are available to buy which make excellent gifts. The atmosphere is laid back and welcoming and the space itself has great light (which is sort of what you want in a gallery). There isn't a great deal of edgy/modern pieces (don't expect to see a dismembered doll or a Banksy) but if you like the gentle classics you'll love it here.

Twenty Twenty is always full of beautiful artwork, sculptures, furniture and jewellery. Although…read morerather pricey there is a lot of work from local artists and makes for a perfect special present or treat. The staff there are lovely, really helpful and always remember you. Theyyre always happy to chat and tell you more about the artwork. If youure looking for something really special, you can usually find it here.

I heard about Bear Steps Art Gallery as a result of seeing the advertisement for an exhibition of a…read morelocal artist who I'm connected with on Face Book. Fancying a trip somewhere new for my day off, I decided to go along and visit Shrewsbury, catching her exhibition at the same time. The gallery is tucked away in an idyllic little courtyard, near to a church, and next to Bear Steps Cafe. It's in an old building situated over two stories with 3 open plan rooms and the reception area. It's full of character and is very light with a great feeling of space. The exhibition I was going to see took up a little over two thirds of the space, with another equally interesting exhibition upstairs in the furthest room. From the looks of their website, they have local exhibitions on all the time, so with free entry, it's worth popping along if you in the area and seeing what's currently on show.

We held our exhibition at Bear Steps Art Gallery last winter and despite the freeing conditions…read moreoutside the gallery was warm and cosy and really busy the whole time we were there. We are holding another exhibition this Spring and really look forward to welcoming more visitors. There is a cafe next door, so it's ideal for those wanting a spot of lunch or refreshments and a look around some original and local artists work. A lovely little secret that is easily missed but well worth seeking out!

Not a bad place. There is plenty of aArt on display from many different artists. It was very empty…read morewhen i was there though, although that may have been because most of the students had gone home and the school term time hadn't ended. Highly recomended if you are into your art though.

THIS FESTIVAL IS AMAZING! i worked at green man last year, it was the best week of 2010 hands down…read more Green man started in 2009 so it was quite a small festival compared to the larger more commercial ones out there. Firstly the location! camping in a valley. You can't beat waking up in the morning, stepping out side your tent to be greeted by rolling welsh hills. Secondly, the wide variety of activities, not just music. My favourite tent in particular was the "comedy and literature' tent. Due to working at the festival, not only did i get a free ticket, but also had the privilege of staff showers and toilets. Meaning no queues, hot showers and reasonably clean toilets. Also received a very yummy free meal before each shift. The only downside was having to wake up for work at 6 in the morning. But it was so worth it. The band line up was full of new exciting musicians such as beirut, laura marling, tallest man on earth, mumford and sons, wild beasts and darwin deez. Then the classics such a the flaming lips. there's so much more to fit in but i just don't have time to recall it all!