Penarth’s Sporting Tradition
PENARTH boasts a vibrant sporting tradition that extends well beyond its seaside charm. Since its establishment, Penarth Athletic Club has served as the nucleus for rugby, cricket and hockey, with the Athletic Ground on Lavernock Road hosting Penarth RFC, Penarth Cricket Club and Penarth Hockey Club.
Penarth RFC, founded in the 1880s, enjoyed a long-standing rivalry with the famous Barbarians invitational side until their last Good Friday clash in 1986, and continues to compete in regional leagues, drawing lively crowds and nurturing youth talent.
The town supports a second rugby union club, with Old Penarthians based on the opposite side of Lavernock Road at Cwrt-y-Vil Playing Fields, creating a strong local rivalry over the years. The ‘Old Boys’ also boast a thriving mini and junior section, plus a women’s team.
Cricket has been a fixture since 1851, with the club playing out of the Athletic Ground since 1924 and producing players who have represented Glamorgan and Wales.
Hockey also commands a strong presence; both men’s and women’s teams play at high levels, with the men’s first XI reaching national prominence and competing in European tournaments after winning the Welsh Trophy.
Glamorganshire Golf Club, founded in the 1890s and the birthplace of the Stableford scoring system used worldwide, remains one of Wales’s premier courses.
Tennis enthusiasts gather at two historic clubs – Penarth Lawn Tennis Club, which hosted the Penarth LTC Championships on grass courts from 1885 to 1966, and Penarth Windsor.
The town also supports a diverse range of recreational groups, including three bowls clubs, boxing, a yacht club, football, yoga and fitness centres, while Penarth Leisure Centre provides modern swimming and fitness amenities.
PENARTH SPORTS CLUBS & ORGANISATIONS
Cogan Coronation AFC
Cogan Coronation AFC, affectionately known as ‘The Coro’, is a long-standing football club based in the Cogan area of Penarth. Established in 1961, the club originated from a group of local teenagers who, with the support of community figures like Albert Crossman and Mel Hudd, formed a team under the auspices of the Cogan Coronation Club. Initially participating in friendly matches, the team entered the Cardiff Combination League in the 1961–62 season. Over the years, the club has experienced various league transitions, including a brief period as Cogan Corinthians in the South Wales Amateur League, before returning to its original identity. The club achieved notable success in the mid-1980s, securing the Barry and District League championship for three consecutive seasons from 1985 to 1988. In the 1991–92 season, Cogan Coronation AFC joined the newly-formed South Wales Senior League, where they have remained active. The club is committed to community engagement, fielding teams across multiple age groups, including mixed, boys’, girls’ and ladies’ teams, starting from under-6s to senior levels. Notably, the club has produced players who advanced to professional ranks, such as Peter Aitken, Frankie Prince, and brothers Darren and Jason Rowbotham.
Contact: Wesley Drew 07814863929 wesleydrew@greenhousecardiff.co.uk
Glamorganshire Golf Club
Established in 1890 in Lower Penarth, Glamorganshire Golf Club, is the fourth oldest golf club in Wales. Originally a nine-hole course, it expanded to 18 holes in 1896 to host the 1897 Welsh Amateur Championship. The club is renowned as the birthplace of the Stableford scoring system, first trialed by Dr Frank Stableford on September 30, 1898. This system revolutionized golf scoring and remains widely used today. The 18-hole parkland course spans 6,184 yards with a par of 70, featuring tree-lined fairways, over 80 strategic bunkers, and water hazards. Situated near the cliffs of Penarth, it offers panoramic views over the Bristol Channel. Beyond golf, the club has historical significance. During World War II, it hosted an experimental rocket battery as part of Penarth’s air defenses. Additionally, from 1901 to 1996, the club welcomed the Barbarians rugby team every Easter Sunday, fostering a unique camaraderie between rugby and golf enthusiasts. Today, the Glamorganshire Golf Club continues to offer a challenging and scenic golfing experience, complemented by modern facilities and a welcoming atmosphere.
Address: Lavernock Road
Telephone: (029) 2070 1185
Old Penarthians RFC
Old Penarthians Rugby Football Club, affectionately known as the ‘Old Pens’, is one of two Welsh rugby union teams based in Penarth. The club’s origins trace back to December 7, 1923, when the Penarth County School Old Boys Association was established to promote cricket, hockey, and rugby among former pupils. In their inaugural full season of 1924–25, the rugby team recorded 10 wins, two draws, and nine losses. Despite pressures in the 1920s to merge with their more established neighbours Penarth RFC, the club maintained its independence. In 1938, the rugby section formally separated from the Old Boys Association, adopting the name Old Penarthians RFC. The club joined the Welsh Rugby Union as a probationary member in 1961 and achieved full membership in 1964. Today, Old Penarthians RFC plays its home games at Cwrt y Vil on St Mark’s Road, an open ground with a capacity of approximately 200 spectators. The club competes in the WRU Division 3B and continues to foster community engagement through various rugby programs and events, including its popular early-summer seven-a-side tournament, the oldest of its kind in Wales.
Address: St Mark’s Road
Telephone: 029 2070 1810
Penarth ABC
Penarth Amateur Boxing Club is a community-focused boxing club based in Station Road, Penarth. The club offers training sessions for various age groups and skill levels, emphasizing both competitive boxing and general fitness. Training sessions are held multiple times a week, including adult classes. Penarth ABC has a history of active participation in regional boxing competitions, such as the Novice Championships, where its boxers have competed against clubs like Colcot ABC. The club maintains an active presence on social media platforms, including Facebook and Instagram, where it shares updates on training sessions, events, and achievements. For those interested in joining or learning more about the club’s programs, Penarth ABC encourages prospective members to reach out through their social media channels or visit the club during training hours.
Address: 5b Station Approach
Telephone: 07773 550401
Penarth and Dinas Runners
Penarth and Dinas Runners is a friendly and inclusive running club based in Penarth. Established in 1988, the club welcomes runners of all abilities and ages, offering a supportive environment for both recreational and competitive athletes. Regular training sessions are held throughout the week, including structured workouts and social runs, often exploring the scenic trails around Penarth and Dinas Powys. The club also organizes its own Club Championships, based on results at local road and cross-country races, and participates in various events, including marathons and relays. Social gatherings and weekends away are integral to the club’s community spirit. Penarth and Dinas Runners host three annual races: a six-mile Winter Race in Cosmeston Lakes Country Park, a five-mile Mixed Terrain Race at Porthkerry Country Park, and a Relay Race at Cosmeston Lakes. Profits from these events are donated to their local charity partner, Tenovus Cancer Care.
Website: penarthanddinasrunners.co.uk
Penarth Belle Vue Bowling Club
Belle Vue Bowling Club is a longstanding lawn bowls club located within Belle Vue Park, close to Penarth town centre. Established in 1915, the club offers a welcoming environment for bowlers of all ages and skill levels, providing both full and social memberships. Qualified coaches are available to assist newcomers and help members enhance their skills. Historically, the club has achieved notable success, including victories in the Welsh National Bowls Championships. Notably, in 1988 and 1989, the women’s team, featuring players such as Janet Ackland, secured titles in the Women’s Fours category. Ackland, a distinguished member of the club, also won a gold medal in the singles at the 1988 World Outdoor Bowls Championship and was inducted into the Welsh Sports Hall of Fame. In more recent years, the club faced challenges following the demolition of its original pavilion, resulting in the loss of facilities such as toilets and changing rooms. Despite these setbacks, the club remains active, participating in local leagues and hosting community events, including open days and family-friendly activities.
Contact: Jacqui Kempa penarthbellevuebowls@gmail.com
Penarth Bowling Club
Located on Rectory Road, near Penarth town centre, Penarth Bowling Club, is a well-established lawn bowls club that welcomes players of all skill levels. The club offers both outdoor and indoor bowling facilities, allowing members to enjoy the sport year-round. It serves as a social hub for the local community, providing opportunities for competitive play and casual participation. The club is affiliated with the Vale of Glamorgan County Bowling Association and participates in regional competitions. Facilities include a clubhouse with amenities for members and visitors.
Contact: Ronald Fry (029) 20708570 penarthbowling@gmail.com
Penarth Cricket Club
Penarth Cricket Club, founded in 1851, is one of the oldest cricket clubs in south Wales. The club’s early matches were played on Llandough Moors, a location prone to flooding during high tides. In 1924, the club relocated to its current home at The Athletic Field on Lavernock Road, a site gifted to the town by the Earl of Plymouth. This ground is shared with Penarth Rugby Club, who take over the playing field at the conclusion of the cricket season. Penarth Cricket Club fields four senior men’s teams, with the 1st XI competing in the South Wales Premier League 2nd Division. The club also boasts a women’s softball section and a comprehensive junior program, including teams from Under-9s to Under-19s, as well as participation in the All Stars and Dynamos cricket initiatives. Recognized for its commitment to youth development, the club has been awarded the ECB Clubmark and is designated as a Focus Club by the Wales Cricket Board. Penarth Cricket Club continues to invest in quality coaching and facility improvements, such as the recent initiative to fundraise for a new four-bay net facility. The club maintains a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere and encourages community involvement through various events and volunteer opportunities.
Website: penarthcricket.co.uk
Penarth Lawn Tennis Club
Penarth Lawn Tennis Club, established in 1884, is one of the oldest tennis clubs in Wales and the United Kingdom. Located on Rectory Road, adjacent to Alexandra Park, the club offers six floodlit courts – three hard and three artificial grass – providing year-round play. The original clubhouse, dating back to its founding, has been refurbished to include modern amenities such as changing facilities, a kitchen and a bar, while retaining its historical charm. The club boasts a thriving membership of over 600 playing and social members and hosts regular competitions, including participation in Tennis Wales and National Leagues. A comprehensive coaching programme is available for all ages and skill levels, operated in partnership with the Vale Tennis Academy. Beyond tennis, the club serves as a vibrant community hub, hosting social events like quizzes, wine tastings, and an annual music and street food festival. In recognition of its significant upgrades and community engagement, Penarth Lawn Tennis Club was named Welsh Tennis Club of the Year by Tennis Wales in 2014.
Address: The Clubhouse, Rectory Road
Telephone: (029) 2070 6492
Penarth Rugby Club
Penarth Rugby Football Club, established in 1880 by Cyril and Llewellyn Batchelor, is an historic Welsh rugby union club based at The Athletic Field on Lavernock Road. Initially known as the Batchelor XV, the team merged with the Penarth Dreadnoughts in 1882 to become Penarth Football Club, earning nicknames like the ‘Donkey Island Butcher Boys’ and the ‘Seasiders’. The club gained prominence by hosting the Barbarians Football Club annually on Good Friday from 1901 to 1986, marking the start of the Barbarians’ south Wales tour. These fixtures were significant events, with the Barbarians considering Penarth their “spiritual home”. Throughout its history, Penarth RFC has produced several international players, including Richard Garrett, George Rowles, and Jack Bassett, who captained Wales and played for the British Lions. Today, Penarth RFC competes in the WRU Division 1 East Central and continues to play a vital role in the local community, fostering rugby talent across all age groups.
Website: www.penarthrfc.co.uk
Penarth Swimming & Water Polo Club
Penarth Swimming and Water Polo Club (PSWPC), established in 1893, holds the distinction of being the oldest swimming club in Wales. Based at Penarth Leisure Centre in Cogan, the club offers a welcoming environment for swimmers of all ages and abilities, focusing on stroke improvement and water confidence. Over the years, PSWPC has shifted focus from being a competitive club to one that emphasizes teaching and personal development. The club has a rich history in water polo, with notable figures such as Christopher Jones, a Penarth native who was part of the British team that won the gold medal in water polo at the 1920 Summer Olympics. At the beginning of the 1900s, one of the most famous Penarth water polo players was Paul Radmilovic. Born in Cardiff’s Tiger Bay, in 1901 at the age of 15, he became the youngest international player in the history of the sport and went on to win a record four Olympic gold medals.
Website: penarthswpc.org.uk
Penarth Town AFC
Penarth Town AFC, established in the late 2010s, competes in the Vale of Glamorgan Senior Football League. The club has been proactive in improving its facilities, launching a successful crowdfunding campaign in 2022 to address health and safety concerns and enhance amenities for players and supporters. Their efforts aim to provide a safe and welcoming environment for the community and to support the club’s growth and aspirations for promotion to higher leagues.
Contact: secretary.penarthtownafc@outlook.com
Penarth Windsor Tennis Club
Penarth Windsor Lawn Tennis Club, established in 1914, is a prominent community tennis club located on Larkwood Avenue. Recognized as the Welsh Tennis Club of the Year in 2015, the club offers nine courts, including artificial clay and hard courts, all equipped with LED floodlighting. Additionally, the club features a padel court, reflecting its commitment to embracing diverse racket sports. The club is an LTA Youth Recognised Venue, highlighting its dedication to delivering high-quality junior tennis programmes. With over 30 teams and regular sessions for juniors, men, women, and mixed groups, Penarth Windsor fosters an inclusive and active tennis community. Beyond the courts, the club boasts a vibrant social scene, offering events and activities that engage members of all ages.
Website: Penarth Windsor Lawn Tennis Club
Penarth Yacht Club
Established in 1880 as the Penarth Boat Club and renamed in 1895, Penarth Yacht Club is an historic sailing and rowing club situated on The Esplanade. The clubhouse, a Grade II-listed building constructed between 1884 and 1895, overlooks the Bristol Channel and shares its location with the RNLI lifeboat station. The club offers a range of water-based activities, including dinghy sailing, cruiser racing and rowing, and is recognized as a Royal Yachting Association (RYA) training centre. It has a notable history of competitive success, with members participating in national and international regattas. Olympic silver medalist Ian Barker is among its distinguished former members. Beyond sports, Penarth Yacht Club serves as a social hub, hosting events and maintaining facilities such as a bar, restaurant, and snooker tables. In recent years, the club has undertaken initiatives to improve accessibility, including fundraising for the installation of a lift to accommodate members with mobility challenges. Membership is required to access the club’s amenities.
Address: The Esplanade
Telephone: (029) 2070 9233
Penarth Yoga
Based at St Paul’s Community Centre on Arcot Street, Penarth Yoga offers a variety of yoga classes suitable for all levels, from beginners to experienced practitioners. Led by qualified instructor Rachael, the studio provides daily sessions that focus on building confidence and helping individuals connect with their bodies. For those new to yoga, beginner-friendly classes are available to ease into the practice.In addition to general classes, the centre hosts specialized sessions such as chair yoga, designed for gentle stretching and relaxation, and women’s yoga, which incorporates traditional yoga and somatic movement to support post-natal recovery and overall well-being. The community-focused environment at St Paul’s Community Centre makes it an accessible and welcoming space for individuals seeking to enhance their physical and mental health through yoga. Additionally, Penarth Yoga offers free park yoga classes on Saturdays during the warmer months, typically from May to September. The classes are held at Alexandra Park, specifically at the monument.
Contact: rachael@penarthyoga.com
Rising Crane
Rising Crane, based near Penarth town centre, is a martial arts and wellness centre founded and led by David Rogers, who has trained in Chinese Kung Fu and Tai Chi since 1984 under Master Deng Jan Gong in Canton. The school offers authentic Kung Fu (Hap Kune and Hung Kune) for teens and adults, emphasizing traditional forms, functional self‑defence and fitness, as well as Tai Chi classes focused on improving balance, strength, flexibility, and stress relief. David, the sole non‑Chinese practitioner to have learned the full Deng family Hap Kune system, frequently returns to China and has coached fighters to national and international titles; he also adds modern elements like ground fighting and acupuncture to his teaching approach. Classes accommodate beginners and progress through traditional forms taught at a relaxed pace, with a satisfaction guarantee and trial sessions available.
Address: 57 Arcot Street
Website: risingcrane.co.uk
Windsor Bowling Club
Windsor Bowling Club, established in 1912 with Lord Windsor as its inaugural president, is a long-standing lawn bowls club located in Robinswood Crescent, Penarth. The club has a rich history of competitive success, including victories in the Welsh National Bowls Championships. Notably, the club secured the Men’s Fours title in 1928 and 1929, and the Women’s Pairs title in 1958 and 1961. Today, Windsor Bowling Club continues to serve as a welcoming community hub, offering opportunities for both competitive and social bowling. The club hosts open days to encourage new members to try the sport, emphasizing its accessibility to all age groups and its benefits for socializing and fitness.
Website: www.windsorbowls.co.uk