This spring and summer may see the biggest overhaul in traders that the Island has seen in recent years, offering up a whole new range of local and national businesses to support.
Morio Lounge
The long-awaited restoration to the Nell’s Point toilet block is due to open on May 13, thanks to Loungers. Refurbishment of the site to create the Morio Lounge has been underway since summer 2025, transforming this disused space into a thriving lounge bar and restaurant on the seafront.
Loungers already operate more than 250 venues across the in England and Wales, including the Ocho Lounge in Penarth, bringing a wealth of experience to the Island and a whole new “home-from-home” for customers, thanks to their varied menu.
Whilst opening times aren’t published just yet, visitors can likely expect service from 9am to 10pm every day. Their venues are multipurpose, giving customers somewhere to grab a quick coffee after the busy school run, somewhere to meet with friends, and somewhere to host celebrations or a night out.
Fablas
The old lifeguard station on the seafront has sat vacant since September, but that is due to change this spring when Fablas make their move into the space. They business are already well known in the Vale, with four shops already selling their sweet treats in Penarth, Cowbridge, Porthcawl, and Caerphilly.
Founded in 2016 by mother and daughter duo Michelle and Lauren Evans, this business is driven by a passion for great food and local agriculture, making their products from the best local produce that start with milk and cream sourced just 15 miles from their production site in Pyle.
This opening, whilst not yet announced, is highly anticipated by customers new and returning, with their name preceded by their scoops full of the finest flavourings.
Farnhams
This brand-new chippy is already open under the Western Shelter, expanding the growing empire of Farnhams fish and chip shops across the Vale. Their shops in Cowbridge, Fontygary and Boverton have already drawn acclaim from customers and this new addition to the seafront.
Owner Dave Farnham is no stranger to this game or to Barry, having previously owned the popular Fryer Tuck chip shop for seven years, and brings his wealth of experience to the unit that formerly housed Boofys.
A welcome slew of spring sunshine has already provided them with a decent start to their tenure on the Island, and business shows no signs of slowing down soon.
Barry Island Pleasure Park
Months before the ‘real’ start of the summer season, Barry Island Pleasure Park is already beginning to improve the rides on offer for youngsters and thrill seekers alike.
Families with youngsters who ventured down to the park during the recent half term holidays may have noticed a new ride for those who prefer something a little slower paced. The brand-new Caterpillar Coaster is a small family coaster that gives families a chance to join in the fun and introduce the white-knuckle rollercoasters of tomorrow to their first adrenaline experience.
The addition of some new rides, like a new bumper car ride, has been delayed by rising steel prices, but this is not stopping the park from rejigging their layout to make room for even more new rides that are popping up to keep the park and the experience for customers fresh.
Summer Nights Festival
A festival is coming to Barry Island as part of the eagerly anticipated Glastonbarry Fringe Community Arts Festival.
The free Summer Nights festival will take place under the Eastern Shelter on Barry Island Promenade during the May Bank Holiday Weekend.
On May 1, live performances from acts such as Black Jam Circus and special guests will entertain attendees from 5pm.
The festival continues the next day, May 2, at 11am, with more performances planned. Bro Radio will host their Search for a Star competition final, which will be judged by a panel of experts and the winner announced. Always Arianna, an Ariana Grande tribute act, and Trade Street, a disco and soul band, will also perform, alongside a showcase from eight other young local live acts.
