The History of 'Millwood'

Situated on the western edge of Barry in The Vale of Glamorgan, Millwood Bowling Club was founded in 1990. Tucked away in a quiet, residential setting that borders several of the town's prominent natural and historical landmarks.

The name "Millwood" is a direct link to the industrial heritage of the Porthkerry area. Our green sits in the shadow of an ancient woodland that has served the community for centuries, Mill Wood.

Millwood has always been driven by its members. Even during the years when we were a council-run facility, the club was never just a passive public space. It has always been managed by a formal committee structure, with members taking responsibility for the club’s organization, social life, and competitive standing, a tradition of self-governance that continues to this day.

As the club grew in ambition and independence, we transitioned to a Private Greens Club.

The most significant chapter in our history began on October 1, 2019, when control was officially handed from the Vale of Glamorgan Council to the club.

This transition to a self-managing model was solidified in March 2021 with the granting of a long lease.

This independence allowed us to move into the East Wales Private Greens Leagues, where we continue to compete today. We won Division 5 in the 2025 season.

Because of the high standard of the green, maintained by the members, Millwood BC has been chosen as a host venue for County Matches and some of the county finals.

September 2019: "Millwood Bowling Club Ltd" was officially incorporated as a private company limited by guarantee to prepare for the transfer.

March 22, 2021: Following a public notice period (during which the council had to advertise the "disposal of public open space"), the Vale of Glamorgan Cabinet officially approved a long lease for the club.

Millwood: The Woods & the Water

The Romilly Sawmill

The "Mill" in our name refers to a historic sawmill built around 1835 for the Romilly Estate. Tucked within the trees bordering our grounds:

  • The Waterwheel: The mill was powered by a massive, 15-foot diameter "overshot" waterwheel.

  • The Leats: An intricate system of stone-lined channels (leats) was dug to divert water to the wheel. These ruins were rediscovered and preserved in the early 1990s, just as our club was beginning its own journey.

A Working Landscape

The woods have seen many faces of history:

  • Estate Forestry: In the 19th century, the woods were managed by the estate forester at Cwm Barri Cottage, providing essential timber for the local area.

  • Wartime Secret: During WWII, the dense canopy of Millwood provided vital camouflage for British and American forces to hide vehicles and ordnance in the secret preparations for the D-Day landings.