East Orchard Wood Pillbox is a reinforced concrete Type 28 anti-tank pillbox, dating to the early period of World War II (AD 1940-41). It is rectangular in shape and measures 6.12m in length NW-SE by 5.8m transversely with a maximum height of 2m externally. The large NE facing embrasure probably housed a mobile field gun utilised as an anti-tank weapon. Subsequently, the embrasure was modified to house a static six-pounder quick-fire gun. The smaller SE facing embrasure was for use by a light machine gun. Overlooking the Thaw Valley, the pillbox was sited to protect the main road between Barry and Llantwit Major where it crossed the river.
Source: Cadw scheduling description of February 2008
RCAHMW 22.02.2008