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5 reasons to visit Pembrokeshire

Nestled in the stunning southwest corner of Wales, Pembrokeshire is a treasure trove of natural beauty and unique attractions. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or just looking for a peaceful escape, here are the top five reasons why Pembrokeshire should be at the top of your travel list this summer:

1. Breathtaking coastal scenery
Pembrokeshire is famous for its dramatic coastline, offering a perfect blend of rugged cliffs, golden beaches, and hidden coves. The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is a hiker’s paradise, with miles of scenic trails and awe-inspiring views at every turn. Whether you’re exploring the coastpath or relaxing by the sea, the beauty of this landscape is unforgettable. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife as you enjoy your seaside escape!

2. Picturesque towns and villages
Scattered across Pembrokeshire are many charming towns and villages, each with its own distinct character. The coastal town of Tenby, with its colourful houses, sandy beaches, and winding streets, is a favourite among visitors. Other must-visit spots include the historic St Davids, the artsy village of Narberth, and the quaint harbour town of Fishguard. Each destination offers a warm welcome and a glimpse into the local culture, making your visit to Pembrokeshire truly special.

3. Exciting outdoor activities
For those who love the great outdoors, Pembrokeshire is an adventure playground. From coasteering and surfing to kayaking and rock climbing, the region offers a wealth of activities to satisfy your inner thrill-seeker. With stunning beaches like Broad Haven and Little Haven just a stone’s throw away, you’ll have no shortage of options for water sports and exploration. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or trying something new, Pembrokeshire’s varied terrain is the perfect backdrop for outdoor fun.

4. Abundant wildlife and nature
Pembrokeshire’s coastline is a haven for wildlife lovers. From dolphins and porpoises dancing in the waves to Atlantic grey seals resting on the shore, the area is teeming with marine life. Birdwatchers will also be delighted by the rare species that call this region home, including puffins on Skomer Island and skylarks in the coastal heathland. You can get up close to the wildlife with a boat trip or spend time exploring the county’s nature reserves and islands. It’s a nature lover’s dream come true.

5. Rich history and culture
Pembrokeshire is steeped in history, with an array of historic sites that transport you back in time. St Davids Cathedral, located in Britain’s smallest city, is a stunning example of medieval architecture and a key pilgrimage site. Pembroke Castle, a formidable fortress with centuries of history, offers a fascinating glimpse into Wales’ past. Exploring these landmarks allows you to immerse yourself in the rich heritage that makes Pembrokeshire so special.

These are just a few of the many reasons to make Pembrokeshire your summer destination. With its captivating scenery, charming towns, and endless activities, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy.

Book your stay at Atlantic View and experience the magic of Pembrokeshire this summer!

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Half Term Bliss at Atlantic View

Shake off the January blues and secure a delightful February half term escape at Atlantic View in Broad Haven. Embark on an unparalleled, rejuvenating break to unwind and enjoy some quality family time.

Reserve a spot for your family in one of our three luxurious holiday cottages or our prestigious penthouse apartment overlooking the Blue Flag Broad Haven beach and offering the utmost in home-like comfort. Each of our newly developed cottages offers seaside vistas from large glass-fronted living spaces so that you can enjoy this spectacular stretch of coastline from the comfort of your holiday accommodation.

When you plan a family retreat with us, the only thing on your agenda is deciding on your day trips and dining options. Rest assured, we have all the essentials ready for your arrival, making your stay stress-free and enjoyable.

Check out our recommendations on things to do – Things to do in Pembrokeshire

Also, our Fine Dining recommendations – Fine dining in Pembrokeshire

Explore the boundless beauty of the Pembrokeshire coastline right on your doorstep, as Atlantic View provides unrestricted access to this spectacular scenery.

With the February half term marking the onset of the school holiday calendar, make sure to secure your reservation with us early. Don’t miss the chance to claim your own piece of paradise in the serene landscapes of Pembrokeshire.

Take a look at Visit Pembrokeshire website to find out more about the local area, from activities and adventures to events and things to do.Atlantic View Elevated

Your perfect coastal, countryside retreat awaits you in Pembrokeshire. For an extra-special family getaway, choose Atlantic View in Broad Haven!

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Take a trip to the Green Bridge of Wales

Green Bridge of Wales

Pembrokeshire is well known for its rugged coastline, dotted with dramatic rock formations and dizzy cliff edges, lined with the famous Pembrokeshire coast path. No spot along one of Britain’s most staggering coastlines is as dramatic as the Green Bridge of Wales. Located in South Pembrokeshire, this stunning rock arch is comparable with similar stunning sites such as Durdle Door in Dorset. But the Green Bridge of Wales is as dramatic to get to as it is to view – find out why below!

What is the Green Bridge of Wales?

This 80-foot high expanse of limestone stretches a span of 66 feet into The Wash, a bay full of limestone stacks and craggy cliffs covered in sea birds. This spectacular viewpoint, with its almost architectural rock formations, is covered in vegetation, giving it the name the ‘Green’ bridge.

The Green Bridge is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, a Special Protected Area, and a Special Area of Conservation. The area is abundant with Mesozoic fossils and rich in geological heritage. This place is so much more than a beautiful vantage point!

It’s situated on the South coast of Pembrokeshire, at Castlemartin, only around 8 miles from popular Barafundle beach and around a 40-minute scenic drive south from Atlantic View. It’s home to razorbills, guillemots, kittiwakes, fulmars, and cormorants, as well as tufts of golden gorse, lilac heathers, and light green tree mallow.

How was the Green Bridge of Wales formed?

The carboniferous rock which makes up most of the Pembrokeshire coastline has been shaped and molded by the tumultuous waves for millennia. This is what creates the fantastic formations, curved bays, sand banks, and natural harbours that make this part of the world so naturally beautiful.

The limestone which makes up this beautiful arch was once a whole piece of land that has been slowly eroded and molded into this stunning piece of natural architecture. The crashing sea has had plenty of time to create this popular view – the Carboniferous period dates back over 350 million years ago. To give you some context on just how long ago that was, that’s around the time of the dinosaurs!

Visiting the Green Bridge of Wales

This unique natural monument has a unique position on the Pembrokeshire coast…it’s on a live military tank firing range! But don’t worry, you won’t need to duck or wear bullet-proof vests. The Military of Defense closes off the road through their range to the coast when they’re training and opens it back up again in the few hours after they finish.

To check whether the range is open, call Castlemartin Range on 01646 662367.

Of course, the arch and surrounding Elegug stacks may not look like this in the near future – the erosion of the limestone is ongoing, and there are fears that the arch will give way in the next few years and succumb to the sea. In fact, during Storm Ophelia, a large chunk of the Green Bridge came crashing down! So if this beautiful spot sounds appealing, now’s the time to visit!

How to visit this wonderful spot

The postcode for the Green Bridge of Wales is SA71 5EB.

The Green Bridge of Wales is open 24 hours a day 7 days a week and is a free activity for the whole family. Park up in the large car park and follow the sign on your right pointing you in the direction of the bridge. The path takes you on an easy  6- minute stroll over a nice, flat path towards the cliffs to the bridge. There’s also a lovely viewpoint with a platform to get the best view and the perfect picture of this wonderful spot.

If you’re interested in making this a day trip to visit St Govans Chapel and other nearby attractions, take a look at our blog exploring the jewels in the crown of South Pembrokeshire. Enjoy!

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Half term fun during your holidays in Pembrokeshire

holidays in Pembrokeshire

Half term fun during your

holidays in Pembrokeshire

Half term is the perfect time to enjoy holidays in Pembrokeshire.  It’s not as crowded as the summer months, and autumn and spring are lovely times to see this stunning coastal county in all its natural glory.  October sees the end of seal season, where you’ll find inquisitive young pups bobbing around their pupping beaches, getting used to their human neighbours.  And Easter is when Pembrokeshire emerges from winter with gorse and heather springing from every hedgerow and the red kites put on displays over rolling fields.

Don’t just take our word for it, though.  From Atlantic View, there are plenty of fun things for all the family to do during your holidays in Pembrokeshire.  From little ones to not-so-little ones, this picture-perfect area of the UK is packed with activities and adventures.  Here are some for you to try out during your stay with us.

Splash out!

Think the sea might be too cold in October?  Think again!  It’s had all summer to roll in and out over hot sand, making October the perfect month to have a swim.  On average, the sea temperature in October is 15 Celcius, which is the same as it would be in June and July.  So, there are no excuses!

Why not try these water activities?

holidays in pembrokeshire

Surfing:

The wild coastline of St Bride’s Bay offers fantastic waves and draws surfers from all over the world to its tumultuous shores.  Why not pop into Haven Sports in Broad Haven to hire or buy your family some surfboards and wet suits?  They’ll make sure you’re well prepared for a splashing time!

If you’d rather have instructors for your wet adventures, then give Dragon Activity Guides a call.  They do everything from surfing lessons on Broad Haven beach to Pembrokeshire’s original watersport, coasteering along the cliffs of this stunning coastline.  Suitable for most age groups (coasteering is not for toddlers), these guys also offer a BBQ package so that you can enjoy fresh seafood pulled from the very waters you spent your day in!

holidays in pembrokeshire

If you’d rather be on the sea than in it, then why not book one of the popular boat trips?  Suitable for all the family, trips leave from St Justinians and St Martin’s Haven and traverse the beautiful coastline as well as its popular islands; Skomer, Skokholm and Ramsey, and even out to Grassholm and beyond!  Dale Sailing offer trips from St Martins Haven, south of Atlantic View, whereas if you head north to St Justinians, you’ll find multiple operators including Falcon Boats who will take you to visit the seals, porpoise and thousands of sea birds who call these shores home.

One of the biggest advantages of staying at Atlantic View is your proximity to the sea!  You’re a mere 300 metres’ walk away, giving you plenty of opportunities to dip your toes in the water whenever you like!

Go back in time

holidays in pembrokeshire carew

It’s not all about the coastline here, although it is dotted with many historical remnants of Pembrokeshire’s fascinating past.  You’ll notice the undulating ramparts of several iron age forts dotted along the coast path, but if your kids prefer their castles more intact, then there are several great examples to choose from during your holidays in Pembrokeshire!

Carew Castle is a half-hour drive from Atlantic View and is quite a sight to behold.  Sitting on a large tidal millpond, it’s open to the public to view its 2,000-year-old ramparts and learn its history hands-on with activities for children such as storytelling and being a knight for the day!

holidays in pembrokeshire pembroke

It would be a travesty to come to Pembrokeshire and not visit its most famous castle, the Tudor-dynasty’s home castle at Pembroke.  Pembroke castle was built in around 1093, chosen for its defensive position facing the bay at Milford Haven.  But it’s most well-known for being the birthplace of Henry Tudor who would later be known as Henry VII.  With guided tours, exhibits and events all year round, Pembroke castle and the surrounding town has plenty to keep the whole family occupied.

holidays in pembrokeshire henllys

For a more immersive day out, it’s worth the 40-minute drive north to the incredible Castell Henllys.  This reconstructed iron age fort sits on the site of an original settlement and is its only kind in Wales.  Travel back in time with interactive exhibitions and talk to Celtic inhabitants who will tell you the history of the roundhouses.  Train as a warrior (complete with warpaint), watch woodmen carve or try your hand at archery – there’s so much to do, and with a café on-site, it’s all set up for a really fascinating day out.

Get back to nature

holidays in pembrokeshire bosherston

The main reason that people flock to Pembrokeshire is that it’s completely unspoiled, leaving you to have wild adventures in one of the most beautiful national parks in the world.

A short drive away from your holiday accommodation you’ll find Bosherston Lily Ponds, which are located on the old Stackpole Court estate and are now managed by the National Trust.  The beautiful 2-mile round walk circumnavigates the lakes, taking you out to Broadhaven South beach and back along the nature reserve.  These lakes and walks were created by the Cawdor family in 1760 and are popular with locals and tourists to this day.

If your children are more into Harry Potter than toad on lily pads, then head over to Freshwater West.  You may recognise it as the resting place of Dobby the House Elf – the famous scenes of the sweeping beach and its shell house were filmed here.  This is a fantastic place for a windswept walk, and don’t forget to try the famous lobster roll from Café Mor, the most delicious beach food venue in Wales.  It’s a must!

And while Pembrokeshire is famous for its stunning coastline, let us now forget about its sturdy spine, the Preseli Hills.  Shrouded in mystery and immortalised in Welsh folklore, these hills are said to be the resting place of King Arthur and are the origin of the bluestone used to construct the outer circle of Stonehenge.  For the best views across Pembrokeshire, why not take a picnic and climb Foel Eryr, its tallest peak, or the fantastically named Angel Mountain, or Carn Ingli, high above the beautiful village of Newport?

holidays in pembrokeshire preselis

For information about family attractions such as visiting the only giraffes in Wales or one of the tallest wooden rollercoasters in Britain, please take a look at our blog “Five family attractions in Pembrokeshire”.  Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook too for updates and information to help make your holidays in Pembrokeshire as memorable as possible.

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Exploring South Pembrokeshire

South Pembrokeshire

Atlantic View is perfectly placed in the centre of Pembrokeshire’s dramatic coastline. With beautiful Broad Haven beach 300 metres from your front door, the coast path leading to Newgale nearby, and historic St Davids only a 20-minute drive away, South Pembrokeshire can often be forgotten. If you’ve been to visit us before, and you’ve exhausted your immediate surroundings, then a day out ‘down South’ is a great change of scene.

 

Going to South Pembrokeshire really is a change from the Northern territory. It’s well-known that the dialect and topography of Pembrokeshire change when you cross the Landsker line, the invisible border between the Welsh-speaking North and the English-speaking South. The rocks become a darker, clay-like red, the cliffs more sudden and dramatic, and you’ll see remnants of Flemish chimneys on vernacular buildings where the Normans brought immigrants to fight the Welsh princes. 

 

There are some fantastic things to see if you head south from your award-winning accommodation – here are six places to explore in South Pembrokeshire.

 

  1. Marloes Sands

 

A 22-minute drive south from Atlantic View brings you to Marloes Sands, a hidden gem protected by the National Trust. With undisturbed cliffs and surrounding wetlands, this area is a haven for wildlife, including stonechat, snipe, and peregrines. It’s also a designated marine conservation zone, and from the seal pups that thrive in the coves along this rocky red coastline, you can see why! The National Park car park is a short walk away from the sands itself – enjoy the heather-lined path to the beach.

After a walk and lungs full of sea air, why not pop to nearby Runwayskiln, an award-winning eatery by the sea, for more stunning views and even better lunches?

 

2. Martin’s Haven

 

A few minutes drive further south than Marloes and you’re in Martin’s Haven, the launchpad for exploring Pembrokeshire’s spectacular islands. From here, take Dale Sea Safaris to the Skomer where you can land and go to visit the puffins during the summer months, or out to Grassholm, the island 8 miles out to sea that is steeped in Celtic Mythology. Take in gorse-laden clifftops, caves, grey seals, porpoise, and perhaps even a minke whale on your epic sea voyage. 

 

3. Dale

 

Surrounded by bucolic countryside farmed by established families on one side, and the large estuary filled with bobbing boats on the other, Dale is an unspoiled village right in the heart of South Pembrokeshire. It’s also a popular spot for sea angling, sailing, and kayaking. The safe, red pebble beach is great for little ones, and the bay is shallow, so perfect for a quick dip. Peek at Dale Castle, a private establishment since 1910, in the distance. The Griffin Inn is more than just a local pub where you can get a good selection of locally brewed ale, it’s one of the best spots for fresh fish in West Wales, and a great stop for a hearty dinner.

 

4. The Green Bridge of Wales

 

What do tanks and chapels have in common? Well, in South Pembrokeshire, you can find both on the coastline at Stack Rocks. The military base allows access to the coast when they’re not firing at the range, and you can safely go to visit the dramatic natural rock arch and surrounding stacks known as the Green Bridge of Wales. A mile or so walk away, you’ll also find St Govan’s chapel, dedicated to Govan who lived in his hermitage in this tiny sixth-century place of solitude that clings to the rock face. Count the steps down and then back up again – it’s said you’ll get a different number! This wondrous area is only a 30-minute car drive from Atlantic View.

 

5. Pembroke

 

A little closer to your home from home is the colourful town of Pembroke. This fantastic market town is steeped in history. It’s the birthplace of Henry VII and its Norman castle, perched atop a rock overlooking a lake, is a fantastic place to take the children to see what being a knight was all about. The castle is very large and hosts gigs and festivals in the summer, as well as talks and falconry displays year-round. The town itself is full of artisan cafes, traditional grocery shops and butchers, quaint inns, and boutique art galleries. You have the choice of three excellent antique shops to browse or hire paddleboats to take in the imposing view of the castle from the millpond itself.

 

6. Tenby

 

A tour of South Pembrokeshire wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Tenby. It’s the jewel in the south’s crown, with colourful houses, fantastic restaurants, a harbour full of bobbing boats, and two beaches set within the fantastic walled town. It was a popular Victorian seaside escape, and the promenade is full of grand hotels and views across to Caldey Island, home of the Cisterian monks. Take freshly cooked fish and chips along with your bucket and spade down to the seaside for a quintessentially British day on the coast.

 

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5 reasons to holiday at Atlantic View in 2022

5 reasons

With the uncertainty around Covid starting to lift, along with restrictions, you might be thinking about a nice break away from your four walls this season. And what better place to take in the fresh air and a change of pace than Pembrokeshire, right? Well, we’d like to go one further – we think that Atlantic View is the best place to spend your holiday! With contemporary and cosy family accommodation with stunning views on the most gorgeous coastline, there’s so much to love about the cottages that we guarantee that you’ll be bringing your loved ones back here for years to come. Here are 5 reasons to holiday right here with us at Atlantic View.

  1. Pembrokeshire Coast Path

It’s 186 miles of some of the world’s best walking paths and attracts millions of visitors to its cairns and bridges, cliffs and bridleways. Located on the most westerly coast of Wales, within the only coastal national park in the UK, it’s known for shipwrecks, puffins, iron age forts, seals, Strumble head lighthouse, porpoise and an array of bright coastal flowers. It’s famous for the stunning vistas; the coast path is the jewel in Pembrokeshire’s crown. It rightly tops our Top 5 reasons to stay with us. And it’s right outside your door! 300 metres from Atlantic View’s front door, you can walk northward towards the stunning pebble surfing beach at Newgale, or south towards the beautiful fishing village of Little Haven – take a look at our favourite walks here.

2. Scenery

While we encourage you to get out into the wilds of West Wales and see all the incredible sights, you don’t need to leave your accommodation to see some of the most spectacular scenery in North Pembrokeshire. With glass balconies allowing for 190-degree views, or full sweeps from the Penthouse, you’re treated to the best of St Bride’s Bay from Atlantic View. Your view looks down over beautiful Broad Haven beach, and then your eye finds its way all the way across the southern flank of St Davids Head, with Ramsey island just overlapping beyond. Spot Green Scar and Black Scar, the craggy islands responsible for shipwrecks near the twinkling lights of Solva. Or just gaze out to sea, watching seabirds swoop overhead. We could list all the views that put this firmly in our top 5 reasons to stay here, but we’d rather you find out for yourselves!

3. Above the beach

We weren’t telling porkies when we said the views from Atlantic View take in the stunning stretch of golden sand below. We’re 300 metres from the beach! There’s a small hill to tackle, but it’s what allows us to be beachside AND have the incredible vistas. Broad Haven beach is a Blue Flag beach, meaning it adheres to the highest level of cleanliness and safety. It is flanked by cliffs full of rock pools and, when the tide is out, is a great expanse for making sandcastles! If you’re into watersports, then Haven Sports can take you surfing when the swell is good. Otherwise, just take the little ones for a paddle, knowing you can pop back to your home from home whenever you like to wash them down and grab some lunch before heading back to the beach. Bliss!

4. Skyscapes

Yes, the views are amazing, but have you seen the sunsets? No? Then it deserves its place in the top 5 reasons to stay at Atlantic View. Who doesn’t like a sunset over the sea? Being this far West means that they’re some of the most epic in the UK. And if that wasn’t enough, wait until the sun has gone down completely. This area of Wales is within a designated dark sky area. Due to its rural, coastal location, there is very little light pollution. So, if you’re a stargazer (and even if you’re not), we’re going to be bold and bet that you’ve never seen so many stars in your life..and maybe a UFO or two? And you can see all of this from the comfort of the sofa with a glass of something interesting in your warm accommodation.

5. We’re award-winning!

And if all the epic scenery, stunning skyscapes, bucolic beauty and coastal wonder if Pembrokeshire hasn’t sold it to you, then here’s the final of our 5 reasons to holiday with us this year: we’re award-winning! During the last two years, two of the most difficult for the tourism industry, we’ve scooped two awards. The first was the 2020 SME Enterprise Award for Best Self-Catered Holiday Cottages in Pembrokeshire, and the second was Best Luxury Holiday Cottages in Pembrokeshire and the LUXLife Hospitality Excellence Award 2021. Our four luxury properties come with high-quality amenities and all luxury and comfort for your break away. Every comfort has been thought of, from luxury bedding and Melin Tregwynt throws for a fantastic night’s sleep, to Myddfai toiletries for a touch of luxury after your coastal adventures.

Owners Dilwyn and Vel Williams say:

“We’ve worked hard to do the best for our customers to ensure they have the break they deserve.  Vel and I are looking forward to sharing our luxury holiday cottages and our stunning coastal location with many more guests in the future.”

See you soon!

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Some of the best pubs in Pembrokeshire for a relaxing drink by the sea

best pubs in pembrokeshire

With the weather beginning to settle into steady, sunshine-filled days and with lockdown restrictions beginning to ease here in Wales, we thought it was time we let you into the secret best pubs in Pembrokeshire.  Whether you’re after a quick pint in the beer garden on the way home from the beach or looking to have a meal (indoors from the 17th May) then these are our favourite establishments around our five-star accommodation for you to enjoy – cheers!

The St Brides Inn, Little Haven

best pubs in pembrokeshire

By far our favourite pub for a well-priced, well-pulled pint and a really great pub meal, the St Brides Inn may be tucked around the corner from the sea in the beautiful village of Little Haven, but it has everything going for it – freshly sourced ingredients, home-cooked food, local ales on tap, and the most friendly service in the West.  AND it’s only a mile from your accommodation, although it’s quite a steep stagger home if you’ve overindulged!  There’s ample outdoor seating nearby or cwtch up in the traditionally decorated interior – a cosy vibe and warm atmosphere make this a really lovely place to spend the evening.

Phone: 01437 781266

The Sloop, Porthgain

best pubs in pembrokeshire

A short drive north takes you to the infamous industrial village of Porthgain, known for the ruins of the slate and brickworks that dominated this tiny inlet for centuries.  Now, it’s mostly known for being a stunning fishing port, and for the fresh and delicious food available here.  The Sloop is one of the oldest mariner’s inns in Wales, dating back to 1745, and is one of the most characterful places we’ve ever had a pint, which is why it rightly deserves its place on our list of best pubs in Pembrokeshire.  It also offers an exceedingly good pub menu, often with fresh fish options, great local beverages, and a really beautiful sea view from the outside seating area.

Phone: 01348 831449

The Galleon, Broad Haven

You only have to meander down the hill from your luxurious accommodation to find one of the best pubs in Pembrokeshire – The Galleon is Atlantic View’s ‘ local’ and sits at the southern end of the blue-flag beach affording a different perspective out to the Irish sea.  They’re known for great beer and outstanding seafood, and it’s too conveniently close to your cottage not to pop in – it’d be rude not to!

Phone: 01437 781157

The Stackpole Inn, Bosherston

best pubs in pembrokeshire

Bosherston lily ponds are a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Pembrokeshire, and the surprise at the end of the walk is the fantastic Broad Haven South beach.  It’s about a half-hour drive from Atlantic View, but well worth the trip.  The bucolic scenery incredible, but this is also home to one of the best pubs in Pembrokeshire – The Stackpole Inn. It’s an absolutely delightful 18th-century inn with a solid reputation for incredible food and fantastic customer service. It’s hard to get in here during the summer months due to its striking architecture and popularity with foodies, so give them a call – we guarantee you won’t be disappointed with this chocolate-box-style inspiring inn!

Phone: 01646 672324

The Swan, Little Haven

You can’t get closer to the sea for a tankard of beer than The Swan.  This stunning whitewashed seaside pub has recently undergone renovations meaning it no longer serves the delicious range of food it was once known for.  It is, however, going to reopen shortly as a pub only, and we’re hoping it hasn’t lost any of its vernacular charm.  With its position, perched on the cliff above the small cove, we’re reckoning it’s still one of the best pubs in Pembrokeshire.

Phone: 01437 781880

The Old Sailors, Pwllgwaelod

best pubs in pembrokeshire

What makes our pubs worth that unique half-hour drive?  Well, we’re known along this iconic coast for seafaring adventures, and you can almost hear the mariners and pirates’ laughter in the air when you approach The Old Sailors.  The narrow cove of Pwllgwaelod gives way to the tallest cliffs in Pembrokeshire along Dinas Head, and this pub is the perfect pit stop on the way home – the freshly cooked food is excellent, the views from the beer garden back towards the ancient port of Fishguard are spectacular and the bar area looks like it hasn’t changed much in several hundred years…it’s wonderful.

Phone: 01348 811491

The Dyffryn Arms, Gwaun Valley

best pubs in pembrokeshire

This may seem a bit obscure as it’s tucked deep into the valley of rural Pembrokeshire, but this surely deserves the title of not only one of the best pubs in Pembrokeshire, but THE best pub?  Here’s why: Known locally as ‘Bessies’, this pub has been owned by the same family since the 1840s, and is still run by elderly Bessie Davies and her children from a hatch into a barroom in their home in the Gwaun Valley.  Bessie serves bass beer out of jugs to her customers, who range from intrigued tourists to loyal local families who have been drinking beside the fire here for generations.  This is an absolute treasure of a place, like nothing that will ever exist again, and to experience Bessie’s hospitality – and sharp tongue for a shrewd lady in her 80s – is a totally unique experience that you must try.

Phone: they don’t have one.  Follow the sat nav so far and look out for a blue building alongside an old road.  Think you’re lost?  You’re probably not far, then…

Pontfaen, Cwm Gwaun, Fishguard SA65 9SE

 

 

Please note that due to the popularity of Pembrokeshire as a destination and the pandemic still affecting tourism, we advise that if you like what you read, then to avoid disappointment, please phone and book a table at one of the best pubs in Pembrokeshire!

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Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it’s the Broad Haven UFO

broad haven ufo

It may seem to some that Pembrokeshire is a quiet, serene county with most of the drama happening between the jagged, gorse-dripping cliffs and boisterous blasting of the Irish sea.  But as the recent ‘Pembrokeshire Murders’ drama demonstrated, documenting real-life events of a serial killer stalking these very shores (and, thankfully, due to the diligent work of our fine Dyfed Powys Police, being caught and our coastline made safe again), it’s not always quiet cottage life around here.

In fact, there’s more to our stunning sunsets than meet the eye, and over the years, there have been some mysterious sightings out to sea and even right here in our beautiful blue flag beachside village of Broad Haven.

44 years ago, in the summer of 1977, a group of school children were playing in the yard of Broad Haven Primary School when they saw something strange hovering above a field near the school; a narrow, cigar-shaped vessel with a globe capsule in the middle, seemingly piloted by a humanoid figure in a silver suit.  The vessel hung in the air for several long seconds as the children stared with fascination at this unfamiliar sight before it vanished in a flash.  Eager to recount this peculiar tale, the children rushed inside to tell their teachers, who, unsurprisingly, thought that the children had concocted this fantastical tale.

Each child was called in separately to the headmaster’s office to tell their version of events.  The headmaster was determined to find flaws in this fairytale, but, one by one, each child’s account, as well as their strikingly similar drawings of the vessel, were exactly the same.

On hearing of this mass sighting, in a year when the Ministry of Defense had received several reports of strange flying objects around West Wales, the media declared it Wales’ most prominent extraterrestrial sighting: the Broad Haven UFO.  The same description of a flying vessel had been given by members of the public and schoolchildren around the area on the same day, supporting the children’s story of the Broad Haven UFO and prompting the media to name this area of Wales the Dyfed Triangle.

broad haven ufo

Broad Haven UFO mania ensued – the owner of the now-defunct Haven Fort Hotel, situated directly behind Atlantic View looking toward Little Haven, claimed that the flying object had come so close to her that her face had begun to burn at the swirling energy it was giving off.  A prominent local businessman, believing the whole story to be a farce, began appearing around Broad Haven dressed in a silver suit as a prank.  The village began piquing the interest of UFO hunters nationwide, with one fascinated author writing a novel based on the school children’s accounts.

The Government, of course, denied extraterrestrial activity.  It was likely, they said, that it was a training maneuver from nearby RAF Brawdy that had been witnessed by the children, although, behind the scenes,  they ordered military police to fully investigate the incident.
In recent years, a retired US Navy sailor came forward to explain that the silver suits were standard fireproof uniforms for the US military and that, around the time of the sightings, the US military were flight testing the brand new, UK-made Harrier jets of which the sea harrier versions released that year would be used to fight in the Falklands war 5 years later.

Nothing conclusive was ever reported back to the public about these sightings, and, 44 years on, the Broad Haven UFO is still a mystery.  So, if you’re here in Broad Haven on your holidays staring into the sea-horizon sunsets or taking advantage of being in a Designated Dark Sky area, with binoculars at the ready to view some of the stunningly clear constellations from your patio, then you might just be lucky enough to spot one of Pembrokeshire’s most talked about unsolved mysteries – the Broad Haven UFO.

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Broad Haven Lifeboat Station: keeping us safe on the sea

lifeboat station

Here in Pembrokeshire, the only coastal National Park in the UK, we welcome millions of water-loving tourists to our infamous shores every year.  With glorious clifftop cottages, stunning sandy beaches, islands full of rare wildlife on each horizon, and the Irish sea pushing substantial waves towards crowds of eager surfers, you can see why this is such a popular spot for those who love watersports.  Whether you’re bringing your dog to explore some of the 186 miles of coastal path that stretches the length of the county or the kids just want to take the bucket, spade, and some sandwiches and explore the rock pools at your favourite sandy cove, the sea is the biggest draw for our guests at Atlantic View.

But if you’ve been following BBC2’s popular program ‘Saving Lives at Sea’, you’ll know that time spent on the coast means being at the mercy of Mother Nature.  Thankfully, The Royal National Lifeboat Institute has many thousands of lifeboat stations dotted across the UK’s cliffsides, including at Little Haven.

Covering the twin beaches of Little Haven and Broad Haven, this vital lifeboat station started life in a small, sheltered building near the waterway in 1882, just 52 years after Sir William Hillary founded the RNLI in 1824.   Despite a bigger lifeboat station being built in 1903, and a slipway installed on the beach nearby, it was hard to find crew members in such small communities, and the station closed in 1921.

But as watersports grew more popular and tourism began becoming an economic institution in Pembrokeshire, the lifeboat station at Little Haven was reopened in 1967 and named the Little and Broad Haven Lifeboat Station.  It was in this year that the inshore D Class Lifeboat, still a model used by the existing RNLI station, was introduced to Little Haven.  Don’t worry, it’s not a 50+-year-old boat – the Jack & Edith May, a new D Class d-766 lifeboat was installed at Little and Broad Haven lifeboat station in 2014.

lifeboat station

Here in Pembrokeshire, we feel extremely lucky to have the RNLI close by so that we can keep our guests safe and allow us all to enjoy the majesty of the sea.  But our vulnerability to the power of the water and nature itself should not be taken lightly. Our local lifeboat station crew have been presented with four awards for gallantry in recent years, and we should repay those who volunteer to brave dangerous situations to save our lives by showing respect to them and the sea.  As the largest maritime charity in the UK, it is still incredulous that this invaluable service still runs solely on charitable donations.  As well as rescuing on average 23 people per year, the RNLI also provides flood rescue services as well as training and providing equipment to our shoreline’s lifeguards.

We urge visitors to Atlantic View to participate in the plethora of watersports available right on the doorstep, including our very own invention, coasteering.  But we ask that you do so carefully, responsibly, and respectfully.

Here are a few links that can help you to stay safe on the water:

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Easter Fun in Broad Haven on the Pembrokeshire Coast

easter fun

Easter Fun in Broad Haven on the Pembrokeshire Coast

It may seem a little like the gloom of winter will never end, but we’re fast approaching spring, and here in Pembrokeshire, the daffodils have already begun sprouting!

It’s that time of year where we’re all longing for the sunshine and colourful vibes of Easter…and there’s not long to wait!  With plenty of Easter fun to be had in Broad Haven, we know you’ll want to come back again and again to experience an Easter break by the sea.  Here’s why:

  1. Easter fun on the water

    easter fun

    Pembrokeshire’s well known for its water sports, which is not unusual considering it’s the only coastal national park in the UK.  In Broad Haven, Haven Sports offer a wide range of water sports equipment for sale or hire to use on the safe sandy beach right outside the doorstep of Atlantic View.  But if you’re looking for Easter fun that’s arranged for you, why not head up to Porthclais Farm Campsite near St Davids for their Easter Holiday Kayaking and Coasteering event, which takes place on the 9th April?

  1. Easter Fun on the Farm
    easter fun

This is not just any old farm; Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo is a great family day out.  It’s about a half an hour’s drive from Atlantic View, but their Family Easter party is not to be missed! As well as free theatre shows and a resident magician, there’s plenty of Easter fun to be had by meeting our resident baby lambs and Easter chick – penguin chicks, too!  And don’t forget to visit another special baby animal that’s just been born at the Farm…a critically endangered black rhino calf!

  1. Easter Fun with Cadbury
    easter fun

Only a short drive up the beautiful coast from Atlantic View is Southwood Farm, the hosts of one of the many annual Cadbury Easter Egg hunts across the UK.  The Easter Bunny leaves clues all across the blossoming grounds, allowing kids to stomp across this lovely working farm with views across St Bride’s Bay.  Bring wellies as things can get muddy down at the farm, but who minds a bit of mud when there’s the guarantee of some lovely Cadbury chocolate at the end of it?

  1. Easter Fun your own way
    easter fun

No need to join in with others’ activities if you’re having too much of a good time yourselves.  After all, it’s the peace, wide-open spaces and sea air that attract people to Pembrokeshire, and Broad Haven has sandy stretches and salty air in abundance! It’s the perfect place to have some quality time to yourselves.

With plenty of space in your luxury cottages at Atlantic View, why not put the Easter feast in the large oven provided, decorate your family dining table with daffodils and then hide the choccies for you very own Easter egg hunt?

  1. Easter Fun without the washing up
    easter fun

With some lovely eateries dotted all around your accommodation then why not let someone else do the cooking and treat yourself to an Easter meal out?  If chocolate’s not your thing, why not try the newly opened Haven Brasserie, a mere 3-mile hop from Broad Haven to neighbouring Nolton Haven.  Their upmarket traditional food has excellent reviews and matching wonderful sea views.

If chocolate and lamb aren’t your things, then give Sunshine Italian a try.  Beautiful home-cooked pasta dishes, hand-picked wine and a short stagger home…plenty of Easter fun without the hassle!

easter fun

For more ideas on activities to try while at our five-star accommodation, please follow us on social media or visit our regularly updated blog page.  See you soon!

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