Food
Days Out
Beach
Bike & Hike
Sports
Nature
Gardens
Activities
Historical
Eating & Drinking
Rock and Fountain Inn is located in the charming and quaint village of Penhow, it is a family run traditional village inn and restaurant. The Inn has a warm and welcoming atmosphere and enjoys a traditional decor that is cosy and relaxing. The philosophy here is to provide quality honest food that is affordable to all especially families. The menu is varied and offers a good selection of meals and you can choose two courses for ₤10. Their speciality is steak on a stone as well as fresh seafood together with their well known Sunday roast. The food is cooked to perfection and the presentation is very good. They are open daily and food is served daily from lunch time through to the evening. The staff are friendly and attentive and the customer service was very good. Rock and Fountain Inn offers excellent food, value and atmosphere, the perfect venue for a meal out.
Fun Days Out
Pump up the excitement with a session or two at Top Gun Paintball and Clay Shooting! This exciting local attraction provides a wooded area to prove your skills in battle. Hone your hand-eye coordination with clay shooting or hide away in a massive 30 acre green space while dodging paintballs.
Located in the lovely Brecon Beacons National Park area of South Wales. The Park has been officially designated as a Geopark because of its unique geological formations.
Once Upon a Playtime is an indoor centre of fun and play where children can come and have a fantastic time in a safe and nurturing environment. The centre is kept clean and is well monitored by staff. There are different areas and activities depending on age ranging from toddlers upwards. There are soft play areas, ball pools, car tracks, sports court, play frames and creative tables so there is lots to keep the little ones entertained. There is a cafe that serves a good selection of drinks and hot and cold foods. They are open daily and the prices are reasonable.
Huge fun for children, The Play Hut is Ilfracombe's only indoor and outdoor kids' soft play centre and is housed within a beautiful oak building with the stylish Café Blue Bar adjoining, so parents can relax too!
Life size, roaring and spitting animated dinosaurs lurk in 30 acres of subtropical vegetation, and the museum houses genuine dinosaur eggs. With rides and a chance to swim with sealions in a specially built pool, this is an attraction not to be missed.
Avondale Glass is a fascinating attraction for travellers of all ages. The business was founded in 1976 by a craftsman who spent time in some of the greatest glass houses in Italy, Germany, France, Switzerland, Malta and Sweden. Today visitors can watch live demonstrations and browse a stunning collection of fine glass pieces.
Beach
Pembrey Beach - 10.2 Miles (16.3 KM)
An 8 mile stretch of sandy beach backed by sand dunes - designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. There are nature trails throughout Pembrey Country Park. Visitors can enjoy clear views across Carmarthen Bay to Tenby and the Gower.(Dogs not allowed onto the beach between May and September)
Southerndown Beach - 16.1 Miles (25.8 KM)
This west facing sand and pebble beach is backed by farmland. Popular for surfing, canoeing and bathing, it also has some rockpools. It is joined to the heritage coast path which leads to a castle along the cliffs.
Lynmouth Bay - 28.7 Miles (45.9 KM)
Lynmouth Bay offers good if slightly hair-raising waves for the more daring of surfers. The little village is charming and full of character. Walk through historic streets and hear the stories of the local lifeboat crew.
Tunnels Beach - 29.1 Miles (46.6 KM)
When sea-water bathing was considered a cure for all ailments, the Victorians carved pit a network of tunnels leading to sheltered beaches with a large tidal swimming pool, very popular today with children who can enjoy inflatables and snorkeling safely.
Coombe Martin Beach - 29.1 Miles (46.6 KM)
A firm favourite of local families, this unspoilt beach is mainly shingle at the top with plenty of sand at low water. There are natural rock pools providing endless interest and the beach also marks the edge of the Exmoor National Park.
Hele Bay - 29.1 Miles (46.6 KM)
The beach at Hele Bay is comprised mainly of sand and shingle. Its location adjacent to the Hillsborough Nature Reserve in an area of outstanding natural beauty make it an idyllic setting to relax in. Clean waters and safe swimming with an abundance of rock pools mean its great for all the family.
Biking & Hiking
Oxwich Bay Walk - 7.5 Miles (12 KM)
Located in a National Nature Reserve, this walk will take you between half an hour to an hour to complete. The reserve has one of the richest varieties of coastal habitats in Britain, and is a favourite location for bird watchers.
Taff Trail - 28 Miles (44.8 KM)
Most of this cycle trail running from Cardiff Bay to the market town of Brecon has been designated as traffic-free. It runs along the former tramways, railways and canals of great historical interest and significance. Look out for the points of industrial archaeology along the way.
The Valley of the Rocks is a captivating natural space that can be explored on foot. The area is absolutely enchanting with native flowers, grasses and stunning rock formations. The 2.7 mile journey offers a different visual experience as the seasons change the landscape. Beginners should consider this one because it offers an easy difficult level.
Walking from Nash Point to Monknash is a fairly easy, mostly level walk of about 5 miles. There are two nature reserves en route and the Plough and Narrow pub at the half way point serves meals. Alternatively, stop for refreshments at Nash Point in the summer months.
Linking Ilfracombe on the North coast with Plymouth on the South coast for a distance of 102 miles, the route offers views of beaches and estuaries, lush green valleys and the moorlands of Dartmoor. Mostly traffic free, and over 40% of it is on former railway lines.
Golf & Sports
Great if you fancy a swim or a game of squash, this leisure centre offers a wide range of activities for all ages.
Southerndown Golf Club is a championship golf course that is unusual in that owing to its position it is one of the driest courses in the country, it is a course of contrasts being part sandy links and part acid-heathland. The course attracts many players and has had some major players play here, who have found the course to be challenging and demanding. With many natural obstacles including gorse, bracken and winds you are in for a tough game. The greens and fairways are well maintained and in good condition. As you walk around the course you can enjoy the lovely views that include, the North Devon coast, Swansea Bay and Gower peninsula and the surrounding valleys and hills of South Wales. The clubhouse is warm and cosy with a welcoming atmosphere, it too benefits from the stunning views, they have a good menu with lots of choice and is very good quality, Throughout you will find the staff to be helpful and friendly. They may not be able to guarantee you the weather but you are assured a warm and hospitable Welsh welcome.
Temby Golf Club has a long history being established in 1888, it is recognised as the birthplace of golf in Wales. It is a one of the best Championship links courses around and is conveniently positioned near to the town centre. This superb 18 hole, par 72, classic links course is best known for its natural rolling contours and the amazing sea views. The course is beautifully maintained and well laid out, whatever time of the year you will find it to be in great condition, with superb fast, true greens, tight fairways and thick rough. Its location along the coast exposes you to the elemenys and in particular coastal breezes making it a testing course for golfers of all standards. Other facilities include a covered driving range and fully equipped modern teaching studio. The clubhouse has recently undergone a renovation and enjoys fantastic views, it now features superb facilities, and offers a comfortabe and relaxing place after a round of golf, the menu has lots of choice and the food was very good, resh and home cooked and the service was very good too. The club extends a warm and hospitable welcome to all vistors and you will finfd the staff to be friendinly, helpful and professional throughout. Tenby Golf Club is definitely at the top of one of the must play clubs in Wales and offers excellent value for money.
Nature Reserves
RSPB Cwm Clydach Reserve is an ancient woodland retreat that is located on the outskirts of the city. It is a place of peace and tranquillity that allows you to escape the stresses of everyday life. There are two main trails, both start at the car park, one being suitable for pushchairs, this is the Nixon trail and extends to about 2.2 km. The other trail is more rugged in areas and longer at 4.7 km and is known as the Trussler trail. As you take a lazy walk through the reserve you can look out for the many species of bird who have made their home here, including, spotted flycatchers, redstarts and buzzards as well as many animals, insects and butterflies. The Lower Clydach River passes through the heart of the reserve. The reserve is open throughout the year and each season brings its own delights from the colourful spring woodland flowers to the beautiful autumnal colours of the leaves in Autumn. There is no charge for entry although the society does rely on donations to keep up the excellent work they do. It is the perfect location for a pleasant stroll through the lovely natural surroundings, whilst listening to the glorious sounds of the birds, totally relaxing.
Pembrey Nature Reserve is part of Pembrey Forest. It covers 1000 hectares and contains 35 species of butterfly and birds of prey such as sparrowhawks and goshawks. Pembrey forest also forms part of a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Gardens & Woodlands
Pembrey County Park offers a spacious 202 hectares of lush parkland for visitors to explore. Enjoy some of the cleanest beaches in Wales and admire the view of the Gower Peninsula and Carmarthenshire Bay. The area boasts a wide range of exciting outdoor activities, including cycling, horseback riding, skiing, hiking and much more!
The National Botanic Garden is one of the most visited gardens in Wales and is home to some of the rarest plants in world. Voted 'number 1 wonder of Wales', it has become one of the most popular gardens in the UK.
Located in the stunning Tywi valley of Carmarthenshire, this fine house has a garden that has been described as one of the finest in Wales. Often cited as inspiration for poetry for over 500 years, this beautiful site is as magical as it is mysterious.
The Brecon Beacons look fantastic when they're experienced from the saddle of your bike - whether you want the more energetic experience of charging up the mountains or casually cruising from pub to pub, there's something here for everyone. The national park authority organise guided walks and events for all the family.
Colby woodland garden belongs to the National Trust. It is home to the one of the best collections of rhododendrons and azaleas in Wales. Walk your way up and around the secluded valley on the well-maintained, wooded pathways.
Local Attractions
Gower Herbal Walks will take you through the Gower woodlands or along the costal paths or perhaps both where you will collect wild herbs and then turn them into medicines, under the guidance of a professional herbalist. Your walk will last approximately two hours and covers about 3 miles, you veer off the beaten track in search of plants and herbs in season, you will see breathtaking scenery, and will be taught to recognise local plants, how to harvest them and change them into a healing medicine that you take home with you. During your time you gain substantial knowledge about the plants you see and are given a booklet to take home, to further explain the plants and herbs that are safe to use and how to yield them. You also learn about the healing properties of the plants, correct dosages and the intriguing myths and traditions behind them. Depending on your route you might stop to enjoy some tasty homemade herbal teas and scrumptious brownies, or delicious fish and chips. You should ensure to wear suitable foot wear and comfortable clothes as well as taking drinking water, suncream/waterproofs depending on the time of year. Gower Herbal Walks are thoroughly enjoyable and interesting, you get so much from them as well as having the satisfaction of having made your own medicine, that you take home. Gower Herbal Walks are a different and fun alternative and suitable to all those who are mobile, a great activity, with family or friends or as part of a group or party.
This cinema has a structure unchanged since the 1930's but boasts all comforts and modern facilities inside. It regularly plays host to live performances and the latest films.
Black Mountain Centre is a community initiative and is found in Brynaman, a charming village positioned at the foot of the Black Mountain of Carmarthenshire. It is housed in an an old school but has all the amenities needed to benefit visitors and business customers. You will find tourist information on the local area, free Internet access, a Gallery that shows local artists works that can be bought, intriguing heritage displays of local history and culture, that are continually changing. In addition there is the Black Mountain cafe area where you can get tasty home cooked food, that is excellently priced throughout the day, they also serve cakes and beverages. If you want to meet members of the community and get to know the locals then this is the place to come.
Penderyn Distillery is a unique place for whiskey lovers. The landmark is rich in Arthurian legend, with a pair of Brecon Beacons peaks recognised as "Arthur's Seat". UNESCO has deemed the area one of historic significance. The distillery produces a single cask each day of some of the finest spirits in the world.
Cowbridge - 24.6 Miles (39.4 KM)
Cowbridge is an elegant market town famous for its arts & crafts and antiques. The high street is lined with fashionable shops, bars, restaurants and chic boutiques.
Myddfai Community Hall and Visitor Centre has become an important addition to the community here in Myddfai, an area that is enveloped by the glorious scenery of the Brecon Beacons National Park. The centre is newly constructed using the latest energy efficient tools and has become one of the nicest and best equipped venues in the area. The purpose of the centre was to serve as a focal point in the community and a place where locals could gather. Since its opening the centre has hosted many events and these are aimed at families and getting people together so keep an eye on the website for upcoming events. The centre is open daily and you will find a shop that sells a nice selection of locally produced and crafted foods, gifts, cards, books and artwork. Many of the items on sale are only found here and there is a nice range of quality and unique items as well as a delicious selection of chutneys, jams chocolates and much more. There is also a cafe that is warm and welcoming and on its walls are information boards detailing the history of Myddfai. They serve a good selection of beverages, snacks and light lunches as well as heavenly home-made cakes. The centre is run by volunteers who are really welcoming and friendly and happy to stop and have a chat. Myddfai is a superb community project that every village should have a great place to stop and meet with the locals and enjoy a coffee, do some shopping and learn about the local area.
Battlefield Live Pembrokshire offers the most exciting outdoor combat game. They are located in the centre of the Wales Coastal Path amongst the woodland, they have created a jungle environment offering the perfect conditions for a realistic combat experience, with plenty of places to hide and take cover as well as realistic props. The equipment is state of the art and the guns are very realistic in look, weight and feel and they use the newest technology to record your game and this is fed back to your weapon. The staff are superb, they explain everything in detail and offer advice and guidance throughout. Once you have donned your camouflage overalls, got your gun and face paint you are all fired up and ready to go on your mission, it doesn't take long to get immersed in the game. It is a game everyone from age seven upwards can get involved in and makes for a great family or group activity. It is a thrilling and tiring day out with lots of laughs. It is not the cheapest form of entertainment but is fantastic fun and they do have a range of offers so it is worth checking the website for these. Battlefield Live Pembrokshire is well run and organised and they are continually changing the game scenarios to keep them fresh and exciting, assuring you have a fantastic experience, so much so that you will leave wanting to return again and again.
Tenby - 28.6 Miles (45.8 KM)
Tenby is a pretty seaside resort loved by locals and tourists alike. Beautiful sandy beaches, boat trips to Caldey Island from the picturesque harbour, individual shops, cafes, pubs and award winning restaurants, Tenby has everything required for a fun-filled family day out!
The Lynton Cinema carries on a long traditional of cinematic entertainment in the Lynton and Lynmouth area. Modern movie goers can stop by to take in a current release in many popular genres. Spend a relaxing afternoon or evening kicking back while taking in a film in the comfort of the Lynton Cinema!
Historical & Heritage Sites
Experience the panoramic views of the black mountain and the colourful Welsh countryside from the craggy hilltop where this fantastic castle lies.
This impressively sited castle overlooking the Tywi estuary has been in the hands of both the Normans and Welsh. Admission is free. Pass a couple of hours in the castle before visiting Llansteffan village for a coffee or a wander around the shops.
The reconstructed village street and three period shops give visitors a taste of life over the last 150 years. The art gallery contains displays of contemporary jewellery and unique gift ideas. Stop for something to eat in the restaurant and enjoy the views of the lower Rhondda Valleys.
Old Beaupre was a medieval castle and later a Tudor manor house, built around two courtyards. Etched in a panel above the doorway is the Bassett family motto 'Better death than dishonour'. The impressive three-storey outer gatehouse was the result of the great Tudor rebuilding, when the family lived here.
Tenby Museum and Art Gallery is located on Castle Hill with with lovely views across the beach and beyond. It is the oldest independent museum in Wales. A trip to the museum will take you through the rich history of the town from its early beginnings in the 9th century through to current day. This is done through a variety of exhibits, interpretive panels, photographs and artefacts, and you will learn all about the culture and heritage of Tenby, its residents, its geology and archaeology, involvement in WWII and much more. Children will enjoy a visit to the museum with activities arranged for them to complete and clothes to dress up in, as well as a relic trail. There are many hands on exhibits where you are free to hold and examine the items on display. There is a free audio tour which, is informative and well organised and takes you round the museum in an orderly fashion. There is also a ten minute film chronicling the development of Tenby as a tourist resort. The Art Gallery has many fine exhibits both permanent and temporary and include a 19th century Minton Monk's Rock meat plate, 19th century Penny Farthing high-wheeled bicycle, Cap-a-Pie suit of armour, Tenby Gun and Lydstep Pig. The staff throughout are very friendly and knowledgeable and will be happy to answer any questions you might have. Tenby Museum and Art Gallery is open throughout the year Tuesdays through to Saturdays, except for the Christmas period when it closes for couple of weeks, opening hours are from 10.00 to 5.00pm. There is a small charge to enter the museum but once you have purchased a ticket it is valid for a year and you can make unlimited visits in this time. There is a small cafe area where you can buy a beverage. In addition there is a small gift shop that has a nice selection of gifts and souvenirs. Tenby Museum and Art Gallery is delightful, interesting and informative but done in a fun way that all ages can enjoy, a visit is highly recommended.
The Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway was created to overcome the lofty cliffs that separated these two developing regions. The mechanical systems utilised are unique, with full water tanks to balance the cars and brakes that camp down on the rails. The lifts are completely eco-friendly because no power is required to make them work.
Upton Castle is a magnificent Norman Castle that is enclosed by 356 acres of listed historic gardens, it still remains a private family home. It is a modest castle and one of the original remaining structures is thought to date to the 12th/13th century. Three of the towers still remain and there are indications of a drawbridge and port cullies, the area of the castle that is lived in dates to the 17th and 18th centuries with the further addition of two towers in the 19th century. The gardens comprise of ancient woodlands but over the years they have being lovingly planted and nurtured to produce the wonderful gardens we see today, complete with formal gardens, a variety of unusual and uncommon shrubs and trees, rose garden and a traditional 19th century walled garden. You will also find a delightful medieval chapel within the grounds, it is ornate and decorated with carved stone effigies of knights that can be dated to the 12th century, in its grounds are a stone preaching cross that has been classified as a historic monument. The gardens are delightful during the spring/summer months and offer a place of peace and tranquillity and a number of lovely walks. The gardens are open daily from April through to October from 10.00am to 4.30pm, the castle is not open for viewing. You can purchase some of the fruit and vegetables that are grown here and leave the money in a trust box. Upton Castle Gardens is a uniquely charming estate, so pretty, peaceful and tranquil and definitely worth visiting.
Watersmeet sits among a sweeping 2,000 acres. The landscape includes thriving wildlife and gorgeous waterfalls that provide the perfect backdrop for an afternoon's stroll. Stop by the Watersmeet House to enjoy a delicious beverage, like one of the landmark's rich cream teas. Gifts are also sold so you can find something special to remember your visit by.
Dolaucothi Gold Mines are located in the heart of a 2,500 acre estate and positioned on a wooded hillside that oversees the stunning Cothi Valley. Mining here dates back more than 2000 years to the Romans and some of their methods are still evident. But it is the Roman, Victorian and 1930's and the harsh conditions that the miners endured that are focused on here. The mines here continued to be mined until 1938 when they eventually closed. The tour takes you into the actual working mines, and suitable foot wear is recommended owing to the uneven surface and steep slopes, and you must have a certain degree of mobility to be able to do the tour, children in push chairs can do the Victorian tour. You get to wear a miners lamp and when you enter these dark caverns, you will get to see first hand the dark, dank and cramped conditions the miners worked in, with so much effort for little reward, see and hear the mine in operation as well as seeing the actual mine machinery. There is the choice of a free guided tour which, you book on arrival or you can take a self-guided tour, there is the Roman tour and Victorian tour to choose from. The guides are friendly, engaging and very knowledgeable and impart the history in a lively and interesting way with lots of anecdotes You can try your own hand at panning for gold and see how successful you will be, or take one of the many walks around the area, that vary in length and difficulty. There is also an exhibition that you can look around. The mine is open is open from April through to October and there is a charge for entry. There is a nice little gift shop where you can buy some pretty Welsh gold jewellery and other souvenirs and gifts. The tea shop is pleasant and cosy and serves a nice selection of beverages and hot and cold food at reasonable prices. Dolaucothi Mines offers an intriguing insight into a working mine and will interest all ages, the tour is pitched to cater to everyone and with activity sheets and trails the children can get involved, highly recommended if you are in the area.
Manorbier Castle and Garden enjoy a fantastic position that overlooks a beautiful unspoilt beach. This magnificent castle has a long history dating back to the 12th century and is best known for being the birthplace of Gerald of Wales, the 12th century scholar. Much of the castle still remains today and is as impressive now as it was when it was originally constructed. Places to visit here include the impressive Great Hall, Chapel and Turrets, here you will find life size figures wearing period costume in various places throughout the castle, as well as interesting sound effects. There is a guide book to buy that tells you all about the history of the castle. The view from the towers are fantastic and worth the climb up the steep and sometimes precarious stairs. Children will love the corridors and all the nooks and crannies there are to explore, as well as dressing up as knights and princesses. The walled gardens are beautiful, the lawns are immaculate and beautifully maintained, a lovely place to sit and soak up the peaceful and beautiful surroundings. There is a lovely welcoming cafe where you can enjoy a choice of beverages and light refreshments, as well as locally made cakes and icecreams. Throughout the year a number of events are run at the castle, such as theatre productions, folk music in the gardens, Christmas markets and much more, so keep an eye out for these. There is also a small gift shop that has a nice selection of souvenirs for sale. The castle and gardens are open from March through to September and there is a small entry charge. Although not a large castle Manorbier Castle has its own charm and appeal and is worth a visit for the amazing views and lovely tea rooms.
