Fishguard Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do and see in Fishguard, a hidden gem on the South Wales coast. From natural attractions to local culture and cuisine, this comprehensive travel guide has everything you need to plan your trip.


Located in the heart of Pembrokeshire, Fishguard is a charming coastal town that boasts breathtaking natural beauty, fascinating history, and unique local culture. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a history buff, or a foodie looking for an off-beat destination, Fishguard won’t disappoint. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you through the top sights and sounds of Fishguard, complete with tips on how to plan your trip, where to stay, what to eat, and more.

Introduction to Fishguard

With a population of just over 3,000, Fishguard may be small but it’s filled with character and charm. Located on the South Wales coast, the town is surrounded by rolling hills, dramatic cliffs, and crystal-clear waters. Originally a fishing village, Fishguard is steeped in history and has been an important port since the 16th century. Today, it’s a bustling tourist destination, popular with visitors who are looking to experience a different side of Wales.

List of Places to Visit in Fishguard

Fishguard has something for everyone, with a range of attractions to suit all interests. Here are some of the top places to visit in Fishguard:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fishguard Fort - Built in the mid-19th century to protect the town from invaders, Fishguard Fort is a must-visit for history buffs. Explore the tunnels and ammunition stores and enjoy the stunning views from the fort walls.

  • The Last Invasion Tapestry - This impressive artwork depicts the story of the last invasion of mainland Britain in 1797 and is a must-see for anyone interested in local history and art.

  • St. Mary’s Church - This beautiful Georgian church boasts an impressive interior, with ornate pulpit carvings and stunning stained glass windows.

Natural Attractions of Fishguard: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pembrokeshire Coast National Park - Stretching along the coast for 186 miles, this national park is a haven for nature lovers and hikers. With its rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and diverse wildlife, the park has something for everyone.

  • Dinas Island - Connected to the mainland by a narrow isthmus, Dinas Island is a wild and unspoiled place where you can escape the crowds and enjoy the stunning coastal views.

  • Fishguard Bay Walk - A gentle stroll along the coast that takes in beautiful bays, secluded coves, and stunning cliff-top views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Fishguard

Fishguard is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a range of hiking and biking trails that explore the scenic beauty of the region. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • Pembrokeshire Coast Path - Stretching for 186 miles along the coast, this path offers stunning views and challenging terrain for experienced hikers.

  • Preseli Hills - Explore the wild and rugged landscape of the Preseli Hills, which offer some of the most stunning views in Wales.

  • Gwaun Valley - This beautiful valley is a hidden gem in the heart of Pembrokeshire, with a range of hiking and biking trails that explore the stunning scenery.

Best Things to Do in Fishguard: Activities and Tours

Fishguard may be small, but there’s no shortage of things to do and see. Here are some of the top activities and tours to consider:

  • Kayaking in Fishguard Bay - Explore the stunning coastline from the water, with a guided kayaking tour of Fishguard Bay.

  • Stargazing at Gwaun Valley - With its clear skies and low light pollution, Gwaun Valley is a perfect spot for stargazing. Join a guided tour and see the Milky Way in all its glory.

  • Local Food and Drink Tour - Discover the delicious local cuisine of Fishguard, from fresh seafood to traditional Welsh cakes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Fishguard

If you have a week to spend in Fishguard, you can explore the town and its surroundings in depth. Here’s a sample itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Fishguard town, visiting Fishguard Fort and The Last Invasion Tapestry
Day 2 Hike the Pembrokeshire Coast Path
Day 3 Take a kayaking tour of Fishguard Bay
Day 4 Visit St Davids, the smallest city in the UK, and explore its historic cathedral
Day 5 Take a day trip to the Preseli Hills for a scenic hike
Day 6 Discover the delicious local cuisine on a food and drink tour
Day 7 Explore Dinas Island, one of the most beautiful spots on the Pembrokeshire coast

Food and Drink Scene of Fishguard

Fishguard is a foodie’s paradise, with a range of delicious local cuisine to try. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Seafood Platter - Freshly caught seafood, including crab, lobster, and mussels, served with lemon and aioli.

  • Laverbread - A unique Welsh dish made from seaweed, often served with bacon and eggs.

  • Welsh Cakes - Sweet and buttery, these traditional cakes are a staple of Welsh cuisine and are perfect for a mid-afternoon snack.

Local Beverages

  • Welsh Beer - Try a local brew, such as Brains SA, Reverend James, or Tomos Watkin.

  • Welsh Cider - Taste a range of ciders made from local apples, including Gwynt y Ddraig and Blaengawney.

  • Welsh Whiskey - Wales may not be as well-known for whisky as Scotland, but there are some excellent distilleries producing top-quality whiskey, including Penderyn and Brecon Botanicals Gin.

Where to Stay in Fishguard: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Fishguard has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes. From cozy guesthouses to luxury hotels, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the top options:

  • The Harp Hotel - Located in the heart of Fishguard town, this historic hotel offers stylish rooms and an excellent restaurant.

  • Fern Villa Guest House - This charming guesthouse is located in a quiet residential area and offers comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere.

  • Fishguard Bay Hotel - This luxury hotel overlooks Fishguard Bay and offers stunning views, excellent food, and a spa.

What to Buy in Fishguard: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Fishguard is known for its unique local products, including handcrafted pottery, traditional Welsh blankets, and artisan cheese. Here are some of the best places to buy souvenirs and gifts:

  • Pembrokeshire Candle Company - This local company makes beautifully scented candles using natural ingredients.

  • Welsh Blankets - Visit Melin Tregwynt, a historic woolen mill that produces traditional Welsh blankets.

  • Caws Cenarth - This artisan cheese maker produces a range of delicious cheeses, including the award-winning Perl Las.

Local Culture and Customs of Fishguard

Fishguard has a unique local culture that’s celebrated through traditional festivals, art, music, and language. Here are some of the key aspects of local culture and customs to be aware of:

  • Morysion - This is Fishguard’s traditional costume, which consists of a long red cloak, black hat, and white frilled blouse.

  • Welsh Language - Welsh is still spoken by a significant number of people in Fishguard, and you may hear it being spoken around town and in local shops and restaurants.

  • Annual Festivals - Fishguard hosts a range of festivals throughout the year, including the Fishguard International Music Festival, which draws musicians from around the world, and the Fishguard Folk Festival, which celebrates traditional Welsh folk music.

Best Time to Visit Fishguard

Fishguard is a year-round destination, with something to see and do in every season. However, the best time to visit depends on your preferences and interests. Here’s a brief overview:

  • Summer (June-August) - This is the peak tourist season, with warm weather, long days, and a range of outdoor activities and festivals.

  • Spring (March-May) - This is a great time to visit if you want to see the countryside come alive with wildflowers and newborn lambs.

  • Fall (September-November) - This is a quieter time to visit, with cooler weather and fewer tourists. It’s a great time to go hiking or enjoy the fall foliage.

  • Winter (December-February) - While it can be cold and wet, this is a great time to experience the cozy pubs, local festivals, and Christmas markets.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fishguard

As with any destination, there are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Fishguard:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture - Fishguard has a unique local culture and history, so be respectful and open-minded when learning about it.

  • Explore the outdoors - Fishguard is known for its stunning scenery, so make sure you take advantage of the hiking and biking trails.

  • Try the local cuisine - Welsh cuisine is delicious, so be sure to sample some of the local dishes and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment - Fishguard is a relatively unspoiled place, so be sure to keep it that way by taking care of the environment.

  • Ignore safety precautions - Be aware of any safety precautions when hiking, kayaking, or exploring the region.

  • Expect fast-paced city life - Fishguard is a laid-back destination, so don’t expect a bustling city atmosphere. Enjoy the slow pace and take your time to explore.

Safety and Health

Fishguard is a safe destination, with low crime rates and a friendly local community. However, it’s always wise to be aware of any potential risks and take precautions when necessary. Here’s what you need to know:

Safety in Fishguard

  • Hiking Safety - When hiking in the region, be aware of any hazards such as steep cliffs, fast-running rivers, or unstable terrain. Always wear appropriate footwear and clothing.

  • Coastal Safety - If you’re exploring the coastline, be aware of any incoming tides and avoid swimming in rough seas.

  • Road Safety - The roads around Fishguard can be narrow and winding, so take caution when driving and watch out for pedestrians and livestock.

Health in Fishguard

  • Medical Facilities - Fishguard has a local hospital and a range of medical facilities, but if you have a pre-existing condition, it’s always wise to bring your own medications or medical supplies.

  • Water Quality - The water quality around Fishguard is generally good, but it’s always wise to check with local authorities before swimming in any natural bodies of water.

Getting to Fishguard: Transportation Options and Logistics

Fishguard is easily accessible, with a range of transportation options to suit all needs and budgets. Here’s what you need to know:

Airports Near Fishguard

  • Cardiff Airport - Located 124 miles away, this is the closest international airport to Fishguard.

  • Bristol Airport - Located 100 miles away, this airport offers a range of domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Fishguard

  • Fishguard Bus Station - Located in the town center, this is the main bus station for the region.

  • Haverfordwest Bus Station - Located 12 miles away, this bus station offers a range of regional and national bus services.

Other Options

  • Train - The nearest train station is in Haverfordwest, which offers regional rail services to other parts of Wales and England.

  • Car Rental - There are several car rental companies in Fishguard, including Avis, Europcar, and Hertz.

How to Get Around in Fishguard

Fishguard is a small town, so most attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, if you want to explore the surrounding area, there are several transportation options:

  • Bus - Local bus services are available in Fishguard, with routes that connect to other parts of Pembrokeshire and Wales.

  • Taxi - There are several taxi companies in Fishguard, with competitive pricing and a range of vehicles.

  • Car Rental - If you want to explore the region at your own pace, consider renting a car. There are several car rental companies in Fishguard.

Where to Go Next from Fishguard: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you want to explore more of Wales after visiting Fishguard, there are several nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • St Davids - This small city is located just a short drive from Fishguard and is home to the stunning St Davids Cathedral.

  • Tenby - This picturesque town is located on the southern coast of Pembrokeshire and has a range of beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and excellent restaurants.

  • Brecon Beacons National Park - Located a few hours’ drive from Fishguard, this national park is home to stunning peaks, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

Conclusion

Fishguard is a hidden gem on the South Wales coast, with stunning natural beauty, rich history, and unique local culture. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, there’s something for everyone in Fishguard. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be able to plan your trip with ease, knowing that you won’t miss a thing!

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