The Slade Beach

The shale cliffs drop away sharply at Slade Beach, offering proper dramatic coastline about a mile or so from Fishguard town centre. It's one of those Pembrokeshire spots that catches you off guard - not a sandy expanse for buckets and spades, but a working fishing harbour framed by dark rock faces that look especially moody when the light's poor.

Walkers will find this worth the visit. The beach itself is small and pebbly, but it's the surrounding cliffs that justify the trip. There's a decent coastal path loop if you're staying at one of the nearby parks - Fishguard Holiday Park sits just half a mile away, making this an easy leg-stretcher between breakfast and a proper walk elsewhere. The tide matters here, so check timings before you head down.

It's not a day-long destination. An hour's exploring the rocks, maybe a paddle if the weather's kind, and you're ready to move on. Families with young kids might find it a touch underwhelming - there's no ice cream van or soft play in sight - but teenagers who like brooding coastal scenery will rate it. The fishing harbour adds working atmosphere; you'll likely see boats coming and going.

Fishguard itself is close enough for lunch and provisions. If you're based at Tregroes or Fishguard Bay Resort nearby, slot this in as a morning stroll before heading to the bigger beaches at Newgale or Tenby. Best visited on a clear day when the cliffs don't look quite so grim.