Newport

Black Bart's birthplace feels rather grand for such a small Pembrokeshire town. This Newport sits quietly in the Preseli Hills, a proper Welsh market town that most tourists rush past en route to the coast. Big mistake, really - there's something rather special about this pocket of north Pembrokeshire that rewards a slower pace.

The town itself won't detain you long, but that's rather the point. It's the gateway to some of Wales' most underrated walking country. The Preseli Hills roll away to the south, dotted with ancient burial chambers and offering views that stretch to Ireland on clear days. Cilgelynen Wood provides gentler rambling through oak and ash, particularly lovely in spring when the bluebells are out.

Barti Ddu, better known as Black Bart, was born here in 1682 before becoming the most successful pirate in history. The historic site marking his birthplace is worth a quick look, though don't expect anything too elaborate.

Fishguard sits just four miles north, where the ferries depart for Ireland and the harbour still looks much as it did when the French briefly invaded in 1797. The coast path from there offers some cracking cliff walking, with seals often visible from the headlands.

Getting here requires a car, really. Newport sits on the A487 between Fishguard and Cardigan, making it easily accessible from both directions. The nearest railway station is in Fishguard, though the bus service from there is decent enough.

Staying at one of the local parks makes perfect sense for exploring this corner of Pembrokeshire. You're within striking distance of both the Preseli Hills and the dramatic coastline, yet far enough from the crowds that descend on Tenby and St Davids further south.