STUNNING beaches, good food and reasonably priced beers – lush Pembrokeshire has to be one of the most overlooked staycation spots in Britain. At least that’s what it feels like when you set foot on a pristine beach on a sunny day and there’s hardly anyone around. It could be that it’s just quite hard […]
STUNNING beaches, good food and reasonably priced beers – lush Pembrokeshire has to be one of the most overlooked staycation spots in Britain.
At least that’s what it feels like when you set foot on a pristine beach on a sunny day and there’s hardly anyone around.
It could be that it’s just quite hard to get to. Without a car, you’d be spending hours on the train thanks to the trundling local stopping services.
And even with a car, it’s a fair drive from anywhere in the country.
But don’t hold the slog of a journey against this gorgeous Welsh county – because it’s so much more rewarding when you do finally get there.
To make the most of my trip, I found a charming country pad called Brynglas on Sykes Cottages.
It’s in the tiny hamlet of Cilgerran, which is around five miles inland from Cardigan Bay – perfectly located for exploring the west coast of this sprawling county.
Many of Pembrokeshire’s family-friendly attractions, from Castell Henllys Iron Age Village to Dyfed Shire Horse Farm, are within a half hour’s drive and you can easily make a day of it.
Even within walking distance, there are a few spots to choose from.
Welsh Wildlife Centre and Teifi Marshes Nature Reserve are both less than ten minutes on foot.
There’s also a boardwalk perfect for cyclists along the River Teifi just minutes from the cottage via the old railway line.
For history buffs, there’s a wealth of interesting castles and churches.
National Trust’s Cilgerran Castle is just a ten-minute walk from Brynglas.
It’s a magnificent fortress that dates back to the 13th century, offering spectacular views of Teifi Gorge.
They host regular events that will appeal to people of all ages.
Make sure you visit idyllic villages like Fishguard as well – there, quaint traditions such as Morris dancing are still thriving.
Cilgerran itself has three pubs to enjoy – all an easy stroll back to our cottage.
And you mustn’t miss St David’s Cathedral, of course – named after the patron saint of Wales.
Many consider it the most sacred church in the land and its impressive interior is worthy of worship.
But nothing beats a day out at the seaside and Pembrokeshire has top-rated Blue Flag beaches in plentiful supply.
One of the best, Poppit Sands, is just under six miles from Cilgerran.
For a habitual city dweller, life in a country cottage is novelty enough.
Brynglas, separated from the main road by a bubbling brook, has a lovely patio to the back and a little garden in the front.
It’s traditional stone exterior belies the modern comforts within.
There’s an open-plan living room, modern kitchen and dining area, three bedrooms and two bathrooms.
On a balmy summer’s night, nothing could be lovelier than a glass of rose under the waning sun outside.
And as autumn draws in, if it’s getting chilly, there’s a woodburning stove to keep things cosy indoors.
Either way, life in the slow lane is one I can get on board with.
STAYING THERE: Sykes Holiday Cottages has a seven-night stay at Brynglas (sleeps up to six) from £325 in total.
Short breaks are also available.
Details from sykescottages.co.uk or call 01244 617683.
