Abermawr Beach

One of the least known beaches in Pembrokeshire, Abermawr Beach is a surprisingly large sandy bay east of Abercastle, separated from Aberbach Bay by a small headland. Close to the rural community of St Nicholas on the eastern side of the Strumble Head peninsula, the reason this bay is so unknown is due to the remote nature of it - it is only accessible via a half-mile coastal footpath from the main road.

Abermawr Beach is best known for being the site of an incredible ancient forest. Visible only at low tide, the impeccably preserved tree stumps emerge from the sands indicating days gone by. Believed to date back some 8000 years, this sunken forest formed when an ancient ice sheet collapsed and melted, freezing these stumps in time.

A lesser-known claim to fame for this spot is that it was the intended destination for a railway line terminal established by Brunel with a planned seaport for transportation to Ireland. This idea was abandoned when the Irish Potato Famine hit and later, the terminal was moved to Fishguard.

Abermawr did however play an important role in the First World War. In 1862, a submerged cable line was built 60 miles across the sea from Abermawr to Wexford. From a small telegraph hut onshore messages were then transmitted to London; a vital service which saw a unit of British soldiers stationed here to guard the hut. Unfortunately, due to damage from a great storm, this telegraph hut was deserted sometime in the 1920s.

Activities

A rarely crowded bay, Abermawr Beach is attractive, to say the least, so it is no wonder it attracts creative types looking for a splash of inspiration. Photographers, writers, and artists will likely have free reign over these shores during winter but bear in mind, it can be blustery here. Bring along your camera, notepad and sketchbook as this charming seaside spot is sure to kickstart your creative juices no matter the season. Paint a stormy seascape or draw a vivid landscape to capture your memories here.

The expanse of soft dark sands here are great for playing in and building sandcastles whilst having few people around allows you to spread out for some beach games. Gather your friends for a game of cricket, set up a beach volleyball court or establish some goals for a fun game of beach football.

Bathing is a popular pastime here although be aware there can be strong currents. You might also find surfers here as there can be good swell, particularly during high tide but remember, Abermawr Beach is backed by a pebble bank so be careful when surfing.

Facing north-west out to sea, this bay is ideal for power kiting with suitable wind conditions frequenting Abermawr. You may well find yourself sitting on the shoreline hypnotised by images of kitesurfers navigating the waves and kiteboarders sailing across the sand.

Ramblers adore tying the laces on their walking boots and venturing off for an exploration of the local SSSI area here. With a magnificent marshland, bluebell woods and gorse dressed cliffs, you’re guaranteed to be met with stunning scenery bounds of wildlife. Expect bees, butterflies and more as they create a seaside buzz throughout the marshland and the bluebell woods are a spectacular sight to see when they first bloom in spring.

Take the National Trust’s circular walk around the area or pick up the Pembrokeshire Coast Path to explore the wider stretch of this north-west coastline. Heading west will bring you onto the Strumble Head peninsula where the viewpoint of the Lighthouse is beloved amongst many artist and photographers; picture wild mountain ponies and remarkable cloud formations, particularly during stormy weather. Hike east and you will pass through some of Pembrokeshire’s most delightful coves and old fishing villages such as Abercastle and Porthgain. You can even sightsee the famous Mediterranean-coloured waters of the Blue Lagoon at Abereiddy.

Facilities

The isolated position of Abermawr Beach results in a lack of facilities for visitors. There is no café, no shop, no toilet block and no lifeguards here. Parking is free but certainly limited with only a few roadside spaces.

Nearby is the Melin Tregwynt Woollen Mill, a top choice for purchasing soft furnishings amongst most in the locale. Pick up a beautiful handmade blanket to take home as a souvenir or visit their onsite café for delicious homemade cakes, lunches and coffees.

Mathry is the nearest place for most facilities including a bus stop and post box. Here you will find The Farmers Arms, a traditional country inn offering hearty meals and a warm welcome, plus Siop Fach, a pretty café offering breakfasts, lunch and a seemingly endless afternoon tea! Siop Fach is also home to a quaint antique store which is worth a browse when you’re in the area.

A wider range of amenities can be found in the harbourside village of Fishguard; pick up the railway line here or board the ferry across the seas to Ireland. There are supermarkets, petrol stations, banks and a post office. You will find retail shops as well as independent gift shops along these streets plus a range of eateries. Dine at The Gourmet Pig, enjoy pub grub at The Royal Oak or pick up fish and chips from Hooked @ 31.

Local Top Tips

Abermawr Beach is fully concealed by water at high tide so if you are planning on enjoying the sandy part of the beach during your visit, make sure to check the tide times. You don’t want to take the half-mile walk down to the bay only to be disappointed that there’s no sand!

Access

Abermawr Beach is signposted from the main road between Fishguard and St Davids, plus you will find signs on the coastal road leading towards Abercastle. From the roadside, you will need to take the footpath through the woodlands which can be steep and muddy at times so be careful where you place your foot.

Upon approaching the beach, the footpath leads out onto the pebble bank and there may be boardwalks to help you step from the footpath to the pebbles.

Anyone with mobility difficulties may struggle due to the steep and sometimes muddy terrain and the half-mile walk to the bay.

Is Abermawr Beach Dog Friendly?

Yes, Abermawr Beach is dog friendly all year round.

Award-Winning

Part of a Special Area of Scientific Interest (SSSI), Abermawr Beach is on the list of recommended beaches compiled by the Marine Conservation Society. 

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