Hide & Seek on the Hidden Waterway
Explore the estuary by sailboat, canoe or via the sleepy waterside villages overlooking the river
Think of the water in Pembrokeshire and you’ll most likely conjure up visions of ebbing tides and sandy shores, but there’s a whole undiscovered world waiting to be explored further inland at the secret waterway.
Hidden away in the centre of Pembrokeshire county, the Daugleddau Estuary, also referred to as the Cleddau Estuary, snakes through rural countryside and almost time-forgotten neighbourhoods. Once a hive of activity during the coal mining era and the height of the fishing industry, this channel is now a scene of serenity and remains an unexplored location for many.
Known affectionately as the hidden or secret waterway, this body of aquatic habitats is a lesser-known part of this wild Welsh county. Wildlife enthusiasts, artists and photographers will revel in exploring this tranquil part of the world, with its scenic waterside villages, age-old fishing spots and picturesque hamlets overlooking the river. The vista here is so idyllic, it almost feels like it has been lifted from a writer’s imagination. It will inevitably spark inspiration in the creatives who pass through.
The Daugleddau Estuary as it is known, is home to various river birds and fish including mallards, shelducks, trout and salmon. To get closes to the action, take a paddle and canoe or kayak your way through the waters, stopping off for bird sightings and photo opportunities. The banks of the water are formed by a mixture of muddy borders, grassy embankments, farmland and riverside cottages, so whether your attention is focussed inland or on the water, you’re sure to see some spectacular sights.
Stemming at Milford Haven, the mouth of the Irish Sea, this estuary consists of four rivers and reaches as far inland as Haverfordwest via the western river, and Canaston Bridge via the eastern river. Together the two are known as the Daugleddau Estuary and it has two smaller streams which split off on tangents stretching out to Carew and Cresswell Quay.
Journeying along the waterway, you will travel through Pembroke Dock to marvel at the port which once upon a time produced some 250 ships for industry and war, before reaching the pretty marina lights in Neyland. Continuing further inland takes you through the sleepy villages of Lawrenny, Llangwm and Landshipping - a stretch of the river which was once bustling with local fishermen chasing after a good haul for their wives to sell back on land.
Whilst the estuary technically begins at Milford (as this is where the seawater merges with river water), you can easily continue your water-based journey out towards the Irish Sea to explore the splendid coastal locations of Herbandston and Sandy Haven.
Coastal Cottages Hidden Waterway Cottages
Explore our range of beautiful, hand-picked holiday cottages located on the serene Hidden Waterway in Pembrokeshire.
