Exploring the Hidden Gems of Fishguard: A Scenic Campervan Adventure in Wales

 October 01, 2024

  Read Time: About 19 minutes

An Aerial View of a Harbour with Boats in The Water

Fishguard, Nick Russill

Hello, and welcome to another fab Welsh adventure courtesy of Camperbug on this our campervan road trip itinerary in West Wales. We've explored quite a few exciting locations on our West Wales road trip and are about to embark on a brand new adventure through Fishguard. Your drive from St Davids, to stop number 5 in the itinerary Fishguard should take approximately 23-30 minutes via the A87, so spending a few more hours in St Davids to say one final farewell is possible. If you fancy tranquil coastal stays, clifftop views, ambles in ancient woodland, and quiet evenings huddling around a campfire under starry skies, the beautiful seaside town of Fishguard is for you. If you would like to view stops 1 -4 of our campervan road trip itinerary in West Wales, visit the link below and you will see the full list of all our destinations.

Step back in time to a beautiful town crafted by the flowing meltwater of the Ice Age, with plenty of culture and history. Visit in January and join the locals in celebrating Hen Galan, or New Year's Day, by the Julian Calendar on the 13th of January. There is so much to explore in Fishguard in your campervan hire, so go ahead and explore these attractions over a week, or cram as many points of interest as you can into a shorter weekend getaway.

Does Fishguard Have a Beach?

Fishguard has several excellent sunny beaches bordered by quaint cottages, with tiny boats bobbing with the currents. There are several gorgeous beaches, all just over a 30-minute drive from the town. Cwm yr Eglwys is a shingle and sand beach accessed by a narrow road north of Dinas Cross.

Walkers can explore gorgeous footpaths crisscrossing the area, and stargazers can admire a full display of stars on clear nights. The campsite looks out over Poppit Sands and the mouth of the Teifi estuary, ensuring fantastic views and dolphin spotting opportunities. Dogs are most welcome to tag along.

The sandy shore at low tide is popular with families and has a car park and toilet. Pwllgwaelod is a sheltered sandy stretch of beach with ample parking space for your campervan rental in Fishguard, a fab pub, and a restaurant alongside the ocean. Walkers can hop on the circular route around Dinas Island. The Goodwick Parrog is the closest to Fishguard, overlooked by the harbour, with plenty of parking space and toilets. Sit back and unwind on a lovely stretch of coastline backed by a grassy bank. The ocean is safe for bathing and quite popular with families. Spend the day catching crabs with the nippers or swim off the slipway near the yacht club with the older kids. Adults can kayak or sign up for stand-up paddle-boarding sessions near the harbour. End the day with fresh lobster and crab sandwiches. Fall in love with the Pembrokeshire Coast, home to more Blue Flag beaches than the rest of Wales combined and explore sandy shorelines easily from the town of Fishguard.

Is it Worth Visiting Fishguard?

Strumble Head Lighthouse

Strumble Head Lighthouse, Pembrokeshire. Phil Dolby

We certainly think so! The thrills of Pembrokeshire’s beaches are at your feet, and there are plenty of varied attractions for all tastes and abilities. This plucky town has withstood the invading forces, holds remains from the Iron Age, and boasts a lovely combination of coastline and countryside peppered with stunning camping spots, plus a wealth of open-air adventures. Sounds like a perfect holiday to us.

Fishguard rests across two sections - the main township perched on top of a hill, with Lower Town, set on the fringes of a small river that runs to a quiet harbour. What better way to start your stay than with a scenic walk with some stunning views? Park at your campsite in Fishguard, set up for your stay, and put on walking shoes before going down to the Old Fort, located a mile from the town centre and 0.5 miles from Lower Town. Survey the vistas from a fab vantage point with expansive views. Watch as ferries dock or find a shady spot to have a picnic. The canons around the fortress once stood firm against the invasion of the French in 1797. We've dived into the history and important attractions at Fishguard Harbour below.

Delve into local history at the Gorsedd Circle, built to commemorate the first National Eisteddfod, a competitive Welsh festival of music and poetry held in 1936. The Gorsedd Circle was built to celebrate this event and rests an easy 5-minute stroll from Fishguard Square. Imagine being surrounded by poets and musicians, with lovely Fishguard Fort and Lower Town vistas. St Mary's Church is another must-see in Fishguard, built in the town centre between 1855 and 1857. Walk through the church and admire a fantastic collection of stained glass windows and a lovely balcony added to accommodate visiting fishermen.

There are plenty of excellent pubs and eateries in and around the town. Explore a range of dishes, from modern European cuisines to vegan and gluten-free meals.

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  • Camping in and around Fishguard

    If you’re searching for a camping space near Fishguard, consider camping at Roch, Cwm Gwaun, and Dinas Cross. These three beautiful locations have plenty to offer and exceptional camping spaces catering to all budgets and accommodation needs. While these locations offer a more rural alternative to the urban campsites in Cardiff, they provide the perfect base for exploring Pembrokeshire's stunning coastline and historic sites. Take a read and maybe add one of our suggested locations to your road trip through Fishguard. Visit our campsite page for more campsites in UK.

    Hillfort Tipi and Campsite Holidays enjoys a lovely location nestled in pristine Pembrokeshire countryside within the renowned Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. The site rests on a stunning clifftop location affording stunning vistas, glorious sunsets and clear skies for nights of stargazing.

    Stay at a campsite in Roch if you want a serene retreat with immediate access to Roch Castle and the scenic beauty of the nearby Roch Common. This charming village rests amid expansive green fields and gentle hills, ideal for quiet walks and picnics. The tranquil Roch Valley and the historic stone bridges spanning the local streams add to the rustic charm, making Roch a delightful base for exploring the natural splendour of Pembrokeshire’s countryside. Our campsite locations near Roch include campsites in Nolton Haven, campsites in Newgale, campsites in Penycwm, campsites in Druidston, campsites in Pelcomb Cross, campsites in Llandeloy, campsites in Broad Haven, campsites in Little Haven and campsites in Cardigan.

    Camping in Cwm Gwaun immerses you in a lush, unspoiled valley rich with untamed beauty. Hidden amid swathes of greenery within the enchanting Gwaun Valley, campsites in Cwm Gwaun offer direct access to serene forest trails and the sparkling Gwaun River, ideal for peaceful walks and birdwatching. The hills provide a jaw-dropping backdrop for hiking and outdoor exploring, while the local landscape is perfect for a serene escape into nature. We have 219 campsites within 30 miles of Cwm Gwaun. We also offer more campsites in Newport, campsites in Spittal, campsites in Trefin and campsites in Wales.

    Book a campsite in Dinas Cross and spend an unforgettable holiday among some of Pembrokeshire's most captivating outdoor attractions. Tucked between the soaring cliffs of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path and the tranquil, sandy stretch of Cwm-Yr-Eglwys Beach, Dinas Cross is a beautiful location for coastal walks, panoramic sea views, and adventures among hidden sea coves along the shoreline. The natural beauty of the surrounding hills and lush woodlands are excellent opportunities for inland escapes, making a camping holiday at Dinas Cross a must for anyone looking to camp near Fishguard. We list 221 campsites within 30 miles of Dinas Cross. Our campsite locations near Dinas Cross include campsites in Goodwick, campsites in Abercastle, campsites in Llwyndyrys, and campsites in Crymych.

    Best Campsites at Fishguard

    Are you searching for the best campsites in Fishguard? There’s quite a wealth of options, but we’ve narrowed it down as best we can. We recommend a stay at Gwaun Vale Touring Park, Tregroes Caravan and Camping, and Conifers Farm, three well-reputed, beautifully maintained and excellently positioned camping locations ideal for exploring Fishguard and the surrounding towns. These represent some of the finest campsites in Pembrokeshire, offering easy access to coastal walks, local attractions, and the charming fishing port of Fishguard. Remember to filter your campsite searches by accommodation preference using our filter feature at the top. If you want to find more campsites near Fishguard or another location, scroll to the end of the page, and our system will recommend the top camping locations nearby.

    Gwaun Vale Touring Park in Fishguard

    Gwaun Vale Touring Park in Fishguard

    Gwaun Vale Touring Park, Fishguard

    If you want to camp near Fishguard and the ferry, set your sights on Gwaun Vale Touring Park, a pristine, family-owned site near the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. Set up camp in beautiful gardens and soak in fantastic views with access to excellent amenities. Guests have the luxury of free hot showers, a little playground for the kids, a laundrette and barbecues on their pitches. The site is open 24 hours a day and is a fine base for walking, sightseeing, lazing on beaches, and exploring historic attractions. Pitches on grass and hardstanding are available for tents and touring vehicles.

    Tregroes Caravan and Camping in Fishguard

    Tregroes Caravan and Camping in Fishguard

    Tregroes Caravan and Camping, Fishguard

    Tregroes Caravan and Camping is a lovely little spot in a rural location with easy access to local amenities and attractions. Set a short stroll from the vibrant Fishguard; the campsite has a range of spacious grass and gravel pitches for tents, small campervans, motorhomes and caravans. The camping area is quiet and clean, and guests often wax lyrical about the top-notch amenities, including clean bathrooms and well-maintained grounds. Guests are welcome to bring their pets and enjoy barbecues or campfires on the beach.

    Conifers Farm in Newport

    Conifers Farm in Newport

    Conifers Farm, Newport

    Kick back and leave behind the complexities of the modern world at Conifers Farm, a relaxing farm site overlooking beautiful Newport Beach. With Newport Town a short stroll away and the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park within easy reach, this fab site is a big hit with families, couples, and well-behaved pets. Look forward to a summer of sun, sea, and sand as you explore the local area and indulge in surfing, kayaking, sunbathing and coastal walks. The surrounding area is peppered with castles and forts, and there are plenty of top locations to observe local wildlife, like dolphins. Guests can enjoy a relaxing stay with the expected amenities, including toilets, showers, electric metres, and a dishwashing area.

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  • Why is Fishguard Famous?

    Fishguard was the last point of the French invasion of mainland Britain, and its historic harbour is well worth a visit. There is a free car park, and the attraction is easily accessible via a 20-minute stroll from the town. Read on to find out how this spunky town evaded invasion from the French by firing a single blank cannon round.

    Pentre Ifan, set about 12 miles from Fishguard, stands as a reminder of the Celtic people and their burial chambers. It is one of the most visited megalithic sites in Wales and consists of a magnificent burial chamber with a massive capstone delicately balanced on three upright stones. Other burial chambers are behind Harbour Village, right above the ferry terminal. Taste the local life of Fishguard's ancient ancestors at Castell Henllys, a prehistoric promontory fort dating back a whopping 2,400 years. A faithful reconstruction of Iron Age settlements creates a living exhibit, with fascinating replica roundhouses constructed atop the remains of a once thriving hill fort. The site is just 12 miles north of Fishguard and is a great option for a day out.

    Experience marine life at Sea Trust Wales, Aquarium, Cafe and Gift Shop, just 7 minutes from Fishguard. It houses a range of local species and offers a virtual reality experience for magical adventures in the ocean. Be sure to pack a well-stocked hamper for the trip for a lovely picnic at Dyffryn Fernant Garden, a fascinating and beautiful 6-acre garden tucked within a verdant valley, just 8 minutes from the town. You can explore a beautifully maintained garden with exotic plants, richly-hued flowers, a burbling stream and a glittering pond. Amble through the bog garden and wild marsh, and take a breather at one of several sitting places, perfectly positioned to experience the best angles of the garden. Find a campsite in Wales that will allow you to explore more of this beautiful town.

    Tent Camping at Fishguard

    Fishguard

    Fishguard. holleng1509

    Pitch a tent at our quiet Fishguard tent pitch available camping site and enjoy the beauty of the coastline or countryside. Kitewood Camping is a secluded and peaceful tent-only camping space just 5 minutes from the Pembrokeshire coast. The site sits in 60 lush acres of stunning woodland and rests a trifling 5-minute drive from Fishguard, providing campers with the best of the Welsh Hills and the coastline. Shaded by tall, leafy trees, spacious primitive forest pitches create the feel of being away from it all while providing ample privacy. Campers can enjoy the luxury of a private compost toilet and a shower with unlimited hot water. Each pitch also features a campfire area with a fire pit, a picnic table, and a grill. What's not to like?

    Family-friendly camping is the order of the day at Hillfort Camping, a fab site within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. Wake up to sweeping clifftop views and end the day with stunning sunsets, followed by stargazing around a campfire or barbecue grill. The mellow atmosphere is perfect for unwinding, all while enjoying proximity to Goodwick, Fishguard, and St Davids, all located under a 30-minute drive from the site. An abundance of wildlife flourishing in an area that has remained unfarmed for over 60 years creates a beautiful setting for kids. Standard amenities are available, and pets are welcome to tag along.

    Hillfort Tipi and Campsite Holidays enjoys a lovely location nestled in pristine Pembrokeshire countryside within the renowned Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. The site rests on a stunning clifftop location affording stunning vistas, glorious sunsets and clear skies for nights of stargazing.

    As the name suggests, Trellyn Woodland Camping is a fine base for escaping the world. The campsite enjoys a delightfully tranquil and scenic location in a woodland valley by the ocean. This handy position provides ample shelter from the elements and is particularly ideal for tent campers in search of a lovely coastal base where the winds do not batter or damage tents. Sit around the campfire and listen to the wind whispering through the landscape as you enjoy the laid-back, almost wild approach to camping.

    Campsites at Fishguard for Motorhomes

    Hop in your motorhome and go to Llwyngwair Manor Holiday Park, a beautifully maintained motorhome supporting camping space in Fishguard overlooked by the Preseli mountains. The site enjoys a lovely location on manicured manor grounds with plenty of natural beauty and a handy location only a mile from the coast. Angling enthusiasts will no doubt have difficulty staying away from the site’s private river with a thriving trout and salmon population. Spend your holiday exploring the serene woodlands, open meadows and excellent play areas with your kids.

    Ty Parke Farm Campsite takes an eco-friendly approach to camping, with large pitches for tents, small campervans and motorhomes. The owners permit a limited number of guests, ensuring all campers have space and peace throughout their stay. Spread out on your generous grass pitch in a secluded area or an open field, and set up awnings and other camping bits without worrying about stepping into your neighbour's pitch. Each base also enjoys a barbeque grill, campfire pit and a picnic bench. Pizza nights paired with cracking campfires and sizzling grills are ideal for relaxing evenings under the stars.

    Ty Parke Farm Campsite is the place to be for secluded, spacious camping and glamping, just minutes from the stunning coastline. Stretch out on acres of space, and enjoy the thrills of traditional camping including campfires, and barbeques.

    If you enjoy horsing about in open green spaces, go to Dyfed Shire Horse Farm, Wales's only dedicated Shire Horse Farm. The Lewis family have been on the farm since 1849 and will celebrate 175 years in 2024. Nature lovers of all ages can meet, pet and feed gentle horses on a traditional Welsh farm. The owners now offer a dog-sitting service for campers, which is perfect for those days you want to visit an attraction that isn't pet-friendly. Kick back on an optional electric grass pitch and settle in for a restful escape.

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  • Caravan Camping at Fishguard

    Glasfryn Escapes is a small family-run space in Pembrokeshire, enjoying a peaceful and scenic location above Fishguard and Goodwick. Step out of your caravan to spectacular ocean views over the harbour, and enjoy the extra room to stretch out and whip up a light breakfast courtesy of the limited number of pitches on the grounds. The owners have created a lovely camping space with just ten pitches and a separate car-free tent-only camping meadow for those keen to camp under canvas. Purchase seasonal vegetables and fresh eggs courtesy of the site’s hens, and sit around the campfire to enjoy a hearty breakfast. Newport, Tenby and St Davids are a quick drive away, and the site is very close to kayaking trips nearby.

    Awaken to glorious sunrises from your beautiful hilltop location at Glasfryn Escapes, a stunning site with lovely sea vistas and incredible sunset skies. Explore Fishguard, a pretty little spot with a charming harbour and all the amenities required for a relaxing stay.

    Fall in love with the exquisite Pembrokeshire coastline and marvel at the ever-changing hues of green on the cliffs and patchwork of countryside at Hendre Eynon Caravan and Camping Site. The camping field is specious and flat, with plots lined around the boundary to provide the wee ones with ample room for ball games and other open-air frolics. All the expected amenities are provided, and there is a dedicated dog walking field for holidaying canines. Explore attractions like St David Cathedral or sign up for adventure and activities on the Pembrokeshire coastline. You can explore more caravan friendly camping sites in Fishguard on Camperbug.

    Fishguard Pods

    Let out a sigh of contentment as you admire glorious coastal views at Fishguard Bay Resort, a fab camping and glamping site ideally located for exploring Fishguard and the surrounding Pembrokeshire coastline. With some of the finest beaches a short drive away and a vast selection of outdoor activities mere minutes away, it's no wonder that this well-equipped site is a hit with adventuring sorts of varying needs and budgets. Book a stay in the beautiful glamping pods, each tastefully decorated and furnished for four guests. Head out for coastal capers or kick back and enjoy the excellent amenities and views of your peaceful abode. For more pod friendly campsites in Fishguard, check out our Fishguard campsite page.

    Per night prices in

    Fishguard Bay Caravan and Camping Park is a family-run site enjoying an enviable location in the very heart of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. The campsite is a sight to behold and provides campers with spectacular views of the coast.

    Campervan at Fishguard Prices

    Before you head out on your campervan road trip in Fishguard, you’ll need to know the costs of a road trip. How much should you budget for this holiday? If you have your touring vehicle, consider renting it out on Camperbug. Campervan prices depend entirely on the model of choice, the number of days you will be on holiday, and the hiring season. Our campervan owner often provides extras like awnings and tables, adding to your overall rental fee. Our campervans in Fishguard start at £80 a night. Before confirming your booking, ask the owner if insurance is included, and check if you are eligible for the provided policy.

    Campervan Hire Near Pembrokeshire

    Fishguard Harbour

    Fishguard Harbour. Chris Shipton

    For travelers traveling further afield, campervan hire Cardiff services offer an excellent hub for your Welsh vacation. If you prefer a range of options or want to drive into Fishguard from a nearby location, consider hiring a campervan in Goodwick, Newport or Spittal. These towns are so beautiful that you should spend a few days exploring the local attractions before going to Fishguard. Use our straightforward website to find the best campervans near you. Use your location feature, click on the correct county on our campervan maps, or type in a town or postcode and let the system provide the best campervan options. Our private owners have been vetted, and we aim to provide safe, clean and well-equipped vehicles for all road trip escapes. Visit our Pembrokeshire Campervan hire page for more campervan hire in Pembrokeshire.

    From the convenient base of Goodwick, you can explore the jagged cliffs and sandy shores of Goodwick Beach, potter around nearby Fishguard, and look forward to a relaxing seaside escape, complete with viewsome walks and a plethora of local marine life. The nearby Fishguard Harbour offers scenic views and access to boat trips along the beautiful coastline. With the flexibility of a campervan hire in Goodwick, you can immerse yourself fully in the striking coastal landscapes, rumble into picturesque surroundings, and potter around this charming port town. We have more campervans in Abercastle, campervans in Newport, campervans in Llwyndyrys, campervans in Trefin, campervans in Spittal, campervans in Penycwm and campervans in Roch.

    Price Per Day: £90 in August, £70 in September, £70 in October.

    Age: 25-75

    Travel: UK Only

    Gearbox: Manual

    A 2010 Brazilian-built VW T2 camping conversion by Danbury. She has a modern water-cooled engine which is both reliable and economical.

    If you’re starting your adventure near Fishguard, why not look at our campervans in Newport? You’re within driving distance of Fishguard and at the perfect gateway to an exciting array of outdoor attractions. With your campervan, you can explore the stunning Pembrokeshire Coast Path, winding near the town, and fall in love with picture-postcard views of dramatic cliffs and the sweeping ocean. The nearby Newport Sands has a scenic beach ideal for gentle strolls and watersports, while the lush landscape of the Nevern Valley invites peaceful hikes and wildlife spotting. The freedom of a campervan lets you thoroughly enjoy Newport’s natural beauty and make the most of its varied points of interest. We list 85 campervans and motorhomes in Newport, and recommend campervans for hire in Marshfield, campervans for hire Castleton, campervans for hire Wentlooge, campervans for hire Michaelstone Y Fedw, campervans for hire Rogerstone, campervans for hire Coedkernew, campervans for hire Pye, campervans for hire Graig, campervans for hire Duffryn, campervans for hire Tredegar Park and campervans for hire Shaftesbury.

    Book a campervan in Spital from our private owners and open the door to scenic adventures in the tranquil countryside of Pembrokeshire. The village rests near the beautiful Spittal Common and peaceful rolling hills, and there is no better way to explore the area than in a campervan rental. A campervan provides the perfect way to explore the lush landscapes around Spittal and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere. With easy access to the picturesque Spittal Marsh and the charming local woodlands, you can immerse your senses in outdoor activities like hiking and nature walks, all while being free to discover the area’s hidden gems at your own pace.. If you’re searching for more options, check out our campervans in Wales, campervans in Crundale, campervans in Cardigan campervans in Haverfordwest, campervans in Pelcomb Cross, campervans in Druidston, campervans in Nolton Haven and campervans in Llandeloy.

    Price Per Day: £90 in August, £70 in September, £70 in October.

    Age: 25-70

    Travel: Local Area Only

    Gearbox: Manual

    Cosmo is practically perfect in every way. Handsome and eye-catching with his shiny two-tone finish. Practical for one person wanting to get away from it all, perfect for a couples romantic break, or just right for a family looking for a cosy yet surprisingly spacious way to explore the rugged Welsh coast.

    What is The History Of Fishguard Harbour?

    Fishguard Harbour is one of the historical key points in the last invasion of mainland Britain. It was constructed in 1781 after an attack by an American privateer named Stephen Manhant, or the Black Prince, who the United States Government commissioned to attack British targets to gain independence. The Black Prince and his crew sailed under the French flag to support the American Revolutionary efforts and were said to have destroyed more than 30 British ships in three months. The Black Prince captured a local ship and demanded a ransom; however, the resolute locals would not cave to his demands, which resulted in the town being bombarded with cannon fire, damaging St Mary’s Church and several houses. A local ship and a cannon on shore fired back, deterring Manhunt from pursuing his plans.

    The fort was built to prevent further attacks and armed with eight cannons. On the 22nd of February 1797, a French invasion force made its way down the Welsh Coast. The garrison of Fishguard fired blanks in response, conserving a limited supply of cannon balls. The sound of the booming cannon dissuaded the French from invading Fishguard Harbour, and they sailed further down the coast to Strumble Head, ravaging the countryside for a few days. The last invasion of Britain was the only action to spark a flurry of activity at the fort, which was manned and maintained until the early 19th century before being allowed to decay.

    The fort rests a short stroll from the free parking area on the A487 coastal route. Follow the signposted trail, and the fort will come into view in about 100 yards. Explore the ammunition room and visit the four restored cannons on the gun. What really makes the fort a must-see are the gorgeous panoramic views over Fishguard Harbour and Goodwick.

    From Fishguard, Explore More of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park

    From ancient standing stones, deep natural harbours and relaxing walks to spectacular coastlines and sprawling gardens, Fishguard is a beautiful stop on your campervan road trip through North Wales. We hope you enjoyed this part of our road trip itinerary at this lovely coastal town that offers plenty more than just beaches and seaside frolics.

    We have many more exciting places to visit, so look forward to the next segment of our exciting A Complete Itinerary for a Road Trip Through West Wales - a holiday discovering the famed Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

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