Things to do

Things to Do When Staying at Ffynnongrog

There is no shortage of things to explore while staying at Ffynnongrog. Within just an hour of our holiday cottages, you can find outdoor walks, beaches, castles, parks, and more. Everyone staying in this beautiful part of the world will find something unforgettable in Mwnt and its surrounding areas.

We’ve sorted everything we can think of in distance order. I hope our selection helps you decide what you want to do during your stay!

The Shed at Mwnt

Distance: 1 minute drive, 3 minute walk

Just down the lane from Ffynnongrog is The Shed at Mwnt, a popular wedding and events venue situated within acres of rolling countryside.

While its primary function is events hosting, The Shed is sometimes open at weekends to serve food and drinks to the general public.

When staying at Ffynnongrog, guests can wander across in the evening for a few drinks or to enjoy one of the live bands which might be playing. You may even have the opportunity to catch a stunning sunset while staying warm around the outdoor fire pit.

Coastal Path

Distance: Varies (minimum 2 minute drive, 10 minute walk)

From Ffynnongrog, guests can join the famous Wales Coast Path and explore the surrounding area. You can travel north towards Aberporth (5 miles), which boasts two beaches and gorgeous rock pools, or head south towards the beautiful cliff-top coastal village of Gwbert.

Wales is the only country in the world where people can walk around the entire coastline. The most ambitious walkers or those looking to take on a sponsored challenge can embark upon the complete 870-mile journey, estimated to take 12-18 days depending on fitness levels. Ffynnongrog is perfectly located for keen walkers who are looking to jump on this scenic part of the coastal path around Wales.

Mwnt Beach

Distance: 2 minute drive, 12 minute walk)

Located just minutes from Ffynnongrog, Mwnt Beach is part of the Cardigan Bay Special Area of Conservation and is a must-see for people who come to stay in Ceredigion. It boasts stunning views for miles and on a sunny day is the perfect place to relax and unwind. There are plenty of walking paths for the more active visitors, and sandy coves for those who want to soak up the serene atmosphere or sunbathe on the beach.

Owned by the National Trust, members can enjoy free parking while non-members can park all day for £4. Toilets are available at Mwnt Beach and there is a kiosk which sells drinks, snacks, and beach essentials (The range of items they sell is amazing and extremely good prices).

Note: Dogs are not allowed on the beach between May and September.

Eglwys y Grog (Holy Cross Church)

Distance: 2 minute drive, 12 minute walk

Located next to Mwnt Beach and a short walk from Ffynnongrog, Holy Cross Church has a rich history and makes for a fantastic photograph in all weathers. Dating as far back as the 13th century, it was originally built for sailors to have easier access to a place of worship. It is now open to visitors every day.

The whitewashed stone walls and medieval roof of Holy Cross Church make it an eye-catching landmark among the vast greenery and winding coastline roads. If you step inside the church, you can check out the old Norman font and the timber ceilings which have been restored.

Dolphin Spotting

Distance: Varies (minimum 2 minute drive, 12 minute walk)

Cardigan Bay is home to Europe’s largest dolphin population, which makes Mwnt Beach and other hotspots along the coastline prime vantage points for spotting these sea creatures. Visitors often travel specifically to Mwnt to see dolphins leaping out of the water from points all along the coast. It is recommended to take binoculars with you for even better views.

It’s not just the dolphins that often make an appearance along the coastlines. Seals, porpoises, and whales are also spotted regularly at Mwnt and other beaches near Cardigan Bay. Venturing out into the water on a kayak or paddleboard can give you an even closer view of the sea life.

There have even been sightings of killer whales, they have been spotted three times off the coast of Mwnt, believed to have been hunting salmon and sea trout near the Teifi estuary. Did you know a killer whales isn’t a whale? It’s actually a dolphin. It used to be called whale killer but got flipped over time.

With a pair of binoculars and a keen eye, you could even stand a chance of seeing dolphins at the foot of Mwnt Hill from the Ffynnongrog cottages.

Foel y Mwnt (Mwnt Hill)

Distance: 2 minute drive, 13 minute walk

The place that gave Mwnt its name, visitors who want an outdoor adventure with gorgeous views and scenery can take a hike up Foel y Mwnt, also known as Mwnt Hill. There is a steeper direct route to the top of the hill, or a longer route with less of an incline which you can take instead.

Walking around Mwnt Hill will give you picturesque views of the beach and coastline for miles. If you make it all the way to the summit, you can enjoy a panoramic experience looking out towards Cardigan Bay. Generally, it shouldn’t take you more than 10 minutes to climb up.

Felinwynt Playbarn and Cafe

Distance: 6 minute drive, 40 minute walk

A 6-minute drive away, Felinwynt Playbarn and Cafe is a great place to visit with children and is an ideal spot for a rainy day. There is a soft play area suitable for children up to 10 years old, with entry fees between £1 – £4.50 depending on age.

Visitors can purchase hot and cold drinks as well as food from the café. You can enjoy eating indoors or outdoors while looking out at breath-taking coastal views.

Cardigan Island Coastal Farm Park

Distance: 10 minute drive

A short drive away near the village of Gwbert, Cardigan Island Coastal Farm Park is a great choice for a family day out. You can reach this family-run farm within minutes by car. Animal-loving children can spend hours petting the ponies and llamas, or cuddle smaller animals such as rabbits and guinea pigs.

There is a football pitch, a large sandpit, swings and indoor play areas for children of all ages to enjoy. The café is open every day from 10am until 5pm, serving meals until 4pm and snacks and drinks afterwards.

Visitors are welcome to bring their dogs as long as they are kept on a lead. Entry prices are £4.90 for people over the age of 13, £3.90 for children aged 2-13, and free entry for children under 2 years old.

Theatr Mwldan

Distance: 10 minute drive

Just a few minutes away is a theatre which screens most of the latest films as well as live theatre shows and classes.

With 3D screenings available, and host to more than 3,000 films and shows every year, Theatr Mwldan reopened in September 2021 to begin screening films again to visitors after a long period of closure due to the Covid-19 lockdown.

Regular cinema prices are £7.70 for adults and £5.90 for children. Theatr Mwldan is a great place to visit when the weather isn’t good or if you want somewhere indoors to relax in the evening while keeping the whole family entertained.

Cardigan Guildhall Market

Distance: 10 minute drive

This indoor-outdoor market is a piece of Welsh history. It is located in Cardigan town, and the indoor section is housed within the first modern Gothic-style building in Britain. The market first welcomed visitors in 1860 and to this day remains a busy place to visit – with an array of vendors across two floors selling crafts, antiques, toys, and more.

The market also has a café with indoor and outdoor seating for those who want to take a break. Free Wifi is available for visitors who want to connect to the internet. You can also pick up a range of souvenirs to remember your trip or take back home to family and friends, however we think Mwnt Kiosk is has a good selection of souvenirs.

Cardigan Town

Distance: 10 minute drive

The picturesque Welsh town of Cardigan takes about 12 minutes to reach by car from Ffynnongrog. With colourful stone buildings and waterside views, it’s a great choice for a relaxed day out when staying here.

Stroll along the River Teifi, wander through the streets, and check out the wealth of family-run businesses selling everything from clothing and jewellery to meats and baked goods.

Try the Mexican street food at El Salsa, a popular eatery which attracts visitors from miles around. Check out the menu at Yr Hen Printworks, a small family-run restaurant offering a variety of high-quality dishes, you can even have organic welsh black steak from their family farm in Mwnt. Visitors can also enjoy local fish and chips by the estuary.

The Copper Pot (Cardigan)

Distance: 10 minute drive

Brilliant little restaurant in the high street. The staff are friendly and the prices are quite fair for the quality of food. They have sofas towards the back where you can enjoy a drink and watch the kitchen, it’s a nice way to start.

We recommend the Korean chicken, it was so nice and I usually never choose chicken when eating out. They do a take away menu as well… maybe I should go and get some of that chicken now?

Parking is no problem in the evenings, the main car parks and high streets are all free after 6pm. If it’s lunchtime in the summer you’re best going to one of the main car parks and finding a spot.

If you’re looking for a place to eat out during your stay, you should definitely try The Copper Pot 🙂

Wildlife Watching Trips

Distance: 10 minute drive

Drive a few miles from Ffynnongrog and you can take boating and wildlife watching trips around Cardigan Bay. With a dense population of dolphins, this Special Conservation Area is the ideal place to spot these gorgeous sea creatures. While venturing out around Cardigan Island, you may also spot Atlantic grey seals as well as a range of seabirds.

A Bay To Remember offers boating trips between 1-2 hours, suitable for children from the age of 4. All the trips pass by Mwnt, with the longer trips going towards Aberporth and even as far as Tresaith, Llangrannog and Ynys Lochtyn – with up to 90% chance of spotting dolphins.

The tour guides help to make this an informative and enjoyable experience for visitors to Cardigan Bay, pointing out the different wildlife species you may come across. It’s highly recommended to wrap up if you are taking a boat trip, since the temperature can be very cold out on the water.

Cardigan Castle

Distance: 10 minute drive

While not as large or grand as other castles in Wales, 900-year-old Cardigan Castle is still a piece of Welsh history which is worth a visit when wandering around the town especially on a rainy day.

Take a tour around this medieval castle guided by an informative guide who will share details of its rich and interesting past. Facts about the castle are shared through videos, text, tour guides, and images around the building.

More than 130 different plants live in the Regency style Grade II listed gardens of Cardigan Castle, making Cardigan Castle a popular attraction with keen gardeners and nature lovers.

Its restaurant overlooking the review, situated within a Georgian mansion, is a unique place to dine if you want to try something a bit different.

The entry price is £6 for adults and £3 for children. Dogs are allowed at a cost of £1 per dog, with maximum 2 dogs per visitor, and must be kept on a lead at all times.

Cardigan Bay Active

Distance: 12 minute drive

Located several minutes’ drive from the cottages at Ffynnongrog, Cardigan Bay Active offers a wide range of activities for sporty or active visitors.

Coasteering is perfect for those who want to explore the hidden caves and coves around Cardigan and surrounding coastlines. Canoe trips along Teifi Gorge offer beautiful views and plenty to see – you may even spot otters, red deer, and kingfishers while on the water.

Stand up paddle boarding is a great experience for all the family on a sunny day, with the chance to ride small waves if you feel adventurous enough. Go on a white water rafting trip through the Welsh countryside, or try sea kayaking and take your chances at seeing a dolphin or two.

Outside of the water, visitors to Cardigan Bay Active can try archery and axe throwing, climbing and abseiling, or even start a campfire and learn other essential outdoor tips from the Bushcraft sessions.

Custom House Shop and Gallery

Distance: 13 minute drive

For the past 25 years, local artists in Wales have showcased their work at the Custom House Shop and Gallery in Cardigan. Most of the items for sales have been handcrafted by talented photographers and craftspeople based in Cardigan and Aberteifi, making them unique souvenirs and mementos from your visit to this town.

On a rainy day in Cardigan, this is one of the indoor places you can find shelter while learning more about what the local area has to offer. From antique furniture to contemporary paintings, there is something which will appeal to art lovers of all kinds.

Aberporth

Distance: 13 minute drive

Aberporth is the next village along the coast from Mwnt when heading northeast, and is a bustling place to visit during the summer.

Aberporth Beach attracts thousands of visitors every year for swimming, diving, and other water sports. It’s also a popular beach for spotting marine life as well, and has a famous carved wooden sculpture of a dolphin where people enjoy taking photographs. Dogs are not allowed on the east part of Aberporth beach during May-September.

The seaside village nearby has a few shops, a café, and a pub. Visitors often stop here before continuing a walk along the Wales Coast Path. You can walk to Aberporth from Mwnt using the coastal path. Previous guests have said it can take a few hours but then if planned right, you can catch the bus back.

St. Dogmaels Abbey, St. Thomas’ Church, and Coach House Museum

Distance: 15 minute drive

There is free entry to the Abbey at St. Dogmaels, St. Thomas’ Church, and also to the Coach House Museum next door. Dating back hundreds of years, St. Dogmaels Abbey and St. Thomas’ Church have plenty of history to offer, and visitors can find relics and artefacts from centuries gone by.

The Coach House Museum gives a chronological history of the Abbey and the Christian settlement in the area, with details from as far back as the 4th century.

The Visitor Centre has a café for those looking for food and drinks, or you can venture out into the surrounding village of St. Dogmaels where there is a fish and chip shop.

Tresiath Beach

Distance: 18 minute drive

A little village next to Aberporth, Tresaith is home to a small yet beautiful Welsh beach. It is a popular destination for windsurfing and sailing as well as swimming and kayaking. Its gorgeous rockpools and waterfalls attract many visitors every year, and families with young children choose Tresaith precisely because it is a quieter option. Dogs are only allowed on a small section of the beach between May and September.

There is limited parking available at Tresaith Beach, and public toilets which can be accessed by wheelchair users. In the local village, a pub, café and shop provide tourists with all the essentials needed for a great day out.

When the tide is low, visitors can walk from Tresaith Beach to Penbryn, a larger beach with dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches. However, dogs are not allowed on Penbryn Beach at all between May and September.

Poppit Sands Beach

Distance: 20 minute drive

Sand dunes and a backdrop of rolling hills, Poppit Sands Beach is among the most popular in the area and attracts walkers, sunbathers, and water sports fanatics alike. While at this beach you are likely to see people kayaking, surfing, and on the look-out for wildlife.

It is accessible for wheelchair users and others with limited mobility, and there is a pay-and-display car park with plenty of parking for visitors.

There is a café on the beach serving drinks and snacks, and shops and other eateries in the nearby area. A lifeboat station is located at Poppit Sands Beach due to the high numbers of people visiting to take part in water sports.

From May to September, dogs are not allowed on the western part of Poppit Sands Beach.

Cilgerran Castle

Distance: 20 minute drive

Cilgerran Castle is only a short drive out of Cardigan. It’s located in a small village and is a little tricky to find! You’re best parking in the street and walking to it from there.

It’s honestly a great castle with a beautiful backdrop of the River Teifi and woodlands. You’re free to go throughout the castle, nothing is restricted which is refreshing. You can climb the stairs in the castle towers, walk across the bridges and walk along the top looking out at the view.

It’s owned by the National Trust. Many visitors state that it’s free to enter and it was for us as locals get in for free. However if you’re not a member it may be that you pay as a donation. Contactless card is available or potentially cash if the shop is open. Public toilets are available and picnic tables are on site.

It’s well worth visiting!

Dyfed Shire Horse Farm

Distance: 21 minute drive

Horse lovers can visit the beautiful Shires at Dyfed Shire Horse Farm and explore what a working Welsh farm is really like.

This attraction is suitable for the whole family. You can take the Land Train Ride around the paddocks where and meet the horses, or enjoy a memorable Horse and Carriage ride.

The entry price for adults is £7.95. Children’s tickets are £7.45 and those under 3 years old can enter for free. Visitors are asked to book online in advance or email Dyfed Shire Horse Farm directly to make a booking.

Welsh Wildlife Centre

Distance: 22 minute drive

The whole family can explore nature trails, spot interesting wildlife, and enjoy a fun-filled day out at the Welsh Wildlife Centre. Located in the Teifi Marshes Nature Reserve, it’s highly recommended to take binoculars when you visit so you have the best chance of seeing birds and animals up close.

The Explorer Trail is accessible for wheelchair users, while the Gorge Trail is ideal for those who want a more rugged walk. In total, there are 264 acres of land and wildlife to explore – including buffalo, dolphins, and kingfishers.

Adventure Backpacks for children are available for hire, filled with fun activities to enjoy while exploring the site. The Visitors Centre, which includes a café and gift shop, is open from Wednesday to Sunday.

Castell Henllys Iron Age Village

Distance: 24 minute drive

This experience allows visitors to take a deeper dive into the history of Wales, with Iron Age roundhouses reconstructed by archaeologists and other experts now standing on the same ground they would have stood more than two millenniums ago.

Tour guides dressed in costumes similar to those worn by ancient tribes take guests around the site to explain more about the rich history of Castell Henlyss. You must book your tickets and choose a time slot before visiting, and you can download the Castell Henlyss app to help you on your visit around this popular Pembrokeshire attraction.

Walk around the sandy barefoot trails to replicate what people centuries ago would have done, and see which animals you can spot from the range of wildlife living here.

The entry fee for children between 4-16 years old is £4.50, rising to £6.50 for adults, while it is free for children under 4 years old.

Cenarth Falls

Distance: 24 minute drive

Located in the small village of Cenarth, many people visit this place especially for the waterfalls and pools. The Cenarth Falls is a popular spot for seeing salmon leaping out of the water – an unforgettable experience particularly for first timers.

Surrounded by greenery and with an understated stone bridge over the river, Cenarth Falls is a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy a picnic on a sunny day. Overlooking the waterfalls you will find a flour mill which dates back to the 13th century, and a Coracle museum next door (coracles are small one-person boats used for fishing).

In the village of Cenarth you can eat and drink at the Three Horseshoes Inn, the White Hart Inn, or Tŷ Te Cenarth Tea Rooms which serves afternoon tea and other meals.

During summer months they charge £3 for parking. You may be able to find parking nearby for free.

Llangrannog

Distance: 27 minute drive

This gorgeous seaside town features a beach, a waterfall, and a variety of small businesses to explore. There is a beach shop selling all the summer essentials, and a café selling food and drinks.

One of the features which attracts many people to Llangrannog every year is ‘Carreg Bica’, a large rock on the sandy beach. Legend has it that this large rock was a giant’s tooth, giving it an air of mystery that draws in the locals and tourists alike.

Dogs are not allowed on some parts of the beach between May and September.

Newcastle Emlyn

Distance: 30 minute drive

The Teife Valley is thought to be one of the most beautiful in Wales, and Newcastle Emlyn is a stunning historic market town situated within it. A short drive from Ffynnongrog, it is an ideal place to spend a few hours enjoying the local culture and creations.

The Bunch of Grapes is a popular 17th century pub serving a range of food and drink options, while Butterflies Tea Room offers visitors a quintessentially British experience and caters to various dietary requirements including gluten free. Theatre fans can visit the Attic Theatre, and the whole family can enjoy Newcastle Emlyn Castle or the famous outdoor King George V Playing Fields.

A range of independent and family-run businesses in Newcastle Emlyn offer some brilliant options for souvenirs and mementos from your trip to Wales.

New Quay Honey Farm

Distance: 30 minute drive

Open 6 days a week, New Quay Honey Farm is a popular attraction in Llandysul, just half an hour’s drive from Ffynnongrog. A family business since 1995, this is the ideal place to learn about the fascinating world of beekeeping while trying some of the local Ceredigion honey.

The ‘Bees Behind Glass’ exhibition hosted at New Quay Honey Farm gives visitors the chance to see bees up close and safely behind glass panels. Tickets are £3.75 per adult and £2.50 per child.

As well as producing delicious honey from more than 500 beehives, New Quay Honey Farm also produces mead – an ancient alcoholic drink made from fermented honey. Guests can try a variety of different meads from the ‘meadery’.

And if you are extremely interested in beekeeping, New Quay Honey Farm offers two-day courses to give people the confidence and knowledge to set up their own beehives.

Cwmtydu Beach

Distance: 35 minute drive

Cwmtydu Beach is surrounded by idyllic coves where seals are often found raising their pups. The pastures surrounding the beach are also home to wild horses, making Cwmtydu a great place for animal lovers to visit. It’s important to observe wild animals from a distance and avoid getting too close to the seals on the beach especially in September and October when they are raising their young.

Historically, the beach is believed to have been a harbour used for smugglers to hide away when they reached land. Nowadays, hundreds of people visit for adventurous walks and beautiful views, but the lime kilns – a reminder of the history of Cwmtydu – can still be seen along the pathways.

Car parking is available and public toilets are open for visitors. Dogs are not allowed on certain parts of the beach between May and September.

Cei Bach Beach

Distance: 36 minute drive

Also known as Little Quay, Cei Bach Beach attracts birdwatchers and wildlife lovers as well as visitors who want to watch a gorgeous sunset. It is a popular beach for spotting dolphins and other sea animals. When the tide is low, you can walk to New Quay Harbour in 20 minutes.

Although it is a popular beach, Cei Bach tends to be quieter than some of the other beaches nearby, such as New Quay Beach. It is the perfect location if you are looking for a quieter, more tranquil spot.

Dogs are welcome on all areas of the beach all year round. There is a free car park for visitors, and a toilet nearby.

New Quay

Distance: 38 minute drive

Brimming with local history, gorgeous coastlines, and Instagram-worthy views, New Quay has much to offer its visitors. Kayaks and paddleboards can be hired from Cardigan Bay Watersports, with children from the age of 8 welcome to take part. Taster sessions and lessons in sailing and surfing are available, giving you the chance to try new experiences along the Welsh coast.

Harbour Beach is the main beach at New Quay, situated amid painted homes and colourful boats on the harbour. If you’re visiting in August, you might have the chance to see the annual Cardigan Bay Regatta where keen sailors take part in races over three days.

The other side of the harbour is home to Dolau Beach and Traeth Gwyn. These two beaches are more popular with dog walkers since dogs are not allowed on Harbour Beach.

Around New Quay there are a range of cycling and walking routes, connecting this coastal town with other popular locations nearby – such as Aberystwyth and Newport.

Aberaeron

Distance: 38 minute drive

Aberaeron is a much-loved Welsh coastal town which draws visitors to its colourful and quaint buildings every year. Situated on the Wales Coast Path, it is perfectly located for those who are enjoying a long walk along the coastline. But it’s also a fantastic option for a day out wandering around a beautiful town that has something different and unique to offer.

You can relax next to the harbour and watch boats coming in and out, or eat at The Cellar – a popular restaurant serving mussels, shrimp, and other seafood sourced from the nearby county of Carmarthenshire.

A personal favourite of ours is McCowans. It’s a very nice place for breakfast or lunch, and we often stop by for a coffee and baguette. The cakes are lovely too!

Keen photographers often visit this town to snap some stunning photographs at all times of the day. From sunrises over the colourful brick buildings to sunsets over the harbour, there are endless breath-taking moments to capture here.

Fishguard

Distance: 40 minute drive

A delightful coastal town with gorgeous walks and ancient woodlands to explore, Fishguard makes a great day trip when staying at Ffynnongrog. Around 40 minutes’ drive from the cottages, you can visit the main town at the top of a hill, or stroll around the idyllic harbour and take a walk along the river.

We recommend parking at the old harbour then walking up the hill to the old fort to see the cannons and nice views.

The famous fortress protected Britain against the last invasion of 1797, and the town hall houses a large tapestry to commemorate the milestone. The Last Invasion Tapestry is more than 100 feet in size, and took the skill and dedication of more than 80 women from Fishguard.

Elsewhere in Fishguard, visitors can take part in water sports such as paddleboarding along the coastline, while classical music lovers visiting in August and September might catch the Fishguard International Music Festival which runs for 10 days.

From the town centre, a shuttlebus will take you to Strumble Head in around 20 minutes, where a quaint lighthouse sits on a small island in the middle of miles of greenery and coastal views.

Preseli Hills

Distance: 50 minutes drive

Standing at 536 metres above sea level, the Preseli Hills rise dramatically over Pembrokeshire and offer fantastic walks to those visiting the area. When you want to step back from the Welsh coastline, you can reach this incredible part of the world in less than an hour’s drive from Ffynnongrog. Dogs are welcome on the many walks available.

The Golden Road is a 7-mile stretch across the Preseli Hills and boasts views as far out as Ireland. On a clear day, the stunning surroundings from the top of these historic hills – with Foel Cwmcerwyn as the highest point – arguably rival any in the entirety of Wales.

One of the tallest mountains at Preseli Hills is Mynydd Carningli (or Carningli Mountain), home to a wishing well and with stone remains at its peak. Once upon a time, the stones would have acted at a ring of defence around the summit of this mountain.

If you are travelling by car to walk the Golden Road, you can park at Bwlch Gwynt at the summit of the B4329.

Melin Tregwynt

Distance: 55 minute drive

In an idyllic valley and within the hamlet of Tregwynt, this whitewashed mill is teaming with centuries of history. Local farmers have been using the mill for around 400 years, and today there are still woollen blankets, cushions, and other items produced here.

It is free to visit Melin Tregwynt, which is run by a local family and open seven days a week. There is a café on site serving drinks, cakes, sandwiches and more, and a shop where you can buy products made in the mill.

Porthgain

Distance: 1 hour drive

Not far from the city of St Davids, Porthgain is located in the middle of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, offering plenty of outdoor walks and beautiful scenery. It was the set of ‘Their Finest’, a film starring Gemma Arterton released in 2017.

With coastal paths between Porthgain and neighbouring beaches, it is the perfect base to venture out and around the surrounding areas. The coastal path will lead you to the old quarry, and if you travel further you will arrive at the Blue Lagoon and Abermawr Beach.

Porthgain Harbour is a fantastic spot to take some memorable photos and enjoy the colourful sights and green hills nearby. The Harbour Lights Gallery houses artwork by talented local artists who take inspiration from this gorgeous seaside village.

When you’re ready for a rest, the Shed Bistro serves highly-rated seafood caught by local fishers in the area.

Aberystwyth

Distance: 1 hour 5 minutes drive

One of the most popular places in Wales for a holiday, there is something for everyone in Aberystwyth. It is one of the biggest towns in Wales while also being picturesque and peaceful with endless coastal views.

Cafés and restaurants overlook the harbour, situated on the rivers Rheidol and Ystwyth, with a marina which is home to dozens of characterful boats. Visitors can enjoy a range of food options in Aberystwyth, which caters well to vegetarians, vegans, and those with special dietary requirements.

From the centre of Aberystwyth town, you can climb up to the top of Constitution Hill. Standing 430 feet above sea level, visitors can enjoy views over Cardigan Bay and for hundreds of miles further. The Aberystwyth Cliff Railway operates every day between April and October, offering an alternative method of travel to the top of this staggering peak.

In the middle of the town is Aberystwyth Castle, with a story reaching as far back as the 13th century. Along with several other Welsh castles, Aberystwyth Castle was constructed by the order of the English King Edward I in 1277 as part of his efforts to conquer Wales.

If you’re visiting in the summer, you might catch the Aberystwyth Cycle Festival, which attracts hundreds of cyclers for an annual weekend of biking fun.

On Aberystwyth Beach, dogs are allowed on a section between the harbour and the jetty all year long. Dogs are not allowed on the main (north) beach between May and September.

Vale of Rheidol Railway, Aberystwyth

Distance: 1 hour 5 minutes drive

Take an unforgettable trip along the Rheidol Valley, transiting through woodland and into the village of Devil’s Bridge. You will be transported through decades of history while experiencing the sights and sounds of a traditional steam train.

A return journey from Aberystwyth to Devil’s Bridge costs £55 for two adults and takes around 2 hours, with an extra 1-hour stop in between to explore the town. While stopping off at Devil’s Bridge, check out the famous waterfalls – the subject of William Wordsworth’s 1824 poem. With the time available, visitors can try the ‘Punchbowl and 3 Bridges’ walk which takes around 20-30 minutes. The full walk takes at least 45 minutes and is not recommended for those with only a 1-hour stop in Devil’s Bridge.

Dogs are allowed on the trains at a cost of £4 each.

The Blue Lagoon, Abereiddi

Distance: 1 hour 5 minutes drive

With a rich industrial heritage, the Blue Lagoon at Abereiddi is a popular spot for watching seals and soaking up the dramatic atmosphere by the rugged rocks and crashing waves. The water is very cold and deep in many parts, so swimming and paddling is not recommended here. There are, however, group activities such as kayaking and coasteering which are organised in the summer.

The Blue Lagoon lies amid the remains of a quarry, which was active until 1910. On the clifftops, you can still see the ruins of the quarry, as well as workmen’s cottages and the foreman’s house.

The Blue Lagoon is not always open to the public due to the National Trust’s efforts to protect breeding seals, and may be closed during the second half of the year. It is recommended to check online before visiting to make sure this beach is open. Dogs are welcome on the beach all year round although it is recommended to keep them on a lead as this is a protected area.

Traeth Llyfn

Distance: 1 hour 5 minutes drive

Situated midway between the beautiful villages of Porthgain and Abereiddi, visitors can access the beach at Traeth Llyfn via a set of large and steep metal stairs. Even from the top of the stairs before climbing down, you can enjoy stunning views out towards the horizon.

Dogs are welcome on the beach all year round. Traeth Llyfn is not recommended for swimming since the waves can be strong and there are no lifeguards. Outside of the water, you can enjoy exploring the rock pools, sunbathing on the sand, playing games, and flying kites.

There are no facilities at Traeth Llyfn itself, but within less than 10 minutes by car you will reach the neighbouring villages of Porthgain on one side or Abereiddi on the other.

Saundersfoot

Distance: 1 hour 5 minutes drive

Saundersfoot is a popular destination for a day out if you love to try new and high-quality foods. A historic fishing village, Saundersfoot is now increasingly well-known for its range of gourmet foods, with The Stonecrab, Kookaba, and The Mulberry Restaurant among the most highly rated eateries.

When you’ve finished dining, take a stroll along the beautiful Saundersfoot Beach. It is popular for swimming and sunbathing during the summer, as well as dolphin and seal spotting. Dogs are not allowed between May and September. On the outskirts of the village and at the end of the beach you might spot Saundersfoot Lighthouse, which dates back to 1848.

To get an even better view of the area, take a ride on the Saundersfoot Sea Safari – a 1.5 hour boat trip around Tenby and Caldey Island. Tickets are £22 for adults and £18 for children.

Tenby

Distance: 1 hour 10 minutes drive

Among the most popular seaside towns in Wales, Tenby has plenty of history and local culture to offer. Tenby Castle Beach is a hotspot with people here, with its quaint jetty, pier, and bandstand. When the tide is low, visitors can take a boat from the beach to Caldey Island.

There is a café on the beach, and sun loungers and deck chairs are available to hire. On Castle Hill, there are toilets and an art gallery.

Dogs are not allowed on the beach at all from May to September. In the summer months from June to September, lifeguards are stationed on the beach for health and safety purposes.

Elsewhere in Tenby, the Dinosaur Park is a popular attraction with families. It has a range of activities, including a walking safari, golfing, go-karting, and water sports. Tickets are priced at £14.95 for adults and £13.75 for children aged 3-15.

St Davids

Distance: 1 hour 10 minutes drive

St Davids is the smallest city in the UK, as well as being the only city to be located within a national park. The city has barely 2,000 residents yet attracts as many as 300,000 tourists every year.

Despite only being named a city in 1994, St Davids has a rich history that draws hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. St Davids Cathedral, St Davids Bishop’s Palace, and Tower Gate are some of the key attractions to see here. You can also visit the remains of St Non’s Chapel, supposedly the birthplace of St David himself.

Whitesands Beach is one of the most visited in the area, with golden sands surrounded by green hills. Dogs are not allowed on any areas of the beach between May and September.

Bwlch Nant yr Arian Forest Visitor Centre

Distance: 1 hour 20 minutes drive

Located on top of a hill, Bwlch Nant yr Arian Forest Visitor Centre is a great place for anyone who loves the outdoors.

Since 1999, flocks of red kites have been fed by the lake at Bwlch Nant yr Arian as part of a conservation programme. In the summer months, visitors can watch them being fed at 3pm, while during winter their feeding time is 2pm. It is free to watch, and binoculars are recommended for the most extensive views.

Visitors can also enjoy horse riding, mountain biking, walking, cycling, and orienteering at Bwlch Nant yr Arian. Dogs are welcome, and there is a café and a paid car park.

Barafundle Bay

Distance: 1 hour 20 minutes drive

If you want another hidden treasure of a beach then head to Barafundle Bay! Reaching the beach isn’t as simple as most, you will have to park at the national trust car park then walk approximately 15 minutes along the cliffs. Due to this, it doesn’t get as busy.

Golden sands and crystal clear water. It’s almost like you’ve fell into Jurassic times, it’s well worth visiting.

This beach is dog friendly all year round.

Freshwater West Beach

Distance: 1 hour 20 minutes drive

In the Harry Potter film, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, (SPOLIER ALERT) Dobby the elf dies and is buried on Freshwater West Beach. This spot has become a popular location for Harry Potter fans to visit when staying in the surrounding areas.

Although further afield than many of the other beaches within driving distance of Ffynnongrog, it holds a special significance for fans of this hit film series. Visitors can even go to Dobby’s ‘grave’ and pay their own tributes to the famous fictional character.

There are two small car parks at the beach although they tend to fill up quickly in the summer. The southern car park is the best option for those with buggies or limited mobility since the northern car park is adjoined to the beach via hilly sand dunes.