Porthclais Harbour is a peaceful cove near St Davids on Pembrokeshire’s spectacular western peninsula. It makes an excellent destination for walkers, families, photographers, and anyone looking for a peaceful afternoon.
Porthclais Harbour History
The harbour’s houses an impressive tidal mill, built beside the stream entering the harbour. The mill used tidal power to grind corn and operating during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Water was retained behind a dam as the tide flowed into the harbour. When released, the stored water turned machinery that powered the millstones.
Facilities
Porthclais has a small National Trust car park beside the harbour and privately run car park next to that. Parking charges apply, although National Trust members and Blue Badge holders can park free.
Current car parking costs £3 for up to three hours or £5 for all day. There are three Blue Badge spaces within the car park.
There are toilets within the National Trust car park.
Eating and Drinking
The Porthclais Kiosk occupies a charming former red-brick pump room beside the car park. It is locally run and provides hot drinks and homemade. You can also enjoy local ice cream.
For more choice, St Davids has several pubs, cafés, restaurants, and takeaways nearby.
Walks
Porthclais is an excellent starting point for exploring the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. You can enjoy a short stroll around the harbour and along the water’s edge. Longer walks can continue towards St Davids, St Justinian, or the Treginnis Peninsula.
Coastal paths can become steep, uneven, and slippery, especially after wet weather. Wear sturdy footwear and keep to the paths.
Activities
Porthclais offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures and wildlife watching. The harbour is popular for launching canoes and kayaks, particularly with organised activity groups.
Rock climbing is also popular on the rocky slabs east of the harbour entrance.
The shingle beach is not generally considered suitable for swimming although some people take a swim in harbour. Always check tide times before exploring the shoreline because incoming tides can cut off areas.
Why not stay in our Porthclais apartment for your visit to Porthclais Harbour.
