Amroth Bay Holidays

Head straight for the sandy beach of Amroth, stretching the entire length of Amroth village: as well as the treetops poking up from the sand, the beach has been rich in archaeological finds such as Neolithic flints and fossilised animal bones, and has sweeping views of the coastline. There are a few pubs around for refreshment; the Amroth Arms on the seafront promenade and the New Inn behind the beach, which dishes up homemade grub. A short stroll from the beach will take you to the peaceful Colby Woods and Gardens, with family events and open-air theatre during the summer. The National Botanic Garden of Wales, the most visited garden in the country, and the ten-acre Aberglasny Gardens with its restored Elizabethan/Jacobean cloister and parapet walk are both within an accessible drive. There are a wealth of walks in the area from gentle strolls to strenuous hikes: the new Wales Coastal Path cuts through Amroth and there are several more well-known trails intersecting this part of Pembrokeshire, including the Knights Way, Pleasant Valley and the Miner’s Walk. The Pembrokeshire Coastal Path starts close to Amroth village and goes down to Wiseman’s Bridge then on to Saundersfoot and Tenby; you can walk along the beach to Wiseman’s at low tide. With bare feet, preferably. Castle connoisseurs will find rich pickings in Pembrokeshire; thirteenth century Picton Castle with guided tours and regular shenanigans such as outdoor theatre, music evenings and family fun days is just one of several in this history-rich county. Historyheads can also gorge themselves on abbeys, museums, manor houses and cathedrals; St Davids Cathedral at St Davids and the Pembrokeshire Motor Museum are good places to start off. For kids and big kids, the water park Blue Lagoon in Tenby has an indoor wave machine, flumes and a rapid rivers ride to hurtle along on; those wanting to stay dry can watch the action from the loungers and observation decks. Families can also make a splash at paintball (and archery, go-karting and golf) at the sports and theme park Heatherton, feel their stomachs drop on the rides of Oakwood Theme Park, and footle along to the fun fair and zoo at Folly Farm.