Strumble Head Lighthouse, Pembrokeshire
A striking 1908 lighthouse on a rocky islet, offering dramatic coastal views, seal watching and a powerful sense of maritime history on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.
Perched on a tiny island off the wild Pembrokeshire coast, Strumble Head Lighthouse is a striking white tower that has guided ships since 1908. Reached via the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, it offers dramatic sea views, seal and seabird watching, and a powerful sense of maritime history. The lighthouse itself is automated and not open to the public, but the surrounding headland and coastal paths provide an unforgettable experience of rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and sweeping Atlantic vistas.
A brief summary to Strumble Head Lighthouse
- Pencaer, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure parking, as the small car park fills quickly, especially in peak season and on fine days.
- Wear sturdy walking shoes and bring windproof clothing; the coastal path can be uneven, exposed and very windy.
- Bring binoculars for seal and seabird watching, and a camera to capture the lighthouse against the dramatic sea and sky.
- Visit at sunrise or in the hour before sunset for the best light and fewer crowds, and stay for blue hour to see the lighthouse beam in action.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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By car
From Fishguard or Goodwick, follow the A487 west and then take the signposted road to Strumble Head. The final approach is along a narrow, winding road with limited passing places; allow 15–20 minutes from Fishguard. A small free car park is located near the headland, but it fills quickly in good weather and on weekends.
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On foot
Strumble Head is accessible via the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. From Pwll Deri or the YHA near the coast, follow the marked coastal trail west for about 1.5–2 hours each way. The path is well‑maintained but can be steep, rocky and exposed; suitable footwear and weather‑appropriate clothing are essential.
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By local bus
Local bus services run between Fishguard and nearby villages; check the current timetable for stops closest to the Pembrokeshire Coast Path near Pwll Deri. From there, it’s a 1.5–2 hour walk along the coast to Strumble Head, with no direct bus to the lighthouse car park.
Strumble Head Lighthouse location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Strumble Head Lighthouse
A Sentinel on St Michael’s Island
Strumble Head Lighthouse stands on Ynys Meicel, a small rocky islet known in English as St Michael’s Island, just off the northwest tip of the Pencaer peninsula in Pembrokeshire. Built by Trinity House and first lit in January 1908, this cylindrical stone tower was designed to warn vessels of the treacherous stretch of coast between Fishguard Harbour and Ireland. Rising 17 metres with a white tower and lantern, it flashes four white lights every 15 seconds, visible up to 26 nautical miles across the Irish Sea. The lighthouse is Grade II listed, a testament to its architectural and historical significance as one of the last lighthouses built in Britain.Engineering on the Edge
The original optical system was a marvel of early 20th‑century engineering: a 4.5‑ton revolving lens rotating on a mercury bath, driven by a massive clockwork mechanism powered by a quarter‑ton weight that had to be rewound every 12 hours. Supplies and building materials were winched across from the mainland by jackstay cable, and even the handrail of the footbridge served a dual purpose, acting as a pipeline to carry oil into the tower’s basement. The station was electrified in stages, fully automated in 1980, and is now monitored remotely from Harwich, with only occasional maintenance visits. The old explosive fog signal was replaced by an electric fog‑horn in 1969, and a helipad to the west now handles deliveries.Coastal Drama and Wildlife
The headland around Strumble Head is a dramatic landscape of hard igneous rock, with cliffs rising up to 140 metres in places. From the mainland viewpoint and the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, visitors are treated to sweeping panoramas across Cardigan Bay, with views that can stretch to the Irish coast on clear days. The area is renowned for wildlife: seals haul out on the rocks below, seabirds such as gulls, ravens, choughs and peregrines nest on the cliffs, and passing cetaceans are regularly spotted offshore. The old Second World War lookout post on the cliffs is a popular spot for birdwatchers and sea watchers, many of whom have become affectionately known as ‘Strumblers’.Visiting the Headland
Today, Strumble Head is a free, open‑air viewpoint accessible along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. There is no admission fee, and the lighthouse itself is not open for tours, but the surrounding coastal paths offer an excellent walk with constantly changing perspectives of the tower and the sea. A small car park provides access, but parking is limited and can fill quickly, especially in good weather. Facilities are minimal: there are no restrooms, cafes or shops directly at the lighthouse, so visitors should come prepared with water, snacks and appropriate clothing. The paths can be uneven and exposed, so sturdy footwear and wind‑resistant layers are essential.Atmosphere and Experience
Strumble Head has a powerful, elemental atmosphere. The sound of waves crashing against the cliffs, the cry of seabirds, and the occasional blast of the fog‑horn create a deeply immersive coastal experience. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical times, when the white tower glows against the changing colours of the sky and sea. The site is popular with photographers, walkers and those seeking a quiet moment on the edge of the Atlantic. It also forms part of a wider historic landscape, with nearby prehistoric remains and the site of the last mainland invasion of Britain at Carregwastad Point a few miles to the east, adding layers of history to the natural drama of the headland.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Davids Cathedral
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Cardigan Guildhall Market
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Cardigan Walks
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Picton Castle
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Picton Castle Gardens
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Explore the stunning Picton Castle Gardens—an enchanting blend of nature, history, and art in Pembrokeshire, perfect for all visitors.
National Trust - Cilgerran Castle
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St Brides Haven
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Gwal y Filiast
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Oakwood Theme Park
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Musselwick Beach
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Tŷ Milford Waterfront
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Hubberston Fort
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Sloeberry Farm
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Stack Rock Fort
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Traeth Penloin
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Unmissable attractions to see
Strumble Head
1.5 km
Iconic 1908 lighthouse on a rugged islet with dramatic coastal views, rich history, and abundant wildlife on Pembrokeshire’s wild northwest coast.
Garn Wen
6.0 km
Explore the evocative Neolithic burial chambers of Garn Wen, a serene prehistoric site nestled in Goodwick’s historic landscape.
Abermawr
6.8 km
Discover the tranquil, shingle-strewn shores of Abermawr, a secluded coastal gem framed by woodlands and marshes in Pembrokeshire.
Fishguard Fort
7.8 km
Historic 18th-century coastal fort overlooking Fishguard Bay, key to Britain’s last invasion and Welsh maritime defense.
Carreg Samson
8.9 km
Explore Carreg Samson, a monumental 5,000-year-old Neolithic dolmen perched on the Pembrokeshire coast, steeped in legend and prehistoric wonder.
Cors Llangloffan / Llangloffan Fen
9.6 km
Explore one of Wales' largest floodplain wetlands, a tranquil haven for rare birds, mammals, and diverse wetland habitats in scenic Pembrokeshire.
Dyffryn Fernant Garden
11.0 km
Secluded six-acre garden near Fishguard offering diverse themed areas, peaceful walks, and a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Pwllgwaelod Beach
11.2 km
A tranquil, sheltered cove on Pembrokeshire’s Dinas Island with scenic cliffs, rock pools, historic charm, and peaceful coastal walks.
Celtic Quest Coasteering
13.8 km
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Blue Lagoon - Abereiddi
13.8 km
Discover the vibrant flooded slate quarry of Blue Lagoon at Abereiddi, a dramatic coastal gem blending industrial heritage with thrilling water adventures.
Abereiddi Tower
13.9 km
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Solva Woollen Mill
17.6 km
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Solva Lime Kilns
19.2 km
Historic 19th-century lime kilns set against Pembrokeshire’s rugged coast, blending industrial heritage with breathtaking natural beauty.
Pembrokeshire Coast Path
19.3 km
Explore 186 miles of breathtaking Welsh coastline, from rugged cliffs to golden beaches, along the iconic Pembrokeshire Coast Path.
Porthmynawyd beach
19.4 km
Secluded sand and pebble beach on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, perfect for peaceful walks and year-round dog-friendly exploration.
Essential places to dine
The Shed Fish & Chip Bistro
11.7 km
Fresh, locally caught seafood served in a charming harbour-side bistro in the heart of Porthgain village.
The Wolfe Inn Wolfscastle
16.4 km
A welcoming country inn where Welsh hospitality meets modern comfort in rural Pembrokeshire.
Castle Inn
16.5 km
Historic inn and lively pub in Newport offering cozy rooms, excellent British cuisine, and easy access to Pembrokeshire’s stunning coast.
Tides Kitchen & Wine Bar
16.5 km
Fresh seafood, artisan bakery delights, and curated wines combine at Newport’s beloved Tides Kitchen & Wine Bar.
The Golden Lion Hotel
16.7 km
Historic Welsh inn offering cozy rooms, hearty fare, and a classic pub atmosphere near Newport Sands beach and Pembrokeshire’s heritage sites.
Llys Meddyg Hotel & Restaurant
16.7 km
Elegant 4-star hotel and fine dining restaurant in Newport, blending local charm with modern comfort near Pembrokeshire’s stunning coast.
The Cambrian Inn
18.8 km
A charming coastal inn in Solva offering cozy rooms, local cuisine, and a warm Welsh welcome near Pembrokeshire’s scenic shores.
The Hats and Barrels
18.9 km
A stylish riverside bistro in Solva offering British classics, vegan options, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in Pembrokeshire’s scenic harbour village.
Trewern Arms
19.1 km
Historic Welsh inn offering cozy rooms, excellent local cuisine, and riverside charm in the heart of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
Twr y Felin Hotel
21.0 km
A stylish coastal retreat blending contemporary art, luxury comfort, and Welsh heritage in the heart of St Davids.
Blas Restaurant
21.0 km
A boutique dining gem in St Davids blending innovative Welsh cuisine with contemporary art in a historic windmill setting.
The Really Wild Emporium
21.1 km
Discover wild flavours, sustainable living, and unique local crafts at The Really Wild Emporium in St Davids’ historic heart.
The Rising Sun Inn
24.5 km
Charming countryside pub and restaurant in Pelcomb Bridge offering hearty meals, warm hospitality, and a welcoming caravan park in scenic Pembrokeshire.
The Druidstone Hotel
24.6 km
Eclectic bohemian hotel near Pembrokeshire’s coast, offering creative cuisine, cozy rooms, and stunning seaside views in a relaxed, pet-friendly setting.
The George's
26.4 km
A unique all-day dining and shopping experience in the heart of historic Haverfordwest with a tranquil walled garden retreat.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pembrokeshire Creations & Beyond
7.5 km
Discover authentic Pembrokeshire crafts and unique gifts in a welcoming Fishguard boutique celebrating local artistry and heritage.
Offshore Surf Shed
18.4 km
A warm local surf shop in historic Penycwm offering quality gear and coastal lifestyle essentials in the heart of Pembrokeshire.
Seaforth Home
18.9 km
Discover handcrafted Welsh homewares inspired by Pembrokeshire’s rugged coast at Seaforth Home in Solva.
Window On Wales Ltd
19.0 km
Discover unique Welsh gifts, stylish men’s clothing, and charming homeware in the heart of Solva at Window On Wales Ltd.
Basalt & Dune
21.0 km
Discover unique artisan gifts and local art in the heart of St Davids at Basalt & Dune, a boutique gallery and shop celebrating Welsh creativity.
Interesting Things
21.1 km
Explore St Davids' charm through unique gifts and handcrafted crafts at Interesting Things, a must-visit shop for every tourist.
Window on Wales
21.1 km
Discover authentic Welsh crafts and gifts in a charming historic setting at Window on Wales, St Davids’ beloved artisan shop.
Nolton Cross Farm Shop
23.8 km
Authentic Pembrokeshire farm shop offering local Welsh produce, grass-fed beef, and traditional Welshcakes in a serene rural setting.
Vincent Davies
24.2 km
A versatile department store in Haverfordwest blending home goods, garden supplies, dining, and friendly service under one welcoming roof.
Springfield Retail Park
25.0 km
A vibrant shopping and dining hub in Haverfordwest offering diverse stores, ample parking, and a lively atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Next
25.4 km
A family-friendly fashion hub in Haverfordwest offering stylish clothing, shoes, and accessories for all ages at moderate prices.
Withybush Retail Park
25.4 km
A modern retail park in Haverfordwest offering diverse shopping, dining, and free parking for a convenient and lively local experience.
Mountain Warehouse Haverfordwest
25.4 km
Your essential outdoor gear destination for Pembrokeshire adventures and Welsh wilderness exploration.
Riverside Shopping Centre
26.2 km
A practical shopping destination in Haverfordwest offering familiar brands, local markets, and essential services in Pembrokeshire’s county town.
The Sheep Shop
26.2 km
Quirky Welsh gift shop celebrating sheep culture, lovespoons, and local Pembrokeshire treasures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Royal Oak
7.7 km
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The Farmers Arms
9.4 km
Traditional Welsh pub in scenic Mathry offering hearty meals, real ales, and warm Pembrokeshire hospitality daily from noon to 11pm.
The Ship Inn
10.4 km
Historic coastal pub in Pembrokeshire blending rustic charm with modern dining and a welcoming garden.
Square & Compass Inn
11.1 km
A welcoming Welsh country pub near Haverfordwest offering hearty food, friendly locals, and scenic Pembrokeshire views.
Sloop Inn
11.7 km
Historic coastal pub in Porthgain offering warm hospitality, fresh local seafood, and a rich maritime atmosphere.
Artramont Arms
12.7 km
A welcoming Welsh country pub serving hearty meals and good beer in the peaceful village of Croesgoch near Haverfordwest.
Dyffryn Arms
15.2 km
Step back in time at Dyffryn Arms, a traditional Welsh pub nestled in the tranquil Gwaun Valley, where history, hearty ales, and local warmth await.
Llwyngwair Arms
16.6 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality and traditional ales in the historic, cozy Llwyngwair Arms nestled in Newport’s charming village heart.
The Ship Solva
18.9 km
Charming family-run pub in Solva offering craft beers, fresh Welsh cuisine, and a cozy atmosphere near scenic Solva Harbour.
Harbour Inn
19.0 km
A welcoming coastal pub in Solva offering hearty meals, scenic harbour views, and friendly hospitality along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.
The Corner Piece Inn
20.5 km
Cozy dog-friendly pub in Rudbaxton serving hearty home-cooked meals and renowned Sunday roasts with warm, attentive hospitality.
Tafarn Sinc.
21.7 km
Historic community-owned pub in Rosebush offering a quirky atmosphere, diverse drinks, and vegan-friendly dining in scenic Pembrokeshire.
The Pelcomb Inn
23.5 km
A warm, traditional Welsh pub offering hearty meals, friendly service, and cozy accommodation near Haverfordwest.
Lost Coins
24.7 km
A cozy, family-friendly pub in historic Haverfordwest serving quality pub classics, real ales, and vegan options with a warm atmosphere.
Friars Vaults
26.3 km
Historic and welcoming pub in Haverfordwest serving hearty British fare with great value and a lively local atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Eddie Rocks
26.4 km
A vibrant multi-floor nightclub in Haverfordwest offering energetic nights, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere by the waterfront.
Boulevard Show Bar
35.3 km
Experience vibrant cabaret, live shows, and lively nightlife at Boulevard Show Bar, Milford Haven’s premier entertainment venue.
The Basement
35.3 km
Discover the energetic nightlife of Milford Haven at The Basement, where music, dancing, and vibrant gatherings create unforgettable experiences.
Paddles
40.8 km
Experience Pembroke’s vibrant nightlife at Paddles, the go-to nightclub for late-night music, drinks, and social energy in the town center.
Sands Nightclub
43.8 km
Saundersfoot’s lively nightclub with dance, drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere near the beach.
Comlongon
44.6 km
Experience vibrant nightlife in the charming village of St Florence with Comlongon, Tenby’s energetic nightclub gem.
Prince Of Wales
47.3 km
Tenby’s iconic late-night nightclub blending lively music, classic charm, and a spirited atmosphere in the heart of Town Wall Arcade.
Hazewell Club
47.5 km
Discover the Hazewell Club in Tenby: a cozy sports club offering a warm atmosphere and local drinks amidst stunning coastal views.
Savannah's Night Club
55.6 km
Experience Carmarthen’s vibrant nightlife at Savannah's Night Club—where music, dance, and stylish vibes create unforgettable Saturday nights.
The Gremlin Club
56.0 km
Vibrant nightlife and lively open mic nights in the heart of Carmarthen’s social scene.
Club Mambo
56.0 km
Discover the energetic vibe of Club Mambo, a lively bar in Carmarthen offering delicious drinks and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Lucifer's Nightlife
56.1 km
Experience Carmarthen's vibrant nightlife and fast food fusion at Lucifer's Nightlife, where music, dancing, and late-night bites come alive on Queen Street.
Yokoswnb
79.7 km
A vibrant, budget-friendly nightclub and bar in Aberystwyth, popular with students for its lively atmosphere and central location.
Pier Pressure
79.7 km
Experience Aberystwyth’s vibrant nightlife at Pier Pressure, a lively nightclub set on the historic Royal Pier by scenic Cardigan Bay.
The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club
81.9 km
Experience lively nights and vibrant music at The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club, Gorseinon’s premier destination for unforgettable nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Adventurous
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
