Fishguard Fort: Guardian of Pembrokeshire's Coastal Heritage
Historic 18th-century coastal fort overlooking Fishguard Bay, key to Britain’s last invasion and Welsh maritime defense.
Fishguard Fort is an 18th-century coastal artillery fort perched on a headland overlooking Fishguard Bay in Pembrokeshire, Wales. Built between 1781 and 1783 to defend the bustling port town from privateers and foreign invasions, it played a key role during the Last Invasion of Britain in 1797. Today, the fort’s stone remains and reconstructed cannon emplacements offer panoramic views and a tangible connection to Welsh maritime history.
A brief summary to Fishguard Fort
- Fishguard, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 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
- Visit during clear weather for the best panoramic views across Fishguard Bay and Goodwick harbour.
- Wear sturdy footwear for the coastal path walk from the car park to the fort ruins.
- Bring a camera to capture the historic cannon emplacements and scenic coastal landscapes.
- Check local tide times to see the medieval fish traps visible in the bay at low tide.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus service from Fishguard town center to the Newport area, which runs approximately every 30 minutes. From the bus stop, a 10-minute walk uphill leads to the car park near Fishguard Fort. Tickets cost around £2-£4 one way.
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Car
Drive from Fishguard town center to the Newport side of Fishguard, where a small car park is available near the fort. The drive takes about 10 minutes. Parking is free but limited in spaces.
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Walking
For active visitors, a scenic 30-40 minute walk along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path from Fishguard town center to the fort offers coastal views and gentle terrain. Suitable for most fitness levels but includes some uphill sections.
Fishguard Fort 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
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Fishguard Fort
The Strategic Birth of Fishguard Fort
Fishguard Fort was constructed in the early 1780s in response to escalating threats from American privateers and French naval forces during the American War of Independence. The prosperous port of Fishguard, vital for herring trade and other maritime commerce, had suffered attacks, notably from the American ship Black Prince under French commission. Following a bold attack and ransom demand in 1779, the townspeople petitioned the Privy Council for artillery support. The council agreed on condition that the locals build a fort to house the cannons. Completed in 1781 on Castle Point, the fort measured roughly 30 by 25 meters, built of stone, and armed with eight nine-pounder cannons manned by a mix of London gunners and local volunteers.Role in the Last Invasion of Britain
Fishguard Fort’s most famous moment came during the French invasion attempt of 1797, known as the Last Invasion of Britain. When a French fleet of about 1,400 men entered Fishguard Harbour, the fort’s gunners fired warning shots—blanks—deterring the fleet from landing directly at the town. Instead, the French landed a few miles west at Carreg Wastad. The local militia, bolstered by civilians including women in traditional Welsh dress, quickly mobilized, creating a psychological advantage that contributed to the French surrender within days. Although the fort itself saw limited direct combat, its presence was a crucial part of the coastal defense network and a symbol of local resilience.Later Military Uses and Preservation
After the Napoleonic Wars, the fort gradually fell into disrepair as its strategic necessity waned. However, it was reactivated during the Second World War as a lookout and searchlight battery to protect against German seaplane attacks attempting to mine the harbour. Concrete bases of wartime Nissen huts remain visible today. Coastal erosion has claimed parts of the original structure, but Fishguard Fort remains a scheduled monument and Site of Special Scientific Interest, reflecting its cultural and environmental importance.Exploring the Fort Today
Visitors to Fishguard Fort can explore the ruins and cannon emplacements while enjoying sweeping views across Fishguard Bay and towards Goodwick harbour. The fort is accessible via a short walk from a nearby car park on the Newport side of Fishguard, situated along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. The peaceful setting invites reflection on centuries of maritime history and local defense. While original cannons are no longer present, replicas help convey the fort’s former military role.Local Legends and Cultural Significance
The fort and its surrounding area are steeped in local lore, including stories of the French mistaking Welsh women in traditional costume for British soldiers, which helped hasten the invaders’ surrender. Fishguard’s name derives from Norse origins meaning 'fishtrap,' referencing medieval fishing techniques still visible at low tide. The fort stands as a testament to the community’s determination to protect their home and heritage through turbulent historical periods.Natural and Historical Context
Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Pembrokeshire coastline, Fishguard Fort is part of a wider landscape rich in archaeological and natural heritage. Nearby sites include Iron Age hill forts and medieval castles, while the coastal environment supports diverse wildlife and is protected under conservation designations. This blend of history and nature makes Fishguard Fort a compelling destination for those interested in Welsh culture, military history, and scenic coastal walks.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cardigan Guildhall Market
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Cardigan Walks
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Gwal y Filiast
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St Davids Cathedral
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St Non's Chapel and Well
25.0 km
Explore St Non's Chapel and Well, a historical gem in St Davids, offering breathtaking views, rich heritage, and a serene escape into nature.
Whitesands Bay
25.2 km
Discover the stunning Whitesands Bay, a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation along Pembrokeshire's breathtaking coastline.
St David's Head - National Trust
25.8 km
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Porthclais Harbour Authority
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Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Porthclais Harbour, a hidden gem on the Pembrokeshire coastline, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Broad Haven Beach
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Experience the stunning beauty of Broad Haven Beach, a coastal paradise perfect for relaxation and adventure seekers in Pembrokeshire, Wales.
St Justinian's
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Explore St Justinian's, a stunning boat ramp and tourist attraction in Pembrokeshire, offering breathtaking coastal views and outdoor adventures.
National Trust - The Point
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Explore The Point at National Trust in Pembrokeshire, where stunning coastal views and serene walking paths await every traveler.
Oakwood Theme Park
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Experience the thrill of Oakwood Theme Park, where adventure meets family fun in the heart of Wales.
Sloeberry Farm
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Eco-friendly lodges and canvas tents near Aberporth beach offering peaceful countryside escapes with private hot tubs and stunning starry skies.
St Brides Haven
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Explore the stunning coastal trails and serene beaches of St Brides Haven, a hidden treasure along Pembrokeshire's breathtaking coastline.
Traeth Penloin
32.2 km
Experience the untouched beauty of Traeth Penloin, a secluded beach perfect for relaxation, nature exploration, and stunning coastal views in Wales.
Unmissable attractions to see
Garn Wen
1.9 km
Explore the evocative Neolithic burial chambers of Garn Wen, a serene prehistoric site nestled in Goodwick’s historic landscape.
Dyffryn Fernant Garden
3.3 km
Secluded six-acre garden near Fishguard offering diverse themed areas, peaceful walks, and a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Pwllgwaelod Beach
4.7 km
A tranquil, sheltered cove on Pembrokeshire’s Dinas Island with scenic cliffs, rock pools, historic charm, and peaceful coastal walks.
Strumble Head
6.8 km
Iconic 1908 lighthouse on a rugged islet with dramatic coastal views, rich history, and abundant wildlife on Pembrokeshire’s wild northwest coast.
Strumble Head Lighthouse
7.8 km
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.
Abermawr
8.6 km
Discover the tranquil, shingle-strewn shores of Abermawr, a secluded coastal gem framed by woodlands and marshes in Pembrokeshire.
Cors Llangloffan / Llangloffan Fen
9.0 km
Explore one of Wales' largest floodplain wetlands, a tranquil haven for rare birds, mammals, and diverse wetland habitats in scenic Pembrokeshire.
Carreg Samson
12.1 km
Explore Carreg Samson, a monumental 5,000-year-old Neolithic dolmen perched on the Pembrokeshire coast, steeped in legend and prehistoric wonder.
Preseli Hills
13.7 km
Explore the mystical Preseli Hills, ancient uplands of Wales with breathtaking views, prehistoric mysteries, and rich cultural legends.
Pentre Ifan Burial Chamber
13.7 km
Explore Pentre Ifan, Wales’ towering 5,000-year-old Neolithic burial chamber with its iconic floating capstone and panoramic Pembrokeshire views.
Llys-y-fran Reservoir
15.4 km
Explore Pembrokeshire’s scenic Llys-y-frân Reservoir with watersports, mountain biking, fishing, and a vibrant visitor centre.
Castell Henllys Iron Age Village
15.6 km
Step back 2,000 years into a living Iron Age village nestled in Pembrokeshire’s stunning natural landscape.
Scolton Manor
16.0 km
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Celtic Quest Coasteering
17.6 km
Experience thrilling coasteering adventures exploring Pembrokeshire’s rugged coastline with expert guides and full safety gear.
Blue Lagoon - Abereiddi
17.8 km
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Essential places to dine
Castle Inn
9.5 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
9.5 km
Fresh seafood, artisan bakery delights, and curated wines combine at Newport’s beloved Tides Kitchen & Wine Bar.
The Golden Lion Hotel
9.7 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
9.8 km
Elegant 4-star hotel and fine dining restaurant in Newport, blending local charm with modern comfort near Pembrokeshire’s stunning coast.
The Wolfe Inn Wolfscastle
11.6 km
A welcoming country inn where Welsh hospitality meets modern comfort in rural Pembrokeshire.
Trewern Arms
12.2 km
Historic Welsh inn offering cozy rooms, excellent local cuisine, and riverside charm in the heart of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
The Shed Fish & Chip Bistro
15.6 km
Fresh, locally caught seafood served in a charming harbour-side bistro in the heart of Porthgain village.
The Cambrian Inn
20.4 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
20.5 km
A stylish riverside bistro in Solva offering British classics, vegan options, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in Pembrokeshire’s scenic harbour village.
The Rising Sun Inn
20.9 km
Charming countryside pub and restaurant in Pelcomb Bridge offering hearty meals, warm hospitality, and a welcoming caravan park in scenic Pembrokeshire.
The Ferry Inn
21.9 km
Scenic riverside gastropub in St Dogmaels offering fresh Welsh cuisine, warm service, and stunning Teifi estuary views.
Teifi Waterside Hotel
22.1 km
Peaceful seaside hotel with stunning estuary views, comfortable rooms, and access to historic Welsh coastal attractions.
Awl Mor Restaurant
22.1 km
A welcoming gastropub in St Dogmaels serving fresh Welsh lamb and seafood with a warm coastal ambiance.
The George's
22.3 km
A unique all-day dining and shopping experience in the heart of historic Haverfordwest with a tranquil walled garden retreat.
Shampan Cardigan Restaurant
22.7 km
Authentic Indian flavors served with warm hospitality along the scenic River Teifi in Cardigan, Wales.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pembrokeshire Creations & Beyond
0.9 km
Discover authentic Pembrokeshire crafts and unique gifts in a welcoming Fishguard boutique celebrating local artistry and heritage.
Offshore Surf Shed
18.3 km
A warm local surf shop in historic Penycwm offering quality gear and coastal lifestyle essentials in the heart of Pembrokeshire.
Vincent Davies
19.9 km
A versatile department store in Haverfordwest blending home goods, garden supplies, dining, and friendly service under one welcoming roof.
Seaforth Home
20.5 km
Discover handcrafted Welsh homewares inspired by Pembrokeshire’s rugged coast at Seaforth Home in Solva.
Window On Wales Ltd
20.6 km
Discover unique Welsh gifts, stylish men’s clothing, and charming homeware in the heart of Solva at Window On Wales Ltd.
Springfield Retail Park
20.7 km
A vibrant shopping and dining hub in Haverfordwest offering diverse stores, ample parking, and a lively atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Next
21.1 km
A family-friendly fashion hub in Haverfordwest offering stylish clothing, shoes, and accessories for all ages at moderate prices.
Withybush Retail Park
21.1 km
A modern retail park in Haverfordwest offering diverse shopping, dining, and free parking for a convenient and lively local experience.
Mountain Warehouse Haverfordwest
21.1 km
Your essential outdoor gear destination for Pembrokeshire adventures and Welsh wilderness exploration.
Riverside Shopping Centre
22.0 km
A practical shopping destination in Haverfordwest offering familiar brands, local markets, and essential services in Pembrokeshire’s county town.
Nolton Cross Farm Shop
22.0 km
Authentic Pembrokeshire farm shop offering local Welsh produce, grass-fed beef, and traditional Welshcakes in a serene rural setting.
The Sheep Shop
22.0 km
Quirky Welsh gift shop celebrating sheep culture, lovespoons, and local Pembrokeshire treasures.
Pinkcatshop.Com
22.2 km
Explore Pinkcatshop.Com in Haverfordwest for unique gifts and local handmade treasures that capture the spirit of the region.
Bonkers
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Discover unique fashion and accessories at Bonkers, Haverfordwest’s charming boutique on High Street.
5 Quay Street
22.2 km
Discover unique gifts, elegant homewares, and exquisite perfumes in the heart of historic Haverfordwest at 5 Quay Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Royal Oak
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Dyffryn Arms
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Llwyngwair Arms
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Experience authentic Welsh hospitality and traditional ales in the historic, cozy Llwyngwair Arms nestled in Newport’s charming village heart.
The Farmers Arms
10.1 km
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Square & Compass Inn
13.2 km
A welcoming Welsh country pub near Haverfordwest offering hearty food, friendly locals, and scenic Pembrokeshire views.
The Ship Inn
13.5 km
Historic coastal pub in Pembrokeshire blending rustic charm with modern dining and a welcoming garden.
Tafarn Sinc.
14.0 km
Historic community-owned pub in Rosebush offering a quirky atmosphere, diverse drinks, and vegan-friendly dining in scenic Pembrokeshire.
Artramont Arms
15.3 km
A welcoming Welsh country pub serving hearty meals and good beer in the peaceful village of Croesgoch near Haverfordwest.
Sloop Inn
15.6 km
Historic coastal pub in Porthgain offering warm hospitality, fresh local seafood, and a rich maritime atmosphere.
The Corner Piece Inn
16.0 km
Cozy dog-friendly pub in Rudbaxton serving hearty home-cooked meals and renowned Sunday roasts with warm, attentive hospitality.
The Pelcomb Inn
20.3 km
A warm, traditional Welsh pub offering hearty meals, friendly service, and cozy accommodation near Haverfordwest.
Lost Coins
20.4 km
A cozy family-friendly pub near Haverfordwest serving elegant pub classics and real ales in a warm, welcoming setting.
The Ship Solva
20.5 km
Charming family-run pub in Solva offering craft beers, fresh Welsh cuisine, and a cozy atmosphere near scenic Solva Harbour.
Harbour Inn
20.6 km
A welcoming coastal pub in Solva offering hearty meals, scenic harbour views, and friendly hospitality along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.
Penybryn Arms
22.1 km
Cozy Welsh pub in Cardigan offering traditional dishes, local brews, and warm hospitality by a welcoming open fire.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Historic
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Nature Reserve
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
