Strumble Head Lighthouse and Peninsula
Iconic 1908 lighthouse on a rugged islet with dramatic coastal views, rich history, and abundant wildlife on Pembrokeshire’s wild northwest coast.
Strumble Head is a striking peninsula near Goodwick, Pembrokeshire, featuring the iconic 1908 Strumble Head Lighthouse perched on a small islet. Known for its dramatic coastal views, rich maritime history, and abundant wildlife including seals and cetaceans, it offers scenic walking trails along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. The lighthouse, automated since 1980, remains a vital beacon marking a historically treacherous stretch of sea between Wales and Ireland.
A brief summary to Strumble Head
- Goodwick, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure limited parking, especially during peak seasons.
- Wear sturdy footwear suitable for uneven and sometimes windy coastal paths.
- Bring binoculars for better wildlife viewing, especially seals and seabirds.
- Note that the lighthouse and islet are not open to public access.
- Check tide times if planning coastal walks that involve access near the water.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Fishguard to Strumble Head takes approximately 15–20 minutes via narrow coastal roads. Parking is limited and free but fills quickly during peak times. Exercise caution on single-track lanes.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Fishguard and Goodwick with stops near Strumble Head. Travel time ranges from 20 to 30 minutes. Service frequency is limited on weekends and public holidays.
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Walking
For hikers, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path offers scenic routes from Fishguard or Goodwick to Strumble Head. Walks typically take 1.5 to 3 hours depending on the route and weather, with uneven terrain and some steep sections.
Strumble Head location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Strumble Head
A Beacon of Maritime Heritage
Strumble Head Lighthouse stands on Ynys Meicel, also called St. Michael's Island, a small rocky islet off the northwest corner of the Pencaer area near Goodwick. Built in 1908 by Trinity House, the lighthouse was constructed to warn vessels navigating the perilous waters between Ireland and Wales. It replaced a light-vessel and has been a crucial aid to maritime safety, marking a stretch of coast notorious for shipwrecks in the 19th century. The stone cylindrical tower rises 17 meters and retains its original Fresnel lens, which once rotated on a mercury bath to reduce friction. The lighthouse was electrified in 1965 and automated in 1980, now remotely managed from Harwich, Essex.Striking Coastal Landscape and Wildlife
The peninsula offers breathtaking views of the Irish Sea and the Pembrokeshire coastline. The narrow channel separating Ynys Meicel from the mainland churns with waves, especially in stormy weather, adding to the dramatic scenery. The area is renowned for wildlife spotting, particularly seals resting on the rocks below the lighthouse and cetaceans like dolphins and porpoises in the surrounding waters. Birdwatchers also find the cliffs and rocky outcrops a haven for diverse seabirds. The rugged coastal paths provide excellent vantage points for photography and nature observation.Walking Trails and Historical Echoes
Strumble Head is part of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, a celebrated long-distance trail that threads through varied coastal landscapes. Nearby Carregwastad Point is historically significant as the landing site of the last invasion of mainland Britain in 1797, when French troops briefly set foot here. This event is commemorated in the Last Invasion Tapestry displayed in Fishguard. The peninsula’s walking routes invite exploration of its natural beauty alongside echoes of its storied past.Challenges of Isolation and Engineering Ingenuity
Building and maintaining the lighthouse presented logistical challenges due to the islet’s isolation and steep terrain. Supplies and materials were transported via a jackstay cable system from the mainland. The footbridge connecting the lighthouse to the shore not only provided access but also carried a pipeline supplying fuel to the tower. Although the lighthouse is not open to public access, remnants of this infrastructure remain visible, illustrating the ingenuity required to sustain this vital beacon.Visitor Experience and Practical Considerations
Visitors come to Strumble Head for its spectacular coastal vistas, wildlife encounters, and the chance to experience a remote and rugged seascape. While the lighthouse itself is closed to the public, the surrounding area offers ample opportunities for hiking, photography, and seal watching. Parking is limited, and the coastal roads can be narrow and winding, so early arrival and careful driving are advisable. Facilities are basic, emphasizing the natural and unspoiled character of the location.Continuing Legacy in Navigation and Conservation
Strumble Head remains an active navigational aid, its powerful light visible for miles across the sea. The site is also valued for its environmental significance, contributing to local conservation efforts. As part of Pembrokeshire’s coastal heritage, it embodies the enduring relationship between human ingenuity and the natural maritime environment.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Davids Cathedral
20.4 km
Discover the ancient spiritual heart of Wales in St Davids Cathedral, a majestic site of pilgrimage and architectural wonder nestled in Pembrokeshire’s scenic valley.
Cardigan Guildhall Market
28.7 km
Discover Cardigan Guildhall Market, a historic indoor market blending heritage charm with vibrant local trade in the heart of Cardigan.
Cardigan Walks
28.8 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of Cardigan with Cardigan Walks, your ultimate tour guide to nature and history.
Cardigan Island
28.9 km
Experience the natural allure and breathtaking views of Cardigan Island, a serene escape nestled off the picturesque coast of Wales.
Cardigan Cenotaph
29.1 km
Explore the Cardigan Cenotaph, a touching memorial park celebrating the bravery of local heroes, nestled in the heart of Cardigan, Wales.
Welsh Wildlife Centre
29.5 km
Discover the beauty of nature at the Welsh Wildlife Centre, a family-friendly attraction with scenic trails and a cozy café in Cilgerran.
National Trust - Cilgerran Castle
29.9 km
Discover the enchanting Cilgerran Castle, a historic fortress in Wales offering breathtaking views, rich history, and a perfect escape into nature.
St Brides Haven
30.4 km
Explore the stunning coastal trails and serene beaches of St Brides Haven, a hidden treasure along Pembrokeshire's breathtaking coastline.
Gwal y Filiast
30.7 km
Explore Gwal y Filiast, a mysterious Neolithic burial chamber steeped in Welsh legend and ancient history near Whitland.
Oakwood Theme Park
32.3 km
Experience the thrill of Oakwood Theme Park, where adventure meets family fun in the heart of Wales.
Musselwick Beach
32.7 km
Explore the serene beauty of Musselwick Beach, a hidden gem on the Pembrokeshire coast, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Tŷ Milford Waterfront
33.9 km
Modern nautical charm meets stunning marina views at Tŷ Milford Waterfront, a stylish family-friendly hotel in scenic Milford Haven.
Hubberston Fort
34.3 km
Discover the captivating Hubberston Fort in Milford Haven, a historical landmark showcasing military architecture and stunning coastal views.
Stack Rock Fort
35.0 km
A formidable 19th-century island fortress guarding Wales’ Milford Haven, blending military history with rugged coastal beauty.
Sloeberry Farm
36.0 km
Eco-friendly lodges and canvas tents near Aberporth beach offering peaceful countryside escapes with private hot tubs and stunning starry skies.
Unmissable attractions to see
Strumble Head Lighthouse
1.5 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.
Garn Wen
5.2 km
Explore the evocative Neolithic burial chambers of Garn Wen, a serene prehistoric site nestled in Goodwick’s historic landscape.
Abermawr
5.4 km
Discover the tranquil, shingle-strewn shores of Abermawr, a secluded coastal gem framed by woodlands and marshes in Pembrokeshire.
Fishguard Fort
6.8 km
Historic 18th-century coastal fort overlooking Fishguard Bay, key to Britain’s last invasion and Welsh maritime defense.
Carreg Samson
7.9 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
8.1 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
10.1 km
Secluded six-acre garden near Fishguard offering diverse themed areas, peaceful walks, and a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Pwllgwaelod Beach
10.8 km
A tranquil, sheltered cove on Pembrokeshire’s Dinas Island with scenic cliffs, rock pools, historic charm, and peaceful coastal walks.
Celtic Quest Coasteering
13.0 km
Experience thrilling coasteering adventures exploring Pembrokeshire’s rugged coastline with expert guides and full safety gear.
Blue Lagoon - Abereiddi
13.1 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
13.2 km
Discover Abereiddi Tower, a mysterious coastal lookout surrounded by Pembrokeshire’s rugged cliffs, slate quarry ruins, and breathtaking sea views.
Solva Woollen Mill
16.6 km
Discover traditional Welsh wool weaving and heritage craftsmanship at Solva Woollen Mill, nestled in scenic Pembrokeshire.
Pembrokeshire Coast Path
18.1 km
Explore 186 miles of breathtaking Welsh coastline, from rugged cliffs to golden beaches, along the iconic Pembrokeshire Coast Path.
Solva Lime Kilns
18.1 km
Historic 19th-century lime kilns set against Pembrokeshire’s rugged coast, blending industrial heritage with breathtaking natural beauty.
Porthmynawyd beach
18.2 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
11.0 km
Fresh, locally caught seafood served in a charming harbour-side bistro in the heart of Porthgain village.
The Wolfe Inn Wolfscastle
14.9 km
A welcoming country inn where Welsh hospitality meets modern comfort in rural Pembrokeshire.
Castle Inn
16.0 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
16.0 km
Fresh seafood, artisan bakery delights, and curated wines combine at Newport’s beloved Tides Kitchen & Wine Bar.
The Golden Lion Hotel
16.2 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
16.2 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
17.7 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
17.8 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
18.6 km
Historic Welsh inn offering cozy rooms, excellent local cuisine, and riverside charm in the heart of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
Blas Restaurant
20.2 km
A boutique dining gem in St Davids blending innovative Welsh cuisine with contemporary art in a historic windmill setting.
Twr y Felin Hotel
20.2 km
A stylish coastal retreat blending contemporary art, luxury comfort, and Welsh heritage in the heart of St Davids.
The Really Wild Emporium
20.3 km
Discover wild flavours, sustainable living, and unique local crafts at The Really Wild Emporium in St Davids’ historic heart.
The Rising Sun Inn
23.0 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
23.2 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
24.9 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
6.4 km
Discover authentic Pembrokeshire crafts and unique gifts in a welcoming Fishguard boutique celebrating local artistry and heritage.
Offshore Surf Shed
17.0 km
A warm local surf shop in historic Penycwm offering quality gear and coastal lifestyle essentials in the heart of Pembrokeshire.
Seaforth Home
17.9 km
Discover handcrafted Welsh homewares inspired by Pembrokeshire’s rugged coast at Seaforth Home in Solva.
Window On Wales Ltd
17.9 km
Discover unique Welsh gifts, stylish men’s clothing, and charming homeware in the heart of Solva at Window On Wales Ltd.
Basalt & Dune
20.2 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
20.2 km
Explore St Davids' charm through unique gifts and handcrafted crafts at Interesting Things, a must-visit shop for every tourist.
Window on Wales
20.3 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
22.4 km
Authentic Pembrokeshire farm shop offering local Welsh produce, grass-fed beef, and traditional Welshcakes in a serene rural setting.
Vincent Davies
22.7 km
A versatile department store in Haverfordwest blending home goods, garden supplies, dining, and friendly service under one welcoming roof.
Springfield Retail Park
23.5 km
A vibrant shopping and dining hub in Haverfordwest offering diverse stores, ample parking, and a lively atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Next
23.9 km
A family-friendly fashion hub in Haverfordwest offering stylish clothing, shoes, and accessories for all ages at moderate prices.
Withybush Retail Park
23.9 km
A modern retail park in Haverfordwest offering diverse shopping, dining, and free parking for a convenient and lively local experience.
Mountain Warehouse Haverfordwest
23.9 km
Your essential outdoor gear destination for Pembrokeshire adventures and Welsh wilderness exploration.
Riverside Shopping Centre
24.6 km
A practical shopping destination in Haverfordwest offering familiar brands, local markets, and essential services in Pembrokeshire’s county town.
The Sheep Shop
24.6 km
Quirky Welsh gift shop celebrating sheep culture, lovespoons, and local Pembrokeshire treasures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Royal Oak
6.7 km
Historic Fishguard pub and restaurant offering local ales and hearty fare in the scenic Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
The Farmers Arms
8.0 km
Traditional Welsh pub in scenic Mathry offering hearty meals, real ales, and warm Pembrokeshire hospitality daily from noon to 11pm.
The Ship Inn
9.4 km
Historic coastal pub in Pembrokeshire blending rustic charm with modern dining and a welcoming garden.
Square & Compass Inn
9.9 km
A welcoming Welsh country pub near Haverfordwest offering hearty food, friendly locals, and scenic Pembrokeshire views.
Sloop Inn
10.9 km
Historic coastal pub in Porthgain offering warm hospitality, fresh local seafood, and a rich maritime atmosphere.
Artramont Arms
11.7 km
A welcoming Welsh country pub serving hearty meals and good beer in the peaceful village of Croesgoch near Haverfordwest.
Dyffryn Arms
14.1 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
16.0 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality and traditional ales in the historic, cozy Llwyngwair Arms nestled in Newport’s charming village heart.
The Ship Solva
17.8 km
Charming family-run pub in Solva offering craft beers, fresh Welsh cuisine, and a cozy atmosphere near scenic Solva Harbour.
Harbour Inn
17.9 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
18.9 km
Cozy dog-friendly pub in Rudbaxton serving hearty home-cooked meals and renowned Sunday roasts with warm, attentive hospitality.
Tafarn Sinc.
20.6 km
Historic community-owned pub in Rosebush offering a quirky atmosphere, diverse drinks, and vegan-friendly dining in scenic Pembrokeshire.
The Pelcomb Inn
22.0 km
A warm, traditional Welsh pub offering hearty meals, friendly service, and cozy accommodation near Haverfordwest.
Lost Coins
23.2 km
A cozy, family-friendly pub in historic Haverfordwest serving quality pub classics, real ales, and vegan options with a warm atmosphere.
Friars Vaults
24.8 km
Historic and welcoming pub in Haverfordwest serving hearty British fare with great value and a lively local atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
- Stargazing
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- 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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
