Castle Point

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Pembrokeshire

Wales

Castle Point

Smyth Street Fishguard Residential street with 18thC terraced housing along the east side, as drawn in the 1839 tithe map. The street may have originally been called Barham Street, named after a local landowner, but changed to Smyth Street after the occupier of the land, John Smyth a maltster from Cornwall.
In the 1901 census occupations of residents were recorded as ostler, charwoman, laundress, mason, carpenter, farm labourer, grocer, tinplate worker and retired slate quarry worker, among others. — Smyth Street Fishguard Credit: Natasha Ceridwen de Chroustchoff

Castle Point is a prominent headland located in Pembrokeshire, Wales. Situated on the western coast of the country, this coastal feature offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the Irish Sea. The point takes its name from the remnants of a medieval castle that once stood on its summit.

The headland is characterized by its rugged cliffs, which tower above the pounding waves below. These cliffs provide nesting sites for a variety of seabirds, including guillemots, razorbills, and kittiwakes, making it a popular spot for birdwatching enthusiasts. The surrounding waters are also rich in marine life, with seals and dolphins often spotted in the area.

Castle Point is easily accessible by foot, with several walking trails leading to its summit. Along these paths, visitors can admire the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this coastal habitat, including wildflowers, heather, and gorse. The headland is also home to a variety of small mammals, such as rabbits and voles.

The site's historical significance adds to its charm. The remains of the castle, thought to have been constructed in the 12th century, offer a glimpse into the area's medieval past. Exploring the ruins, visitors can imagine the castle's former grandeur and learn about its role in local history.

Overall, Castle Point is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking a tranquil escape by the sea. Its dramatic cliffs, diverse wildlife, and fascinating history make it a captivating coastal feature in Pembrokeshire.

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Castle Point Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.001286/-4.9704314 or Grid Reference SM9637. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Smyth Street Fishguard

Residential street with 18thC terraced housing along the east side, as drawn in the 1839 tithe map. The street may have originally been called Barham Street, named after a local landowner, but changed to Smyth Street after the occupier of the land, John Smyth a maltster from Cornwall. In the 1901 census occupations of residents were recorded as ostler, charwoman, laundress, mason, carpenter, farm labourer, grocer, tinplate worker and retired slate quarry worker, among others.

Natasha Ceridwen de Chroustchoff

Needle Rock from the sea

Unusual view of the sea stack from the water, thanks to a boat trip. The aperture through it is known as the Eye of the Needle. Fragments from the wrecked Hermina (1921) are said to be visible here at low water.

Natasha Ceridwen de Chroustchoff

Guillemot breeding ledge

Guillemots 'nest' each year on this narrow ledge and paint the cliff face with their excreta. Seen from below, by boat.

Natasha Ceridwen de Chroustchoff

Pirate cannonball in Glynymel Road

This cannonball was unearthed in the garden above. Its size and shape suggest that it was fired from a pirate or privateer ship in the harbour since it resembles the description of the cannonball that injured a local resident, Miss Mary Fenton, sister of the merchant Samuel Fenton who built the harbour walls and main warehouse during the latter part of the 18thC. It is recorded that a privateer, probably Stephen Manhant, entered the harbour in 1779 and fired cannon shot into the village.

Natasha Ceridwen de Chroustchoff

Fishguard - Tenby House

Old building on West Street, now housing a newsagent.

Colin Smith

Fishguard - West Street

Painted gables dominate this scene in central Fishguard.

Colin Smith

Fishguard - Royal Oak

"The pub is famous for its place in history as in 1797, the French unsuccessfully attempted an invasion on the west coast of Wales only to be thwarted by the locals. This was the last invasion attempt on Britain. A peace treaty was signed between the British and French in the bar area". Link