Discover more at St David's Peninsula
Find out how to get to St David's Peninsula, where to park, the things to see and do and more.
Visiting Porthclais harbour
- Published:
- 21 August 2024
Porthclais is a little harbour on the south-western tip of the St David’s Peninsula, which was once a trading port alive with industry, and is now a popular spot for kayakers, small boat owners and captivating coastal walks.
Things to see at Porthclais
The harbour, built in the 12th century to serve the city of St David’s was a bustling port, with ships importing and exporting goods for the coastal communities. Timber, grain, limestone and coal were among the items traded, with the latter two fuelling the onshore lime kilns and nearby gas works.
Lime kilns
You can still see the lime kilns on either side of the harbour, but all that remains of the gas works is the former pump room.
Coast paths, climbing, crabbing and kayaking
Once you’ve explored the industrial heritage of Porth Clais, make the most of its seaside location. Enjoy our circular route around the Treginnis Peninsula or take a leisurely stroll along the water’s edge.
The rocky slabs just east of the harbour mouth are also a great place for climbing groups and outdoor adventure.
Did you know?
- The harbour and land came into our care in 1940
- The car park is on the site of the former gas works, which were demolished in the late 1960s
- The first record of trade from Porth Clais is found in a 1385 account of building works at St David’s Cathedral
- The old harbour wall is believed to have been constructed by the Romans
- Lime from Porthclais was likely to have been used for agriculture to neutralise acidic soil and improve crop growth
Porthclais kiosk
This red-brick former pump room is now a lovely coastal kiosk run by a local family from St Davids.
What’s on the menu?
The kiosk offers a light bite menu designed for coastal convenience, with hot drinks, local ice cream, homemade cakes, soups, stews, toasted sandwiches and seasonal specials on offer. The menu is focused on locally sourced ingredients and tasty dished that can be easily enjoyed on-the-go
When you visit, please speak to one of the team to check the current allergen information for your favourite dish.
How to find the kiosk
You'll find the kiosk next to the National Trust car park at Porthclais Harbour (SA62 6RR). For the latest information, visit Porthclais Kiosk’s Facebook and Instagram pages.
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