Pembrokeshire May 2014 - Arrival at West Hook Farm

Monty the Motorhome is gazing out to sea from the most idyllic pitch he has set wheels on during his short life. 

We left Freshwater East behind and yes the bakery had to be visited again. The only problem is that the village has no parking, and I spent 20 anxious minutes partially blocking someone’s drive while Ruth popped in to stock up on provisions. Popped in would not really be the right way to describe it, as the place was heaving. A sure sign of quality.

So, with Monty’s cupboards having additions of more batch loaf, almond tarts and this time some blueberry tarts, we set off for the village of Angle, at the entrance to Milford Haven. This might seem a somewhat strange name for a settlement, but it is a Norse word meaning corner or turning (i.e. into the Haven from the open sea). We had read about free parking at West Angle Bay and found a large area facing straight out into the bay. Thoughts of overnighting passed through our minds as we hadn’t booked anywhere, but large signs prohibiting such actions put an end to that train of thought. What a pity - this large open space will almost certainly be devoid of vehicles all night. The village is only 10 minutes walk away and I’m sure some local businesses would benefit from people overnighting. The concept of British aires seems a long way off yet.

The view from the car park

We had printed off a circular walk of the Angle peninsula from Pembrokeshire County Council’s website which took us through the village and out to the Haven. Right on the sea front was The Old Point House - a whitewashed pub, with views out across the salt marsh. This was the lunch stop - sandwiches that were very basic and overpriced. 

The walk continued with views out across to Milford Haven oil refinery, which doesn’t sound very good, but actually was quite interesting. Milford Haven is one of the deepest harbours in the world and well able to accommodate super tankers bringing oil and gas for refining. Great jetties projected out into the water and it was disappointing not to see any of these great ships berthing.

Back at the car park we were treated to the sight of four army assault craft speeding into the bay, one of which landed and various military types sauntered up to a waiting unmarked vehicle. We never really worked out what was happening.

On then to our final destination of the day - West Hook Farm, a site convenient for the ferry to Skomer Island. We visited this iconic island years ago and it has long been our intention to  return; plus there is some good coastal walking in the area as well.

The site is at the end of a narrow road, with a grassy field overlooking St Brides Bay. Absolutely stunning and virtually deserted. There was no-one at the farm house, just a notice giving details of prices (£12 for motorhome + 2 adults per night) and a box to post our payment in. 

We chose our pitch and spent the rest of the day and evening just mesmorised by the view.

No electric hookup, so first time for us relying on our solar panel. More details on how we get on tomorrow.