Discover Goodwick | A Visitor's Introduction to Goodwick

Why is Goodwick Worth a Visit?

Goodwick is worth a visit for its unique combination of coastal scenery, historical importance, and convenient position as both a gateway and a destination in its own right. While some people only pass through on the ferry to Ireland, those who stop discover a welcoming community, great walking trails, and easy access to dolphin and whale watching in Cardigan Bay.

The town’s Goodwick Sands provides a gentle beach for paddling and picnicking, while nearby Fishguard has a working harbour full of character. Goodwick’s location makes it ideal for exploring the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, one of Britain’s most spectacular long-distance trails, and for accessing attractions like Strumble Head Lighthouse and the Preseli Hills.

There is also a strong sense of history: the area witnessed the French invasion of 1797, the last time a foreign force landed on British soil, and local sites tell this story with pride. Combined with its relaxed pace of life and spectacular natural setting, Goodwick is a rewarding stop for history lovers, walkers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone seeking an authentic Welsh coastal experience.

Goodwick Highlights: Things to See and Do in Goodwick

Goodwick Sands

This sheltered sandy beach is the heart of the town and popular with families. Its calm waters are safe for swimming, and the promenade makes for a pleasant stroll with views across Fishguard Bay. At low tide, the beach opens up into wide expanses, ideal for beachcombing and paddling. It’s also a good spot for watching ferries sail in and out of the harbour.

Ocean Lab Visitor Centre

Located near the waterfront, Ocean Lab combines a small visitor centre with family-friendly attractions. It offers exhibitions on marine life and local ecology, making it a good stop for children and anyone curious about the sea that defines Goodwick’s character. The café here is also a favourite spot for a coffee overlooking the water.

Fishguard Harbour

Just next door to Goodwick, Fishguard Harbour has long been an important port and is still the departure point for ferries to Rosslare in Ireland. Even if you’re not travelling, it’s fascinating to see the huge Stena Line ferries docking and loading. There’s also a scenic breakwater where you can walk out for panoramic views across the bay.

Last Invasion Tapestry (Fishguard)

In nearby Fishguard, this impressive 100-foot-long tapestry tells the story of the 1797 French invasion attempt, when troops landed near Goodwick but were quickly defeated by local militia and townsfolk. The tapestry, stitched by local women in 1997, is displayed in Fishguard Town Hall and is often compared to the Bayeux Tapestry for its vivid storytelling.

Strumble Head Lighthouse

A short drive west of Goodwick, Strumble Head is one of the most beautiful parts of the Pembrokeshire coastline. The lighthouse, perched dramatically on a small island linked by a footbridge, makes for a striking sight. The surrounding cliffs are superb for birdwatching, with chances to see choughs, peregrines, and seasonal migrants. From spring to autumn, you might also spot dolphins and porpoises in the waters below.

Pembrokeshire Coast Path

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path passes directly through Goodwick, making it a perfect base for walkers. Shorter day walks lead east towards Newport with views over Cardigan Bay or west towards Strumble Head with its rugged cliffs and wild seascapes. Even a couple of hours on the path offer a taste of why it’s considered one of the UK’s most scenic hiking routes.

Dyffryn Fernant Garden

Tucked away in the Gwaun Valley near Goodwick, this award-winning six-acre garden blends wild landscapes with creative planting. Visitors can explore meadows, ponds, a bog garden, and a walled area, all framed by views of the Preseli Hills. It’s especially beautiful in spring and summer when the flowers are in full bloom.

Marine Wildlife Watching

Goodwick and Fishguard are among the best bases for wildlife watching trips into Cardigan Bay. Several local operators run boat tours where you can spot dolphins, porpoises, seals, and even minke whales at the right time of year. Seabirds like gannets and puffins can also be seen on trips towards Skomer Island.

Fishguard & Goodwick Railway Station

Reopened in 2012 after being closed for decades, this small station is a nice symbol of the area’s connection to wider Wales. For railway enthusiasts, it’s a quirky point of interest, and the train journey west to Swansea passes through some stunning coastal scenery.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

Goodwick is easy to reach by road and rail. By car, the A40 runs directly from Carmarthen to Fishguard and Goodwick, making it straightforward to drive from south Wales. Cardiff is around two and a half hours away. By train, Fishguard & Goodwick station connects with services from Swansea and Cardiff, though trains are infrequent so check ahead. By ferry, Stena Line operates daily services from Rosslare in Ireland to Fishguard Harbour, right next to Goodwick. The ferry crossing takes about three and a half hours.

Parking

There is parking available at Goodwick Sands, the harbour, and around Fishguard. Most car parks are inexpensive or free, though they can get busy in peak summer. On-street parking is generally easy outside of the town centre.

Dining

Goodwick has a handful of local pubs, cafés, and takeaways, with more choice in nearby Fishguard. The Seaview Hotel is popular for hearty meals, and the Ocean Lab café is a nice spot for a casual bite. Fish and chips are a must-try, best enjoyed on the promenade overlooking the sea. For more variety, Fishguard has several restaurants serving Welsh and international cuisine.

Shopping

Goodwick itself has small local shops, while Fishguard offers more variety including supermarkets, independent boutiques, and craft stores. The area is known for local crafts, Welsh wool products, and artwork inspired by the sea and landscape. Farmers’ markets and local food shops are good places to pick up Welsh cheeses, cider, and baked goods.

When to Visit

Goodwick is at its best between late spring and early autumn. Summer brings warm weather, perfect for beach days and coastal walks, though it can be busy when ferry passengers pass through. Spring and autumn are quieter, with mild weather and beautiful natural colours. Winter can be stormy but dramatic, and the area is much quieter, ideal for those seeking solitude.

Local Events

Fishguard Folk Festival takes place in late May, bringing a lively weekend of folk music to venues around Goodwick and Fishguard. In July, the Fishguard International Music Festival hosts classical music concerts in churches and halls across north Pembrokeshire. August sees Aberjazz, a jazz and blues festival with performances in pubs and venues across the area.

Exploring Beyond Goodwick

Goodwick is perfectly placed for exploring wider Pembrokeshire. Newport, about 20 minutes east, is a charming town with a sandy beach, galleries, and great places to eat. St Davids, 45 minutes to the south-west, is Britain’s smallest city and home to the stunning St Davids Cathedral and spectacular coastal scenery. Inland, the Preseli Hills are known for their sweeping views, prehistoric stone circles, and as the source of the bluestones used at Stonehenge. For wildlife lovers, Skomer Island, about an hour south, is famous for puffins, seals, and wildflowers, and is accessible by boat from Martin’s Haven.