Why St Dogmaels Captures the Very Best of Pembrokeshire

Just ten minutes from Trenewydd Farm lies a village that seems to have everything that makes Pembrokeshire special: Ancient history. Award winning food. A thriving community. One of the county's best beaches. Spectacular walks. And a sense of place that stays with you long after you've returned home.

It's St Dogmaels (Llandudoch), and if you're staying at Trenewydd Farm, it's somewhere we always recommend visiting.

A Village That's Earned National Recognition
The secret may be out. St Dogmaels was recently named the Best Place to Live in Pembrokeshire by The Sunday Times as part of its annual Best Places to Live guide, recognition that reflects what locals and visitors have known for years.

This is a village that has managed to retain its character while remaining a vibrant and welcoming place to live. There is a genuine sense of community here, alongside beautiful surroundings, independent businesses and a rich history that stretches back centuries.

One of Our Favourite Walks
While most visitors drive to St Dogmaels, one of our favourite ways to reach the village is on foot. A super quiet country lane winds its way from Trenewydd Farm towards the village; you'll rarely see a car for most of it.

Along the way, a gentle stream accompanies you for much of the route. In spring, you'll find the unmistakable scent of wild garlic growing along the banks, and perhaps the most memorable section comes as the road passes through a magnificent avenue of mature trees. Towering trunks rise high above the lane, creating a dramatic green corridor that feels almost cathedral like in scale.

It's one of those walks that reminds you to slow down and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

St Dogmaels Abbey: Nearly 1,000 Years of History
At the heart of the village stand the remarkable ruins of St Dogmaels Abbey. In fact, if you take the footpath to the left just when you get to the first houses, it takes you over the top of the village and gives the most stunning views of the Abbey and over to the estuary. 

Founded in the early twelfth century, the abbey became one of the most important religious sites in West Wales. Today, the ruins remain among the most impressive historic landmarks in Pembrokeshire.

Walking through the ancient stone arches and exploring the grounds offers a fascinating glimpse into nearly a thousand years of Welsh history. The Abbey continues to play an important role in village life, hosting exhibitions, performances and community events throughout the year. It is a place where history feels very much alive.

Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply appreciate beautiful places, the Abbey is well worth exploring.

Coffee, Cake and Abbey Views
One of the pleasures of visiting St Dogmaels is taking your time. The Coach House Visitor Centre, located beside the abbey, is home to a lovely café with a wonderful array of homemade cakes, where you can enjoy coffee or lunch while looking out over the historic surroundings. It's the perfect place to pause, soak up the atmosphere and plan the rest of your day.

Môr Ffein: Fish and Chips Worth Travelling For
No visit to St Dogmaels would be complete without stopping at Môr Ffein. This modern fish and chip shop has quickly developed an outstanding reputation for quality and has become a favourite with both locals and visitors. If you're looking for a relaxed lunch or supper after a day of exploring, it's hard to think of a better option.

The White Hart: A Pub Saved by Its Community
The White Hart is much more than a village pub. When St Dogmaels faced the prospect of losing its last pub, local residents came together to purchase the building and transform it into a community owned inn. We own a share ourselves! So whether you're stopping for a drink, a meal or simply to experience a genuine Welsh village pub, the White Hart is well worth a visit.

Poppit Sands: One of Pembrokeshire's Finest Beaches
Just beyond the village lies Poppit Sands, a spectacular stretch of coastline that many people consider one of Pembrokeshire's best beaches. At low tide, huge expanses of golden sand allow plenty of room for families, dog walkers and beach games. The views across Cardigan Bay are stunning, and Poppit Sands is also the northern gateway to the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.

Why Our Guests Love St Dogmaels
Where else can you start the day with a beautiful countryside walk, explore a medieval abbey, enjoy coffee overlooking ancient ruins, tuck into exceptional fish and chips, and finish the afternoon on one of Pembrokeshire's finest beaches? And best of all, it's right on the doorstep of Trenewydd Farm.