Three miles north of Tenby is the busy seaside village of Saundersfoot. Originally just a manor in the middle of the Coedrath forest, by the end of the 18th century, Saundersfoot had become a sleepy fishing village.
The 19th century brought dramatic changes, however, and Saundersfoot became a port for shipbuilding and exporting coal. Soon the harbour was built, and several rail links to the collieries. The Strand used to be called Railway Street.
Later, iron ore was discovered in the rust-brown cliffs between Saundersfoot and Amroth, so two ironworks were founded, one at Wiseman's Bridge and another at Stepaside, the remains of which can still be seen inside the Heathfield Court Caravan Park.
Today, looking at Saundersfoot, as it nestles in the sheltered valley, reveals very little of its industrial past. Only the tunnels on the cliff path that leads from Coppet Hall Beach to Wiseman's Bridge serve as reminders of the railway that was once there to serve the coal trade.
Saundersfoot now bustles with families enjoying the seaside. It boasts an enormous number of places to eat and drink, with ice-creams available everywhere! Many shops specialise in crafts, souvenirs and novelties, and there are several car parks.
The large harbour lies in the shadow of the imposing cliff behind. It is home to the Sailing Club, which organises colourful regattas and other events. Boat owners will find the slipway large and easy to use.
Fresh fish, caught mainly in Saundersfoot Bay, is available at the harbourside stall.
Special events and markets are sometimes held in the harbour car park, which houses the Tourist Information Centre.
As well as the main beach, Saundersfoot has two other excellent beaches. To the west of the harbour there is the secluded sandy cove known as Glen Beach. Its wooded brown-shale cliffs contain a national geological feature - the famous Lady Cave anti-cline. To the east of the main village beach, with its accessible car park, facilities and refreshments kiosk, is Coppet Hall Beach. From here you can walk through a tunnel into the village via The Strand, or along the coast path to Wiseman's Bridge, or inland on footpaths to the lovely St. Issell's Church.