PORTHGAIN
Landowner
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
The National Trust.
Private Ownership.
Facilities
- Car Park/Public Toilets/Public Telephone.
- Slipway.
- Pub, restaurant and galleries.
Description
The most striking feature of Porthgain is its industrial past.
The unique geology of Porthgain gave rise to its mixture of industry
of slate quarrying, brick making and stone and crushed stone production.
The industry thrived between 1841 and 1931.
The harbour was difficult to find from the sea, hence the need
for the beacons found on the cliff top on the east and west sides.
The harbour is now used for fishing boats and pleasure craft.
The geology of Porthgain is both igneous and sedimentary. The
headlands at Porthgain are made up of extremely hard igneous rocks
which have resisted erosion and the bay is softer sedimentary
rock.
The site is covered by a conservation area to preserve this industrial
past and many of the buildings are now scheduled ancient monuments.
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park have undertaken an extensive
program of renovation on many of the buildings including Ty Mawr,
the stone machinery shed, the quarry mans cottages and the Pilot’s
house.
The site is littered with relics from its industrial past, including
lime kilns, brick works and quarries. Many of these features are
derelict and are dangerous, visitors should avoid exploring them
for their own safety.
Activities
Diving. Porthgain is a popular dive launch site, giving access
to Pembrokeshire’s exposed and somewhat hostile north coast.
The slipway is under the control of the harbourmaster and a charge
used for the upkeep of the harbour is made. The slipway though
recently improved by the National Park has a “kink”
in it and steep (kerbs). Slippery green weed is sometimes a problem.
Please park trailers with care as the village can get very crowded.
Do not leave boats tied up or unattended without the permission
of the harbourmaster.
Kayaking. Good touring opportunities, both east and west but beware
of strong currents and please keep clear of beaches and caves
used by seals during the pupping season.
Climbing. Climbing is currently confined to -
1) The old road stone quarry which has with Tenby Quarry the only
bolted routes in Pembrokeshire. Any new bolting activity can only
take place with the permission of the National Trust who own the
land and by agreement with the BMC Access Officer. The bolts were
placed in the mid 1990’s and have not be tested or inspected.
2) Penclegyr is a bold headland with very few routes and these
suitable only for small experienced parties.
Important Information
Slate should not be removed from quarry buildings.
Hammering and the removal of geological samples should be avoided.
The slipway should be kept clear at all times.
Vehicles should be parked in the car parking areas.
Useful Contact Numbers
- The National Trust – 01646 661359
- Pembrokeshire Coast National Park –
0845 345 7275
- Milford Haven Coast Guard – 01646 690909
- Countryside Council for Wales - 01646 636736
- Harbour Master - 01348 831661
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