Rushland, Ludchurch

Deserving of some attention this September is this dog friendly bungalow in Ludchurch, just a short drive from both the beaches at Wiseman's Bridge and Amroth.

Rushland is a beautifully furnished and well decorated property which is obvious to the human eye upon arrival. It's practical style and modern feel create such a warm atmosphere throughout, which I am sure will help to make your dog feel right at home from the moment his paws touch the doorstep.

The dog friendly property itself is host to a large lawn, with a public footpath aside to the garden's bushes called 'Knight's Way' for a morning stroll. This popular lane could be made into a more extensive walk for those keen to explore during the afternoon perhaps.

Internally the property is laid with practical laminate flooring, for those dogs who may need a little more grip the owner has ensured that there are two runners (kept in the garage which guests have access to) that can be put down in the hallway if required. There are rugs placed in variation throughout the property too.

Ludchurch itself is a pretty village and by taking a short car drive for no longer than 10 minutes, would have you reach Wiseman's Bridge bay, which lays on the scenic coastline North of Saundersfoot and leads onto Amroth.

Wisemans Bridge at one time was the stage for rehearsals of the D-Day landings during the Second World War, but I can assure you that these days the setting is much more peaceful! It is a lovely safe haven for all the family and with it's popular beachside pub this area makes the perfect setting for a great sandy day out.

Further along the coastline you reach the long stretch of golden sands at Amroth. Amroth is host to well developed pubs, cafes and shops which are all close by to the beach. Amroth also marks the finish of the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path which begins far North in St Dogmaels, Cardigan.

From Saundersfoot you can embrace the say half a mile walk to Wisemans Bridge, going through two tunnels and passing the beach at Coppet Hall. Saundersfoot itself boasts it's fishing harbour, pubs, restaurants and shops as well as it's long stretch of sandy bay. Definitely a place to sit on the beach and enjoy a warming bag of fish and chips!

Rushland really would make for a lovely family getaway this Autumn. The village in which it sleeps is pleasant and welcoming and yet only a little drive away would bring you to walk along the plentiful sandy beaches and rest in a beachside pub.

And the best part is that you don't have to leave your best friend behind.

Seabrook, Nr Wisemans Bridge

When the children go back to school the dogs just have to come out and play.

Speaking as a mother only yet to the furry kind, as an owner of a dog that enjoys nothing more than skipping along the golden sand and plunging into the rock pools, when the height of the summer season ends and most have returned home, I cannot wait to whisk my dog down to the beach and let him roam free without the worry of him disturbing someones sunbathing or flicking sand in a little girl's sandwich.

Don't get me wrong, I adore the feeling of our beaches being admired and enjoyed by the many who visit Pembrokeshire every year, I as much as the next person love going for a swim off shore followed by a bag of chips and an ice-cream covered in strawberry sauce.

I just feel more content when my dog is swimming alongside me in the sea, there is the religious routine of one chip for me and one chip for him, followed by a long wait at my feet for him to lap up the next drip of his favourite ice-cream for dessert. Oh the memories!

Heading to Pembrokeshire late September into October and beyond is just fantastic when you are bringing your dog along for his well deserved holiday. Everything is so much more appropriate for your dog, whether it be that you are the only people making footprints (and paw prints) in the sand, the many Castle's have resumed to displaying their wintry history and the unspoilt cobbled streets are quieter to wander. There is just that sense of calmness where Pembrokeshire comes to rest after the holidays, it chooses to embrace the peace and quiet with open arms.

I for one love Autumn and it's association with melancholy, the prospect of Winter is on the horizon. Cue the rosy red cheeks as we take a brisk walk across the beaches and headlands at every chance.

Seabrook is a dog friendly property set above Wiseman's Bridge and Amroth sleeping a comfortable six people and one dog.

Being only a 20 minute walk from the dog friendly beach (all year round) at Wiseman's Bridge and it's welcoming beach side pub, Seabrook is a conveniently located property for the larger family and a dog looking for a stroll and a dip in the sea straight from the doorstep.

Heading in the opposite direction from Wiseman's Bridge you will discover the long and sandy beach at Amroth, any dog restrictions here are lifted as from the 30th September (roll on the empty beach) so your dog is free to chase ball time and time again. Amroth also boasts a selection of pubs, restaurants and seafront shops to embrace whilst you are visiting.

You could take a short drive from Wiseman's Bridge to Saundersfoot, or ditch the wheels and embrace the popular half mile walk from Wiseman's Bridge to the port at Saundersfoot. This walk is great for all walks of life as it is pretty flat, taking you through two tunnels and past the beach at Coppet Hall.

Saundersfoot itself is a pretty harbour town hosting both Saundersfoot Bay and The Glen beach. At low tide you can walk between the two beaches and up and around the harbour. Saundersfoot is where I quite enjoy demolishing a bag of chips sitting on the sand admiring the views from the bay.

If you to are a fan of the Autumn and can't wait to wander across the sand with your best friend in toe, check out the availability for Seabrook online or by calling a member of our reservations team on 01437 765 765.

Holidaying with your best friend...

I don't think you can ever beat it - going on holiday with your best friend. Isn't that what holidays are all about?

For me, in the back seat of the car there is always room for another and if they have fur, four legs and a wagging tail all the better!

Same goes for the Newton family and their beloved Lucy. A treasured companion that didn't fancy being left at home this holiday, so joined her humans on a dog friendly holiday to 1 Brynawel in Dinas Cross, Pembrokeshire.

Meet Lucy...

It is always a pleasure hearing about our guests visits to Pembrokeshire and when their accompanying four legged friends enjoy the holiday just as much (if not more) than the humans, I am so very proud to hear of their experiences that I have to share their stories and photo diaries with everyone.

1 Brynawel is a semi-detached Victorian house set on the outskirts of the very popular village of Dinas. The dog friendly property boasts superb views with Mynydd Dinas to the rear with the sea and bay to the front, offering comfortable and cosy accommodation for it's guests all year round. 1 Brynawel is within walking distance of Aberbach Bay and the coastal path (which Lucy is modelling here!).

Mike Newton has very kindly described Lucy's holiday in much detail for me, talking of the variation in walks that Lucy enjoyed everyday and the abundance of admiration Lucy received by many throughout her holiday.

In his own words...

'Lucy had a walk everyday. We did the woods at Cwm Gwaun and had a pint at The Dyffryn Arms (aka Bessie's Pub) and met Bessie (she has been there for 60 years).'

Just to add a little insight here on The Dyffryn Arms at Pontfaen, this deservedly celebrated, little basic pub has been kept by Bessie Davies where she still serves beer with a jug from the barrel. It has been voted one of Wales' top attractions - you never know who you will meet here!

'A nice walk from the bridge that crosses the estuary near Newport where the bird watchers are, then along the the bank towards the Parrog and golf club at Newport.'

'Park near Penwaun and and take the path to Felindre for a great meal at The Salutation Inn (host John excellent), it rained a bit and let Lucy come into the bar where she curled up in the corner and slept but woke to the smell of cooked liver!!

The pathway from Penwaun is being upgraded and the big mud patches are going, lovely wooded walk with the river Nevern to your right all the way.'

'Also did Dinas Head, stopped again at The Old Sailor for lunch with lots of admiration for Lucy.'

'Parrog to Aberfforest marine walk is also lovely as well as the cove before it, you can get to the main road through a lovely wooded glade with a rambling stream going all the way to the stream.'

'It was a great holiday especially for Lucy, she just did not want to come out of the sea or come home.'

I was so very appreciative of Mike's words, but as if the above wasn't fantastic enough, he continued and perfectly finished up with the following...

'Also I think 1 Brynawel does not get the visitors it deserves, yes it is on the main road but still has an enclosed garden, the house itself is comfy, clean and has everything you need.

From the doorstep you have access of about a 10 minute walk to Aberbach Bay...

...Dinas shops and obviously the coastal path or go down the lane to the hill behind.

We have been coming to Pembrokeshire for 7 years now, Penwaun was the first house we had from you and have stayed their many times.

Bringing your best friend on holiday - Lucy makes you have a very different type of break.

We must have walked over 30 miles with her that week and we never got tired of the amazing scenery, the lovely people and the stress-free feeling that this area has.'

A very big thank you to Mike Newton for taking the time to describe Lucy's holiday in such a perfect manner to me, and well done Lucy for being the greatest poser for the camera!

For more information in regards to 1 Brynawel in Dinas Cross please do not hesitate to speak with a member of our reservations team on 01437 765 765. 1 Brynawel for this week is very deserving to be my featured cottage on http://www.thewoofguide.com/.

Doggy Paradise really does exist!

It is true, a dog's paradise really does exist. The three dog friendly properties within a terrace of barn conversions near Carmarthen really do offer an array of surprises that any dog would be over the moon to discover!

Forest View Cottages, Nantglas, Ty Coedwig and Ty Dyffryn are set within the owners' 35 acres of farm and parkland, situated at the bottom of a valley on the edge of the extensive Brechfa Forest. It even sounds amazing doesn't it?

Brechfa Forest truly inhabits some of the most spectacular scenery and views in Carmarthenshire, with it's myriad of footpaths to explore it makes it an ideal location for lovely walks with your dog. It is home to an abundance of wildlife and ancient woodland covering the steep slopes and riverbanks. No wonder the sublime setting is so popular with so many visitors wanting to explore and discover it's unspoilt nature.




Each of the dog friendly properties have been individually and uniquely designed with retained beams, all offering a comfortable and really special place to holiday with your dog. Outside each property you have your very own paved patio and landscaped communal area, which makes the perfect setting for an evening barbecue, not forgetting a sausage or two for your best friend.


Nantglas is the larger of the properties sleeping 6, with both Ty Coedwig and Ty Dyffryn sleeping 4.

As everyone appreciates, bringing your dog on holiday naturally requires responsibility and planning. As being a responsible dog owner is already in the bag, let's get to the fun bit, planning where to walk!

Along most of the trails within Brechfa Forest your dog is more than welcome to join you as the majority are open access, just so long as they are kept under control at all times during the excitement of your exploration.

Abergorlech is a delightful trail requiring moderate ability, following the River Gorlech along forestry roads before crossing a small bridge onto a footpath and climbing up hill through mature mixed broad leaf and coniferous woodland.

The walk has both short and long distance routes, which are complemented by an ever-changing woodland environment. The picnic area is the trails starting point and is also an ideal place in which to leave your car.

The trail is 2 miles long and would take you around 1 1/2 hours to complete.

To state the obvious, please make sure that suitable footwear is worn by all clumsy humans as the trails can become slippery in adverse weather conditions!

A little drive from the Forest View Cottages to Pembrey will be sure to tire even the most energetic greyhound! Cefn Sidan is an 8 mile long beach in Pembrey Country Park edged by a belt of golden sand dunes. There are clear panoramic views across Carmarthen Bay and the Gower coastline.

A quick mention as well to the Millennium Coastal Park which occupies around 10 miles of coastline on the Burry Estuary. The park offers superb views along it's length of the Gower Peninsula. One of it's many features is the continuous traffic-free cycle/footpath.

There really is plenty to keep the whole family occupied, so much so a week simply wouldn't be enough!

All information in regards to Nantglas, Ty Coedwig and Ty Dyffryn can be found on The Woof Guide, or if you would prefer to take the time and have a chat, our reservations team are always happy to help on 01437 765 765.

Woodland rambles and discovering Pembrokeshire history

I always like to bring dog friendly properties to the attention of my readers, as I really believe that using a little local knowledge can really go a long way, helping to emphasise details such as the walks, beaches and attractions nearby that all visitors love to embrace during their stay in Pembrokeshire.

For today, I would love to explore the delights and history of Nevern, a beauty spot full of enchanting woodland, an arched river bridge and an early Norman church.

Coed Cadw Cottage and it's adjoining Farmhouse are nestled within the superb Nevern Valley just outside the village of Felindre Farchog, and is an ideal location for family (including the dogs!) or friends sharing a desirable rural position surrounded by fields and an abundance of wildlife. This natural position in which the properties inhabit offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the local area. The cottage is great for two families and for larger parties the secure, concealed connecting door can be opened on request, making it a lovely space to share.

This natural and unspoilt position in which the properties inhabit provide ample opportunities to explore and admire the local area.

From the properties, a walk following a woodland track from Nevern will lead into Felindre Farchog and it's resident Salutation Inn. Dogs are welcome in the bar area at the Salutation Inn we you can enjoy drinks and snacks. The track is around 1.5 miles and so makes for a pleasant stroll of an evening.

If you wanted to proceed on from Felindre Farchog for a longer walk, you can embrace the footpath at the top of the hill and follow on to reach Pentre Ifan and it's historic burial chamber.

Pentre Ifan burial chamber lies on the slopes of the Preselli Mountains and is reputed to be one of the best examples of an early Neolithic tomb in the UK.

The pleasant walk around the riverside hamlet in Nevern makes for an enjoyable 3 mile stint, which takes you to the church of St Brynach and all it's history, passing through an abundance of unspoilt countryside. One of the ancient yew trees within the churchyard grounds is known as 'the bleeding yew' because blood red sap oozes out of a broken branch. It is said that it will continue to do so until a Welshman re-occupies the castle on the hill above.

Newport would be your nearest town standing at the mouth of the river Nevern. Newport itself is home to local cafes, pubs and restaurants. Fronlas Cafe in Newport is welcoming to dogs and offers a fantastic homemade menu for the humans.

If you fancy a day or two exploring the beaches, then Newport offers both Newport Sands and Newport Parrog to explore. At low tide you can venture from Newport Sands across the estuary to Newport Parrog, and the walk around the river bank through a bird sanctuary to the road bridge crossing is always enjoyable.

Carn Ingli Mountain (Angel Mountain or Hill of the Angels) presents spectacular views across Newport and out onto Cardigan Bay. Maybe not for the faint hearted, but once you have made it to the top of the hill it really does live up to it's name of Angel Mountain.

For full details and guidance to walks around Nevern, Pentre Ifan and the Gwaun Valley please visit DOG WALKS IN PEMBROKESHIRE.

If at any time you would like to discuss Coed Cadw and Coed Cadw Farmhouse or check out either of the properties availability for the coming year, then please feel free to contact a member of our reservations team on 01437 765765.

Pembrokeshire in all it's sunshine

What a fantastic few weeks we have had down in Pembrokeshire, the sun has certainly had his hat on. I suppose though for the dogs the heat isn't so great, Jed has been clipped again.

Although I can't seem to adapt to him looking like a staffie, I do understand how much cooler it is for him. Mum loves it as there isn't half the hair caught up in the carpets!

I took Jed down to the estuary on Sunday night, it is only around a half hour walk from mum and dad in Cosheston. I waited though until about 8 in the evening after I had filled my face with a BBQ at mums to take him down, it was so much cooler and the tide was right up to the shore. Jed swam solidly for around an hour, he never gets tired of the water.

Walking along the shoreline late evening must be the best time of the day during the summer for a dip. Everything feels so calm, cool and the colours in the skies are something else. But when you turn around to the sight of two Irish Wolfhounds bounding towards you, you almost wonder whether you have arrived at Jurassic Park. They were massive and made Jed look like a Chihuahua!

These paws are made for walking...

Spring has certainly sprung when an array of rainbow coloured flowers fill the river banks and hedgerows, you wake up to the sweet singing of birds in the trees and the evenings are forever lasting. Roll on the summer sun as the warm rays shine over Pembrokeshire enhancing the abundance of the County's unspoilt coastal beauty. Pembrokeshire truly is a place for everyone to visit and celebrate each passing season is style.

You really can explore our beautiful county with only a few paws on the sand wandering the beaches, visiting magnificent Castle ruins in the company of your best mate and explore the big green playground, bouncing along our beautiful Pembrokeshire coastal path.

The Corner in Amroth offers all the above and more for both human and dogs.

Set on a country lane near Amroth, The Corner is a traditional cottage welcoming both you and up to two dogs to enjoy both fantastic coastal and rural adventures, admiring the beaches, the plentiful walks along the coast and woodland and relaxing in the local friendly restaurants after a hard day playing.

The cottage has retained many period features within benefiting from a spacious lounge and conservatory, with extensive gardens surrounding the property enclosed by hedgerows, perfect for chasing butterflies and basking in the beaming Pembrokeshire sunshine during your stay.

The Corner is only around a mile away from the beach at Amroth. Amroth beach is a sandy bay with a pebble bank above the tide line, it is said here that at extremely low tide that the stumps and trunks of an ancient submerged forest can be seen here. Down at Amroth beach there are toilets, restaurants and a small shop.

Please note that between 1st May - 30th September there is a partial dog restriction in place.

From Amroth you can begin walking along the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path following the coastal cycletrack, heading towards neighboring Wisemans Bridge and onto the harbour village of Saundersfoot. If you head from Amroth going eastwards you will leave the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path and join the Carmarthenshire coastline, bringing you towards Pendine and Laugharne further beyond.

If after a days walking and wandering your dogs have picked up a little sand between their paws, salt water on their fur or splashes of mud under their belly, then The Corner offers a pleasant place for them to enjoy a quick wipe down and take time to dry...

...And if you don't only want to bring along a dog or two then the owners of The Corner even offer the opportunity for guests to pack their horse in the trailer too. What an attraction...bringing your horse on holiday!

For the Easter weeks commencing the 16th and 23rd April 2011, The Corner is offering an attractive 15% discount off each week. Do you really need any other excuse to get packing?!

For more information on The Corner in Amroth, availability and pricing please contact a member of our reservations team on 01437 765 765.

Happy dog friendly holidays!

Calling all water loving dogs!

This one would be great for my Jed - Granston House in Abermawr. He loves the water whatever the weather and so being so close to the beach would be perfect all year round!

Granston House is a dog friendly property in Abermawr less than a mile away from it's impressive and large bay. Think of the morning strolls and late afternoon wanders you and your dog could enjoy day after day. The fresh Pembrokeshire air in the lungs and a stretch of the legs to burn off breakfast!

Sleeping four people plus your one dog who's been lucky enough to come along with you, Granston House makes for a pleasant and peaceful retreat for the whole family during your time exploring Pembrokeshire.

A short distance from Granston House will take you to join the stretch of Pembrokeshire Coastal Path between Abermawr and Abercastle. This section of the coastal path is around 3 miles, ideal for a breath of fresh air for an hour or two!

If your family are keen walkers and fancy grasping the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path adventure elsewhere, I would also recommend the stretch from Abermawr to Penbwchdy which boasts magnificent views towards St David's Head, Strumble and Garn Fawr. And if you still fancy more then head from Abercastle onto Aber Draw which offers a wondrous path displaying dramatic yet stunning cliff scenery.

Hungry yet?

If you fancy a night off from cooking at your self catering property, why not head a little further afield and treat the family to a great and wholesome meal. And yes, that means the dog can go too!

Around a 15 minute drive will take you into Goodwick where the Hope and Anchor pub welcomes well behaved dogs to accompany you whilst you enjoy the finest food around and admire the fantastic views.

A great day out would be had for all by visiting the smallest city of St David's and it's recognised Cathedral only a drive away. St David's is surrounded by spectacular coastal scenery renowned for it's unspoilt beauty. Whilst visiting this area take the time to discover Whitesands, one of the many beautiful beaches in the area too.

Granston House really couldn't be any closer to a fantastic and intriguing bay for those dogs who love splashing around in the water and is nearby to many stunning places in Pembrokeshire.

Jed splashing about

Yesterday was a gorgeous day in Pembrokeshire. The sun was shining the sky was a blanket of blue and it was wonderfully mild.

Wanting to make the most of the day, I cycled to Jed to take him out for an hour or two. If Carew Mill has no water when I pass, it means that the tide is in when I get to Cosheston and head down onto the Cleddau Estuary. This was the case yesterday, so off we went.

I managed to take a few great pictures:

Once a poser always a poser!

A white New Year...

Snow. I think it's probably the topic of pretty much everyone's conversation at the moment isn't it, it's all about the white stuff. Pembrokeshire was host to a fair blanket...

Jed absolutely loves the snow. For a V.I.P (very important pet) that's getting on a little you would never think that he was a day over 5. His Spaniel eagerness and Collie energy create a cracking, youthful mix. His black, white and spotty outfit looks even prettier against a snowy white back drop.

I love to walk and naturally Jed does too, which of course doesn't change when it snows. Carew Castle looked stunning as we walked last Sunday morning.

It is in snowy circumstances such as these that you come to realise that a more intense training regime would have come in handy when he was a puppy. It is my fault entirely that Jed has a habit of pulling whilst he is on the lead, which mixed with slushy snow and clumps of ice creates a wholesome recipe for unfortunate disaster. I really did struggle taking him for 'tats' on the lead, as in all honesty I could have quite easily came crashing down and kissed the pavement several times over. There was me taking step by little, careful step and Jed charging forward slipping and sliding like Bambi. No fear that's the trouble!

Mum was quite right though. Whilst I was giggling at Jed being a twit, Mum offered a sensible head in saying that a nasty slip or slide for Jed could potentially be extremely dangerous for him too at his mature age, let alone me. I hadn't really thought of it like that. I just saw him having the time of his life, rolling around in the crunch and catching snowballs that it just didn't occurred to me.

Does your dog do that? Catch whopping great big snowballs? Jed is terrible. He takes it in whole then shakes is head as the icy clumps slide down and settle in his belly. You've got to laugh.

The majority of the snow has disappeared in Pembrokeshire now and turned into rain. You may be lucky in spotting the odd patch of white every now and then hidden in the hedge, but I think our spell has reluctantly come to an end.