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Saundersfoot harbour on a clear day with boats at dock.

A Coblynau adventure in Saundersfoot

Discover the myths and legends of Pembrokeshire's coast by rail.

Step off the train and into a world of hidden tunnels, ancient legends and magical folklore on a family-friendly adventure to Saundersfoot.

Nestled on the Pembrokeshire coast, Saundersfoot is known today for its wide golden beach, vibrant harbour and welcoming atmosphere. Yet beneath the surface lies a rich industrial past and a treasure trove of Welsh myths. According to folklore, the underground workings of Wales were home to the Coblynau (pronounced cob-lin-eye), mischievous but benevolent mine spirits who guided miners to valuable seams of coal and warned them of danger with mysterious knocks and sounds deep underground.

With its fascinating mining heritage, dramatic coastline and rail connection, Saundersfoot is the perfect destination for a mythical 48-hour escape.

Saundersfoot beach with boats in the foreground.

Getting there by train

Travelling to Saundersfoot is easy with Great Western Railway services from London Paddington, Bristol, Bath and South Wales, connecting via Swansea and Carmarthen.

Saundersfoot station sits around one mile from the harbour and village centre. From the station, follow the signed footpath downhill along Frances Road and Milford Street into the village. The walk takes approximately 20 minutes and offers your first glimpse of the Pembrokeshire coast. Local taxis are also available from the station.

Day 1: Following the footsteps of the Coblynau

Morning: Arrive in Saundersfoot

Begin your adventure at Saundersfoot Harbour, where generations of coal miners once loaded coal onto ships bound for destinations around the world. It's easy to imagine the Coblynau watching from hidden corners of the old tunnels and workings beneath the village.

Today, the harbour is a vibrant hub for families, with fishing boats, coastal views and plenty of opportunities to learn about the area's maritime and industrial history.

For a light lunch or coffee overlooking the sea, stop at Sip n Sea, a popular waterfront spot that provides the perfect setting to watch activity in the harbour.

Next visit the Coal Museum at the Harbour. The museum tells the story of Pembrokeshire’s coal industry, from its early development and global importance to the construction of the harbour that supported it. Discover how the industry shaped the region and learn about its decline over the last century.

Saundersfoot harbour on a clear day with boats at dock

Afternoon: The Mining Trail to Wisemans Bridge

One of the best ways to experience Saundersfoot's folklore is by walking the former railway route between Saundersfoot and Wisemans Bridge.

This scenic coastal path follows part of the old industrial network once used to transport coal from local mines. Along the route you'll pass through atmospheric tunnels cut into the cliffs. These dark passageways are exactly the kind of place where stories of the Coblynau feel most alive.

Children will love listening for mysterious knocks in the rock while learning about the miners who once worked beneath the coastline.

At the end of the walk, reward yourselves with refreshments at Wisemans Bridge Inn, situated right on the beach. The views across Carmarthen Bay make it a wonderful place to pause before returning to Saundersfoot.

Evening: Sunset by the sea

Back in Saundersfoot, enjoy dinner overlooking the harbour in one of the many restaurants or pubs. Enjoy stunning views across the bay and enjoy watching the sun sink below the horizon.

As darkness falls, local storytellers often say that twilight is when the boundaries between the ordinary world and the world of Welsh folklore feel closest.

Saundersfoot beach with the sea expanding beyond the horizon, on a clear day.

Day 2: Castles, fairies and coastal legends

Morning: Hean Castle Estate and the Pembrokeshire Coast

After breakfast, explore the surroundings of Hean Castle Estate, with history stretching back centuries. The estate's grounds and surrounding countryside provide the perfect backdrop for tales of Welsh fairies, known as the Tylwyth Teg.

While the Coblynau lived beneath the earth, the Tylwyth Teg were said to inhabit green hills, hidden valleys and moonlit clearings throughout Wales. Together they formed part of a rich folklore tradition that still shapes Welsh storytelling today.

Visitors looking for relaxation can enjoy the Hwyl Sauna experience, combining spectacular coastal scenery with a modern wellbeing retreat.

HWYL Sauna at Saundersfoot beach, with the beach in the background on a clear day.

Afternoon: Discover Wider Pembrokeshire Legends

If you're travelling with children, consider a short train journey, or hop on a bus, to nearby Tenby. The medieval town walls, narrow streets and colourful harbour feel like something from a storybook.

Pembrokeshire is rich in legend. Along the coast you'll find tales of saints, pirates, giants and enchanted creatures. From the dramatic cliffs of St Brides Bay to the ancient stones scattered across the county, folklore is woven into almost every landscape.

Back in Saundersfoot, spend the afternoon exploring rock pools, enjoying the beach or visiting local independent shops.

The Saundersfoot Sensory Garden in Saundersfoot, a community space near the harbour.

Evening: A Final Harbour Stroll

Before heading home, take one last walk around Saundersfoot Harbour. As the tide rises and falls, it's easy to see why stories flourished here for centuries.

Listen carefully and you might just hear the faint tapping of a friendly Coblyn at work beneath the cliffs.

Food and drink

Exterior of HARBWR Bar and Kitchen in Saundersfoot on a clear day.

Places to stay

St Brides Spa Hotel

Luxury accommodation with spectacular views across Saundersfoot Bay, a renowned spa and easy access to the harbour.

Hean Castle Estate

A collection of accommodation options close to the coast, ideal for families and groups.

Puffin Cottage Holidays

A wide selection of holiday cottages throughout Saundersfoot and the surrounding area. 25 Coedrath Park is a particular favourite within walking distance of the village.

Swallow Tree Gardens Holiday Park

Family-friendly holiday accommodation with excellent facilities and easy access to Saundersfoot.

Sea Dreams

A modern self-catering holiday cottage located in a peaceful residential road above Saundersfoot Bay, a pleasant 10-minute stroll to the beach and attractions.

Why visit?

Combining beautiful beaches, fascinating industrial heritage and centuries of Welsh folklore, Saundersfoot offers a different kind of seaside escape. Whether you're tracing the footsteps of the Coblynau through old mining tunnels, exploring the Pembrokeshire Coast or simply enjoying fish and chips by the harbour, this enchanting corner of Wales proves that some legends never fade.