New Quay
New Quay is a picturesque resort village in Ceredigion and was once a flourishing shipbuilding centre and fishing port.
Built on terraced slopes falling steeply to a crescent beach of golden sand and a sheltered harbour where small local fishing boats and pleasure craft still come and go. Amongst the people of Wales, New Quay remains one of the favourite places to go for a weekend away at any time of year.
The miles of secluded coves around New Quay provided ideal hiding places for smuggled goods such as brandy, tobacco, wines and sprits in the eighteenth century. Dylan Thomas once lived here and New Quay is probably the 'cliff-perched town at the far end of Wales' on which he based Llareggub in Under Milkwood. To find out more about New quays history, make sure you visit The Ceredigion Museum in New Quay where you can see displays of local history and natural history exhibitions.
Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre is located here, containing a wealth of information on dolphins, seals and sea birds of Cardigan Bay and the Irish Sea. The Public Information and Research Centre features exhibits, interactive displays, children's corner with activities, regular film shows and a gift shop. There is something of interest to everyone from families with young children to dedicated researchers.
A third of Ceredigion's spectacular coastline has been defined as 'Heritage Coast'. Between New Quay and Tresaith, the boundary extends out to sea for one mile in recognition of the area's important marine wildlife. The coastal footpaths offer many opportunities for fine walking. During the summer, a programme of guided walks, talks and boat trips is held at different venues along the coastline and you may even be ucky enough to spot a dolphin.
New Quays pretty narrow streets are lined with an abundance of gift shops, bars and cafes to browse around or have a refreshment or two. Llanarth Pottery, nearby offers the opportunity to watch life going on in the busy workshop where all the pots are hand thrown and hand decorated. An excellent choice of pots in many glazes, ranging in size from eggcups to bread crocks are available for sale.