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St Govan’s Chapel named among Wales’ top hidden gems

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ST GOVAN’S CHAPEL in Pembrokeshire has been ranked among the highest-rated free attractions in Wales.

The ancient hermit’s chapel, perched on the cliffs near Bosherston, features in a new list compiled by outdoor retailer Millets. The list highlights the best “hidden gems” across the UK that visitors can enjoy without paying an entry fee.

Sam Chadwick, author of the Millets blog, said: “The UK is full of beautiful locations, and in recent years more people have discovered the benefits of spending time outdoors. We have collated our ultimate hidden gems list, revealing the highest-rated places that are completely free to enjoy.”

Wales’ top free hidden gems

Four Welsh attractions topped the table with an outstanding average rating of 4.85 out of 5 – Llanddwyn Island in Anglesey, Pen y Fan in Powys, Porth Ceiriad Beach in Gwynedd, and the Big Pit National Coal Museum in Torfaen.

St Govan’s Chapel shares joint second place with sites including Newborough Forest, the Four Waterfalls walk, and Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, each scoring an impressive 4.75 out of 5.

Other Welsh highlights include Traeth Mawr on Anglesey (4.70) and the Gwenffrwd–Dinas Nature Reserve in Carmarthenshire (4.65).

A diverse mix of attractions

Llanddwyn Island, Anglesey: a tidal island with rolling dunes, seabird colonies, and historic ruins including the remains of St Dwynwen’s chapel.

Pen y Fan, Powys: the highest peak in South Wales, offering sweeping views across the Brecon Beacons.

Porth Ceiriad Beach, Gwynedd: a secluded sandy cove popular for surfing, kayaking, and geology enthusiasts.

Big Pit National Coal Museum, Torfaen: a free industrial heritage attraction, with optional underground tours led by former miners.

Advice for visitors

Mr Chadwick added: “Preparation is key, especially during the changeable months between summer and autumn. Waterproof clothing, layered outfits, and supportive footwear are essential for uneven or muddy terrain.

“You must also leave any place you visit exactly as you found it – take rubbish home, respect wildlife, and be mindful of other visitors.”

The full list of hidden gems across the UK can be found at millets.co.uk
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Community

Annual charity carol service raises funds for good causes

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MID and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service held its annual Charity Carol Service on Wednesday (Dec 10) at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel in Crymych.

The event brought together members of the local community alongside Fire Service staff for an evening of carols, readings and festive refreshments, marking the Christmas season in a warm and inclusive atmosphere.

This year’s service supported two important charities — the Fire Fighters Charity and Cancer Research Wales — with all proceeds going directly towards their ongoing work.

A total of £597 was raised on the night, which will be shared equally between the two charities.

The Service thanked the congregation at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel for hosting the event, as well as everyone who gave their time, support and generosity to make the evening such a success.

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Community

3 Amigos toy bike run under way across Pembrokeshire

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Castle Inn fun runners back festive charity event

THE ANNUAL 3 Amigos Christmas toy bike run is under way this afternoon (Saturday), with hundreds of motorcyclists setting off from Pembroke to raise funds for children’s services.

Riders gathered at The Commons car park in Pembroke from around midday before departing shortly after 1:00pm. The festive convoy is travelling along its traditional route, taking in Pembroke Dock and continuing through parts of the county including Neyland, Milford Haven and Haverfordwest.

The event is organised by the 3 Amigos and Dollies Motorcycle Group and has become a much-anticipated Christmas tradition in west Wales, with toys and donations collected for children receiving care within the Hywel Dda University Health Board area.

Also supporting the event are fun runners from the Castle Inn in Pembroke, who have been fundraising in aid of the 3 Amigos. The group are pictured alongside participants from today’s run.

The 3 Amigos have been raising funds for children’s wards and health charities for more than twenty-five years, with their Easter and Christmas events continuing to make a positive difference to young patients and their families.

Organisers have thanked the public for their support and asked road users to be mindful of the large convoy as it passes through towns and villages this afternoon.

Photo caption:
Festive fundraising: Fun runners from the Castle Inn, Pembroke, pictured supporting the 3 Amigos Christmas toy bike run (Pic: Martin Cavaney/Herald)

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Community

Special delivery of thanks as MP visits Haverfordwest sorting office

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Christmas cheer for posties working through the festive rush

A CHRISTMAS message of thanks was delivered in person this week as Preseli Pembrokeshire MP Henry Tufnell paid a visit to Royal Mail staff at Haverfordwest Sorting Office.

The MP met postal workers during one of the busiest periods of the year, praising staff for their hard work in ensuring cards, parcels and gifts reach homes across Pembrokeshire in the run-up to Christmas.

Mr Tufnell said postal workers were going “above and beyond” throughout the year, but particularly during the festive period when demand is at its highest and delivery rounds are often made in challenging weather conditions.

He described postal staff as “unsung heroes”, highlighting their role in keeping communities connected and helping families stay in touch at a time when it matters most.

Speaking after the visit, Mr Tufnell said: “Our posties play a vital role in our community, and at Christmas that importance is felt more than ever. They work incredibly hard to make sure gifts and cards from loved ones arrive safely and on time.”

Staff at the Haverfordwest site were pictured alongside the MP, with some embracing the festive spirit in Christmas jumpers and seasonal outfits while continuing their daily work.

The MP also extended his thanks to postal workers across the whole of Pembrokeshire, acknowledging the dedication required to keep services running smoothly during the seasonal rush.

Royal Mail experiences its highest parcel volumes in December, with thousands of additional items passing through local sorting offices each day as Christmas approaches.

Delivering Christmas cheer: Henry Tufnell MP with staff at Haverfordwest Sorting Office during a festive visit (Pic: Facebook).

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