It feels as though September has hit and the UK has collectively decided that summer is over. Rain is falling and summer holidays to sunnier climes are all done and dusted. Advent calendars are appearing in the shops, fairy lights are being dusted off and milk frothers are being brought out of cupboards ready for hot chocolate evenings. Sights are also turning to cosy winter getaways and if there’s one thing the UK does well, it’s this. We recently headed to Coastal Cottages James Braid Suite in Newport Sands, one of a collection of holiday cottages perched atop a golf course with beautiful views of the cove just beyond. Tucked away off the coast of Newport Sands, it’s a stunning place to spend a long weekend, a week, or even more escaping the hustle and bustle of city life.
Rain is tapping softly on the windows as I sit on a squishy sofa, mug of tea in hand and a Welsh cake on a plate in front of me. The window is cranked open just enough that the room is warm but I can smell the sea air and freshly cut grass, brought in by a gentle breeze. It’s the final day of my trip to the James Braid Suite cottage and I’m sad to be leaving. The house is a charming two bedroom, single-storey affair with two bedrooms and two bathrooms – something that’s much appreciated on a family getaway.
The kitchen is relatively large and drenched in natural sunlight, the windows offering stunning coastal views as you whip up a meal made of ingredients from the local village store. There’s a terrace just outside complete with a table and chairs where you can dine al fresco and soak up the sunshine or wrap up and make the most of a crisp morning with a cup of coffee. Frosted grass can crunch underfoot and you can just take in the silence of the countryside, where you feel secluded enough to completely relax, yet know there are amenities close enough by that you’re not stuck. In fact, Newport Golf Course comes complete with Cat Rock Cafe – an independent cafe located within the club, service freshly cooked breakfast and lunch as well as delicious cakes and coffee. We recommend heading for a walk along the beachfront before making your way back up to the Cat Rock Cafe for lunch which is around a 60 second amble from your front door.
The bedrooms in the house are large and welcoming with comfortable beds, art on the walls and plenty of storage if you are to be staying a while. It’s the perfect blend of contemporary and cosy where you feel as though you’re in a home from home. There are all the facilities you could need, including a washing machine and tumble dryer, towels, a TV, Wifi, bath and shower. There’s a free parking space right outside and thanks to it all being based on the ground floor, it’s ideal for bringing children with you.
Extra touches include plenty of board games that beg for evenings spent battling for the title of champion as well as an array of books to unwind down with. It’s a place to stay that offers so much more than just that. It offers a home where you feel taken care of yet and have all the amenities and things you need to make the break properly yours. It’s perfect for a cosy autumnal escape to the countryside where you can take walks through the expansive and beautiful land, to a summer reprieve from the city.
There is plenty to do in the area aswell including:
Top Things to Do In Newport Sands:
Visit Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
As part of the only coastal national park in the UK, the area surrounding Newport Sands is a hub for outdoor activities. The park is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and diverse wildlife, making it perfect for hiking, wildlife watching, and scenic photography.
Carreg Coetan Arthur
This Neolithic dolmen (ancient burial chamber) is located just a few minutes away from Newport Sands in Newport itself. Dating back over 5,000 years, Carreg Coetan Arthur is an important historic site and a fascinating stop for those interested in ancient history and archaeology.
Castell Henllys Iron Age Village
This reconstructed Iron Age hillfort offers visitors a glimpse into ancient Welsh life. Situated about 15 minutes from Newport Sands, the site features authentic roundhouses and artefacts, with interactive experiences that provide insight into how people lived thousands of years ago.
Pentre Ifan
A short drive inland, Pentre Ifan is the largest and best-preserved Neolithic dolmen in Wales. The massive stones, including a 16-ton capstone, form an ancient burial chamber thought to have been built around 3500 BCE. It is a peaceful and atmospheric site, steeped in mystery and history.
Visit the coastal town of Fishguard
Located just 15 minutes from Newport Sands, Fishguard is a charming coastal town known for its historic harbour and the Fishguard Tapestry, which depicts the last invasion of Britain in 1797. Here you can explore the town’s local markets, galleries, and shops or enjoy a meal at one of the many cafés. We recommend heading for a cream tea!
Dyffryn Fernant Gardens
These stunning gardens near Fishguard showcase a wide variety of plant species in a tranquil setting. Open to visitors, the gardens include wild meadows, exotic plants, and carefully designed areas, perfect for an afternoon stroll in nature.
Mynydd Carningli (Mountain of Angels)
This distinctive hill located near Newport Sands offers a great hiking opportunity. Known as the “Mountain of Angels,” it provides breathtaking views over Newport Bay and the surrounding countryside. Carningli is also steeped in folklore, said to have been a site where saints communicated with angels. This is more of a summer activity but if you do go in the winter, be sure to check the forecast.
The Preseli Hills
Located inland from Newport Sands, the Preseli Hills offer rugged beauty and panoramic views of Pembrokeshire. These hills are famous for their connection to Stonehenge, as some of the bluestones used in the monument are thought to have come from here. Hiking trails across the hills provide stunning vistas and a connection to ancient history.
Newport Town
A short distance from Newport Sands, the town of Newport is a charming destination in its own right. The town offers quaint shops, traditional pubs, art galleries, and historic landmarks like St Mary’s Church. It’s a lovely spot for a leisurely day of exploration.
Cwm yr Eglwys
Just a few miles south of Newport Sands, Cwm yr Eglwys is a sheltered cove with the picturesque ruins of a medieval church. This small and peaceful beach is ideal for a quiet retreat or a scenic walk along the coast.
Cardigan Castle
A bit further afield (about 30 minutes from Newport Sands), Cardigan Castle is a historic fortress with more than 900 years of history. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, learn about its role in Welsh history, and enjoy the gardens and exhibitions.
Book your stay
When heading to Newport Sands, The James Braid Suite is the ideal place to stay. Comfortable, beautiful and perfectly located to discover all the hidden gems of this stunnin area, it’s great for couples, families or if you just want a solo escape. Coastal Cottages’ James Braid Suite in Newport Sands sleeps four across two bedrooms and a seven night stay starts from £491. www.coastalcottages.co.uk, 01437 765765.
Natasha booked her break through Coastal Cottages of Pembrokeshire, a holiday cottage agency that features around 500 properties in West Wales sleeping from 2 to 30 guests. Run by a small local team with first-hand experience of both the area and every cottage, the collection ranges from the 12th Century castle to a sailor’s tap house just steps from the sea. Forty per cent of the collection is dog-friendly and the in-house Concierge team can also arrange a selection of hand-crafted holiday extras and treats including welcome packages and exclusive outdoor and in-cottage experiences from chefs to yoga sessions. They will even tailor-make itineraries! www.coastalcottages.co.uk, 01437 765 765.
