Solva: Harbour, History and Craft

Solva combines the landscape of a flooded coastal inlet with a harbour, lime kilns, a woollen mill and coastal paths. If you’re looking for a hotel in Solva, the range of themes can help you plan your stay around your interests: from heritage and craft to walking and coastal rowing.

Harbour landscape and lime kilns

Solva’s steep-sided, wooded valley was formed during the last Ice Age and developed into a flooded coastal inlet known as a ria. A group of recently consolidated lime kilns stands at the high-water mark of the harbour. They are best viewed from the path; at low tide, you can also see them up close. If you want to go closer, check the tides first. There is also a slipway at Sand Quay.

Traces of history

The Gribyn was used as a fort during the Iron Age. St Aidan’s Church was built by J. L. Pearson between 1877 and 1879. The church contains a bowl-shaped carved font dating from the 12th century, from the lost church of St Teilo at St Elvis. A large pre-Norman stone bearing a cross inscription also stands in the porch. It came from St Elvis Farm and was found in 1925.

The lime kilns and the church point to very different periods and crafts. If you’re interested in Solva’s history, you’ll find both traces of the Gribyn’s use during the Iron Age and specific details about the later history of church construction and art.

Woollen mill and art

Solva Woollen Mill is a working woollen mill on the banks of the River Solfach. It is the oldest continuously operating woollen mill in Pembrokeshire and has a shop and tearoom. During your visit, you can combine crafts with a refreshment stop at this riverside location; check visitor arrangements in advance.

The Raul Speek Gallery is located in a converted chapel in the village of Solva. Visitors can view the collection and buy original art from the Old Chapel or online. The gallery also offers courses and workshops in art, photography and music. If you’re considering a course, check current availability in advance, as the programme may change.

Walking, rowing and getting around

From Solva Harbour, you can walk to Gribin Headland or down to Gwadn Beach. This gives you a choice of two different walking options: a headland destination and a beach. Path conditions can change; check the latest conditions before setting out.

The Solva Rowing and Watersports Club invites beginners to try coastal rowing in St Brides Bay from Solva Harbour. Seasonal operating details may change, so it’s advisable to check with the club in advance. For a different way to explore the waterside, a 0.8 km path runs along Solva Quayside from the Lower Solva car park to the Yacht Club. The route is designated for wheelchair use; surface and access conditions may change and should be checked before your visit.

Bus route 411 runs via Solva between Haverfordwest railway station and St David’s. If you plan to travel by bus, check the latest timetable before your journey.

Discover more destinations: Ludchurch, Clynderwen, Porthgain, Stepaside, Treffgarne, Pembroke Dock, Boncath, Llandissilio.

For the main travel overview: Pembrokeshire.