Due to a holiday booking cancellation, I ended back at Lydstep Beach Holiday Park this August after having last visited over 3 years ago. To be honest it would not have been first choice for a late summer break, however, the resulting four day midweek stay did not disappoint.
Why would Lydstep not be first choice? Quite simply the end of August is peek period, so, for a four night break it’s over £100 a night for a caravan. And, you can go abroad for less, but if the sun is shining there’s no better place than Pembrokeshire for a break, as without a doubt it is home to some of the finest beaches in Britain (and probably Europe). £100 per night is not exactly excessive in the school holidays, it’s just that I’d booked somewhere cheaper near Three Cliffs Bay (which is also stunning), only to have it cancelled literally last minute due to a rat dying under the accommodation. I was gutted at the loss having stayed in this marvelous Sandy Lane residence previously, but alas, a selfish rat put paid to my holiday plans.
So on to Lydstep Beach it was after a frantic googling for late availability in practically every resort in West Wales. So what has changed at Lydstep since my last visit? Thankfully, nothing much, however, one very welcome change was the new improved indoor swimming pool. The old one was OK, but a bit small. They have cleverly managed to increase the size of the pool without having made any real changes to the building, and although still not Olympic size, it’s a great place for a few strokes before breakfast.
The park remains immaculately groomed and the beach unspoilt. Unspoilt that is apart from the jet skis which is a personal gripe of mine, but I guess people have to make a living, and the rental brings in extra revenue… The caravans are all privately owned, so although the changeovers are handled by Haven the place and the caravans are absolutely pristine as these are cherished holiday homes. Many of the caravan plots have gardens, and some of the decking styles brings the California coastline to mind (the place is ‘worlds away’ from Kiln park just a few miles down the road).
We had a pleasant visit from a young fox at about 8pm one evening who happily wandered past then humoured me while I followed her (I think) around the caravans trying to get a good photo. The mini adventure was a joy to my daughter who had me putting out sausages the next night to try to tempt her back (to no avail). I didn’t get a photo worth sharing, but as you can see I got a reasonable shot of nearby Barafundle Bay which was well worth the walk. A beautiful spot, although it must be noted that it is far from accessible for anyone with mobility problems.
I should thank that selfish rat, as although it cost me a few more quid than I was expecting to spend for my late Autumn break Lystep Beach was well worth it. Will definitely be going back!
