Fishguard
The picturesque harbour of Lower Fishguard - setting for the 1971 film version of Dylan Thomas' Under Milk Wood - was once home to 50 coastal trading vessels.

Fishing was also important, and smoked herrings were exported to southern Europe. The harbour, on the estuary of the Gwaun River, is still used by small fishing boats as well as leisure craft.

Fishguard Fort was built in 1781 to protect the harbour from marauding privateers. However it was on the wrong side of town when a French invasion force of about 1,300 landed near Llanwnda in 1797. Fortunately the invaders were more interested in looting and drinking than fighting, and they soon surrendered to a hastily-assembled defence force.

This was led by Lord Cawdor who made his headquarters the Royal Oak inn, which still stands on Fishguard Square. Reminders of the Last Invasion include a memorial to local heroine Jemima Nicholas outside St Mary's Church.

For more on the French Landing: Click here