Fishguard, Port town in Pembrokeshire, Wales.
Fishguard is a port town in Pembrokeshire, Wales, organized into two distinct areas: the lower harbor district with its narrow streets and working waterfront, and the main town perched on the cliffs above. Both sections retain their original character, with stone buildings and local shops defining the layout that visitors encounter when walking through the community.
The town experienced the last attempted invasion of Britain in 1797 when French military forces landed and engaged local militia, surrendering after a brief encounter. This event left a permanent mark on the community's sense of identity and how residents remember their past.
The name Fishguard derives from Old Norse Fiskigarðr meaning fish catching enclosure, while its Welsh name Abergwaun refers to the River Gwaun mouth.
The harbor area is easily reached on foot and provides parking for visitors wanting to explore the waterfront and lower sections. The upper town is also accessible but involves navigating uphill paths and steps if approaching from the harbor.
Ancient fish traps carved into the rocks from the Viking period become visible during low tide, revealing traditional catching methods used centuries ago. These stone structures offer a window into how locals once harvested from the sea before modern fishing developed.
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