A disused private jet has been turned into an Airbnb in the Welsh countryside
The converted jet is now home to a kitchen, bathroom, two bedrooms and has an outdoor seating area
You can now stay in this private jet which has been transformed into holiday accommodation
Aviation enthusiasts now have the opportunity to stay in a 1970s private jet, complete with its original cockpit, thanks to a father who invested £90k to convert it into a compact home.
Tamir Ali, 38, procured half of a 1970s Hawker jet in December 2023 from an acquaintance specialising in "unique features". The aircraft was previously used by an oil company to ferry employees during the 70s and 80s before being retired. For ease of transportation, the plane was halved and its wings detached.
The father-of-four dedicated seven months and nearly £90k to transform the jet into a rental property located in Dolgellau, Gwynedd, Wales. Love dreamy Welsh homes? Sign up to our newsletter here .
The distinctive dwelling boasts two bedrooms - accommodating two adults and two children - a fully equipped kitchen, a bathroom with a shower, and an outdoor seating area.
Despite being listed on Airbnb for only three weeks, the pet-friendly property has already achieved 70 per cent occupancy. Tamir, a classic car restorer from Leicester, shared: "It's awesome - when people walk in they say it's much bigger than it seems on the outside.
"It's almost like you're in a normal home. It's a unique experience, not many people get to sit in the cockpit of a 70's private jet."
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Fancy a weekend away here?
Inside the jet
When Tamir initially purchased the plane for an undisclosed sum in December 2023, it was "a bit worse for wear". He then spent seven months converting the aircraft into an unconventional holiday home.
The refurbishment of the aircraft involved installing wooden floors instead of carpets, a complete rewiring of the electrical system, and fitting a bespoke door.
Tamir found the perfect spot for his aeroplane home in Dolgellau, Wales, and expanded it with a 16ft by 9ft cabin that includes a double bed, kitchen, and bathroom.
Tamir Ali
It's cosy inside the jet
Tamir commented: "I've always worked with eccentric people - people who deal with the weird and wonderful. I know a chap in Essex, who said he had something that was up my street."
About the plane's initial state, Tamir said: "It was looking a bit worse for wear, the nose cone was hanging off and there was no door." He further shared: "There was lots of mould and moss inside - but I immediately envisioned what I wanted it to be."
The unique property, dubbed "Alaya Airways" after Tamir's youngest daughter Alaya, aged five, offers a distinctive stay. Now operating as "Alaya Airways", this innovative accommodation, which falls under the glamping pod category, can be booked for £170 per night.
Tamir enthused: "It's a very very cool experience." On customer reactions, he added: "The feedback so far has been good, people seem to love it."
Interested parties can view the property online.
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North Wales Live
23 minutes ago
- North Wales Live
I keep booking this budget seaside hotel right on a huge sandy beach that still has dates free this summer
We're now in the full swing of the long summer holidays, and the kids are already bored with the local park and the iPad. You want to squeeze a cheeky summer trip in, but everywhere is booked or expensive. Luckily, I've found a budget hotel right on a sandy beach. It costs £32 per person, for a family of four, for a wallet-friendly stay on the gorgeous Welsh coastline. Picture a vast sandy beach extending as far as the eye can see, with crashing waves and a stylish promenade with an ice cream shop in the middle of the seafront. You're not in a pricey European resort; this is Pendine, a charming seaside village in Wales with a seven-mile beach and seaside hotel, Caban. Caban Pendine is an excellent choice if you're looking for a budget-friendly seaside getaway. Its spacious rooms start from £32 per person in the peak season (based on a family of four sharing a £130 room), and prices drop the rest of the year, too. It's modern, comfortable, and ideally situated for exploring the glorious Carmarthenshire coast without spending a fortune. There are 14 rooms at Caban, including spacious family bedrooms (some with bunkbeds), mobility accessible bedrooms, and dog-friendly bedrooms. You can book the room that best suits your needs, though I definitely recommend a sea view room if you can get one. I love this hotel for its location alone. It's ideally situated right next to Pendine Sands, making it perfect for long sunset strolls or even a bracing dip in the sea if you're an outdoor swimmer like me. Plus, with the ocean practically lapping at your doorstep, you'll drift off to sleep to the soothing sound of the waves. You can see our list of the best Welsh beaches here. I have stayed here several times, as it's my go-to when we have a warm spell of weather and the beach is calling. On my most recent spontaneous stay, the weather had tipped over 23 degrees, so I went into immediate 'mini break' mode. I bundled a bag and my obling husband into the car, and off we set. We had booked a sea view room that was fuss-free, bright and airy with splashes of coastal chic in the decor colour palette. There was a cosy double bed, an ensuite bathroom, a TV, and those all-important tea and coffee facilities. I don't know about you, but I generally need a coffee within minutes of waking up, or I'm completely irrational. Another bonus is that after a day of exploring Pendine, it was nice to grab a drink at the hotel bar and sink into deep slumber, knowing this seaside stay wouldn't tip me into my overdraft. To be fair, this isn't a luxury stay; it's frankly an elevated Premier Inn in a prime location that's comfortable, clean, and won't break the bank. If you want a five-star stay with a concierge and a swim-up bar, this is not the hotel you're looking for (said in Obi-Wan Kenobi voice). One of the main highlights is the fully licensed restaurant and bar overlooking the Carmarthen Bay seafront. The relaxed restaurant serves authentic Welsh cuisine using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The reasonable prices are a bonus, and you also don't need to book. The menu has a decent selection of mains, including the Chef's homemade chicken curry, smoked salmon salad, vegetable lasagne, and homemade smoky beef chilli. Prices range from £12.50 to £13, which is a total bargain. Their full-cooked breakfast costs less than £7 for adults and £4 for the kids. If you love sweet treats, the pancakes drizzled with maple syrup are a steal at just £4.00. To be honest, I was tempted to order two plates at that price. After filling up on a budget breakfast, we explored Pendine Beach and the surrounding area. While visiting Pendine Sands, it's worthwhile delving into its racing heritage. Pendine Sands has been associated with land speed records for over a century. Its unique landscape, a natural runway of compacted sand, provided an ideal testing ground for early 20th-century speed trailblazers. By the 1920s, Pendine had become the preferred location for land speed record attempts, where racing limits were stretched to thrilling new levels. In 1924, Sir Malcolm Campbell, a racing icon, brought his Sunbeam 350HP car, Blue Bird, to Pendine. Using the beach as his racetrack, Campbell made history by setting a new world land speed record at 146.16 mph. His insatiable need for speed brought him back the following year, where he shattered his record with an impressive 150.76 mph. These achievements solidified Pendine's status as the ultimate platform for automotive triumph. Not to be outshone, Welsh engineer and driver J. G. Parry-Thomas stepped up to the plate. In 1926, he steered his bespoke car, 'Babs', to a new record of 169.30 mph, demonstrating cutting-edge engineering and fearless driving. Sadly, Parry-Thomas's quest for speed came to a tragic end in 1927 when he was fatally wounded trying to regain the title. His car, buried in the sands after the accident, was later unearthed and restored. Pendine Sands' legacy fell silent for much of the 20th century until contemporary speed enthusiasts brought it back into the limelight. In 2015, actor Idris Elba paid tribute to the sands' rich history by setting a new 'Flying Mile' record, hitting 180.361 mph in a Bentley Continental GT Speed. His accomplishment was a touching homage to the audacious pioneers who had paved the way nearly a hundred years earlier. Today, Pendine Sands is hailed as a historic centre for motorsport and engineering excellence, and its racing heritage is now preserved in the splendid Museum of Land Speed. We visited the Museum of Land Speed to learn more about Pendine's history. I know shockingly little about motorsports and wanted to get up to speed. Is Jenson Button still a thing? I have no idea. The modern museum celebrates the area's illustrious history of land speed record attempts on the renowned sands of Pendine Beach, situated exactly where these historic events took place. Overlooking the beach, the museum is brimming with artefacts, memorabilia, and tales of the incredible speed achievements made along this iconic stretch of coast. A standout feature of the museum is its collection of vehicles that have shattered land speed records on Pendine Beach throughout the years. We wandered around engineering wonders such as Sir Malcolm Campbell's iconic "Blue Bird" and John Godfrey Parry-Thomas's "Babs," gaining insight into the technological advancements that drove these machines to break speed barriers. Interactive displays also offered a deep dive into the lives and legacies of these trailblazing speedsters, and I came away a little more educated and appreciative of this thrilling sport. Pendine also offers more than its sandy shores. It's also the starting point for the Wales Coast Path, an 870-mile trek skirting the nation's coastline. The path near Pendine features epic clifftop vistas and wildlife. Heading west, you'll reach the scenic cove of Amroth, while the eastward path offers expansive views of the Gower Peninsula and Carmarthen Bay. With its firm sand and dog-friendly policy during the off-season, the expansive Pendine Sands is a perfect spot for a lengthy beach stroll in Wales. The Wales Coast Path website suggests a route starting at the Augmented Reality panel in front of the 'Tea by the Sea' cafe. Take the steep steps up to Gillman Point following the Wales Coast Path. The breathtaking views over Morfa Bychan are worth every bit of the climb! You can choose to return the same way. Fancy going further? Continue to the small beach at Morfa Bychan and turn right onto a signposted track that leads uphill. At the fork in the track, turn right and head towards the B4314 road back to Pendine village. During our visit, we plodded along the seven miles of firm golden sands, tracing the shoreline with its lapping waves and then popping to Cambrian Ice Cream for a lush ice cream with a sea view. Perfection. In recent years, the Pendine resort has seen a multi-million-pound regeneration. Completed projects include a 500m traffic-free promenade providing easy access to the beach and a beach-facing commercial centre (Parry Thomas Centre) housing businesses ranging from kayak hire and coffee shops to an Asian fusion restaurant. I really love this part of Wales, and I think it's hugely underrated. Most people head for the popular tourist hotspots of Rhossili Bay or Tenby, but Pendine is absolutely worth a stop, especially if you're looking for a budget minibreak this summer. Travel tips for Pendine and Carmarthenshire Planning a trip to Pendine and Carmarthenshire? Here are some top tips to ensure your journey goes off without a hitch: Hotel: Book your stay at Caban Pendine here. You can also check out a range of Carmarthenshire hotels, B&Bs and camping on and Airbnb. Parking: A large car park conveniently located next to Pendine Sands provides easy access to the hotel, beach and the village. Parking tends to be more readily available during the off-peak season, but it can get busy during the height of summer. Beach access for dogs: Dogs are allowed on most parts of Pendine Sands during the autumn and winter. However, restrictions are in place between the slipways from May to the end of September, so check the signage if you're visiting in the summer. Wales Coast Path: The coastal trail around Pendine features breathtaking clifftop vistas and is well-marked. Wear robust footwear, particularly after rainfall, as some parts can become muddy. Nearby facilities: Public lavatories are near the beach, and the village boasts several cafes and small shops within a short stroll. These are ideal for warming up after a brisk day outdoors. Military firing range: Portions of Pendine Sands are occasionally utilised as a Ministry of Defence firing range, which may restrict access. Always check for any notices or limitations before setting off.
Wales Online
35 minutes ago
- Wales Online
23 things to do this summer holidays in and around Cardiff if you are on a budget
23 things to do this summer holidays in and around Cardiff if you are on a budget You don't need to splash out to have fun in the summer holidays there are plenty of things to do in and around Cardiff that are free or a couple of quid There is lots of fun to have in and around Cardiff this summer (Image: South Wales Echo) Unbelievably, the school summer holidays still have a number of weeks to go before the school term resumes and forking out for constant day trips, packed lunches, treats and more can take its toll. But, there's plenty going for the remaining four weeks in and around the Welsh capital. Whether they're fans of parks and outdoor spaces, craft sessions, or keen to try a new sport, there's something for every age group to slot into the calendar or keep on standby for when you need an activity. Here's a roundup of some of the best free and low cost activities in Cardiff for summer 2025. 1. Family fun day at Ffos Caerphilly Every Thursday of the school holiday at Ffos Caerphilly, a brilliant outdoor food venue, is family fun days. They are free to attend and packed with activities, laughter, and great food with exciting sessions and workshops, tasty treats from the food vendors and is perfect for families. 2. Cool off at Victoria Park splashpad Victoria Park's splashpad is a firm favourite among city families, and it's entirely free. The splashpad opens from 10am daily. Pack a picnic and make the most of the rest of the park, including playgrounds suitable for various age groups. 3. Try out different cheeses at the Caerphilly Cheese Festival Caerphilly Cheese Festival will take place in Caerphilly town centre where there will be food, drink and craft stalls, a funfair, street entertainers, and lots on offer from town centre businesses. There will also be music, across three live music areas. The Caerphilly Cheese Festival is taking place on Saturday, August 30 and Sunday, August 31. 4. Cycle the barrage The barrage is a great place to cycle (Image: WalesOnline/Rob Browne) Starting this ride in Cardiff Bay allows you to visit not just one, but two parks, and take a break on the giant Roald Dahl Enormous Crocodile bench halfway through. If you bring along a picnic, you can pause to appreciate the view of boats entering the bay and observe the birds and wildlife passing by. Don't forget to pack your bucket and spade for a visit to Sandy Park, where young adventurers can enjoy the large wooden pirate ship. 5. Head to the urban beach in Newport Running until Saturday, August 31 is the urban beach in John Frost Square, in Newport. There is a beach area featuring giant deck chairs, peep-through board and sounds of the sea. It is free to enjoy. 6. Get creative at the Museum of Cardiff Every Wednesday during the school holidays, the museum hosts craft sessions with a new theme each week, suitable for all ages. Conveniently located in the city centre, it's an ideal spot for a free activity (and a bit of respite for you!). The sessions are scheduled for July 23 and 30, as well as August 6, 13, 20, and 27, from 11am until 3pm. 7. Discover Bute Park This green oasis in the heart of the city offers plenty for children. Bring along your football or rounders kit for a game, or follow the musical wooden percussion instrument trail in the area known as the old man's woods. Look out for the magnifying glass posts! Behind the Summerhouse Café, you'll find wooden animal sculptures and balance trails. Near the visitor centre, there's an accessible route and nature trail, suitable for kids aged four to eight. There is also the River Taff Shuffle on Wednesday, August 20 which is £3.50 per child. Join the team at Bute Park and see what creatures you can catch in the River Taff using nets and getting up close with magnifying glasses. All equipment supplied. More information is available on their website. 8. Rub shoulders with your favourite characters This year's summer 2025 kids meet and greet at St David's shopping centre is set to host some of the biggest names in children's entertainment. While tickets for Bluey and Bingo are already sold out, fans can still look forward to meeting Gabby from Gabby's Dollhouse, Hey Duggee, Paddington, Chase and Skye from PAW Patrol, and Peppa Pig. Although the events are free of charge, you'll need to register in advance to secure your tickets. 9. Cycle the Taff trail and get a pie from Donald's The Taff trail is beautiful to cycle (Image: Steph Colderick) Wales is home to many gorgeous cycling trails including the Taff trail in Cardiff. You can now cycle up the Taff trail and enjoy a delicious pie from the pop-up pie van Donald's in Radyr Cricket Club. Donald's will be at Radyr Cricket Club every weekend from 10am. 10. Take a dip at Lido Ponty With three pools; a main pool, an activity pool and a splash pool, all heated to 28 degrees, Lido Ponty offers fantastic swimming opportunities for people of all ages and abilities. Tickets are £3.50 (plus 25p booking charge) for adults and free (booking charge still applies) for those aged 16 and under. 11. Get crafty at the Senedd building The Senedd building in Cardiff Bay welcomes everyone. Young visitors will find a play area, toys, and a giant map of Wales to explore. Conveniently located next to the coffee shop and sofas, it's an ideal spot for parents to unwind. Free activity booklets, designed for children aged five to 12, are also available. From July 19 through August, craft sessions offering a variety of activities will be held. On August 25, Al Naaem will conduct a creative workshop for children aged 11 and above, focusing on creative writing and poetry. More information can be found on the Senedd website. Just bear in mind that security checks are in place, so try to minimise what you bring in your pram or changing bag! 12. Take on the trails in Newport There are two great free trails running in Newport. The giant chair trail will start on the riverfront and lead people into Friars Walk, while the monster trail, which will be linked to the Newport Now app, will give children the chance to collect monsters at venues across the city centre and then get a free story book from the Central Library when they have them all. Both trails are running until Wednesday, September 10. 13. Experience the thrills of the circus Nofitstate is hosting complimentary family-friendly circus workshops in local parks. On Sunday, August 17 and Sunday, August 24, between 12.30pm and 2pm, the activities will take place at Anderson Fields in Adamsdown. Additionally, there are relaxed sessions for those who prefer a quieter environment with less noise, which will be held at Splott Play Centre. 14. Delve into history at National Museum Wales sites There is lots to see at the National Museum of Wales (Image: Wales on Sunday) Every Cardiff parent knows that the city centre museum is a go-to for dreary day entertainment, and St Fagans never fails to amuse for hours. The national museum boasts an extensive array of summer events across all its venues, including National Museum Cardiff and St Fagans, though some do come with a fee. Certain events offer a "pay what you can" option, such as the "Meet our Mammoth" experience at the national museum. 15. Discover Insole Court Insole Court provides a picturesque setting for children to explore, offering a great way to expend energy, with the Potting Shed cafe available for refreshments when needed. Throughout the school break, there are bookable craft sessions scheduled three times over the holidays on Friday, August 15 at 10am, 11am, and 12pm, aimed at youngsters aged four to ten. Each session presents a new blend of painting, gluing, and crafty escapades designed to ignite creativity and celebrate the season. An adult must accompany each child. 16. Sculpture spotting If you're seeking an excuse to leave the house and embark on an adventure, the sculpture walk here is a must-do. Fforest Fawr boasts three circular walks, complete with maps, and children will be particularly fond of the wooden carving sculpture trail. The trail's end rewards you with a stunning panoramic view across the valley. 17. Stroll around Lisvane and Llanishen Reservoirs The Lisvane and Llanishen Reservoirs have become a popular visitor attraction since its reopening in July 2023. A great place to visit during the summer as they have many water activities on offer including, cold water swimming, stand-up paddle boarding, canoeing and kayaking. There are also beautiful walking paths to keep you dry, a story trail and a popular café on site. 18. Gaming, basketball, and nature Throughout the summer, Cardiff Council runs its "summer with a 'difference' scheme", with varying schedules depending on your location in the city. Offerings include nature clubs where you can plant in community gardens, Cricket Wales camps for kids aged eight to 12, multi-sport sessions with instructors on hand, gaming sessions, and basketball. 19. Reading challenge You can get your children reading this summer (Image: PA) A free activity that will span the entire summer, providing the kids with a great sense of accomplishment, and some new bedtime stories for you! From 5 July to 20 September, children aged 4 to 11 can visit their local library to participate in the Story Garden-themed reading challenge. To join, you need to sign up to your library (for free) and borrow and read six books over the summer holidays. You'll receive fun rewards along the way, and upon completing the challenge, you'll earn a medal and certificate. 20. Heath Park Miniature railway Throughout the summer, miniature trains and trams are available for rides at Heath Park. The Heath Park Miniature Railways and Tramway are nestled in the picturesque Heath Park, close to the University Hospital of Wales (UHW) building. It's an excellent day out for the entire family as it caters to all age groups. There's no need to book in advance to visit the railway. It is £2.80 per person and under threes, go free. 21. Visit the family fun park in Cardiff Bay Entry is free to the fair in Cardiff Bay - though it's advisable to discuss spending limits beforehand - and it's a summer activity that appeals to children of all ages. There are plenty of rides suitable for school-aged children. 22. Catch some Pokemon at PokeCon On Monday, 25 August, between 11am and 5pm, the Red Dragon Centre will host a Pokemon pop-up brimming with merchandise, trading cards, and collectibles. It's an ideal event for fans, collectors, and trainers of all ages. 23. Watch a film at Cineworld and Vue The 10am weekend and school holiday Movies for Juniors showings are £3.99 per person at Cineworld. Article continues below The 10am weekend and school holiday Mighty Mornings showings are just £2.49 per person when booked online or £3.49 on the door, at Vue.
Wales Online
2 hours ago
- Wales Online
I keep booking this budget seaside hotel right on a huge sandy beach that still has dates free this summer
I keep booking this budget seaside hotel right on a huge sandy beach that still has dates free this summer This is one of my favourite budget beach stays in Wales This wallet-friendly hotel has a lush sea view (Image: Portia Jones ) We're now in the full swing of the long summer holidays, and the kids are already bored with the local park and the iPad. You want to squeeze a cheeky summer trip in, but everywhere is booked or expensive. Luckily, I've found a budget hotel right on a sandy beach. It costs £32 per person, for a family of four, for a wallet-friendly stay on the gorgeous Welsh coastline. Picture a vast sandy beach extending as far as the eye can see, with crashing waves and a stylish promenade with an ice cream shop in the middle of the seafront. You're not in a pricey European resort; this is Pendine, a charming seaside village in Wales with a seven-mile beach and seaside hotel, Caban. Caban Pendine is an excellent choice if you're looking for a budget-friendly seaside getaway. Its spacious rooms start from £32 per person in the peak season (based on a family of four sharing a £130 room), and prices drop the rest of the year, too. It's modern, comfortable, and ideally situated for exploring the glorious Carmarthenshire coast without spending a fortune. Luckily, I've found a budget hotel on the gorgeous Welsh coastline. It's right on a sandy beach and costs £32 per person for a family of four. (Image: Aled Llywelyn ) There are 14 rooms at Caban, including spacious family bedrooms (some with bunkbeds), mobility accessible bedrooms, and dog-friendly bedrooms. You can book the room that best suits your needs, though I definitely recommend a sea view room if you can get one. I love this hotel for its location alone. It's ideally situated right next to Pendine Sands, making it perfect for long sunset strolls or even a bracing dip in the sea if you're an outdoor swimmer like me. Plus, with the ocean practically lapping at your doorstep, you'll drift off to sleep to the soothing sound of the waves. You can see our list of the best Welsh beaches here. The hotel is located on Pendine Sands, a 7-mile-long sandy beach perfect for long walks, sea swimming, or watching a land speed race event. (Image: Portia Jones) I have stayed here several times, as it's my go-to when we have a warm spell of weather and the beach is calling. On my most recent spontaneous stay, the weather had tipped over 23 degrees, so I went into immediate 'mini break' mode. I bundled a bag and my obling husband into the car, and off we set. We had booked a sea view room that was fuss-free, bright and airy with splashes of coastal chic in the decor colour palette. There was a cosy double bed, an ensuite bathroom, a TV, and those all-important tea and coffee facilities. I don't know about you, but I generally need a coffee within minutes of waking up, or I'm completely irrational. If you're after a budget-friendly break by the sea, the Caban Pendine Hotel is a great shout (Image: Portia Jones ) Another bonus is that after a day of exploring Pendine, it was nice to grab a drink at the hotel bar and sink into deep slumber, knowing this seaside stay wouldn't tip me into my overdraft. To be fair, this isn't a luxury stay; it's frankly an elevated Premier Inn in a prime location that's comfortable, clean, and won't break the bank. If you want a five-star stay with a concierge and a swim-up bar, this is not the hotel you're looking for (said in Obi-Wan Kenobi voice). One of the main highlights is the fully licensed restaurant and bar overlooking the Carmarthen Bay seafront. The relaxed restaurant serves authentic Welsh cuisine using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The reasonable prices are a bonus, and you also don't need to book. The menu has a decent selection of mains, including the Chef's homemade chicken curry, smoked salmon salad, vegetable lasagne, and homemade smoky beef chilli. Prices range from £12.50 to £13, which is a total bargain. Their full-cooked breakfast costs less than £7 for adults and £4 for the kids. If you love sweet treats, the pancakes drizzled with maple syrup are a steal at just £4.00. To be honest, I was tempted to order two plates at that price. For the latest restaurant news and reviews, sign up to our food and drink newsletter here The cafe-dining area at Caban (Image: Carmarthenshire Council ) After filling up on a budget breakfast, we explored Pendine Beach and the surrounding area. While visiting Pendine Sands, it's worthwhile delving into its racing heritage. Pendine Sands has been associated with land speed records for over a century. Its unique landscape, a natural runway of compacted sand, provided an ideal testing ground for early 20th-century speed trailblazers. By the 1920s, Pendine had become the preferred location for land speed record attempts, where racing limits were stretched to thrilling new levels. In 1924, Sir Malcolm Campbell, a racing icon, brought his Sunbeam 350HP car, Blue Bird, to Pendine. Using the beach as his racetrack, Campbell made history by setting a new world land speed record at 146.16 mph. His insatiable need for speed brought him back the following year, where he shattered his record with an impressive 150.76 mph. Pendine Sands Land speed racing (Image: Worldreach) These achievements solidified Pendine's status as the ultimate platform for automotive triumph. Not to be outshone, Welsh engineer and driver J. G. Parry-Thomas stepped up to the plate. In 1926, he steered his bespoke car, 'Babs', to a new record of 169.30 mph, demonstrating cutting-edge engineering and fearless driving. Sadly, Parry-Thomas's quest for speed came to a tragic end in 1927 when he was fatally wounded trying to regain the title. His car, buried in the sands after the accident, was later unearthed and restored. Pendine Sands' legacy fell silent for much of the 20th century until contemporary speed enthusiasts brought it back into the limelight. In 2015, actor Idris Elba paid tribute to the sands' rich history by setting a new 'Flying Mile' record, hitting 180.361 mph in a Bentley Continental GT Speed. His accomplishment was a touching homage to the audacious pioneers who had paved the way nearly a hundred years earlier. The Museum of Land Speed (Image: Portia Jones ) Today, Pendine Sands is hailed as a historic centre for motorsport and engineering excellence, and its racing heritage is now preserved in the splendid Museum of Land Speed. We visited the Museum of Land Speed to learn more about Pendine's history. I know shockingly little about motorsports and wanted to get up to speed. Is Jenson Button still a thing? I have no idea. The modern museum celebrates the area's illustrious history of land speed record attempts on the renowned sands of Pendine Beach, situated exactly where these historic events took place. Overlooking the beach, the museum is brimming with artefacts, memorabilia, and tales of the incredible speed achievements made along this iconic stretch of coast. A standout feature of the museum is its collection of vehicles that have shattered land speed records on Pendine Beach throughout the years. Inside the museum (Image: Portia Jones ) We wandered around engineering wonders such as Sir Malcolm Campbell's iconic "Blue Bird" and John Godfrey Parry-Thomas's "Babs," gaining insight into the technological advancements that drove these machines to break speed barriers. Interactive displays also offered a deep dive into the lives and legacies of these trailblazing speedsters, and I came away a little more educated and appreciative of this thrilling sport. Pendine also offers more than its sandy shores. It's also the starting point for the Wales Coast Path, an 870-mile trek skirting the nation's coastline. The path near Pendine features epic clifftop vistas and wildlife. Heading west, you'll reach the scenic cove of Amroth, while the eastward path offers expansive views of the Gower Peninsula and Carmarthen Bay. With its firm sand and dog-friendly policy during the off-season, the expansive Pendine Sands is a perfect spot for a lengthy beach stroll in Wales. Pendine is not just about its sands. It's also a gateway to the Wales Coast Path (Image: Portia Jones) The Wales Coast Path website suggests a route starting at the Augmented Reality panel in front of the 'Tea by the Sea' cafe. Take the steep steps up to Gillman Point following the Wales Coast Path. The breathtaking views over Morfa Bychan are worth every bit of the climb! You can choose to return the same way. Fancy going further? Continue to the small beach at Morfa Bychan and turn right onto a signposted track that leads uphill. At the fork in the track, turn right and head towards the B4314 road back to Pendine village. I love this beach (Image: Portia Jones ) During our visit, we plodded along the seven miles of firm golden sands, tracing the shoreline with its lapping waves and then popping to Cambrian Ice Cream for a lush ice cream with a sea view. Perfection. In recent years, the Pendine resort has seen a multi-million-pound regeneration. Completed projects include a 500m traffic-free promenade providing easy access to the beach and a beach-facing commercial centre (Parry Thomas Centre) housing businesses ranging from kayak hire and coffee shops to an Asian fusion restaurant. I really love this part of Wales, and I think it's hugely underrated. Most people head for the popular tourist hotspots of Rhossili Bay or Tenby, but Pendine is absolutely worth a stop, especially if you're looking for a budget minibreak this summer. Pendine Sands (Image: Jo Ridout Wales Online) Travel tips for Pendine and Carmarthenshire Planning a trip to Pendine and Carmarthenshire? Here are some top tips to ensure your journey goes off without a hitch: Hotel: Book your stay at Caban Pendine here. You can also check out a range of Carmarthenshire hotels, B&Bs and camping on and Airbnb. Parking: A large car park conveniently located next to Pendine Sands provides easy access to the hotel, beach and the village. Parking tends to be more readily available during the off-peak season, but it can get busy during the height of summer. Beach access for dogs: Dogs are allowed on most parts of Pendine Sands during the autumn and winter. However, restrictions are in place between the slipways from May to the end of September, so check the signage if you're visiting in the summer. Wales Coast Path: The coastal trail around Pendine features breathtaking clifftop vistas and is well-marked. Wear robust footwear, particularly after rainfall, as some parts can become muddy. Nearby facilities: Public lavatories are near the beach, and the village boasts several cafes and small shops within a short stroll. These are ideal for warming up after a brisk day outdoors. Article continues below Military firing range: Portions of Pendine Sands are occasionally utilised as a Ministry of Defence firing range, which may restrict access. Always check for any notices or limitations before setting off.
