3 days ago
Freshwater West: Pembrokeshire beach a surfers' paradise
Freshwater West Beach, located on Wales' exposed west coast, has been a backdrop for several films, including Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.
In the Harry Potter film, the beach was where Dobby the house elf died and was buried.
There was even a gravestone for the character, which became a pilgrimage site for fans.
The sandy beach, backed by the extensive dune system of Broomhill Burrows, is a surfers' paradise, with the best waves in the county.
A Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority spokesperson said: "Freshwater West is a popular beach throughout the year with surfers, dog walkers, and families.
"The Dobby's grave memorial has been enjoyed by many who have made the pilgrimage to the Pembrokeshire site over the years.
"However, the increasing numbers of visitors has brought a greater pressure on the wider environment and facilities.
"Therefore, we have taken the decision to relocate the memorial to a more sustainable location to ensure it doesn't damage the wider environment and to help keep Freshwater West a special place for people and nature."
The south-westerly facing beach is suitable only for experienced and strong swimming surfers due to the strong rip currents.
The beach also offers activities such as kayaking, canoeing, fishing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing.
The beach is dog-friendly, allowing dogs all year round.
Facilities include toilets and parking, although parking can be limited when the waves are good.
From spring to early autumn, the Café Mor operates out of the southern car park.
Freshwater West Beach is also a place of historical significance, once used by smugglers to stash their loot.
The thatched shack on the foreshore was a rebuilt shelter used for drying a type of seaweed used for making Lavabread, a Welsh specialty.
In 2015, the beach was used as a location for the film "Their Finest," starring Gemma Arterton and Sam Claflin, where it portrayed Dunkirk.
Visitors are advised to check tide times to ensure they have enough beach space and do not get cut off by the incoming tide.
The fragile dunes mean camping and barbecues are not allowed.
