Becks Bay Campsite

Plotted within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Becks Bay Camping sits just 100m from the famous coastal path, overlooking the eponymous cove known locally as Becks Bay. In almost every direction the land folds away in a mass of summer green, while the nearest roads are all shielded by the bushiest of hedgerows. It’s no surprise that, though small, this sheltered meadow space was destined to become a campsite. It almost seems purpose built for it.

In total, Becks Bay has just 13 camping pitches, along with five bell tents pitched on flat ground in a tiny wooded glade. There is no electricity, no playground and certainly no WiFi, while the toilets and showers have been newly built into a wooden shed, bodged together with charmingly mismatched wooden doors. The whole place feels thoroughly rustic and, despite proper flushing loos, still offers the wilder camping experience. This is the sort of spot where children play in rolling fields rather than a playground and campfires crackle through the night. Expect a week or two getting grass stains out of trousers when you get home.

For those with who prefer their camping with a generous dose of luxury, the Frankshore Shepherd’s Hut come complete with electricity, a proper bed and en suite bathroom. Mod cons – like gas hobs in the kitchenette and a heated towel-rail – up the comfort levels, while traditional touches like the wood-burning stove makes this a cosy cocoon for couples.

When the sun's out, there are plenty of beaches within reach with Lydstep Bay the nearest and most well known. The National Trust car park is free and the sands offer excellent views out to Caldey Island, though the giant holiday park that backs it slightly spoils the feel. Instead, head a little east to Penally Beach (free parking at the station) in the west end of Tenby’s mile-long south beach. Spanning the shoreline from St. Catherine's Island to Giltar Point, the views across to Caldey Island are spectacular. It’s slightly quieter than the sandy sections immediately around the town – Castle Beach, Harbour Beach and the north beach – though all are fantastic, especially if you want to explore Tenby itself at some point during your stay. You can spend the morning on a beach, the afternoon tasting ice creams and the evening back around the campfire. We think that’s all the essentials covered.