D171: ST GOVANS HEAD to ANGLE
Monday 16th June 2025
Today miles: 17.1 Total miles: 2814.6
I remembered to grab my fully charged power bank from the farmhouse before moving off. It’s looks like it’s going to be another gloriously sunny day.
I set off and within a few minutes I was diverted away from the coastal path due to the Castlemartin military firing range, the red flags are flying and the coastal range appears to be in operation today. A minor road takes me through the small village of Bosherston and then towards Merrion. There’s a military camp at Merrion, the entrance is guarded by several armed military personnel and a couple of old army tanks on display. The route continued along several minor roads which took me further inland until I was around two miles from the actual coastline. I then passed throught several other small towns. As I entered each one I hoped to find an open cafe or something similar but unfortunately no such facilities could be found. I simply continued with (disappointment) to walk along the road. After another two miles the route finally arrives back at the coastline, close to Brownslade Burrows and then Freshwater West.
There’s a few small bays to descend into but nothing that’s too difficult. I stopped for a longer break at a nice spot overlooking Sheep Island. The path then turned towards Thorne Island which sits just off West Angle Bay. The Island is inhabited by a large building, originally a Napoleonic stronghold built over one hundred and seventy years ago. It was a functioning and busy hotel until ten years ago, the building and the entire Island is currently up for sale, for a modest £3 million. Shortly after passing by Thorne Island I was walking along Milford Haven estuary. I could see the town of Milford Haven in the distance on the opposite bank, I could also see Eastington oil refinery which I would be walking past tomorrow. I arrived at the busy Old Point House public house and I considered stopping for a long break and something to eat before walking the final half mile. The pubs located in a nice location with special views out across Angle Bay. Sadly, it closes at 3pm and it’s now 2.55pm.
Twenty minutes later I entered Castle Farm campsite. It’s basic but good value. After setting up camp I headed off into Angle for food. There were several dramas at the pub in Angle which meant that I didn’t get any food until after 7pm. On my way back to the campsite whilst passing the church/graveyard I was verbally harassed by a group of local youths. For their information I’m not actually bald I just prefer to keep my hair short and I do know who my dad is.
Werewolfandflump UK Coast Path 