In St Florence, tangible traces of the village’s history sit alongside opportunities for walks and activities. St Florence Church and the Flemish chimney tell different stories; the ruins of St Florence Mill point to the area’s former grain processing. The Ritec Walk, Manor Wildlife Park on the edge of the village, and the attractions at Heatherton are also worth considering when planning your stay. This gives you the chance to decide whether historic details, time outdoors or active pursuits should shape your visit.
Church, memorial and settlement history
St Florence Church is dedicated to the Norman saint St Florence. It dates from the 12th century, was restored in the 19th century and is listed as a Grade II* building. Inside the church, a memorial commemorates Robert Ferrar, the Protestant Bishop of St Davids. Ferrar was burned at the stake in Carmarthen in 1555, during the reign of Mary. The church therefore brings together architectural history and the memory of a specific historical figure. It is used for regular services. If you are planning to visit the interior, it is best to check visiting arrangements in advance.
The Flemish chimney is the last surviving chimney of its kind in the area. It is also considered evidence of Flemish settlement in St Florence. While the church conveys architectural and religious history, the chimney raises a different question: what traces did settlement leave in the architecture? These distinct historical connections give culture enthusiasts more than one perspective on the village.
Mill remains and walking routes
The ruins of St Florence Mill are all that remain of a thatched grain mill powered by a waterwheel and in operation until the mid-19th century. The remains stand where the lower road to Penally crosses the Ritec. The roofing, power source and period of operation give the ruins a clear historical identity: this is about the former processing of grain, not another religious or residential building. If you want to seek out the mill remains, check local access conditions in advance.
The Course is common land with areas of willow and reed beds as well as overgrown grassland. The common land at The Course is characterised by areas of willow and reed beds as well as overgrown grassland. You can start the Ritec Walk in St Florence; parking is limited. Before setting out for a walk, check local path conditions and factor the limited parking into your plans.
Activities and nature
Heatherton offers more than 30 activities, including water zorbing, bumper boats, a high-speed go-kart track, a high ropes adventure, paintball and three escape rooms. The options range from water-based activities and driving and climbing to indoor puzzles. In wet weather, there are several indoor and covered activities. This is a practical alternative if you would like to plan weather-protected activities alongside a walk.
On the edge of St Florence, Manor Wildlife Park is set in 52 acres of natural and scenic parkland in Pembrokeshire. The Course, by contrast, is common land with willow and reed beds as well as overgrown grassland. The St Florence Duck Race is one of the events organised by the local school association. If you would like to include the race in your travel plans, check the current event date in advance.
Discover more destinations: Fishguard, Ludchurch, Cosheston, Houghton, Mathry, Saint Dogmaels, Clarbeston Road, Penally.
For the main travel overview: Pembrokeshire.
