Some History
In the 18th and 19th centuries New Quay was a flourishing shipbuilding center and fishing and trading port. During this time 31 ships, mainly sloops were built in the village and a it became a thriving place, full of tradesmen involved in the industry. It was also a hub for smuggling spirits and tobacco, the miles of secluded coves around the village providing ideal hiding places. 

Dylan Thomas
New Quay was also somewhat of a center for culture following the arrival in the village of Dylan Thomas. With him came a host of literary and artistic acquaintances including the painter Augustus John, a young Richard Burton and Evelyn Waugh author of Brideshead Revisited. Alistair Graham on whom the character Sebastien Flyte was based lived for many years in Rock Street just a few doors down from Mindraeth. It is so easy to picture them all drinking, smoking and debating in the Dolau pub, around the corner from our house.

Dylan and his wife Caitlin lived in New Quay during 1944/45 and it is claimed that many of the characters in Under Milk Wood were based on people in the village. There is also strong evidence that it was in fact New Quay and not Laugharne which was the inspiration for Llareggub, the village in which the play is set. For those keen to follow the literary path there is a marked out Dylan Thomas trail through the village and along the coast pointing out places of interest relating to Dylan during the time he lived here. 

Dolphins
New Quay is also famous for its dolphins, as Cardigan bay is home to one of just two schools of Bottlenose Dolphins in the UK. They are regularly seen from the windows of the house leaping and playing in the bay. Organised Dolphin watching trips leave from the pier every few hours in high season.

Beaches
New Quay has three beaches, Dolau beach, directly below the house, this is fairly pebbly, has great rock pools at low tide and allows dogs year round. The main beach, 3 minutes walk from the house, is sandy, has a beach café for ice creams, drinks, snacks and renting deck-chairs etc and is very popular with families. Dogs are not permitted here between April and September. Further on past the lifeboat station there is another very long sweeping beach which is perfect for a long walk out to the point at low tide.