The site consists of concrete slipway down to a sheltered tidal shore with shingle and mud on the Western Cleddau. The view of the estuary makes it a good spot for watching nature, whilst being near some facilities. Llangwm village is in walking distance or a short drive by car. Black Tar is sited on Millstone Grits, with coal measures to the north and Old red sandstone to the south. Several important east-west thrust faults cross the estuary in the section between Black Tar and Lawrenny.
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Location
Black Tar point is slightly north of the residential village of Llangwm (OS Landranger 157 grid reference SM096 095), which is itself south of Haverfordwest.
Features of Interest
Black Tar was formerly the site of the traditional fishing industry of Llangwm. Llangwm, was renowned throughout Pembrokeshire for its fisherwomen, who walked many miles around Pembrokeshire, dressed in their traditional costume and selling cockles, oysters and prawns. Herring fishing in the upper estuary centred on Llangwm and Hook, and this continued into the 20th century, until trawling further downstream put a stop to it. The fishermen used compass net boats that were covered in black tar - hence the name of the site.
Access
There is all year round and all weather access by road up to the foreshore at Black Tar, about ten minutes drive from Haverfordwest and 15 minutes from Pembroke, along minor roads. Access to the site itself is suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, but at presentthe walk along the public path next to the river is not . There is a bus service from Haverfordwest to Llangwm. Access by boat is up the Daugleddau to Lawrenny at any state of the tide, but subject to tide height past that point.
Pedestrian access along the public footpath around the shore to and from Llangwm depends on the height of the tide, and this path s not particularly suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs because of muddy and stony areas. A longer way round is possible by road (about 1.5 miles) but there is no pavement on much of the route.
Parking
Behind the slipway is a grassy picnic area, limited car parking and public conveniences. Extra parking is available by arrangement with Knapp farm. There is housing behind the site, but not on the opposite bank of the river. The gradient of the slipway is moderate to steep. There are deep water moorings available. The Cottage Inn on the access road to Black Tar provides refreshments as does the Sports Social Club of Llangwm.