A mecca for invaders - Fishguard and neighbouring smaller town Goodwick are said to have derived their names from the Vikings, who were frequent visitors to this part of the coast. But nowadays, there's a far warmer welcome awaiting visitors to this North Pembrokeshire town!

This part of Pembrokeshire's claim to fame is that it was the site of the last invasion of Britain. The famous 'French Invasion of Fishguard' occurred in 1797, when a group of French soldiers landed their en route to take Bristol. The invasion was repelled, according to legend, by Jemima Nicholas and other red flannel-clad local ladies who were mistaken by the French in the distance for reinforcement troops. Jemima was said to have captured many soldiers single-handed, armed only wth her pitchfork!

The bicentenary of the invasion in 1997 was celebrated in style, and local woman Yvonne Fox is still occasionally to be seen parading around the town dressed up as Jemima. A spectacular tapestry was made to commemorate the event, which is currently on tour while a permanent home for it is sought.

Highlights of the twin towns include:

* The sheltered harbour at Fishguard's Lower Town, which was a bustling little cargo port with a fishing industry which made it famous from Elizabethan times for its herrings. This picturesque spot, with its small harbour and old fisherman's cottages, is a real attraction for visitors, and a pint can be enjoyed in the local pub - The Ship.

* Goodwick's ferryport and harbour, the county's second gateway to Southern Ireland, landing in Rosslare. The harbour is due for a massive investment soon, to make it a multi-million pound marina. It also boasts a rail link to London and the east.

* Fishguard's main (or upper) town, centred around its old market square, boasts shops, many pubs, galleries and places to eat. The real hub of the town.

* The towns' coast - although not a part of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park - provides beautiful scenery, fabulous walking and watersports opportunities. Although there is no large beach, there are many small beaches and coves to be explored.

Fishguard and Goodwick are flanked by Strumble head to the west and Dinas Head to the east. And a couple of miles away is the stunning wooded Gwaun Valley.