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Following the successful introduction of anthracite smelting at Ynyscedwyn in 1836, Kilgetty Ironworks were established in 1848-49 by Charles Ranken Vickermann, a London solicitor, to exploit the local anthracite coal and haematite deposits.

The ore was obtained largely from levels driven in the cliffs between Saundersfoot and Amroth and transported by the branch line of the Saundersfoot Railway.

In 1853 Grove Colliery was sunk just above the ironworks to provide fuel (This will be added in a further project), however production of both coal and iron was intermittent until 1859.

The site's fortunes continued to be bleak and by 1862 the works were again at a standstill.

Revived once again in 1863 five further years of poor production resulted in the complex being sold in 1873 to Bonville's Court Coal and Iron Company.

In its final stage, the Iron Works consisted of 2 blast furnaces, blowing engines, coke ovens, workshops and lime kilns, however, no pig iron was produced after 1874 and work ceased in 1877.

The property and plant were auctioned in 1878. Vickermann was the successful (in fact the only) bidder.

The property and plant were auctioned in 1878. Vickermann was the successful (in fact the only) bidder.

The works were dismantled in 1887-89. The chimney stack above the furnaces was eventually demolished in 1909.

Additional information: Also known as Stepaside Ironworks. Stepaside is a small holiday village and Information signs at Stepaside state that Stepaside got its name when Oliver Cromwell and his army passed through on their way to Pembroke. Cromwell is reported to have asked people in his way to step aside.

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