The story of Victory House and Vanguard House

In celebration of Milford Marina’s 30th Anniversary and continuing to share Milford Waterfront’s development story, in our latest blog post, we explore the history of Victory House and Vanguard House.

This is another bumper edition! We’ve already explored the developments of Cleddau House, Barrallier House and Neptune and Temeraire House. So, this month we’re exploring the history of the first of the newer buildings overlooking Milford Marina to be built on Nelson Quay; Victory House and Vanguard House.

Following on from the Cutty Sark Tall Ships Race which came to Milford Marina in 1991, the Milford 2000 project continued, and the empty space where Victory and Vanguard Houses now stand was the first area to be developed, as the area continued its transformation from industrial dockyard to a destination ready to welcome visitors.

The plan to develop Victory House and Vanguard included commercial units on the ground floor, with offices and residential apartments in the floors above. The idea came for boulevard pathways to be put in place so the buildings were set back away from the dock wall at Milford Marina, providing shelter for pedestrians enjoying a stroll - these have been well used on rainy days at Milford Waterfront and are used as outdoor dining spaces by the wide selection of cafes and restaurants based here.

Built in May 2002, Victory House has been home to many residents and fantastic businesses over the years.

Firstly, Image by Vanessa has been based here for many years, a true Milford Waterfront original! Designer fashions? A dress for a special occasion? A first-class service every time? You’re in the right place if these are ticking your boxes. You can expect honest and experienced advice in a quiet, relaxed, non-pressured environment from a team who enjoy listening to the important details, no matter how small, to ensure your outfit is appropriate for the occasion and reflects your tastes.

Another legendary business that has been part of the Milford Waterfront family for over 15 years is Van Dyk’s Hairdressing Salon. Working with world-renowned brands such as Clynol, L’Oreal and Colorissimo, the team at Van Dyk’s always aim to offer a personal and tailored service ensuring that each and every client gets the look they want and the service they deserve.

Next up we have the popular Scott’s Sweet Shop, the home of sweets and confectionery at Milford Waterfront. Whether you like good old-fashioned midget gems, bon bons, cookies and cream pop tarts or Willy Wonka chocolate bars, they really do have something for everybody! The perfect place to treat yourself if you have a sweet tooth!

Continuing to the development, Vanguard House was built in June 2004, just beside Victory House.

Boobaloo Boutique is one of many amazing businesses homed in Vanguard House as they offer an amazing collection of on-trend clothing and accessories to suit all fashionistas. They will shortly be opening a new boutique in Orion House.

There are some arty and creative businesses in Vanguard House as well; In House Crafts who specialise in card, papercraft and hold a variety of exciting workshops, as well as Pure Art which showcases both emerging and established artists in a light, airy and inviting gallery and shop.

The Cheesy Cow have also recently joined the Milford Waterfront family and moo-ved their kitchen to Vanguard House. What started as a lockdown hobby preparing delicious graze tables for friends and family has turned into a takeaway café serving a wide range of tasty rustic baked baguettes, breakfast items, sweet treats, ice creams and hot drinks too.

Calling all chocolate lovers! Specialising in the production of delicious handmade chocolates, Trwffl are also based at Vanguard House and offer a fantastic product range from rich chocolate truffles to decorative home gifts and a wide range of Pembrokeshire and Welsh produce. Even though you can't buy happiness, you can buy chocolate, which is pretty close!

And last, but not least of the businesses in Vanguard House we have Crow’s Nest Café! This family-friendly café is the ideal place to relax and enjoy a coffee, and if you’re hungry, you’ll find a selection of tasty, hearty things to eat available all-day, made fresh to order.

We look forward to sharing more stories of the development of Milford Waterfront throughout 2021.