Ultimate Pembrokeshire Travel Guide: Discover Stunning Beaches, Wildlife, and Hidden Gems

Nestled in the southwest corner of Wales, Pembrokeshire boasts some of the UK’s most stunning coastal scenery and charming villages. From its rugged cliffs and sandy beaches to its historic castles and vibrant wildlife, there’s something for everyone in this picturesque county. Whether we’re avid hikers, history buffs, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Pembrokeshire offers an unforgettable experience.

As we explore this travel guide, we’ll uncover hidden gems and must-see attractions, ensuring we make the most of our visit. Let’s dive into the heart of Pembrokeshire and discover why it’s a top destination for travellers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Key Takeaways

• Stunning Coastal Scenery and Historic Sites: Pembrokeshire, located in southwest Wales, is renowned for its rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and historic castles, making it a prime destination for both adventure and relaxation.
• Diverse Travel Options: Visitors can reach Pembrokeshire by car, train, or bus, with major connections from cities like London and Manchester. Driving offers scenic views, while trains and buses provide budget-friendly alternatives.
• Top Attractions: Must-visit spots include the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, St David’s Cathedral, and Skomer Island, each offering unique experiences from breathtaking walks to rich historical insights and vibrant wildlife.
• Beautiful Beaches: The region features some of the UK’s best beaches like Barafundle Bay, Tenby Beaches, and Whitesands Bay, perfect for sunbathing, surfing, and family outings.
• Outdoor Activities: Pembrokeshire is ideal for hiking, water sports, and wildlife watching, with extensive trails, excellent surfing spots, and opportunities to observe puffins and seals.
• Accommodation and Dining: The county offers various accommodation options, from luxury hotels to cosy bed and breakfasts and camping sites. Enjoy local cuisine at renowned restaurants and explore farmers’ markets for fresh, farm-to-table ingredients.

Getting To Pembrokeshire

Pembrokeshire offers several options for travellers. Choose the best mode based on convenience and personal preference.

By Car

Driving to Pembrokeshire provides flexibility and scenic views. From London, take the M4 west to Swansea, then the A48 and A40, covering around 250 miles. Manchester is approximately 200 miles away via the M56, A55, and A40. Parking is available in most towns and tourist areas.

By Train

Trains connect major cities to Pembrokeshire. From London Paddington, the journey takes about 4 hours with a change at Swansea. Manchester Piccadilly offers services with a change at Cardiff Central, taking around 5 hours. Pembroke, Milford Haven, and Haverfordwest are key stations.

By Bus

Buses provide a budget-friendly option. National Express runs services from London, taking about 7-8 hours. Megabus operates routes from Bristol and Birmingham. Local buses, such as those run by Pembrokeshire Council, offer connections within the region for easier exploration.

Top Attractions

Pembrokeshire boasts numerous attractions that appeal to a wide range of interests. Here are some must-visit sights in the region.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park

The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park features dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and picturesque villages. Spanning 629 square kilometres, it’s unique for following the coastline. Visitors enjoy walking the 186-mile Pembrokeshire Coast Path, which offers stunning sea views and wildlife sightings, including seals and seabirds. Activities like kayaking and coasteering are also popular.

St David’s Cathedral

St David’s Cathedral, located in the city of St David’s, dates back to the 12th century. It stands as a remarkable example of medieval architecture. The cathedral, dedicated to Wales’ patron saint, St David, houses intricate carvings and a beautiful choir. We recommend visiting the Treasury to view its collection of artefacts. Its peaceful surroundings and spiritual significance draw countless visitors each year.

Skomer Island

Skomer Island, accessible by boat from Martin’s Haven, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The island is renowned for its puffin colony, with around 6,000 breeding pairs visiting each year. Other bird species, such as razorbills and guillemots, also nest here. Beautiful wildflower displays cover the island during the spring. The waters around Skomer form part of a marine reserve, offering excellent opportunities for snorkelling and diving.

Best Beaches

Pembrokeshire boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the UK, drawing beachgoers, surfers, and nature lovers alike. Below, we explore the top spots for a perfect seaside experience.

Barafundle Bay

Barafundle Bay, a secluded gem, is often compared to a Caribbean paradise. Surrounded by pine trees and sand dunes, this golden sandy beach offers clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s accessible via a half-mile walk from the nearest car park at Stackpole Quay, making it ideal for those who enjoy a bit of adventure with their beach day. Dogs are welcome year-round.

Tenby Beaches

Tenby, a medieval walled town, features three main beaches: North Beach, Castle Beach, and South Beach. North Beach is popular for its iconic Goskar Rock and colourful beach huts. Castle Beach sits beneath the ancient ruins of Tenby Castle, offering shallow waters and views of St Catherine’s Island, while South Beach stretches over two miles, providing ample space for sunbathing and beach sports. Each beach offers unique charm and facilities.

Whitesands Bay

Whitesands Bay, located near St David’s, stands out for its surfing conditions and vast expanse of white sand. It’s a Blue Flag beach, ensuring high standards of cleanliness and facilities. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and rolling countryside, Whitesands is perfect for both relaxation and water sports. Lifeguards patrol during the summer months, making it a family-friendly choice.

Outdoor Activities

Pembrokeshire offers a variety of outdoor activities, making it an excellent destination for adventure seekers.

Hiking Trails

Pembrokeshire Coast Path, spanning 186 miles, offers breathtaking coastal views and diverse landscapes. Starting in St Dogmaels and ending in Amroth, it provides routes for different fitness levels. Local loop walks, like those in Bosherston and Stackpole, display unique geological features and wildlife.

Water Sports

Surfing enthusiasts flock to Whitesands Bay and Newgale for excellent wave conditions. Kayaking and canoeing are popular along Milford Haven and the Daugleddau Estuary, known for calm waters and scenic beauty. For adrenaline junkies, coasteering at Abereiddy Blue Lagoon offers a thrilling mix of climbing, swimming, and cliff jumping.

Wildlife Watching

Skomer Island is a prime spot for observing puffins and seals, particularly from April to July. Ramsey Island, accessible by boat tours, offers encounters with a variety of seabirds and harbour porpoises. In Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, we can spot red kites and peregrine falcons as part of guided wildlife walks.

Accommodation Options

Pembrokeshire offers a diverse range of accommodations, ensuring that every visitor finds the perfect place to stay. From luxury hotels to charming bed and breakfasts and unique camping experiences, there’s something for everyone.

Hotels

Pembrokeshire boasts several luxurious hotels, providing top-tier amenities and services. The Twr y Felin Hotel in St David’s, a converted windmill, offers stunning views, contemporary art, and gourmet dining. The Grove of Narberth, a high-end country house hotel, features elegant rooms and award-winning cuisine. For a coastal retreat, consider the St Brides Spa Hotel in Saundersfoot, known for its cliff-top views and relaxing spa.

Bed And Breakfasts

For a more intimate experience, Pembrokeshire’s bed and breakfasts provide cosy settings and personalised service. Penrhiw Priory in St David’s offers a tranquil atmosphere with beautifully decorated rooms and lush gardens. Fields Lodge Bed & Breakfast in Herbrandston provides a hearty Welsh breakfast and comfortable, well-appointed rooms. For those seeking a touch of history, Y Garth B&B in Dinas Cross captures the charm of a traditional Welsh home.

Camping And Glamping

Nature enthusiasts can immerse themselves in Pembrokeshire’s beautiful landscapes through camping and glamping options. Celtic Camping & Bunkhouses near St David’s provides stunning sea views and spacious pitches. If you prefer a bit more comfort, Top of the Woods offers glamping in a serene rural setting with safari tents and eco-friendly facilities. For a family-friendly option, check out Ty Parke Farm Camping in Mathry, featuring safari tents and yurts nestled in wooded areas with plenty of space for children to play.

Food And Drink

Exploring Pembrokeshire extends beyond landscapes and heritage; it’s also a culinary journey. Let’s delve into the local cuisine, popular restaurants, and vibrant farmers’ markets.

Local Cuisine

Pembrokeshire boasts a rich culinary tradition, showcasing farm-fresh produce and pristine seafood. Traditional dishes include cawl, a hearty soup with lamb and vegetables, and laverbread, made from seaweed and often served with oats and bacon. Locally-sourced ingredients like Welsh lamb, Preseli Blue cheese, and Pembrokeshire potatoes highlight the region’s agricultural heritage. Coastal towns offer freshly-caught fish, crabs, and lobster, often featured in local dishes.

Popular Restaurants

Diverse dining experiences await across Pembrokeshire, offering everything from fine dining to beachside cafes.

1. Coast, Saundersfoot – Renowned for its seafood dishes and stunning sea views. Specialties include fresh lobster and sea bass.
2. The Grove, Narberth – An elegant setting offering a farm-to-table experience. Known for menus featuring Welsh lamb and garden-grown vegetables.
3. Paternoster Farm, Haverfordwest – Famous for its rustic charm and farm-fresh ingredients, offering dishes like slow-cooked pork belly.
4. The Cwtch, St David’s – A cozy venue that blends traditional Welsh recipes with contemporary twists. Highlights include Welsh rarebit and lamb stew.
5. HARBWR, Tenby – A picturesque harbour-front location known for its craft beers and seafood platters.

Farmers’ Markets

Local farmers’ markets bring Pembrokeshire’s fresh produce directly to visitors.

1. Haverfordwest Farmers’ Market – Held every Friday, offering organic vegetables, artisanal cheeses, and freshly baked bread.
2. St Dogmaels Local Producers’ Market – Known for its seasonal fruits, honey, and home-made preserves. It operates every Tuesday.
3. Narberth Food Market – This market runs on Fridays, featuring locally-reared meats, free-range eggs, and handcrafted pastries.
4. Fishguard Farmers’ Market – Available on Thursdays and Saturdays, showcasing fresh fish, organic beef, and home-made sweets.
5. Saundersfoot Market – Offering a mix of fresh vegetables, handmade soaps, and local crafts on select weekends.

Pembrokeshire’s food and drink scene combines tradition and creativity, reflecting its rich natural resources and cultural heritage.

Practical Tips

Making the most of Pembrokeshire involves planning. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth, enjoyable visit.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Pembrokeshire is between May and September. During these months, temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C, offering pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Summer months see fewer rain showers, ideal for hiking and beach outings. April and October, while cooler, are less crowded and still offer a beautiful landscape.

Packing Essentials

When packing for Pembrokeshire, prioritise layers. Weather changes frequently, so bring waterproof jackets, comfortable walking shoes, and sun protection. For beach visits, carry swimwear, towels, and beach gear. A small backpack is useful for hiking. Don’t forget binoculars for wildlife spotting, especially on Skomer Island.

Safety Tips

Staying safe in Pembrokeshire involves being prepared. Stick to designated paths when hiking the Pembrokeshire Coast Path to avoid unstable cliffs. For water activities, use recommended service providers and wear life jackets. Finally, check weather forecasts daily; conditions can change rapidly.

Conclusion

Pembrokeshire truly offers something for everyone. From its stunning coastlines and historic sites to its vibrant culinary scene and diverse outdoor activities, it’s a destination that never disappoints. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, you’ll find it here. With a variety of travel and accommodation options, planning your trip is a breeze. So pack your bags and get ready to explore one of Wales’ most captivating regions. Your Pembrokeshire adventure awaits!