Pembrokeshire
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Breathtaking Welsh coastal region with views, walks, beaches and history.
Wales
pem-bruk-sher
Pembrokeshire and St David's
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park on the south west tip of Wales is a spectacular coastal region, surrounded on three sides by the sea. As well as more blue flag beaches than any other county in Britain, it also has the delightful seaside towns of Tenby and St Davids. Offshore, the marine nature reserve islands of Skomer, Skokholm and Grassholm are home to over half a million seabirds including colonies of puffins, guillemots, gannets and cormorants plus dolphins, porpoises and seals.
Named after the patron saint of Wales, St Davids is an ancient cathedral settlement going back 14 centuries, and is also Britain’s smallest city with a population of under 2000. The main focus of the city is its beautiful 12th century cathedral. The narrow streets of this small settlement are home to a vast array of galleries, restaurants and cafe bars. You will see the flag of St David flying here and around Wales – a gold cross on a black background.
Activities
In and around St Davids...
History: The 12th century Cathedral, built from beautiful local stone that gives it an unusual pink and grey colouring, is a must see. There have been cathedrals built earlier on the site, but Viking attacks destroyed several earlier structures. The Bishop’s Palace built in the 14th century lies across the river from the cathedral and the grand architecture shows the power and wealth of the medieval church.
Shopping: There are several interesting shops in St Davids, clustered mostly around the old cross. There's also a good country market there on Thursdays in the summer from June to September.
Nature: St Davids Peninsula has some of the most magnificent coastal scenery in Pembrokeshire and you can take a comfortable circular day walk starting from the square in the centre of St Davids, past the National Park Visitor Centre to Carefai Bay.
Around Pembrokeshire...
Nature: Take an hour long cruise from Tenby Harbour and visit the seals living on the islands around Pembrokeshire. With plenty of bird life to be spotted, September is the ideal time to see newborn pups.
Beaches: Barafundle Beach is one of the most beautiful in Britain. Pure yellow sand awaits as you step through an archway revealing the beach and crystal clear water in all its beauty.
History: Pembroke Castle set on the banks of a river estuary is largely intact, enabling the visitor to explore endless passageways, stairways and tunnels as well as some interesting exhibitions displayed within the fortress. Tour guides are also available.
Family: Oakwood Theme Park has over 30 rides and attractions and is one of Wales' leading tourist attractions.
Freshwater West, Robin Hood and Harry Potter
One of the best surf beaches in Britain, this stunning piece of coastline is a beautiful, wind swept exposed beach and one of the most consitant surf spots in Wales. This stretch of beach also boasts another claim to fame, it was used in both the recent Robin Hood movie and the forthcoming Harry Potter finale movies. For surfers and movie buffs alike, this great location is a must on your specialised tour of Britain. St David's is the smallest city in the UK!
