Beloved by Jane Austen and home to award winning beaches, get ready for a simply stunning road trip this summer. We’re heading to pretty Pembrokeshire where you’ll find pastel seaside towns and coastal castles, alongside welcoming communities which have been shaped by the sea for centuries. From medieval conquerors to a place of pilgrimage, welcome to Pembrokeshire.
Pembrokeshire is home to Britain’s only coastal national park, with 186 miles of coastal path to explore. If you’re in search of adventure, might we suggest starting with a marvellous trip to Skomer Island. This breathtaking reserve is home to the largest colony of Manx shearwaters, with around 350,000 breeding pairs. You may spot a familiar sight peering out from clifftop burrows, as Skomer also welcomes Atlantic puffins each year. Whether you’re an avid twitcher or a complete novice, you will be wowed by the sheer amount of wildlife. Pack comfortable shoes in preparation to climb 87 steps from the landing jetty, having made the 15-minute boat ride from Martin’s Haven. Part of the beauty of Skomer is the fact that it is completely unspoilt, with visitor numbers limited each day. Book your tickets well in advance, and remember to take refreshments as there are no catering facilities – unless you fancy joining the seabirds in search of a fishy lunch!
Back on dry land and Pembrokeshire is home to many a picturesque harbour, such is the scene to be found in the quaint village of Solva. Nestled in Pembrokeshire National Park, you can explore the Blue Flag beaches or head to the high street where you’ll find independent cafes, craft shops and galleries. The village is split into Upper Solva and Lower Solva, with multiple vantage points offering views to die for. Solva is also only a few miles away from St Davids, which is the UK’s smallest city. Fall in love with the 12th century cathedral and visit the birthplace of St David – St Non Chapel and Holy Well. Parking can be difficult at peak season as you might expect, take advantage of The Celtic Coaster. This seasonal shuttle bus does a handy loop of St Davids Peninsula, with stops including Whitesands beach.
A visit to Pembrokeshire wouldn’t be complete without stopping off at Tenby, famed for its pastel-coloured houses and dramatic sweeping sands. We recommend putting aside at least two days to explore, alongside a visit to Caldey island. You can pick up a boat from Tenby harbour or Castle Beach; Caldey is home to Cistercian monks and the crystal-clear waters of Priory beach.
Don’t forget to schedule in a visit to Barafundle Bay, which has been voted one of the most beautiful beaches on the planet. We promise the half mile walk is worth it, whilst Freshwater West also beckons. The latter is a popular surfing spot, and was used as the final resting place for Dobby in the Harry Potter series. Whether you’re in search of imposing castles, welcoming market towns or golden sands, Pembrokeshire is ready and waiting to welcome you.
