Spectacular coastal walks, golden sandy beaches, historic castles and adventure parks – there are plenty of things to do in Pembrokeshire.
Discover the sights and sounds of Pembrokeshire’s spectacular coastline, from the hidden delights of Barafundle Bay to the colourful seaside town of Tenby. Perfect for outdoor activities or a relaxing break, Pembrokeshire is a remote but beautiful part of Wales.
Here are our top 14 things to do in Pembrokeshire …
1. St David’s Cathedral
With a population of just 2,000, St David’s is Britain’s smallest city, with St David’s Cathedral standing proudly at its heart. The patron saint of Wales, St David, founded a 6th-century monastery here and trained missionaries to spread Christianity to Ireland. The shrine to St David was a popular pilgrimage site in the Middle Ages and is now an admired tourist attraction in Pembrokeshire.
2. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is one of the UK’s smallest national parks, yet boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery in Britain.
Home to endless golden beaches, miles of world-famous coastal paths and a rich and diverse culture, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park should be on everyone’s bucket list!
Not forgetting the many walks and adrenaline-fulled activities that you can enjoy, such as coasteering in Pembrokeshire.
Why not check out our favourite pubs in Pembrokeshire; the ideal place to quench your first after a day hiking along the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
3. Oakwood Theme Park
If you’re looking for a fun-filled day out in Pembrokeshire, then Oakwood Theme Park is for you! From adventure-filled rollercoasters to family-friendly rides, Wales’ biggest theme park is a fantastic place to spend the day during your Pembrokeshire holiday!
4. The Preseli Hills
The Preseli Hills stretch from Newport to Crymych and are a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. A complete contrast to the coastal lowlands, The Preseli Hills rise a mighty 536m out of the Welsh countryside. To experience some of the best scenery in Pembrokeshire, head to Foel Eryr for panoramic views as far out as Ireland and Snowdonia.
Looking for a hearty meal while exploring Preseli Hills? Head to the Tafarn Sinc, one of our favourite places to eat in Pembrokeshire.
5. Dolphin Watching at Cardigan Bay
The deep, nutrient-rich, waters off Pembrokeshire are the ideal place to see whales, dolphins and porpoises. For your best chance of spotting some bottlenose dolphins, head to Cardigan Bay off the North Pembrokeshire Coast. You might even be lucky enough to spot a minke whale, orca, or basking shark. Other great dolphin-watching locations include Fishguard Harbour and Newport Bay.
6. Ramsey Island RSPB Reserve
Enjoy spectacular views across the Irish Sea from the rugged and wild Ramsey Island RSPB Reserve. This beautiful, unspoilt nature reserve is home to a large variety of visiting and breeding birds. The dominating sea cliffs are the perfect place for seabirds, choughs and peregrines nesting on the cliffs.
If you’re visiting Ramsey Island during the autumn months then keep your eyes peeled for a colony of breeding grey seals, with hundreds of seal pups being born on Ramsey’s beaches every year. Boat trips to the island are available from St Justinians and you can book your ticket through Thousand Island Expeditions.
7. Folly Farm
If you’re looking for family-friendly things to do in Pembrokeshire, head to Folly Farm for a grand day out. The zoo has a fantastic selection of animals including lions, rhinos and zebras, plus the only giraffes to be found in Wales. For the younger members of the family, the petting farm ensures even the smallest children can see and touch some of Folly Farm’s most-loved animals.
Looking for something a little out of the ordinary? Why not check out these unusual things to do in Pembrokeshire.
8. Freshwater West
A magnet for experienced surfers worldwide, Freshwater West Beach is a surfers paradise. The south-westerly facing beach offers some of the best waves in the UK, but should only be experienced by expert surfers and strong swimmers.
The beach is also the setting for two famous films; Ridley Scott’s Robin Hood and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.
The beach attracts Harry Potter fans from near and far as the iconic setting for Shell House and Dobby’s Grave. This is definitely one of the best things to do in West Wales for all you Potterheads!
9. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path
Adventure lovers, it’s time to lace up those walking boots! The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is a National Trail hugging the Welsh coastline for 186 miles, offering some of the most stunning coastal scenery in the UK. The trail starts in St Dogmaels in the north and follows the rugged coastline to Amroth in the south. The full length of the trail takes between 10 to 15 days to complete but is normally completed in shorter sections.
10. Pembroke Castle
A stunning medieval castle, Pembroke Castle was the birthplace of Henry VII and is the biggest castle in Pembrokeshire. Located in Pembroke, the castle is superbly preserved and is known as one of the best examples of a Norman fortress in the UK and one of the best castles in Pembrokeshire.
11. Tenby
Known as one of the best seaside towns in Pembrokeshire, Tenby offers spectacular beaches and a warming, energetic atmosphere. Home to Castle Beach, the Sunday Times’ “Britain’s Best Beach of 2019” award and a charming harbour, Tenby is a picture-perfect Victorian seaside town loved by many.
12. Carew Castle and Tidal Mill
Carew Castle’s rich history spans over 2,000 years and this mighty castle was once a powerful stronghold and grand Elizabethan mansion. Set in a breathtaking location, overlooking a 23-acre Millpond, the castle’s site includes the only restored Tidal Mill in Wales as well as a Medieval Bridge, picnic area and 11th-century Celtic cross.
Step back in time and enjoy a free guided tour of Carew Castle before enjoying refreshments at the Nest Tearoom or Tidal Mill itself.
13. Barafundle Bay
Crystal clear waters, shimmering golden sands and miles of stunning coastal scenery – what more could you want from one of Pembrokeshires’ most loved beaches? Often voted as one of the best beaches in Britain (and even the world), Barafundle Bay is set in a picture-perfect location, often compared to an exotic Caribbean destination! The only way to access the beach is via a half-mile walk from the nearest car park, but the walk is well worth it upon arriving at this hidden gem.
14. Skomer Island
A wild and wonderful adventure awaits during a visit to Skomer Island! Located less than a mile off the coast of Pembrokeshire, Skomer Island is a wildlife haven, well known for its puffins. Surrounded by some of the richest waters for wildlife, you’ll have the chance to witness dolphins, seals, porpoises and an array of birds during your visit.
Day trips to Skomer Island can be enjoyed by the whole family, whilst the island’s stunning flora and fauna will leave you wishing you could stay for longer. If island trips are your thing, discover our favourite Welsh islands here.
We hope our list of things to do in Pembrokeshire keeps you busy during your stay in one of our Pembrokeshire holiday cottages. Looking for a holiday to remember? Check out these awesome events in Pembrokeshire to keep the whole family entertained.
Image Credits: WillMcC (CC BY-SA 3.0), Pauline Eccles (CC BY-SA 2.0), Kristaglover (CC BY-SA 3.0), Federico Pizano (CC BY-SA 3.0).
