Over the years, my partner and I have explored diverse landscapes across the globe. We have seen the majestic Bavarian mountains and the sprawling vineyards of Germany to the sun-drenched beaches of Cyprus and the dramatic cliffs of Jersey. We’ve wandered through stunning corners of the UK as well, but it wasn’t until recently that we truly appreciated the range of landscapes right on our doorstep in Pembrokeshire, Wales.
Pembrokeshire is home to the UK’s only predominantly coastal national park, the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. If you love coastal walking, this is your dream destination. The park offers an incredible variety of scenery: rugged cliffs in the north, golden sandy beaches, and rolling sand dunes in the south. It’s fascinating how the sea has shaped such different coastlines all within the same county. In fact, Broad Haven itself is a mecca for geology students, who come here to study the region’s rich and varied geological history.
For those who prefer hill walking, the Preseli Mountains are an absolute gem. These mountains, known for their stunning panoramic views, are also famous for their mystical aura. After all, it’s from these very hills that the ancient stones used to construct Stonehenge were sourced. Locals here in Pembrokeshire flock to the Preseli slopes at the first sign of snow, eager to sledge down the snowy hills. There’s a magical quality to these hills, a sense of timelessness that adds a special layer to your hike.
If the coast or mountains are a bit too windy for your liking, Pembrokeshire also offers peaceful woodland walks. Haroldston, Canaston, and Colby woods are perfect retreats, particularly in early spring when the snowdrops and daffodils bloom, creating a vibrant carpet of colours. As May rolls around and the weather warms, you’ll find the woods filled with a stunning display of bluebells, adding to the serenity and beauty of the setting.
For a more relaxed walk, a stroll around the tidal Cleddau estuary could be just the thing. Don’t forget your binoculars—this is a birdwatcher’s paradise! Keep an eye out for Shelducks, graceful swans, or a diving cormorant. If walking isn’t on the agenda for the day, why not take a boat trip on the estuary to enjoy the scenery from a different perspective?
But Pembrokeshire isn’t just about nature. If you enjoy a bit of culture or history with your walks, the county is filled with charming towns and villages. Explore the medieval castle towns of Haverfordwest, Tenby, and Pembroke, or visit St. David’s, the smallest city in Britain, known for its stunning cathedral. If shopping is more your thing, Narberth offers a delightful range of boutique stores, and Milford’s marina is a great spot for a leisurely wander. To learn more click on the buttons below
No matter where your feet take you in Pembrokeshire, a few essentials will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Always bring a map with you—mobile phone signal can be patchy in rural areas, making it a perfect opportunity for a digital detox, but not ideal for relying on Google Maps! Bring plenty of water, and always let someone know where you’re heading and when you plan to return. Be sure to shut any gates behind you, and if you’re walking with your dog, keep them on a lead around livestock.
…………remember the old saying: “There’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing!” With that in mind, get out there, embrace the elements, and happy rambling!