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Best Bits Of The Pembrokeshire Coast Path

The Best Bits of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path

So you are planning on walking the Pembrokeshire Path? Considering it at the least, and you would like to know about the best bits. 

What, 186 miles of walking along one of the United Kingdoms best coastlines not enough for you? Views stretching as far as the eye can see, the fresh air blowing in you face, and the hidden beaches and coves have not already convinced you?

Ok, ok, I get it. You need me to convnce you that the Pembrokeshire Coast Path is the perfect destination for your next walking holiday.

I accept your challenge, so please read on if you would like to discover the best bits of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.

Alternatively stop here… After all: Spoilers Alert!

 

Strumble Head Lighthouse

Who doesn’t love a lighthouse? White guardians of the sea, impervious to her power and providing much needed guidance to ships lost in the mist in the worst of storms. 

The present lighthouse was built in 1908, and is similar in construction to the Skokholm Lighthouse, and is one of the last lighthouses to be built in Britain.

The lighthouse itself is 55ft high, and contains the original lantern built by the Chance Brothers, completed with a mercury bath as a low friction bearing. The lighthouse is fully electric, since 1965, whereas before paraffin was used. Sadly though, its no longer resided, as it was automated in 1980, and monitored externally. 

The lighthouse itself sits proudly on Stumble head, and makes for an excellent photo opportunity as it looks out into the distance. 

Skomer Island

Skomer Island is located less than a mile off the coast of Pembrokeshire, with its main attraction being the bird life, with it being mainly known for puffins. Yet this island, along with Stockholm island is also home to Manx Shearwaters, Dolphins, Harbour Porpoises, Atlantic Grey Seals, and many more species. The island is surrounded by some of the richest waters in the British Isles. Accessible via limited boat tours, and overnight stops are also available. 

If you are into ecology, biodiversity and wildlife, then Skomer Island should certainly be on your radar. 

 

Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon was a working slate quarry which closed in 1910. It was subsequently abandoned and flooded with seawater. What’s left is a wonderful calm cove, with good access and deep water making it an attractive swimming spot. It’s also a popular coasteering and diving spot, hosting the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series 2012.

The Town of Tenby

Tenby needs no real introduction. This walled seaside town in Pembrokeshire featured 2 1/2 miles of beautiful sandy beaches, 13th Century medieval town walls, a fine collection of art galleries, places to eat, and the National Trust’s Tudor Merchant’s House.

Visitors to the town can  catch a boat to Caldey Island featuring a 19th Century Palmerston Fort, and also one of Britain’s Holy Islands. More than a thousand years of prayer and quiet living have made this remote Welsh island tranquil haven. 

Manorbier Village and Castle

Manorbier is a peaceful seaside town, popular with surfers due to its sandy cove beach. It also has a rather spectacular medieval castle which overlooks the bay. The castle was the birthplace of Gerald of Wales. The village itself features a traditional pub, and a Norman Church, while the area is also designated as a conservation area. 

The Norman castle features fairytale turrets, a great hall, and landscaped gardens. It’s the perfect place to take an afternoon off walking. Take a tour of the castle, its grounds and stop for a bite to eat in the cafe. 

St. Davids town & Cathedral

St David’s definitely deserves your rest day if you are exploring the length of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. The 12th Century St David’s Cathedral, built on the site of a much older religious building stands as one of Wales most iconic religious sites. Learn about St David, and enjoy food at The Refectory café. Take a stroll to Oriel y Parc Gallery, featuring local artwork, and crafts, before visiting the Gothic ruins of Bishops Place. Occasionally these ruins provide a backdrop for open air cinema and theatre performances. Finally, take a stroll through the town centre, and visit the Pebbles Yard Gallery and Expresso bar, enjoying the world go by from the courtyard. 

Stack Rocks

Stack rocks is a natural rock arch, and rock pillars which you will find on the Southwest coast of Pembrokeshire. The rocks are home a a number of breeding seabirds, such as Guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes and of course Puffins. 

 

Newgale beach

2 miles of beach awaits at Newgale Beach. This spot is hugely popular with surfers, kitesurfer’s, kayakers, and paddle boarders all who enjoy what the beach has to offer. For example, walk down to the southern end of the beach to find sheltered bays and caves, and cross the river at the back of the pebble bank to gain access to low tide bays. The village has a small cafe, and a surf shop. 

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