About the Area and the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
There are lots of beaches, castles, towns and villages, theme parks and National Trust sites to enjoy in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. The area is very popular for outdoor activities such as walking, surfing, fishing, climbing and kayaking.
With a mild climate and clean air it is also a great place to relax and recharge your batteries.
The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is is a most attractive part of Wales with beautiful beaches and stunning coastal scenery which is why it has been designated as a National Park. It is a great playground for outdoor pursuits and has plenty of heritage sites, family attractions and pretty towns and villages. The National Park includes the whole of the Pembrokeshire Coastline plus the upper reaches of the Milford Haven Estuary and the Preseli mountains, so its spectacular landscape includes contrasting rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, wooded estuaries and wild inland hills.
Below is a selection of places to visit and things to do. However we suggest you check out opening times etc before you visit paid attractions as many operate seasonal opening times.
Walking in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
Pembrokeshire is a dream destination for walkers. From short circular walks to the long distance coastal path, there are so many opportunities – beaches, cliffs, woodland, hills, lakes, heritage sites and town walks. Nordic walking is popular and Guided Walks are also available . For more information Read our blog Ideas for Walks in Pembrokeshire …….
Outdoor Activities in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is a great location for outdoor activities, from simple activities such as walking, swimming and fishing right through to adrenalin adventure activities such as paragliding and kite surfing.
Pembrokeshire is one of the best locations in the UK for surfing, climbing, sea kayaking, coasteering and diving and
if you are a beginner, there are plenty of activity providers where you can book a session with all the equipment provided.
Pembrokeshire Islands
The main islands off the Pembrokeshire Coast are Caldey, Skomer, Skokholm, Ramsey and Grassholm. Caldey is farmed and has a monastery and a peaceful atmosphere, however, the other islands are more rugged and abound with wildlife especially sea bird colonies. They are National Nature Reserves and boat trips are available to or around the islands
Beaches
Beaches are another big attraction in this area. To find out why read our blog Beaches of Pembrokeshire……………..
Castles and Heritage
Pembrokeshire has an abundance of heritage sites especially well preserved Norman Castles. To find our more read our blog Castles of South Pembrokeshire
There are also prehistoric sites such as a stone circle in North Pembrokeshire and King’s Quoit, a burial site overlooking Manorbier Bay.
Pembrokeshire’s religious heritage includes St David’s Cathedral, St Davids and Lamphey Bishop’s Palaces, a tiny hermit’s chapel nestled in the cliffs at St Govan’s Head, Carew Celtic Cross – and many Norman churches.
Family Attractions
In addition to the beautiful natural attractions of the area, there are plenty of fun and interesting places to visit. There are 7 activity/animal parks within 15 miles of Freshwater Bay Holiday Village and for young children there are indoor soft play centres. Driving based activities are particularly well catered for in the area. There are also centres for bowling, trampolining, indoor climbing, zorbing and infra-red combat games. For more details read our blog: Family Activities for your Holiday in Pembrokeshire………….
Beauty Spots and the National Trust
Discover beautiful places in Pembrokeshire. National Trust sites are a good place to start such as Stackpole Lakes (also known locally as Bosherston Lily Ponds) or Colby Woodland Garden. Visit the upper reaches of the tranquil Milford Haven Estuary or the open moorland of the Preseli Hills. The rock formations at Stack Rocks near Castlemartin are another wonderful sight. Read more in our blog Beautiful Places to Visit in Pembrokeshire
Towns and Villages
Tenby, Pembroke, Saundersfoot, Narberth, Neyland and Milford Haven are nearby towns and they are all different due to their distinct characters and attractions. Haverfordwest is the county town while further afield St David’s, Britain’s smallest city is worth a visit. Read more about the towns in our
Eating Out in the South of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
There are plenty of cafes, restaurants and pubs for eating out many using local produce.
Closest Eateries to Freshwater Bay Holiday Village and Stackpole
- The Longhouse – Cafe and bar located at the front of the holiday village – Currently closed till further notice while a new tenant is sought.
- The Freshwater Inn – Panoramic views over Freshwater Bay can be enjoyed from the dining room and beer garden – 01646-672828 – Jason Road, Freshwater East, SA71 5LE http://www.freshwaterinn.co.uk
- Stackpole Inn – XVII Century Inn with restaurant and beautiful garden, recommended by the Good Pub Guide and others. – 01646 672324 Stackpole, SA71 5DF www.stackpoleinn.co.uk/
- Boathouse Tea Room – A National Trust cafe at Stackpole Quay www.nationaltrust.org.uk/stackpole/features/the-boathouse-tea-room – open Easter to October
- Lamphey Hall – Hotel Restaurant – 01646 672394 http://www.lampheyhall.co.uk/the-restaurant Upper Lamphey Rd, Lamphey, SA71 5NR
- The Dial Inn – Bar and Restaurant – Lamphey, SA71 5NU 01646 672426 www.thedialinn.co.uk/