Sea & Sand
Local Beaches
Stackpole
Stackpole estate is home to some of Pembrokeshire’s most beautiful places. Park at Stackpole Quay and take the half-mile walk along the coast path to Barafundle Bay, accessible only via steep steps, and swim in the crystal clear waters. Explore Bosherston Lakes, home to otters, water birds and dragonflies. Head to the Boathouse tea-room at Stackpole Quay, or enjoy the beautiful Mencap Walled Garden. Broadhaven South Beach makes for a perfect surf or swim spot, and is accessible both via taking a walk through Bosherston Lily Ponds, or a steep path from the beach car park.
Freshwater East
This sandy beach is backed by dunes, providing plenty of opportunity for exploration. At low tide, there’s plenty of space for activities on Freshwater East, so don’t forget to bring a bucket and spade! The stream on the southern end makes for a great play area for children, and it is a popular beach among swimmers, surfers, divers and fishermen. It is also a fantastic starting point for a walk along the Pembrokeshire coast path; head east towards Manorbier and discover Swanlake Bay en route, or west towards the aforementioned Stackpole Quay and Barafundle Bay.
Saundersfoot and Coppet Hall
Coppet Hall Beach sits to the east of Saundersfoot and Tenby, separated from Saundersfoot Beach by a stream. Hire a paddleboard or a kayak, see what creatures can be found in the rockpools, or simply relax. A walk through the tunnels along the old coal tramway takes you into Saundersfoot, where you can head to the arcade for some old school seaside fun. Grab a bite to eat from one of the many cafés and restaurants the town has to offer, or tuck into some fish and chips on the harbour.
The Local Area
Nearby Towns
Pembroke
Once you’ve explored Pembroke Castle, take a relaxing walk around the millponds. Keep an eye out for birds, in particular herons and swans, and you may even be lucky enough to spot an otter! Hire a rowing boat and spend some time enjoying the ponds from water-level before stopping off at Turkish restaurant Cafe Rose, or West Gate Gallery and Coffee Shop. Jabberwocky Creative Designs has your gifting needs covered, stocking unique handmade Pembrokeshire jewellery and glassware, or head to Saltwater Studio for some Pembrokeshire posters or felted artwork.
Tenby
This famous seaside town is only 20-minutes away by car. You’ll instantly recognise the colourful townhouses overlooking Harbour Beach. From Easter to October you can hop on a boat and spend a few hours on the holy Caldey Island, owned and run by a community of Cistercian monks, or explore Tenby Museum and Art Gallery, Wales’ oldest independent museum, all year round. You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to dinner time, grab fish and chips from Fecci’s, or enjoy a relaxed Japanese dining experience at Umi.
Narberth
With a high-street boasting dozens of independent stores and cafes, Narberth is packed with unique shopping and dining opportunities. The Golden Sheaf Gallery stocks all sorts of treasures from handmade soaps to artwork by Pembrokeshire artists. Foodies may want to add Annwn to their list and enjoy a seasonal 10-course menu highlighting local food, or check out Plum Vanilla for tasty vegetarian and vegan food. Attend a gig or comedy night at the iconic Queen’s Hall, the home of Elton John’s first Welsh performance in 1970. Plenty of local pubs await, from The Dragon to Hwb Tap and Food Hall, where you can enjoy a selection of street food alongside a craft beer.
Castles & Palaces
The History
Carew Castle and Tidal Mill
There are thought to be several ghosts haunting Carew, which has been investigated for paranormal activity many times, the most notable two being the White Lady and the Barbary Ape. Learn about the vast history of Carew Castle via an audio tour during your visit. Carew Tidal Mill is the only restored tidal Mill in Wales, and despite no longer being in operation, the machinery is still intact. The building was derelict from 1937, until 1972 when the renovation was completed. Enjoy coffee and a cake in the Nest Tearoom, named after Princess Nest, famed for being the most beautiful woman in Wales, and explore the Castle or Mill Shop.
Pembroke Castle
After exploring Pembroke Town, discover Henry VII’s birthplace – Pembroke Castle. The original castle was built in 1093 and was a basic structure, developed by the Earl of Pembroke over 30 years in 1189. The Wogan Cavern lies beneath the northern part of the castle, and it has recently been revealed that it was occupied during the last ice age. Stone tools left behind by some of the earliest Homo sapiens to occupy Britain were found, alongside reindeer and mammoth bones. Excavations are currently taking place in the cave, so who knows what else might be found.
Lamphey Bishop’s Palace
Used by the medieval bishops of St Davids as a country retreat, Lamphey Bishop’s Palace is mostly the work of Henry de Gower, bishop of St Davids from 1328 to 1347. The bishops enjoyed the luxuries of private accommodation, a great grand hall, first-floor chamber, fishponds, fruit orchards, vegetable gardens and 144-acre park. Just over the road from Lamphey Court Hotel & Spa and with free entry year-round, the Palace is a must-see for our guests.
Our Happy Visitors