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15 breathtaking coastal Pembrokeshire walks holiday cottages

15 breathtaking coastal Pembrokeshire walks

Laura 07 February 2023

Pembrokeshire is home to the only coastal national park in the UK, most of which includes the world-renowned, long-distance Pembrokeshire Coast Path. That’s 186 miles of some of the best coastal walks, scenery and coastline in the world! Opened in 1970, The Pembrokeshire Coast Path was Wales’s first National Trail. 

Discover an invigorating mix of Pembrokeshire walks with varying terrains, rugged cliffs, extraordinary coastal features, volcanic headlands, sheltered coves, hidden bays and over 50 beautiful Pembrokeshire beaches - and lookout for a fantastic array of flowers and wildlife en route.




How long does it take to walk the Pembrokeshire Coast Path?

Barafundle Bay

It takes on average between 10 to 15 days to walk the whole Pembrokeshire Coast Path on foot, with some impressive descents and ascents to get those legs working. The total rise of the whole path is around 35,000 feet, which is as high as Mount Everest!

You can, of course, do shorter Pembrokeshire coastal path walks and this handy mileage chart will help calculate which route you fancy taking. 

There is also a coastal Pembrokeshire bus service that covers the whole path in case you don’t fancy walking the whole way! Pop on the Puffin Shuttle between Haverfordwest and St Davids, catch the Coastal Cruiser between Pembroke, Angle, Bosherston, Stackpole and Freshwater East, or ride the Strumble Shuttle between Fishguard and St Davids (including wonderful Whitesands beach). Hop on, sit back, relax and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery from the comfort of one of these handy rides. 


Coastal cottages in Pembrokeshire



Where does the Pembrokeshire Coast Path start and finish?

Pembrokeshire Coast Path

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path runs from St Dogmaels in North Pembrokeshire to Amroth in South Pembrokeshire, or vice versa depending on where you choose to begin. One of 16 National Trails across Wales and England, it is marked by posts featuring the acorn symbol to help you on your way.


Pembrokeshire Coast Path route

We've rounded up some handy Pembrokeshire Coast Path route information to help you along on your breathtaking coastal walks in Pembrokeshire. 

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Amroth to Lydstep walk

Tenby

A fantastic stretch of beach is accessible at low tide and you can walk all the way from Amroth to Saundersfoot taking in the fresh sea air. At extreme low tide, you can even see the ancient petrified forest at Amorth. 

Wander through wonderful woodland around Giltar Point between Saundersfoot and Tenby and enjoy breathtaking views of Caldey Island, Gower and Devon on clear days.


Lydstep to St Govan’s walk

St Govan’s chapel

This part of the coast path is particularly scenic and varied with some of Pembrokeshire’s most striking beaches and coastal highlights.

Discover marvellous Manorbier castle that keeps watch over pretty Manorbier beach. There's the enchanting Stackpole Estate nature reserve with its lovely lily ponds and the gorgeous Broad Haven South and Barafundle beaches. Spot the incredible St Govan’s Chapel, dramatically tucked away in the cliffside. 


St Govan's to Angle walk

The Green Bridge of Wales

A varying stretch of coast path with an amazing diversity of landscapes, take in the towering sea cliffs and enjoy spectacular sights such as the natural rock arch of the dramatic Stack Rocks and The Green Bridge of Wales.

Another brilliant beach on this stretch of coast path is the refreshing Freshwater West, a surfer's paradise and the location for several Hollywood films including Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, where it was used as the magical backdrop for Shell Cottage.


Angle to Pembroke walk

West Angle Bay

An easier walk, mostly on the flat with plenty of sheltered bays that are ideal for wildlife so make sure to make time for a bit of birdwatching. 

Walk through Pembrokeshire's industrial side with views over the bustling estuary towards Milford Haven and ships busy feeding the oil and gas demand. The incredible Milford Haven Waterway is Wales' largest estuary, plus it is one of the deepest natural harbours in the whole world!


Pembroke to Milford Haven walk

Pembroke Castle

Steeped in history, this refreshing Pembrokeshire walk takes in the medieval Pembroke Castle, Pembrokeshire’s biggest castle and the birthplace of the first Tudor king!  

Cross the Cleddau Bridge for some serene estuary views. Spot leisure boats sailing around, ferries ferrying passengers from Ireland and endless fields of green. Leading onto Milford Haven, explore the lovely marina full of gift shops and eateries.


Milford Haven to Dale walk

Milford Haven

This part of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path is comparatively easy with no serious gradients. Another of Pembrokeshire's fine beaches lies along this route but make sure to check the tide times for Sandy Haven as high tide covers the causeway across the Pill meaning a lengthy 4-mile detour inland.

Pass by the secluded Lindsway bay, the tranquil Monk Haven and one of Pembrokeshire’s best birdwatching sites, The Gann. Delightful Dale is a water enthusiast's dream, watch as windsurfers zip along the water before refreshing at one of the village's tasty eateries. 


Dale to Martin's Haven walk

Watwick

This section of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path takes you to the mouth of the Milford Haven estuary at St Ann’s Head, the sunniest place in Wales with some of the lowest rainfall figures in the region, ideal for spectacular views across to Skokholm Island, a haven for puffins, kittiwakes, guillemots, gannets and Manx shearwater. 

Marvel at Marloes Sands along this section of coast path with its huge expanse of golden sand used as a backdrop in the Hollywood film Snow White and the Huntsman!


Martin's Haven to Nolton Haven walk

Little Haven

This Pembrokeshire Coast Path walk links together six heavenly havens; Martin’s Haven, St Bride’s Haven, Little Haven, Broad Haven, Druidston Haven and Nolton Haven all make up this haven of havens!

Little Haven is an oh-so-sweet village where you can refresh with food, drink, and a lovely sea view. Broad Haven is a popular stretch of sand with plenty of seaside amenities and rock pools to explore, watched over by the interestingly shaped Lion's Head Rock. The secluded Druidston Haven has some fascinating cliff formations, natural arches and curious caves to explore! 


Nolton Haven to Caerfai walk

Newgale Beach

The wide expanse of Newgale has to be one of the most spectacular views on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. A popular spot for surfing and kitesurfing, the vastness of Newgale hits you on the approach.

The Gribbin at Solva offers magnificent views along the coast to historic St Davids. Picturesque Solva is home to a sweet harbour with lovely views so rest up here for a well-deserved refreshment. 


Caerfai to Whitesands walk

St Non's Chapel

This rugged coastal walk is one of the most thrilling in Pembrokeshire with plenty to see. From kayakers, climbers and coasteerers to seals, islands and sacred chapels, there's plenty to discover!

Wind your way around to St Non's Chapel on the edge of Wales. This significant site marks the birthplace of St David, the patron saint of Wales. St Non's Chapel is named after St David's mother and remains a special place of pilgrimage. 


Whitesands to Trefin walk

Whitesands bay

Dotted with history, this wild and rocky walk is lit up by the luminescent Blue Lagoon. Perched above the incredible Whitesands Beach lies the distinctive Carn Llidi hill, a natural location for surveillance and now home to the remains of a WW2 early warning radar station. 

Following onto Aberieddy, you’ll discover the beautiful Blue Lagoon, a former slate quarry with a brilliant blue colouring due to the reflection of the slate. The Blue Lagoon is popular with coasteerers that leap from the cliffs into the deep waters below.


Trefin to Strumble walk

Strumble Head lighthouse

A remote-feeling walk with more notable beaches and striking views of the commanding Strumble Head Lighthouse. Discover Abercastle, a picturesque cove popular with kayakers and boats due to its sheltered position. 

The remote Aberbach is a small beach backed by pebbles and makes a great stop to watch seals playing. Abermawr is another remote rural beach where, at low tide, you'll see the remains of an ancient forest, drowned by a flood when an ice sheet melted 8,000 years ago!


Strumble to Pwllgwaelod walk

Fishguard

A challenging route, rugged and undulating with plenty of places to take a break. Detour into Fishguard for the 30-metre, Bayeaux-style Last Invasion tapestry that tells the fascinating story of the last-ever invasion of mainland Britain.

The invasion took place when a French force landed at Fishguard and was rebuffed by Jemina Nicholas, a local lady who, armed with a pitchfork, captured the invading soldiers and secured them in St Mary's Church!   


Pwllgwaelod to Newport walk

Cwm yr Eglwys

A climb up ancient Carningli (The Mount of Angels) extends this short walk and offers one of the most magical views in the UK. You'll also experience some breathtaking views on the hike up to Pen y Fan on Dinas Island as it is the highest point on the whole of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. 

Descend into Cwm-yr-Eglwys with its small sandy cove and ruins of St Brynach's church which was destroyed by a fierce storm in 1859. You'll also find Aberfforest, a small and secluded beach protected by high cliffs, ideal for a refreshing dip.


Newport to St Dogmaels walk

Poppit Sands

A longer walk with wild beauty and some of the highest cliffs in Pembrokeshire. Prepare well for this walk, where amenities are few and far between, but be well rewarded with the beautiful scenery.

Spot fluffy seal pups in late summer, lounging in the sheltered coves. Be mesmerised by Pwll Y Wrach or The Witches' Cauldron, a collapsed cave that has created an impressive blowhole. Pretty Poppit Sands can also be found along this walk and is well sheltered from the prevailing southwesterly winds, making it a popular spot for windsurfers, kayakers, surfers and wildlife watchers. 


Best walks in Pembrokeshire

We've highlighted our favourite Pembrokeshire coastal walks for you to enjoy during your holiday in West Wales.

1. Amroth to Lydstep walk

Amroth

This pretty part of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path includes some of our favourite seaside towns and villages. Imagine colourful seafronts, bustling harbours, woodland walks and golden sands. 

Amroth walk

The half-mile stretch of beautiful sand lined with cafés, shops and pubs marks the start or end of the 186-mile Pembrokeshire Coast Path. Follow the path along the gorgeous shorelines of Amroth and Wiseman's Bridge, and fuel up at the Wiseman’s Bridge Inn, a favourite coastal pub with amazing views.


Amroth cottages


Saundersfoot walk

Saundersfoot Beach

Making your way through the old railway tunnels from Wiseman’s bridge, you’ll arrive in charming Saundersfoot village, where you’ll find a wealth of independent shops and places to eat, along with beautiful Saundersfoot beach and bustling harbour. 

Follow the path around the harbour onto pretty Glen beach and up the hill, and walk along the refreshing woodland section all the way to neighbouring seaside Tenby. 


Saundersfoot cottages


Tenby walk

Tenby

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path conveniently takes you along some of iconic Tenby’s beautiful beaches, allowing you to take in the colourful seafront row of pastel houses, beautiful harbour, spectacular views of Caldey Island and St Catherine's Island with its Napoleonic Fortress sitting proudly atop. It even winds its way through this gorgeous medieval walled town through to Lydstep. 


Tenby cottages



2. Milford Haven to St Martin’s Haven walk

Milford Haven

Milford Haven walk

Home to bustling Milford Marina packed full of trendy eateries and shops, Milford Haven is the largest estuary in Wales and is also one of the deepest natural harbours in the whole world. No wonder it impressed Lord Nelson so much! Enjoy a delicious meal with marina views at Martha's Vineyard

From the marina, head through Hakin to Gelliswick Bay and along the coast path through to Sandy Haven, a pretty dog-friendly Pembrokeshire beach with a popular crabbing bridge. Be sure to check the tide times for Sandy Haven to avoid a long detour! Enjoy great views, stunning Lindsway beach and birdwatching at The Gann before heading onwards to Dale. 


Milford Haven cottages


Dale walk

Dale

A haven for watersports enthusiasts due to its sheltered bay, Dale beach and its pretty little village has lots to offer. Enjoy a refreshing seafront walk here before grabbing a bite to eat at the nearby cafés and pubs: The Griffin Inn serves award-winning seafood dishes and offers al fresco dining with sea views of windsurfers and sailing boats.  


Dale cottages


Marloes walk

Marloes

Experience the magnificent view of Marloes Sands on this part of the coast path. This stretch has incredible coastal views, interesting cliff formations and was used as a filming location for the Hollywood blockbuster Snow White and the Huntsman. Enjoy views of Skomer Island from the most westerly point of the Marloes peninsula; see if you can spot seabirds and seals in this popular spot.  


Marloes cottages



3. Whitesands to Trefin walk

Whitesands

Whitesands walk

There’s so much to discover on this Pembrokeshire Coast Path walk. The impressive Carn Llidi hill looms over beautiful Whitesands beach. A popular surfing spot with magnificent views of Ramsey Island, this long stretch of golden sand hugs the shore toward the rocky headland of St Davids Head. 

Abereiddy walk

The Blue Lagoon, Abereiddy

Discover Abereiddy’s beautiful Blue Lagoon on this stretch of the coast path. The Blue Lagoon is a flooded slate quarry that gets its name from its beautiful blue colour due to the reflection of the slate. Enjoy watching the adventurous coasteerers having fun jumping from the cliffs into the lagoon, or divers descending into its hidden depths!  

Porthgain walk

Porthgain

This little gem of a harbour is lined with fantastic red brick hoppers that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Slate, brick and granite were shipped from the harbour here, and crushed rock was stored in the looming brick hoppers before being loaded into ships ready to be exported. With fantastic local places to eat such as The Sloop and The Shed, along with its amazing art galleries, it’s easy to get lost here for a few hours, admiring Porthgain's Scheduled Ancient Monument on your coast path walk!


Porthgain cottages



Walk safe

Please prepare well for your walk: take a guidebook or map, check the weather, wear suitable clothing, follow the signs, keep dogs under control, keep away from cliff edges and leave nothing but wonderful memories of your journey. 


Stay near the Pembrokeshire Coast Path


Waters Edge 3, Tenby

Inspired to take on one of our Pembrokeshire walks? Then book one of our comfortable coastal cottages in Pembrokeshire, put your feet up after a long day and enjoy all the comforts of home with even more beautiful views. 

Take a look at our guide to top restaurants in Pembrokeshire to refuel after a busy day exploring this amazing coastal county. 

Why not enjoy a well-deserved soak in one of our hot tub cottages in Pembrokeshire after a long day exploring or browse our full range of cottages in Pembrokeshire below? 


Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.

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