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Oriel y Parc Gallery & Visitor Centre, St Davids

Explore Pembrokeshire’s coastal art, nature, and culture at Oriel y Parc, St Davids’ vibrant National Park gateway.

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Oriel y Parc Gallery & Visitor Centre in St Davids is the gateway to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Britain's only coastal national park. It combines a vibrant art gallery showcasing local and national collections with a visitor centre offering expert advice, a gift shop, and a welcoming café. Set in the smallest city in Britain, it’s a hub for culture, nature, and community events, perfect for exploring the stunning coastal landscape and heritage of Pembrokeshire.

A brief summary to Oriel y Parc Gallery & Visitor Centre

  • National Park Visitor Centre And Landscape Gallery, High St, Saint David's, SA62 6NW, GB
  • +441437720392
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Check the current exhibition schedule before visiting to catch special art displays and events.
  • Visit the Brunch House café for fresh, locally inspired meals; dog-friendly seating is available.
  • Use the visitor centre’s expert advice to plan hikes and coastal explorations in Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
  • Accessibility features include lifts to the gallery and accessible toilets, making it suitable for all visitors.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    Take the local bus service from Haverfordwest to St Davids, which runs approximately every 1-2 hours. The journey takes around 45-60 minutes. From the St Davids bus stop, Oriel y Parc is a 10-minute walk. Tickets cost about £5-£8 GBP one way.

  • Car

    Driving from Pembroke Dock or Haverfordwest takes about 30-50 minutes depending on traffic. Limited parking is available near the centre; expect to pay around £2-£4 GBP for a few hours. Roads are rural but well maintained.

  • Train

    The nearest train station is at Haverfordwest, about 30 km away. From there, connect by local bus or taxi to St Davids. Taxi rides take roughly 30 minutes and cost approximately £30-£40 GBP.

  • Walking

    If staying in St Davids, the centre is centrally located and easily accessible on foot via paved, flat streets suitable for all abilities. Walking times vary depending on your accommodation location within the city.

Oriel y Parc Gallery & Visitor Centre location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Oriel y Parc Gallery & Visitor Centre

A Cultural and Natural Gateway

Oriel y Parc serves as the official National Park Discovery Centre for Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, the UK's only truly coastal national park. Situated in St Davids, Britain’s smallest city, it acts as a vibrant hub where art, nature, and local culture converge. The centre welcomes visitors with its spacious, accessible layout, including a visitor information desk staffed by knowledgeable locals ready to guide exploration of the surrounding landscape and heritage.

Artistic Showcase and Exhibitions

The gallery hosts a dynamic programme of exhibitions featuring artworks from Amgueddfa Cymru - Museum Wales and local Pembrokeshire artists. Exhibitions rotate regularly, presenting diverse mediums and themes that reflect the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region. The main gallery space is accessible via lift and open daily, inviting visitors to engage with contemporary and traditional art inspired by the coastal environment.

Community and Environmental Engagement

Oriel y Parc is deeply connected to the local community and environment. It collaborates with initiatives like Keep Wales Tidy as a litter-picking hub, fostering environmental stewardship. The centre also hosts talks, workshops, and events, including nature talks by RSPB experts, painting workshops, and community markets, making it a lively venue for education and cultural exchange.

Facilities and Visitor Experience

Beyond the gallery, the centre features a well-stocked gift shop offering unique, locally made products and unusual gifts. The Brunch House café provides fresh, vibrant meals and drinks in a friendly atmosphere, welcoming visitors and their dogs. Accessibility is a priority, with wide automatic doors, accessible toilets, baby changing facilities, and a hearing loop at the main desk ensuring a comfortable visit for all.

Setting and Surroundings

Located just steps from St Davids Cathedral and near stunning Pembrokeshire beaches, Oriel y Parc is perfectly positioned for visitors to begin their exploration of the city and national park. The centre’s architecture and layout harmonize with the scenic coastal environment, offering panoramic views and a tranquil space to relax before or after outdoor adventures.

Seasonal Hours and Visitor Tips

The visitor centre and shop operate daily from 9:30am to 5pm (March to October) and slightly shorter hours in winter months, while the gallery is open from 10am to 4pm year-round. The café typically closes at 4pm. Entry to the centre and gallery is free, though some special events and workshops may require booking and a fee. Visitors are encouraged to check the latest schedules and event listings online to make the most of their visit.

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