Pembrokeshire Coast National Park: A Natural Marvel in the UK

• HelloShwmae
  [shoo-my]
• GoodbyeHwyl fawr
  [hoil vowr]
• YesIawn
  [yown]
• NoNa
  [na]
• Please/You're welcomeOs gwelwch yn dda
  [oss-gwelvech un tha]
• Thank youDiolch
  [dee-olch]
• Excuse me/SorryMae'n ddrwg gen i
  [mine thrug gen ee]
• How are you?Sut wyt ti?
  [sit wee-ut tee]
• Fine. And you?Da iawn. A fi?
  [dah yown. ah vee]
• Do you speak English?Ydych chi'n siarad Saesneg?
  [u-dikh cheen shiarad sice-neg]
• I don't understandDw i ddim yn deall
  [do-ee thim un thayl]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseHoffwn weld y bwydlen, os gwelwch yn dda
  [hof-oon weld uh boi-dlen, oss-gwelvech un tha]
• I don't eat meatDw i ddim yn bwyta cig
  [do-ee thim un boi-ta keeg]
• Cheers!Iechyd da!
  [yech-id dah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseHoffwn dalu, os gwelwch yn dda
  [hof-oon dah-lee, oss-gwelvech un tha]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Mynd i ffwrdd!
  [mend ee furth]
• Call the Police!Ffoniwch yr Heddlu!
  [fon-ee-ookh er heth-lee]
• Call a doctor!Ffoniwch feddyg!
  [fon-ee-ookh meh-dig]
• I'm lostRwy'n colli
  [roo-in col-lee]
• I'm illRwy'n sâl
  [roo-in saal]

• I'd like to buy...Hoffwn brynu...
  [hof-oon breen-ee]
• I'm just lookingDw i jyst yn edrych
  [do-ee just un ed-ruch]
• How much is it?Sut mae'n costio?
  [sit mine cost-yo]
• That's too expensiveMae hynny'n rhy ddrud
  [mine hun-nun ree thrud]
• Can you lower the price?Allwch chi ostwng y pris?
  [al-ook chee ost-oon-y pris]

• What time is it?Beth yw'r amser?
  [beth yoo-r am-sair]
• It's one o'clockUn o'r gloch yw hi
  [een or gl-och yoo hee]
• Half past (10)Hanner awr (10)
  [han-air aoor (10)]
• MorningBore
  [bor-eh]
• AfternoonP'nawn
  [pun-oun]
• EveningNos
  [noss]
• YesterdayDdoe
  [thoy]
• TodayHeddiw
  [hed-ee-w]
• TomorrowYfory
  [u-for-ee]
• 1Un
  [een]
• 2Dau
  [dye]
• 3Tri
  [tree]
• 4Pedwar
  [ped-war]
• 5Pump
  [pump]
• 6Chwech
  [chw-ech]
• 7Saith
  [sa-ith]
• 8Wyth
  [ooth]
• 9Naw
  [now]
• 10Deg
  [deg]

• Where's a/the...?Lle mae'r...?
  [thle my-r]
• What's the address?Beth yw'r cyfeiriad?
  [beth yoo-r kuh-vay-ree-ad]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Allwch chi ddangos i mi (ar y map)?
  [al-ook chee than-goss ee mee (ar ee map)]
• When's the next (bus)?Pryd yw'r nesaf (bws)?
  [pr-uhd yoo-r ne-sav (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Tocyn (i ....)
  [tock-in (ee)]

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is rich in ancient history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Mesolithic period. Among the most notable sites are the Neolithic burial chambers like Pentre Ifan, an impressive dolmen constructed around 3500 BCE. These ancient monuments offer a glimpse into the early inhabitants' sophisticated burial practices and their reverence for the landscape.

During the Iron Age, the region saw the construction of numerous hill forts, such as Castell Henllys. This reconstructed Iron Age settlement allows visitors to step back in time and experience life as it was over 2,000 years ago. These forts were strategically placed to offer defense and control over the surrounding landscapes, showcasing the advanced social organization and engineering skills of the Celtic tribes.

The Roman Empire left its mark on Pembrokeshire, with the construction of roads, forts, and trading posts. The remains of the Roman fort at Moridunum (modern-day Carmarthen) illustrate the Romans' significant presence and their efforts to control and integrate the area into their vast empire. Artefacts and remnants from this period provide insight into the daily lives and military strategies of Roman soldiers stationed in the region.

The medieval period saw the erection of numerous castles along Pembrokeshire's coast to defend against invasions. Pembroke Castle, a grand Norman fortress, played a crucial role in the region's history, including serving as the birthplace of Henry VII, founder of the Tudor dynasty. These castles not only served military purposes but also became centers of administration and local governance.

Pembrokeshire's coastline has a storied maritime history, from ancient trading routes to the age of piracy. The town of Fishguard, for example, was the site of the last invasion of Britain in 1797, when a French force landed but was famously repelled by the local militia and townspeople. Maritime heritage sites along the coast reveal the region's longstanding relationship with the sea, including shipwrecks, lighthouses, and bustling ports.

Christianity has deep roots in Pembrokeshire, with St. David's Cathedral being a major pilgrimage site since the early medieval period. St. David, the patron saint of Wales, established a monastic community here in the 6th century, and the cathedral built in his honor remains a significant spiritual center. This religious heritage is reflected in the numerous ancient churches, chapels, and holy wells scattered throughout the national park.

The cultural fabric of Pembrokeshire is enriched by its traditional festivals and events. The Fishguard International Music Festival, for example, celebrates the region's musical heritage, while local agricultural shows highlight the rural lifestyle and community spirit. These events offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant culture and traditions that have been passed down through generations.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is located in the southwest of Wales. The nearest international airports are Cardiff Airport and Bristol Airport. From Cardiff, you can take a direct train to Haverfordwest or Pembroke Dock, which are the main gateways to the park and the journey typically takes around 2 to 3 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; the park is well-connected by the M4 motorway and A roads. Coach services like National Express also operate routes to towns within the park.

Once within Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, you can use local buses operated by companies like Pembrokeshire County Council's 'Puffin Shuttle', 'Strumble Shuttle', and 'Coastal Cruiser' services which cover various parts of the park. Taxis are available but can be pricey. Renting a car offers the most flexibility, especially for exploring remote areas. For the more adventurous, cycling is a popular option and there are plenty of bike rental shops and cycling routes.

The official currency in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (£). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops within the park. It's a good idea to carry some cash, especially in more remote areas or small establishments that might not accept cards. ATMs are available in larger towns such as Haverfordwest, Tenby, and St. Davids.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is generally a very safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it's wise to take standard precautions. Avoid isolated areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always stay vigilant. Coastal paths can be dangerous in poor weather, so always check forecasts and wear appropriate footwear.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest hospitals with A&E departments are located in Haverfordwest and Carmarthen. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in larger towns where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing, especially for hiking. Layers are advisable as weather can change quickly. Avoid wearing flip-flops on coastal paths. Religion: Do visit St. Davids Cathedral and other religious sites respectfully. Public Transport: Do have exact change for buses and be punctual as services can be infrequent. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile or a simple 'hello'. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like Welsh cakes and Pembrokeshire potatoes. Don't leave litter; always use bins provided.

To experience Pembrokeshire Coast National Park like a local, try visiting during off-peak seasons to avoid crowds. Join local events and festivals such as the Fishguard Folk Festival or Pembrokeshire Fish Week. For a unique experience, consider staying in a traditional cottage or a local B&B. Explore lesser-known coastal paths and hidden beaches for a quieter experience. Engage with locals at markets and local pubs to learn more about the area's rich history and culture.