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Pembrokeshire Coast Path: Wales' Stunning Coastal Trail

Explore 186 miles of breathtaking Welsh coastline, from rugged cliffs to golden beaches, along the iconic Pembrokeshire Coast Path.

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The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is a spectacular 186-mile (300 km) trail along the rugged coastline of Pembrokeshire, Wales. Winding through the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, it offers breathtaking views of cliffs, sandy beaches, estuaries, and diverse wildlife. The path combines challenging hikes with serene natural beauty, historic sites, and charming coastal towns, making it a premier destination for hikers and nature lovers alike.

A brief summary to Pembrokeshire Coast Path

  • Pembrokeshire Coast Path, Haverfordwest, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 72 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Prepare for varied terrain with sturdy hiking boots as the path includes steep climbs and uneven surfaces.
  • Use the coastal bus services in summer to access different sections and avoid parking challenges.
  • Plan your visit between March and October for paid parking availability and more frequent transport options.
  • Consider luggage transfer services offered by some local tour operators to hike comfortably without heavy bags.
  • Respect the environment by following Leave No Trace principles and using designated paths and facilities.
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Getting There

  • Public Bus

    Use the Coastal Bus services such as the 400 Puffin Shuttle and 405 Poppit Rocket, operating multiple times daily in summer, connecting key points along the path. Tickets cost around £3-£6 depending on distance, with reduced winter schedules.

  • Train

    Train stations at Saundersfoot, Tenby, Pembroke, and Fishguard Harbour provide scenic access to sections of the path. Trains run regularly with fares ranging from £5 to £15. Combine with local buses for last-mile connections.

  • Car

    National Park Authority car parks are available at locations like Amroth and Poppit Sands with pay-and-display charges from £1.50 for one hour up to £6 daily (March to October). Overnight parking is generally prohibited. Parking is free November to February.

  • Walking

    Sections of the path can be accessed on foot from nearby towns and villages. Terrain varies from easy beach walks to demanding cliff climbs, requiring good fitness and suitable footwear.

Pembrokeshire Coast Path location weather suitability

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

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Discover more about Pembrokeshire Coast Path

A Journey Along Wales’ Rugged Coastline

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path stretches for 186 miles (300 km), tracing the dramatic coastline of Pembrokeshire in southwest Wales. This National Trail winds through the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, the only coastal national park in the UK, showcasing a diverse range of landscapes from towering limestone cliffs and volcanic headlands to golden sandy beaches and hidden coves. The trail’s varied terrain offers both strenuous climbs and gentle strolls, appealing to experienced hikers and casual walkers alike.

Natural Beauty and Wildlife Abundance

The path is renowned for its stunning natural scenery and rich biodiversity. Along the route, walkers encounter rare coastal flowers, seabirds such as puffins and guillemots, and marine life including seals and dolphins. The trail’s proximity to the sea provides panoramic vistas of the Atlantic Ocean, with frequent opportunities to pause and absorb the fresh sea air. Notable natural highlights include secluded beaches like Barafundle Bay and dramatic rock formations such as the ‘church doors’ caves at Skrinkle Haven.

Historic and Cultural Highlights

Beyond its natural allure, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path is steeped in history and culture. The route passes by ancient Neolithic sites like the King’s Quoit cromlech near Manorbier, medieval castles including the impressive Pembroke Castle, and quaint fishing villages with colorful harbors such as Tenby and Saundersfoot. St Govan’s Chapel, a small hermitage carved into the cliffs, offers a mystical glimpse into the region’s past. These landmarks enrich the hiking experience by connecting visitors with the area’s heritage.

Trail Experience and Accessibility

The path’s terrain is varied and often hilly, requiring a moderate to high level of fitness. Some sections involve steep climbs and descents, while others meander through dunes or along flat beaches. The trail is well-marked and maintained, with access points and viewpoints reachable by car or public transport. Several coastal bus services operate in summer, facilitating flexible hiking itineraries. While overnight parking is restricted in many car parks, National Park Authority car parks with pay-and-display systems are available, with charges applying mainly from March to October.

Planning Your Adventure

Walkers often segment the trail into manageable stages, with popular sections running from Amroth to Pembroke, covering picturesque beaches, wooded cliffs, and historic sites. Local accommodation providers sometimes offer luggage transfer services, allowing hikers to enjoy the trail without heavy packs. The best times to visit are late spring through early autumn when weather conditions are most favorable, and public transport services are more frequent.

Preserving a National Treasure

As part of a protected national park, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path benefits from ongoing conservation efforts aimed at preserving its unique environment and cultural landmarks. Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural habitat, adhere to Leave No Trace principles, and support local communities by using designated facilities and services. The path remains a cherished asset for both locals and visitors, offering an immersive experience of Wales’ coastal heritage.

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