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St Brides Haven: A Sheltered Coastal Gem in Pembrokeshire

A sheltered shingle beach with calm waters, rock pools, and historic charm, perfect for family days and coastal adventures in Pembrokeshire.

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St Brides Haven is a charming, sheltered shingle and pebble beach nestled near Haverfordwest in Pembrokeshire, Wales. Known for its calm waters, rock pools, and scenic coastal views, it offers a peaceful retreat ideal for families and water sports enthusiasts. Limited free parking and basic facilities like toilets are available, with nearby amenities in Marloes village. The beach is dog-friendly year-round and popular for kayaking, diving, and rock pooling.

A brief summary to St Brides Haven

  • QR37+GF, Haverfordwest, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 4 hours
  • Free
  • 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

  • Arrive early to secure one of the limited free parking spots, especially during peak season.
  • Wear sturdy footwear to comfortably explore the rocky shore and coastal paths.
  • Check tide times before visiting to enjoy the sandy beach areas and avoid being cut off by the tide.
  • Bring your own refreshments as food and drink options are only available in nearby Marloes village.
  • Dogs are allowed all year round, making it a great spot for pet owners to enjoy the coast.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving to St Brides Haven takes approximately 25 to 35 minutes from Haverfordwest via local roads. Limited free parking for about 20 cars is available near the beach but fills quickly during peak times. No parking fees apply, but early arrival is advised to secure a spot.

  • Bus

    The Puffin Shuttle bus service stops near St Brides Haven, connecting it with nearby towns and the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. Bus journeys typically range from 30 to 50 minutes depending on the starting point. Service frequency varies seasonally, so check current timetables.

  • Walking

    For walkers on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, St Brides Haven is accessible via moderate terrain paths. Walking times vary based on starting location but expect 1 to 3 hours from nearby villages. The paths include uneven ground and some inclines, requiring sturdy footwear and moderate fitness.

St Brides Haven location weather suitability

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

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Discover more about St Brides Haven

A Tranquil Cove with Natural Beauty

St Brides Haven is a sheltered inlet located near Haverfordwest along the Pembrokeshire Coast. The beach is primarily shingle and pebble, with some sandy patches revealed at low tide, creating a dynamic shoreline that changes with the tides. Its north-west facing position protects it from prevailing winds, making the waters calm and ideal for swimming and water sports. The cove’s gentle shelving beach and abundance of rock pools provide a safe and engaging environment for families and explorers alike.

Historical and Architectural Surroundings

Overlooking the beach are quaint cottages and the site of a former fishermen’s chapel, long lost to coastal erosion. Nearby stands the 19th-century St Brides Castle, a baronial residence now converted into self-catering accommodation. This historic architecture adds a distinctive character to the bay, blending natural beauty with cultural heritage. The area’s history is subtly woven into the landscape, inviting visitors to appreciate both nature and local legacy.

Activities and Wildlife Encounters

St Brides Haven is a favored spot for various outdoor activities including kayaking, canoeing, diving, snorkeling, and fishing. The sheltered waters make it suitable for launching small boats and paddleboards. Rock pooling along the shore reveals diverse marine life, delighting children and nature enthusiasts. The beach’s calm environment also supports safe swimming and bathing. Wildlife watchers may spot local seabirds and marine creatures, enriching the coastal experience.

Facilities and Visitor Practicalities

Parking is limited to about 20 free spaces near the beach, often filling quickly during peak seasons, so early arrival is recommended. Public toilets are available in the car park, but other amenities such as food and drink options are found in nearby Marloes village, which hosts pubs, restaurants, and cafés. Visitors should bring sturdy footwear to navigate the rocky and uneven terrain safely. Dogs are welcome year-round, making it a versatile destination for pet owners.

Access and Surrounding Environment

The beach is accessible via local roads with parking adjacent to the shore. It is also a stop on the Puffin bus route, facilitating access for walkers on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. The natural setting is largely unspoiled, offering tranquil and scenic views of the coastline. The area’s protected status within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park ensures conservation of its wildlife habitat and natural beauty.

Seasonal and Weather Considerations

St Brides Haven is open year-round with no entrance fees. The beach’s character varies with the tides, so checking tide times is essential to fully enjoy the sandy areas and avoid being cut off by rising waters. The sheltered cove provides a pleasant destination in mild to warm weather, while the natural landscape remains striking even in cooler or windy conditions. Visitors should plan accordingly to maximize comfort and safety.

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