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St Non's Chapel and Well: Birthplace of Wales' Patron Saint

Discover the ancient birthplace of St David with sacred ruins, a healing holy well, and a serene chapel on the Pembrokeshire coast.

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St Non's Chapel and Well, near St Davids in Pembrokeshire, Wales, is a historic and spiritual site traditionally marking the birthplace of St David, the patron saint of Wales. The site features the ruins of an ancient north-south aligned chapel, a sacred holy well reputed for healing powers, and a 20th-century chapel with stained glass windows honoring Welsh saints. Pilgrims have visited here for centuries, drawn by its rich Celtic legends, medieval heritage, and tranquil coastal setting.

A brief summary to St Non's Chapel and Well

  • Haverfordwest, St Davids, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 2 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

  • Visit the holy well and observe the small statue of St Non where pilgrims leave offerings.
  • Explore the ruins of the north-south aligned chapel and look for the early medieval cross slab inside.
  • Take time in the 1934 chapel to admire the stained glass windows depicting Welsh saints.
  • Enjoy the coastal views and the peaceful atmosphere that blends natural beauty with spiritual heritage.
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Getting There

  • Public Bus

    Take the local bus service from Haverfordwest to St Davids, which runs approximately every 1 to 2 hours. From St Davids town center, the chapel is a 20-minute walk along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. Bus fares range from £4 to £7 one way. Service frequency may reduce on weekends and holidays.

  • Car

    Drive to St Davids via the A487 from Haverfordwest, approximately a 30-minute journey. Parking is available in St Davids town; from there, the chapel is accessible by a 20-minute walk. Note that parking spaces can be limited during peak tourist seasons. No direct vehicle access to the chapel site.

  • Walking/Hiking

    For an immersive experience, hike along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path from St Davids to the chapel, a scenic 20 to 30-minute walk over moderate terrain with some coastal elevation. Suitable for most fitness levels but not wheelchair accessible.

St Non's Chapel and Well 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 St Non's Chapel and Well

Ancient Origins and Sacred Legacy

St Non's Chapel stands on the Pembrokeshire coast near St Davids, believed to be the birthplace of St David, born around AD 500. The ruined chapel, unusual in its north-south alignment, is thought to be one of Wales' oldest Christian structures, possibly built on or near the site of St Non's original dwelling. The chapel's foundations and an early medieval cross slab inside date back to the 7th or 8th century, linking the site to early Christian worship and pilgrimage traditions.

Legend and Local Traditions

According to legend, St Non, mother of St David, gave birth during a fierce storm on this rugged clifftop. A holy well nearby is said to have sprung forth at that moment, its waters reputed to have healing powers, especially for eye ailments. The well is enclosed by a stone wall with a niche holding a statue of St Non, where pilgrims leave offerings such as rosary beads and coins. The site’s spiritual significance is heightened by stories of miraculous events and its connection to Celtic goddess symbolism, with standing stones nearby possibly marking an ancient sacred circle predating Christianity.

The Modern Chapel and Retreat Centre

Close to the ruins and well is a chapel built in 1934 by Cecil Morgan-Griffiths in traditional Pembrokeshire style, incorporating stones from pre-Reformation chapels and monastic ruins. Dedicated to Our Lady and St Non, it features beautiful stained glass windows from the William Morris school depicting Welsh saints, including St Non and St David arriving in Brittany. The altar incorporates medieval architectural fragments, linking the new chapel to its ancient spiritual heritage. The site is managed by the Passionists and the Sisters of Mercy, who run a retreat centre offering spiritual and wellness events.

Historical and Archaeological Significance

The chapel and surrounding field contain archaeological features such as standing stones and medieval graves, suggesting the site was a focal point for worship and pilgrimage since at least the early medieval period. The chapel is referenced in 11th-century texts and was a popular pilgrimage destination in medieval Wales until the Reformation. The holy well was restored in the mid-20th century and remains a place of reverence, continuing a tradition of healing and spiritual renewal.

Atmosphere and Visitor Experience

Visitors to St Non's Chapel and Well experience a tranquil and evocative setting overlooking the wild Pembrokeshire coast. The ruins evoke a sense of ancient mystery and devotion, while the nearby well and modern chapel offer spaces for reflection and connection to centuries of faith and legend. The site’s coastal winds, the sound of waves, and the presence of standing stones create a powerful sensory experience blending nature, history, and spirituality.

Enduring Cultural Importance

St Non’s Chapel and Well remain a vital cultural and religious landmark in Wales, symbolizing the origins of Welsh Christianity and the enduring legacy of St David. The site attracts pilgrims, history enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful retreat, preserving the stories and sacred traditions that have shaped Welsh identity for over a millennium.

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