Church Door Cove

Church Door Cove in Pembrokeshire is quite possibly one of the most recognisable beaches in Wales, with a prominent natural landmark that you can’t mistake.

Nestled on the coast of South Pembrokeshire alongside Skrinkle Haven Beach, you’ll find Church Door Cove hidden away between the holiday destinations of Manorbier and Lydstep. Only accessible via the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, this secluded beach is one of the lesser-travelled gems of the Welsh coastline.

Picture towering limestone cliffs on either side of a sandy bay with a dramatic “doorway” leading to another hidden beach, and that’s exactly what you’ll find at Church Door Cove. Extraordinarily created by natural weathering, this remarkable sight is certainly unlike any other you’ll find in this region.

Be wary if you’re planning a visit as the beach becomes enveloped with water at high tide leaving only a rocky terrain at the rear of the beach, so ensure you check tide tables before venturing here.

Activities

The secluded nature of this cove results in this beach being perfect for the more creative of pastimes as opposed to the adrenaline-inducing watersports you might enjoy further along the coast.

Pack a picnic for a romantic al fresco dinner with your sweetheart or bring your notepad and a pen for a spot of drawing; the unique setting here is sure to leave you feeling inspired. Daydream about days gone by when pirates may have passed by in their ships with the wind in their sails or settle down on the sand with a good book for a sunny read in the peace and quiet.

Make sure to bring along a camera or at least your camera phone, because you won’t want to miss the chance to photograph this striking spot. The dark colouring of the tall striking cliffs contrasts beautifully against the vibrant golden sand underfoot and the vivid blue waters of the ocean.

If you’re wearing your bathers, you’ll likely be enticed into the water for a refreshing swim. Just make sure to be safe and don’t go out too far, as there are no lifeguards.

Whilst you’re in the area, we’d recommend working your way around the headland to sightsee Skrinkle Haven. Care is needed when accessing Skrinkle Haven Beach from Church Door Cove; you can scramble through the caves between the two or walk around the headland at particularly low tide.

As with all of the beaches in Pembrokeshire, you can easily access the Wales Coast Path if you’d like to enjoy a spot of hiking. Magnificent sea views are guaranteed with sights of Caldey Island and Swansea if you head east towards Lydstep and Tenby. If you follow the route west towards Manorbier, you’ll discover the historic landmarks of the King’s Quiot and Manorbier Castle at the next village along with the popular destinations of Barafundle Bay and Stackpole Quay Beach in view across the water.

Events

No events take place at Church Door Cove, though you will find that the course maps for The Wales SwimRun pass by the part of the coast. Starting in Freshwater East and ending further along the coastline in Saundersfoot, this intimate athletic event merges trail running with sea swims and offers participants a unique experience of the South Pembrokeshire coast.

Facilities

The secluded nature of this hidden beach means there are no handy facilities on site, making it more appropriate for adventure travellers than family-friendly days out. There are no lifeguards and access is via a steep set of stairs, so make sure to be cautious when visiting, as it’s not the most accessible of bays.

Whilst there are no facilities at Church Door Cove itself, there are some facilities nearby at Manorbier Youth Hostel. You’ll find plenty of free parking spaces here at the car park, only a short walk from the beach. The Youth Hostel also has public toilets and a cafe, so we’d recommend popping in for a cuppa before or after your visit to make a day of it.

Local Top Tips

Extend your day out with a trip to Manorbier, where you’ll find another great sandy beach at Manorbier Beach, a fantastic castle (entry charges apply) and a great pub.

Access

Head towards Manorbier and then follow the signs for YHA Manorbier/Manorbier Youth Hostel. Here you’ll find a large and free car park, with a gateway leading you onto a grassy footpath that will eventually bring you out on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.

Soon enough, you’ll come to a viewpoint with a bench overlooking the shore below behind some metal railing. Follow the concrete steps to the right of the bench to start your journey down to Church Door Cove. There’s a useful handrail on one side offering much-needed support as this staircase is long, some 140 steps by estimation. As you near sea level, the concrete steps will end and be replaced with a metal grid staircase that leads you onto the sand.

Alternatively, you could park further down the coastline and join the Coast Path from say Manorbier or Lydstep if you’ll like to combine your beach visit with a seaside ramble.

Is Church Door Cove dog friendly?

Church Door Cove is dog friendly all year round but be aware, the steps to and from the beach are rather steep, meaning dogs often have to be carried.

Where to Stay near Church Door Cove

Take a look at our Manorbier holiday cottages (approx 2.5 miles along the Coast Path) or our accommodation in Lydstep (approximately 1 mile along the Coast Path) if you’d like to stay near Church Door Cove.

We also have a great range of places to stay in Freshwater East, holiday homes in St Florence and cottages in Tenby for options further afield that are still within easy reach.