Park & Ride in Pembrokeshire
(or walk or swim or surf...)
Our national park is utterly unique with regards to it being the only coastal national park in the UK. This also means it’s the ultimate playground whatever your idea of fun. From world-class surf, world-famous walking trails and superb cycling. Park and ride means something a bit different here.
For adventure travel, west is best as the saying goes. Ask us what activities you can take part in here in Pembrokeshire and it’s probably easier for us to say what you can’t do because the list of what you can do is neverending.
Land explorers can take to the coast path where you’ll find 186 miles of epic landscape. Ramblers will be in paradise as this continuous footpath hugs almost every inch of the craggy cliffs and weathered rockfaces which line the land. Invest in a decent pair of walking boots and you’re in good stead no matter which stretches you take.
The more athletic amongst you may prefer an afternoon of trail running, there’s nowhere more scenic for a spot of exercise than Wales. Naturally, this is likely to be faster-paced than a leisurely hike so make sure to schedule regular stops to refuel and snap a memento - you’re sure to need both! Our resident “expert” here in the office claims Lydstep to Saundersfoot is the best trail running route in the region, though it’s a tale of two halves. Start along beautiful beaches before moving into sheltered woodland right on the coast’s edge… talk about the challenge of terrains underfoot!
For two-wheeled journeys, there are a-plenty in Pembrokeshire. Pedal along the Teifi river in the north, cycle part of the Celtic Trail West between St Davids and Abercastle or enjoy a traffic-free route on the Brunel Trail. Many like to bike the Saundersfoot Tramway alongside beaches through the old railway tunnels whilst those who prefer something a little more exhilarating should head for the newly re-developed Llys Y Fran Country Park where you can have a go at offroad mountain biking, along with a host of other activities.
Bordered by the sea on three sides, it’s no wonder that this coastal national park presents a wonderland of saltwater pursuits too. Pack your swimsuit and towel because you’re in for a wild ride when you plan an activity break in Pembrokeshire.
Adrenaline-obsessed bodies head straight for Abereiddy’s Blue Lagoon, the birthplace of coasteering, though various destinations across the coast offer it too. This activity merges cliff scrambling with wave leaping and sea swimming to create the ultimate in bold, brave sports. But believe us when we say, once you try it, you’ll be hooked.
More traditional water-based hobbies to be enjoyed include surfing, kayaking/canoeing and wild swimming. Newgale and Whitesands are always popular for the wave-breakers with beginner boards whilst Freshwater West is where the pros love, it’s even where the annual Welsh National Surfing Championships have been held since the early 1970s.
Those paddling through the water on kayak or canoe have the advantage of being able to reach locations otherwise inaccessible. Sightsee St Govan's Chapel from the sea (we’ll let in on a secret, it’s even better than from land!) or wade through to see the vivid green waters of The Witches Cauldron near Ceibwr Bay. Discover the inland waterway of the Cleddau estuary which was once an industrial hotspot in days gone by when the communities here earned their money from fishing. Oar around the tranquil millpond surrounding Pembroke Castle thanks to kayak hire from Paddle West, a scenic treat on a summer’s day.
Pool before breakfast? It’s a known fact that exercise is beneficial for the body, helping you keep on the right track and avoid health issues. Also, did you realise how great it is for your mind too? Swimming is a great workout for the entire body but helps to regulate your breathing, can help to lower your blood pressure and improves your sleep. Plus, it’s a great way for kids to burn off that excess energy - a win-win!
Wild swimming may have taken a recent resurgence but here in Pembrokeshire, we’ve been doing it for years. Always best to try it with an organised group first if you’re a newbie, just to make sure it’s safe - contact the Blue Tits or head to Wild Lakes Wales near Martletwy. A great secluded spot for swimming is Rosebush quarry, a Mediterranean-coloured pool enclosed by green hills.
The Pembrokeshire Coast Path: The Ultimate Playground
There’s over 186 miles of jaw-dropping coastline to explore in Pembrokeshire and what’s more, every single mile of it is epic. From the more rugged north to the long sandy stretches of the south, its natural beauty makes the perfect setting for any activity.
Our coast is also the only coastal national park in the UK and through it, weaves the world-renowned, 186 mile long, Pembrokeshire Coast Path. If walking isn’t your thing and the water is then we have good news. 186+ miles of coastline equals a lot of world-class beaches.
Our Activity Top Picks
Surfing
Be the epitome of cool with the wind in your hair and a smile on your face as you ride the waves on the best beaches in Wales.
Cycling
Opt for a greener mode of transport and head out on two wheels for a change, take in the sights and stop off for a pub lunch or a picnic. Bring your own or hire whilst you’re here.
Walking
The world-class Pembrokeshire Coast Path is a must, plus it is part of the Appalachian Trail and the Wales Coast Path. Breathtaking scenes, incredible beaches and a challenging route on par with Everest
Diving
Explore the depths of the underwater with a deep-sea dive in search of shipwrecks, octopus and rich seabed habitats. St Brides Bay is a popular haunt but you might actually find something haunting at the shipwreck out of Abercastle.
Trail Running
The elevation of the Coast Path amounts to a colossal 35,000 feet of ascent and descent so if you’re looking for a task to test those calves, a trail run fits the bill. Take into account you may want to stop and admire the views though.
