186 Miles & 50 Years of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path
The epic Coast Path winds its along through the ever-changing coastal landscape.
The Pembrokeshire Coast Path opened back in May 1970 and over the past 50 years, it has drawn thousands of people, many of whom return to their favourite stretch year after year.
This spectacular pathway totals a length of 186 miles running between St Dogmaels in the north and Amroth in the south, with some debate as to which is the start and which is the end. We’re proud to say our Path was a trailblazer (shameless pun) as it was the very first National Trail in the country. Nowadays, it forms part of the wider 870 mile Wales Coast Path which covers the full length of the country’s coastline, formed much more recently in 2012.
No matter where you start and finish your journey, you are sure to be greeted with extraordinary views. Hike the steep hillside to the viewpoint atop Carn Llidi for scenes of porpoise and Ramsey Island, or amble the headland at Manorbier and Lydstep for castle sightings and panoramas of Caldey Island and Gower. Pass through quaint coastal villages such as Little Haven and bustling seaside towns like Saundersfoot.
The landscape has been ever-changing over the last half-century, meaning that your visit is never really complete and there are always new sights to see. Take a walking tour of the south coast for a photo of The Green Bridge of Wales near Bosherston, an iconic Pembrokeshire landmark which is sculpted by the weather and waves every single day.
The Path takes you across beaches, through farmland, along bridleways and more, with accessible stretches to suit everyone like the level stretch through the old railway line between Saundersfoot and Wisemans Bridge.
Go solo, travel with your walking group, take a partner and stop for a romantic picnic or go all out and take the whole family - dog included!
The true joy of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path is that all you need is a pair of walking boots and the world is your oyster. Choose sandy starting points such as Tenby South Beach and Newgale, or explore paths less-wandered such as Cwm Yr Eglwys and St Brides.
To walk the full length, you need twelve days and some stamina. With 35,000 feet of ascent and descent, walking the Pembrokeshire Coast Path in its entirety has been compared to climbing Everest - so it’s a challenge, to say the least! For a more manageable approach, you (and your dog) can hop aboard the coastal shuttle buses so you needn’t walk the same stretch twice.
Photographers, make sure to bring your cameras. Birdwatchers, don’t forget your binoculars. Foodies, bring a hearty appetite as you’ll find a treasure trove of cafes, food huts and even a converted fishing boat come street kitchen at Cafe Mor at Freshwater West.
Coastal Cottages Holiday Cottages on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path
With 186 miles of world-famous coast path to discover it's always the perfect time to start a walking holiday in Wales you'll never forget.
