Accessible Pembrokeshire
612 kilometres of unforgiving coastline and weathered rurality might not immediately conjure ideas of accessible stays, but an extravaganza of easy-access beaches, attractions and walks make it effortless to access all areas.
Much of Pembrokeshire is rugged and natural in nature, meaning some areas can be tricky to navigate for those with mobility struggles. In this piece, we've highlighted some of the places to sightsee where you won't have to worry about difficult access.
Pembrokeshire's Accessible Beaches
When you think of Pembrokeshire, you think of beaches. Marathon stretches of sand and minuscule inlets of shingle shores are sprinkled across the edges of the region just waiting to be explored by all. Granted, some bays are harder to approach than others - Newgale, we are looking at you here with that iconic but tricky-to-manage pebble bank.
That said, many of the area’s best-loved beaches are more than suited to all, whatever your needs are. Thankfully, a large selection of Pembrokeshire’s bays come with handy sloping slipways leading from the village right onto the sand. Take Saundersfoot, Whitesands and Newport Sands for instance. (All have public toilet blocks with disabled facilities nearby). Designed to easily navigate boats between land and sea, these slipways can also be used for wheelchairs, pushchairs and pedestrians.
But wait, it gets better. If you’re visiting in a wheelchair or holidaying with someone who struggles with mobility, you can now take advantage of a brilliant Beach Wheelchair Hire service. These specially-designed chairs come in two sizes, a standard adult size and a smaller children’s size.
Book a specific slot online to arrange collection from any number of locations across the coast and then just present the ticket you receive when you’re ready to pick up your chair. Hire locations include Wavecrest Cafe in Angle, Caffi Mawr at Newport Sands, Dennis Cafe by Tenby Castle Beach, YHA in Broad Haven (North) and Crwst in Poppit Sands.
Head over to our Pembrokeshire Beach Guide for further information on the beaches in Pembrokeshire; you'll find a full breakdown on each beach with details on what activities you can enjoy, what facilities are available, some local top tips and access information too.
Pembrokeshire's Accessible Walks
To really make the most of the coastline, you might also want to head out for a wander along the Coast Path. Whilst much of the national trail might be out of the question because of its natural route along the waterside, there are several “Wheelchair Walks” providing accessible options to those who can’t manage the Coast Path.
You’ll find a level concrete pathway at Haroldston Chins near Druidston where you can enjoy uninterrupted views across St Brides Bay and a seaside passageway through the disused railway tunnels between Stepaside and Coppet Hall. Enjoy some fresh air strolling the pedestrian path alongside Newport Parrog before following it through the woodland and along the estuary to sightsee wildlife on your way to Iron Bridge. Carew Millpond walk is always a firm favourite as is Bosherston Lily Ponds, whilst The Welsh Wildlife Centre and Llys Y Fran both have accessible walkways too.
Pembrokeshire's Accessible Attractions
As for Pembrokeshire attractions you might like to visit; Picton Castle provides wheelchair-friendly access through much of the grounds and cafe; as does The Bug Farm near St Davids. Chapel Bay Fort is easily accessible with designated parking nearby to the entrance with ramped access throughout. The Torch Theatre offer wheelchair access with a lift to the first floor as well as a relaxed-environment and dementia-friendly screenings along with signed shows.
Folly Farm, by far one of Wales’ best attractions, is one of the best in terms of accessibility with much of the park on level ground. Many of the fairground rides are welcoming of wheelchairs including the Land Train and the Big Wheel which has a wheelchair carriage. All but one animal experiences are fully accessible for all with the exception of the sloth experience as they live at height.
For more information and/or assistance planning an accessible holiday in Pembrokeshire, ask our Concierge team before your stay.
Coastal Cottages Family Holidays in Wales
We have cottages of all sizes so you are sure to find one that's just right for your family, whether they are young or old or maybe even a group of friends that feel like family. Holidaying with loved ones is always special and a great way to create treasured memories that last a lifetime.
