You're planning a trip to Pembrokeshire with your family and you're wondering what this beautiful Welsh county has to offer. From its stunning coastline and hidden beaches to its rich history and wildlife, Pembrokeshire is an ideal destination for families who love the outdoors. As you start thinking about your itinerary, you'll want to consider the many activities and attractions that will keep everyone entertained, from water sports and hiking to visiting historic castles and indulging in local cuisine. But where do you start? There's a lot to explore in Pembrokeshire – let's take a closer look.
Contents
Key Takeaways
- Pembrokeshire's coastline offers a mix of rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and hidden coves perfect for families to explore.
- Many water sports centers in Pembrokeshire offer equipment rentals and lessons for surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
- The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is a 186-mile stretch of coastline ideal for hiking and spotting wildlife with kids.
- Take a boat trip to nearby islands like Skomer Island, home to puffins and seals, for a fun family day out.
- Pembrokeshire's castles, such as Pembroke Castle and Carew Castle, host reenactments and events that bring history to life for families.
Explore Pembrokeshire's Beaches
Discovering Pembrokeshire's stunning coastline is a must when visiting this picturesque corner of Wales.
With its unique blend of rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and hidden coves, you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to exploring the area.
One of the best ways to experience the coastline is by taking a coastal walk, where you can take in the breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding landscape.
The Pembrokeshire Coast Path, a 186-mile trail, is a great option, offering a range of routes for all abilities.
As you make your way along the coast, be sure to keep an eye out for tide pools, which are filled with a fascinating array of marine life, including anemones, crabs, and starfish.
These natural pools are perfect for kids to explore, and are a great way to learn about the local ecosystem.
With its stunning beaches and abundance of marine life, Pembrokeshire's coastline is the perfect destination for families who love the outdoors.
Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, you'll find it on Pembrokeshire's beautiful beaches.
Discover Local Wildlife
As you explore Pembrokeshire's coastline and countryside, you're bound to encounter an incredible array of wildlife that calls this beautiful region home.
From the rugged cliffs to the serene countryside, Pembrokeshire is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. One of the most popular activities is seal spotting, with numerous colonies dotted along the coastline. Take a guided boat tour to get up close and personal with these adorable creatures, watching them play and laze in the sun.
Bird watching is another must-do activity in Pembrokeshire, with over 400 species of birds recorded in the area.
The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is a haven for birdlife, with the likes of puffins, gulls, and guillemots calling the area home. The park's diverse landscape, from rugged cliffs to sandy beaches, supports a wide range of habitats, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
With its incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes, Pembrokeshire is a must-visit destination for families who love the outdoors and want to connect with nature. Whether you're a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or just starting out, Pembrokeshire has something to offer everyone.
Visit Historic Castles
Among the many historic sites that dot Pembrokeshire's landscape, its castles are particularly noteworthy, with many having played a pivotal role in the region's history.
As you explore these ancient structures, you'll uncover the rich Medieval history that has shaped the area.
You can take a guided castle tour to delve deeper into the lives of the nobles who once resided within these walls.
Imagine the grandeur of the past as you walk through the grand halls and towers of Pembroke Castle, the birthplace of Henry VII.
Alternatively, visit Carew Castle, which boasts an impressive 12th-century keep and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
As you wander through the castles, you'll discover the remnants of battles fought and won, and the stories of the people who lived and died within these walls.
Many of the castles also host reenactments and events, bringing the history to life in a fun and engaging way for the whole family.
With their rich history and stunning architecture, Pembrokeshire's castles are a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the region's captivating past.
Go Water Sports
The coastline of Pembrokeshire offers an exciting playground for water sports enthusiasts, with its rugged shores, secluded coves, and vast expanses of ocean. You'll find plenty of opportunities to get wet and have fun, whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner.
| Water Sport | Best Spot |
|---|---|
| Surfing | Freshwater West and Newgale |
| Kayaking | Stackpole Quay and Saundersfoot Harbour |
| Paddleboarding | Tenby Harbour and Fishguard Bay |
| Windsurfing | Dale Bay and Broad Haven |
| Coasteering | St Govan's Head and St Davids |
Take a kayak lesson or join a surf camp to learn the basics and improve your skills. Many water sports centers in Pembrokeshire offer equipment rentals and lessons for all ages. You can also explore the coastline on a guided boat tour or rent a boat to venture out on your own. With its stunning scenery and diverse marine life, Pembrokeshire is the perfect destination for water sports enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, you'll find it in Pembrokeshire's beautiful waters.
Pembrokeshire Coast Path
Perched atop Pembrokeshire's dramatic cliffs, you'll find the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, a 186-mile stretch of unspoiled coastline that's waiting to be explored.
This scenic path offers breathtaking coastal scenery, from secluded coves to towering cliffs.
As you walk, you'll discover an array of wildlife, including seabirds and marine life.
Some of the activities you can enjoy on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path include:
- Exploring hidden beaches and coves that are only accessible on foot
- Spotting wildlife, such as seals and dolphins, in their natural habitats
- Taking in the stunning views of the coastline from the many designated viewpoints
- Trying your hand at cliff jumping, if you're feeling adventurous, from designated safe areas
As you hike along the path, you'll experience the unique geology and history of the area.
With its mix of rugged coastline, scenic views, and diverse wildlife, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the natural beauty of Pembrokeshire.
The path is suitable for hikers of all abilities, from beginners to experienced walkers.
Family Friendly Attractions
Pembrokeshire is packed with family-friendly attractions that cater to kids of all ages. Whether you're looking for a fun-filled day of activities or a relaxed afternoon of entertainment, there's something for everyone in Pembrokeshire.
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Manor House Wildlife Park | A beautiful park with a variety of animals and play areas for kids |
| Folly Farm Adventure Park & Zoo | A popular destination with a zoo, play areas, and a fairground |
| The Dinosaur Park | An exciting park with life-sized dinosaurs and play areas |
In addition to these popular attractions, Pembrokeshire is also home to several indoor playcentres and trampoline parks. These are perfect for rainy days or for kids who love to bounce and climb. At the indoor playcentres, your little ones can explore tunnels, slides, and ball pits, while at the trampoline parks, they can bounce, flip, and play trampoline-based games. Both options are great ways to keep your kids active and entertained while you relax and enjoy a cup of coffee. With so many options to choose from, you're sure to find something that suits your family's interests.
Enjoy Outdoor Adventures
Surrounded by stunning coastline and countryside, you're never far from an adventure in Pembrokeshire.
With its diverse landscapes and varied outdoor activities, you'll find something to suit every member of your family.
If you're looking for a unique way to experience the natural beauty of Pembrokeshire, why not try tree climbing or forest bathing? These activities allow you to connect with nature in a fun and interactive way.
Some of the top outdoor adventures to enjoy in Pembrokeshire include:
- Exploring the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, a 186-mile trail that takes you along the stunning coastline and offers breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding countryside.
- Visiting the Preseli Hills, an area of outstanding natural beauty that's perfect for hiking and exploring.
- Trying your hand at water sports, such as surfing or kayaking, at one of Pembrokeshire's many beautiful beaches.
- Taking a boat trip to the nearby islands, such as Skomer Island, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including puffins and seals.
Local Food and Markets
With around 50 farmers' markets across Pembrokeshire, you're never far from a chance to taste the region's finest produce.
From organic meats to artisan cheeses, these bustling markets showcase the county's rich agricultural heritage.
You can sample local specialties like Pembrokeshire Earlies – the UK's first new potatoes of the year – and discover unique flavors that'll leave you wanting more.
When it comes to fresh seafood, Pembrokeshire's coastal location makes it a haven for foodies.
Visit the fish markets in Milford Haven or Tenby to see the day's catch on display.
You might even spot fishermen unloading their boats, bringing in a haul of fresh crab, lobster, or mackerel.
Many of the local restaurants and cafes serve up delicious seafood dishes, often using produce sourced from the markets.
At the farmers markets, you can also find artisan bakers, craft brewers, and other local producers selling their wares.
So why not spend an afternoon browsing the stalls, chatting with the vendors, and sampling some of the region's best food and drink?
It's a great way to experience the authentic flavors of Pembrokeshire.
Conclusion
You've traded the hustle and bustle of city life for Pembrokeshire's tranquil coastline, and now you're surrounded by breathtaking scenery and endless possibilities. One moment you're spotting marine life in tide pools, and the next you're hurtling down waves on a surfboard. With its unique mix of relaxation and adventure, Pembrokeshire is the perfect destination for families who crave the best of both worlds.
