Perfect 7-Day Pembrokeshire Coast Itinerary: Blossoming Adventures

Planning a trip to Pembrokeshire Coast in spring? This comprehensive 7-day itinerary gives you exact times, real locations, GPS coordinates, and current prices—everything you need for an authentic Welsh coastal experience in the season of renewal.

Britain's only coastal national park comes alive in spring with wildflowers carpeting the cliffs, seal pups taking their first swims, migrating birds arriving in their thousands, and the famous Pembrokeshire Coast Path offering breathtaking views without the summer crowds.

Why Visit Pembrokeshire Coast in Spring?

Spring (March to May) is arguably the most magical time to visit Pembrokeshire Coast. As winter retreats, the landscape explodes with colour—bluebells paint ancient woodlands, sea pinks (thrift) blanket the cliffs, and gorse fills the air with the scent of coconut.

Spring Weather:

March: 7-12°C, occasional showers, fresh winds
April: 9-14°C, increasing sunshine, milder days
May: 11-16°C, often warm and settled, best wildflower displays

Seasonal Highlights:

Wildflower Spectacular: Bluebell woods at their peak in April-May, gorse and heather blooming on clifftops
Wildlife Bonanza: Seal pups born in autumn now exploring waters, puffins return to Skomer Island (late April), razorbills and guillemots nesting
Bird Migration: Thousands of birds passing through, including chiffchaffs, willow warblers, and wheatears
Empty Beaches: Enjoy Barafundle Bay, Marloes Sands, and Whitesands without summer crowds
Lambs Everywhere: The Preseli Hills dotted with newborn lambs against a backdrop of purple heather

Best Spring Activities:

Coastal path walking in comfortable temperatures
Wildflower photography on clifftop meadows
Seal spotting at secluded coves
Birdwatching at Marloes Mere and Skomer Island
Exploring ancient woodlands carpeted in bluebells

Day 1: Arrival and St Davids - Britain's Smallest City

Morning: Arrive and Settle In

Welcome to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park

Your spring adventure begins in St Davids, Britain's smallest city by population (just 1,600 residents) but home to one of the most magnificent cathedrals in the UK. The city status was granted due to the cathedral, not size—a quirk of British history that makes this village-city utterly charming.

Getting to St Davids:

By Car from Cardiff: A40 west through Carmarthen and Haverfordwest, then A487 to St Davids. Journey time: 2 hours 15 minutes.
By Car from London: M4 to Swansea, A48 to Carmarthen, then A40/A487. Journey time: 4 hours 30 minutes.
By Train: Nearest station is Haverfordwest (Great Western Railway from Swansea/Cardiff). Take the T11 bus or taxi (20 mins, £15-20) to St Davids.
By Bus: T11 service connects Haverfordwest, Fishguard, and St Davids hourly.

Parking in St Davids:

St Davids City Car Park (The Pebbles, SA62 6QG): £2 for 2 hours, £4 all day. Pay and display, card accepted.
Oriel y Parc Gallery Car Park (SA62 6NW): Free for gallery visitors, £3 all day otherwise. Good backup option.
Free on-street parking: Limited spaces on New Street and back roads, 2-hour restrictions apply.

Morning Activity: Explore St Davids Cathedral and Bishop's Palace

St Davids Cathedral (51.8822°N, -5.2689°W)

Address: The Pebbles, St Davids SA62 6RD
Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (last entry 4:30 PM)
Entry: Free (donations welcome, suggested £5)
Website: stdavidscathedral.org.uk
Phone: 01437 720199

This 12th-century masterpiece sits in a hidden valley, invisible from the sea—a deliberate choice to protect it from Viking raiders. In spring, the cathedral grounds burst with daffodils (Wales's national flower) and the first blossoms of cherry trees.

Highlights:

The carved oak ceiling, one of the finest in Europe
The shrine of St David, Wales's patron saint
The Treasury displaying medieval artefacts
Spring choir performances (check schedule for Evensong)

Bishop's Palace (CADW)

Address: SA62 6PE (adjacent to cathedral)
Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (March-October)
Entry: £6.50 adults, £4.20 children, £5.50 concessions
GPS: 51.8815°N, -5.2695°W

The ruined palace offers a glimpse into medieval ecclesiastical luxury. In spring, the grounds are carpeted with wild garlic and bluebells, creating a magical atmosphere among the Gothic arches.

Afternoon: Coastal Path Introduction - Caerfai Bay

Caerfai Bay (51.8708°N, -5.2823°W)

A perfect introduction to the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, this small sandy cove is just a 20-minute walk from St Davids city centre. The purple sandstone cliffs are particularly beautiful in spring light.

Walk Details:

Distance: 2.5 miles round trip from St Davids
Difficulty: Easy, some uneven ground
Time: 1.5 hours with stops
Parking: Caerfai Bay car park (limited spaces, free) or walk from city

Spring Highlights:

Fulmars nesting on cliff ledges (watch for their distinctive flight)
Thrift (sea pink) beginning to bloom on clifftops (peak in May)
Rock pools teeming with life after winter storms

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path: This 186-mile national trail follows the coastline from St Dogmaels to Amroth. In spring, sections near St Davids offer:

Migrating wheatears (look for their white rumps)
Stonechats calling from gorse bushes
The first butterflies—brimstones and peacocks

Evening: Dinner at The Bishops

The Bishops ⭐ Highly Recommended

Type: Gastropub with rooms
Price Range: ££-£££ (mains £16-26)
Address: 21 Cross Square, St Davids SA62 6SE
Phone: 01437 720300
Website: thebishopsstdavids.co.uk
Opening: Food served 12:00-2:30 PM, 6:00-9:00 PM daily
Booking: Essential for dinner, especially weekends

Spring Menu Highlights:

Pembrokeshire lamb with spring vegetables (£22)
Pan-seared sea bass with wild garlic (£24)
Vegetarian: Asparagus and pea risotto (£18)

Alternative Options:

The Farmers Arms

Type: Traditional Welsh pub
Price Range: ££ (mains £12-18)
Address: Goat Street, St Davids SA62 6RF
Phone: 01437 720224
Known for: Real ales, local atmosphere, dog-friendly
Must Try: Cawl (traditional Welsh soup, £8.50)

Cwtch Restaurant

Type: Fine dining
Price Range: ££££ (tasting menu £65)
Address: 22 High Street, St Davids SA62 6SD
Phone: 01437 720871
Note: Michelin-listed, book weeks ahead

Where to Stay in St Davids:

Luxury: Twr y Felin Hotel

Price: £180-280/night
Address: St Davids SA62 6QT
Phone: 01437 725555
Notes: Former windmill, art hotel, cathedral views

Mid-Range: Warpool Court Hotel

Price: £120-180/night
Address: St Davids SA62 6BN
Phone: 01437 720300
Notes: Coastal views, gardens, excellent breakfast

Budget: YHA St Davids

Price: £25-40/night (private rooms £60-80)
Address: Llaethdy, St Davids SA62 6PR
Phone: 0345 371 9643
Notes: 10-minute walk to city, self-catering kitchen

Day 2: Ramsey Island - Seabird Spectacular

Morning: Ramsey Island Boat Trip and Wildlife Safari

Ramsey Island (Ynys Dewi) (51.8611°N, -5.3356°W)

One of Britain's most important seabird islands, Ramsey comes alive in spring as thousands of birds return to nest. The island is an RSPB reserve and a highlight of any Pembrokeshire visit.

Getting There:

Thousand Islands Expeditions (sole operator)
Departure Point: St Justinians Lifeboat Station (SA62 6PY)
Parking: St Justinians car park (free but limited, arrive 30 mins early)
GPS of Pier: 51.8602°N, -5.3256°W

Spring Schedule (April-May):

Landings: Daily 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM (weather permitting)
Duration: 3.5 hours including boat trip
Price: £45 adults, £35 children (includes landing fee)
Booking: thousandislands.co.uk or 01437 721721 (essential in spring)

What You'll See in Spring:

Puffins: Arrive late April, best viewing early May onwards
Razorbills: Thousands nesting on cliffs from March
Guillemots: Massive colonies on western cliffs
Choughs: Red-billed crows, symbol of Cornwall and Wales
Seals: Grey seals hauled out on beaches (pups born autumn now juveniles)
Peregrine falcons: Nesting on cliff faces

The Walk: A guided 3.5-mile circuit takes you around the island's dramatic coastline. In spring, the clifftops are covered in sea campion and thrift. Your RSPB guide will explain the island's history, from medieval saints to Victorian farming.

Important Notes:

No toilets on island (facilities at departure point)
Bring waterproofs—boat journey can be wet
No dogs allowed (ground-nesting birds)
Stout footwear essential

Afternoon: Whitesands Bay and St Davids Head

Whitesands Bay (Traeth Mawr) (51.8934°N, -5.3023°W)

After your island adventure, head to one of Wales's finest beaches. In spring, it's blissfully quiet compared to summer, with just dog walkers, surfers in wetsuits, and the occasional seal popping up in the bay.

Beach Details:

Parking: Whitesands car park (Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority)
Price: £2 for 2 hours, £5 all day (card and cash)
Facilities: Toilets, seasonal cafe (opens Easter), surf hire (weekends in spring)
Lifeguard: Easter to September only

Spring Activities:

Surfing: Spring swells can be excellent; water temperature 9-11°C (full wetsuit essential)
Beachcombing: Winter storms deposit interesting shells and sea glass
Seal spotting: Look for heads popping up in the bay, especially at high tide

Walk to St Davids Head (Carn Llidi): For spectacular views, climb Carn Llidi (181m), the prominent hill behind the beach.

Distance: 3 miles round trip
Time: 2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate, steep final section
Reward: 360° views of Ramsey Island, the Irish Sea, and the Preseli Hills

Archaeological Interest: The headland contains ancient hut circles and a Bronze Age burial chamber (Coetan Arthur). In spring, the heather moorland is dotted with cotton grass and the first bilberry flowers.

Evening: Dinner at The Sloop Inn, Porthclais

The Sloop Inn ⭐ Local Favourite

Type: Harbour pub
Price Range: ££ (mains £14-20)
Address: Porthclais Harbour, St Davids SA62 6RR
Phone: 01437 720238
Opening: 12:00-11:00 PM (food until 8:30 PM)
Dog Friendly: Yes, in bar area

Why Visit: This tiny harbour pub sits at Porthclais, a historic port used by St Davids Cathedral for centuries. In spring, watch the sunset over the harbour while seals swim in the inlet.

Spring Menu:

Crab sandwich with Pembrokeshire new potatoes (£14.50)
Local mussels in white wine (£16)
Welsh rarebit with laverbread (£12)

Alternative: The Shed Bistro, Porthgain

Type: Seafood bistro
Price Range: £££ (mains £18-28)
Address: Porthgain Harbour SA62 5BN
Phone: 01348 831518
Known for: Fresh crab, lobster, harbour views
Note: 20-minute drive from St Davids, worth the trip

Day 3: Skomer Island - Puffin Paradise

Morning: The Skomer Experience

Skomer Island (51.7369°N, -5.2889°W)

The jewel in Pembrokeshire's wildlife crown, Skomer Island is home to the largest Atlantic puffin colony in southern Britain. Spring is the perfect time to visit as puffins return to breed and the island's bluebells create an extraordinary purple carpet.

Getting There:

Departure Point: Martin's Haven (SA62 3BJ)
Operator: Welsh Wildlife Centre (Dale Sailing)
Parking: National Trust Martin's Haven car park
Price: £6 all day (free for NT members)
GPS: 51.7361°N, -5.2417°W

The Boat Trip:

Departure Times: 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM (spring schedule, weather dependent)
Journey Time: 20 minutes
Return Times: 3:00 PM, 4:00 PM (you must catch your allocated return)
Price: £30 adults, £20 children (includes landing fee)
Booking: welshwildlife.org/skomer (BOOK WEEKS AHEAD in spring)

Important Booking Information:

Tickets released in batches; check website for release dates
Maximum 250 visitors per day
No booking on the day—pre-booking essential
Bring photo ID matching booking name

What You'll See in Spring:

Puffins: Return mid-April, peak numbers by May. Watch them carrying sand eels to burrows.
Manx shearwaters: 300,000 pairs nest here—the world's largest colony. They return at night.
Guillemots and razorbills: Massive colonies on the cliffs
Short-eared owls: Hunt voles during the day
Grey seals: Haul out on the beaches

The Island Walk: A 3-mile circular path takes you around the island. In late April and May, the interior is carpeted in bluebells—a surreal experience with puffins waddling through the purple haze.

Photography Tips:

Puffins are most active early morning and late afternoon
Sit quietly near burrows for close encounters
The Wick is the best place for puffin photography
Bring a 200mm+ lens for seabirds on cliffs

Afternoon: Marloes Sands and Mere

Marloes Sands (51.7356°N, -5.2056°W)

After your island adventure, explore this magnificent beach just minutes from Martin's Haven. In spring, it's often completely empty, offering a wild, untouched experience.

Beach Details:

Parking: Marloes Sands car park (National Trust, free for members, £3 otherwise)
Access: 15-minute walk through fields (steep in places)
Facilities: None on beach; toilets and cafe at Marloes village

Spring Highlights:

Rock formations: The dramatic sandstone cliffs and sea stacks
Seals: Often visible on Gateholm Island (check tide times)
Wildflowers: Sea campion and thrift on clifftops

Marloes Mere (51.7400°N, -5.2156°W)

This wetland nature reserve, managed by the Wildlife Trust, is a spring birdwatching hotspot.

Parking: Small layby on road to Marloes (limited spaces)
Access: Boardwalk and hides
Entry: Free

Spring Birds to Spot:

Migrating waders: whimbrels, greenshanks, spotted redshanks
Breeding waterfowl: mallards, teal, mute swans
Passage migrants: sedge warblers, reed buntings

The Deer Park: Walk the peninsula to the old deer park for views across to Skomer and Skokholm islands. In spring, the clifftops are alive with skylarks and the first meadow pipits.

Evening: Dinner at The Griffin, Dale

The Griffin Inn ⭐ Highly Recommended

Type: Riverside gastropub
Price Range: ££-£££ (mains £16-24)
Address: Dale Road, Dale SA62 3RB
Phone: 01646 636222
Website: griffindale.co.uk
Opening: Food 12:00-2:30 PM, 6:00-9:00 PM
Booking: Recommended for dinner

Spring Specialties:

Whole Pembrokeshire crab with garlic butter (£22)
Pan-roasted duck breast with spring greens (£24)
Local sea trout with samphire (seasonal, £26)

Why Visit: Dale is a sheltered watersports haven with a friendly village atmosphere. In spring, watch the sunset over the Milford Haven waterway while enjoying some of the freshest seafood in Wales.

Alternative: The Boathouse Cafe, Dale

Type: Casual cafe/bar
Price Range: £ (mains £10-15)
Address: The Beach, Dale SA62 3RA
Phone: 01646 636424
Known for: Beach views, casual dining, watersports crowd

Day 4: Preseli Hills - Ancient Landscapes and Spring Blooms

Morning: Foel Eryr and the Golden Road

Preseli Hills (Mynyddoedd Y Preseli)

Leave the coast for a day and explore the mystical Preseli Hills, where the bluestones of Stonehenge originated. In spring, these rolling moorlands are dotted with newborn lambs, and the ancient trackways are lined with gorse in full yellow bloom.

Foel Eryr (51.9583°N, -4.7167°W)

Height: 468m (1,535ft)
Parking: Small layby on B4329 (limited spaces, arrive early)
Walk Distance: 6 miles circular
Time: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate, boggy in places

The Walk: From the parking area, follow the ancient Golden Road eastward. This 5,000-year-old trackway was used by Neolithic traders transporting bluestones to Stonehenge. In spring, the moorland comes alive:

Cotton grass: White tufts bobbing in the wind
Heather: First purple blooms appearing
Larks and pipits: Ground-nesting birds displaying
Red kites: Increasingly common overhead

Panoramic Views: On clear spring days, you can see:

Snowdonia to the north
The Wicklow Mountains in Ireland to the west
The entire Pembrokeshire coast to the south

Archaeological Sites:

Beddyrafanc Burial Chamber: Neolithic chambered tomb
Parc-y-Meirw: Standing stones (the "Field of the Dead")
Ancient settlements: Hut circles dotting the hillsides

Afternoon: Pentre Ifan and Castell Henllys

Pentre Ifan Burial Chamber (51.9989°N, -4.7700°W)

Wales's most famous megalithic monument, this Neolithic portal dolmen dates to around 3,500 BC. In spring, it's surrounded by wildflowers and offers a mystical atmosphere.

Parking: Small CADW car park (free)
Entry: Free, always open
Facilities: None (nearest toilets in Newport)

Photography Tip: Visit in late afternoon for the best light on the massive capstone. In spring, frame shots with the gorse bushes in yellow bloom.

Castell Henllys Iron Age Fort (52.0167°N, -4.7667°W)

Address: Meline, Near Newport SA41 3UT
Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (spring hours)
Entry: £8.50 adults, £7.50 children, £7.95 concessions
Phone: 01239 891319
Website: castellhenllys.com

This reconstructed Iron Age hillfort offers a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric life. In spring, the roundhouses are surrounded by wildflowers, and the woodland trails are carpeted with bluebells.

Activities:

Explore reconstructed roundhouses
Try ancient crafts (pottery, weaving)
Woodland walks with spring wildflowers
Celtic festivals in May (check website)

Evening: Dinner in Newport (Trefdraeth)

The Golden Lion

Type: Traditional Welsh pub
Price Range: ££ (mains £13-19)
Address: East Street, Newport SA42 0SY
Phone: 01239 820321
Opening: Food 12:00-2:00 PM, 6:00-9:00 PM

Spring Menu:

Slow-cooked lamb shoulder with mint sauce (£18)
Pan-fried sea bass with asparagus (£20)
Vegetarian nut roast with spring vegetables (£15)

Alternative: Llys Meddyg

Type: Restaurant with rooms
Price Range: £££ (mains £20-30)
Address: East Street, Newport SA42 0SY
Phone: 01239 820008
Known for: Locally sourced ingredients, creative Welsh cuisine
Note: Book ahead, popular with foodies

Where to Stay (Alternative Base):

If you want to split your stay between coast and Preselis:

Llys Meddyg (Rooms)

Price: £140-200/night
Address: East Street, Newport SA42 0SY
Phone: 01239 820008
Notes: Boutique rooms, excellent restaurant

Trefloyne Manor

Price: £120-180/night
Address: Trefloyne, Near Tenby SA70 8RJ
Phone: 01834 843033
Notes: Golf resort, spa, between Preselis and coast

Day 5: Tenby and the Southern Coast

Morning: Tenby's Colourful Harbour and Beaches

Tenby (Dinbych-y-pysgod) (51.6728°N, -4.7036°W)

The jewel of south Pembrokeshire, Tenby is a picture-perfect walled town with pastel-coloured houses, three golden beaches, and a harbour that comes alive in spring with the first tourist boats.

Parking:

South Beach Car Park: SA70 7LT, £2.50 for 2 hours, £6 all day
North Beach Car Park: SA70 7AG, similar pricing
Multi-storey: Upper Park Road, SA70 7LT, £1.50/hour

Morning Walk: The Town Walls Follow the medieval town walls for spectacular views of the harbour and beaches. In spring, the walls are draped in ivy and valerian, with house sparrows chirping in the crevices.

Tenby Museum and Art Gallery

Address: Castle Hill, SA70 7BP
Opening: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Tuesday-Sunday, spring hours)
Entry: £6 adults, £4 children
Phone: 01834 842809

The oldest independent museum in Wales, with collections covering local archaeology, art, and maritime history.

St Catherine's Island and Fort

Access: Walkable at low tide (check tide times carefully)
Opening: Weekends in spring, daily from Easter
Entry: £7 adults, £5 children
Note: Don't get cut off by the tide!

Beach Time:

North Beach: Best for swimming, views of Goskar Rock
Harbour Beach: Sheltered, boat watching
South Beach: Expansive, quieter, views to Caldey Island

In spring, the beaches are perfect for peaceful walks and rock pooling. Water temperature is 9-11°C—bracing for a quick dip if you're brave!

Afternoon: Caldey Island Monastery

Caldey Island (Ynys Bŷr) (51.6333°N, -4.6833°W)

A spiritual haven just off the coast of Tenby, Caldey has been a place of prayer since Celtic times. Today it's home to Cistercian monks who welcome visitors in spring to their island paradise.

Getting There:

Departure Point: Tenby Harbour
Operator: Caldey Island boats (independent operators)
Times: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM (returning 11:30 AM - 4:30 PM)
Journey Time: 20 minutes
Price: £15 return (cash only on island)
Season: Easter to October only

What to See:

Caldey Abbey: Modern monastery church with beautiful stained glass
Old Priory: Medieval ruins in a woodland setting
St Illtud's Church: 6th-century Celtic church
Caldey Chocolate: Monks make famous chocolate (shop open to visitors)
Perfume Factory: Monks also make perfume from island flowers

Spring Highlights:

The island is carpeted in wildflowers—bluebells, primroses, and campion
Migrating birds stop off—watch for warblers in the scrub
Seal pups sometimes rest on the beaches
The monastery gardens are at their best

Important Notes:

No cars, bikes, or dogs allowed
Modest dress requested for monastery areas
Only restaurant is the monastery tea rooms (simple lunches, cakes)
Last boat back is strictly observed—don't miss it!

Evening: Dinner at The Plantagenet

The Plantagenet ⭐ Highly Recommended

Type: Historic restaurant
Price Range: £££ (mains £19-28)
Address: Quay Hill, Tenby SA70 7BX
Phone: 01834 842350
Opening: 6:30-9:00 PM (closed Sundays)
Booking: Essential

Why Visit: Housed in a 10th-century building with Norman arches, this is Tenby's most atmospheric restaurant. The name comes from the medieval kings who once owned the building.

Spring Menu:

Roast rack of Pembrokeshire lamb (£26)
Pan-seared scallops with pea puree (£24)
Wild mushroom risotto with truffle oil (£19)

Alternative Options:

The Hope and Anchor

Type: Harbour pub
Price Range: ££ (mains £13-18)
Address: St Julian's Street, Tenby SA70 7AS
Phone: 01834 842886
Known for: Harbour views, local ales, casual dining

The Blue Ball Restaurant

Type: Seafood restaurant
Price Range: £££ (mains £20-32)
Address: Upper Frog Street, Tenby SA70 7JD
Phone: 01834 842566
Known for: Fresh local fish, intimate setting

Where to Stay in Tenby:

Luxury: The Park Hotel

Price: £150-250/night
Address: North Cliff, Tenby SA70 8DG
Phone: 01834 842501
Notes: Sea views, spa, cliff-top location

Mid-Range: Giltar Hotel

Price: £100-160/night
Address: The Esplanade, Tenby SA70 7DU
Phone: 01834 842881
Notes: Sea views, popular bar

Budget: Tenby Backpackers

Price: £20-35/night
Address: Upper Frog Street, Tenby SA70 7JD
Phone: 01834 843075
Notes: Central location, kitchen facilities

Day 6: Barafundle Bay and Stackpole Estate

Morning: Barafundle Bay - Britain's Best Beach?

Barafundle Bay (51.6156°N, -4.9083°W)

Regularly voted one of Britain's best beaches, Barafundle is a slice of Caribbean paradise in Wales—golden sand, crystal-clear water, and backed by dunes and woodland. In spring, you'll often have it entirely to yourself.

Getting There:

Parking: Stackpole Quay National Trust car park (SA71 5LS)
Price: £3 for 2 hours, £6 all day (free for NT members)
Walk: 20 minutes along the coast path (some steps and uneven ground)
GPS of Car Park: 51.6111°N, -4.9000°W

The Walk: From Stackpole Quay, follow the well-marked path eastward. The approach to Barafundle is dramatic—you crest a small hill and the bay reveals itself in all its glory. In spring, the path is lined with:

Gorse: Yellow flowers scenting the air like coconut
Thrift: Pink sea pinks on the clifftops
Bluebells: In the woodland sections

Beach Activities:

Swimming: Water temperature 9-11°C in spring—refreshing!
Beachcombing: Look for cowrie shells and sea glass
Photography: Morning light is spectacular
Picnicking: No facilities, so bring everything you need

Important Notes:

No lifeguard in spring (Easter onwards only)
No toilets, cafe, or shops—nearest at Stackpole Quay
Steep steps down to beach—not suitable for wheelchairs
No dogs allowed on beach (May-September), but OK in spring

Afternoon: Stackpole Estate and Bosherston Lakes

Stackpole Estate (National Trust)

This 2,000-acre estate encompasses woods, lakes, beaches, and the dramatic Stack Rocks. In spring, it's a wildlife paradise.

Bosherston Lakes (51.6167°N, -4.9167°W)

These artificial lakes, created in the 18th century, are now a haven for wildlife.

Parking: Stackpole Quay (same as Barafundle) or Broad Haven South car park
Entry: Free (NT members, parking charge otherwise)
Walk: 3-mile circular around the lakes

Spring Wildlife:

Otters: Active at dawn and dusk
Waterfowl: Mute swans, tufted ducks, pochards
Dragonflies: First damselflies emerging in late April
Wildflowers: Water lilies (later in spring), marsh marigolds

The Lily Ponds Walk: A boardwalk takes you through the reedbeds where warblers sing in spring. Look for:

Reed warblers (arrive from Africa in April)
Sedge warblers
Cetti's warblers (loud, explosive song)

Broad Haven South (51.6167°N, -4.9167°W)

A wide, sandy beach backed by dunes and Church Rock, a dramatic sea stack.

Parking: Broad Haven South car park (National Trust)
Facilities: Toilets (seasonal), no cafe

Stack Rocks and the Green Bridge of Wales (51.6000°N, -4.9333°W)

Drive to the military range car park (check firing times—usually weekends are safe) for views of:

Stack Rocks: Dramatic limestone stacks
Green Bridge: Natural arch (like a smaller Durdle Door)
Elegug Stacks: Guillemot and razorbill colonies (thousands of birds in spring)

Seal Watching: In spring, grey seals often haul out on the beaches below the cliffs. Bring binoculars and scan the bays.

Evening: Dinner at The Stackpole Inn

The Stackpole Inn ⭐ Highly Recommended

Type: Village gastropub
Price Range: ££-£££ (mains £16-24)
Address: Stackpole, Near Pembroke SA71 5DF
Phone: 01646 672324
Website: stackpoleinn.co.uk
Opening: Food 12:00-2:30 PM, 6:00-9:00 PM
Booking: Recommended for dinner

Spring Specialties:

Pembrokeshire beef with wild garlic (£22)
Pan-fried sea bass with samphire (£24)
Spring vegetable risotto with goat's cheese (£17)

Alternative: The Freshwater Inn

Type: Coastal pub
Price Range: ££ (mains £13-19)
Address: Tregwynt, Fishguard SA65 9SP
Phone: 01348 891281
Known for: Coastal location, local ales

Day 7: Solva and Departure

Morning: Solva Harbour and Coastal Walk

Solva (Solfach) (51.8700°N, -5.1900°W)

Your final day takes you to one of Pembrokeshire's prettiest harbours. Solva is a traditional fishing village with a flooded valley harbour, colour-washed cottages, and a vibrant arts scene.

Parking:

Solva Harbour Car Park: Lower level, SA62 6UU, £1/hour, £4 all day
Upper Solvia Car Park: Near the A487, free, 10-minute walk down

Morning Walk: The Gribin The headland separating Solva from St Davids offers spectacular coastal walking.

Distance: 4 miles round trip from Solva
Time: 2-5 hours depending on route
Difficulty: Moderate, some steep sections

Route Options:

The Gribin Circuit: Walk up the harbour, over the headland, and back via the coast path
To St Davids: Continue all the way to St Davids (8 miles one way)
Short Option: Walk to the top of The Gribin for views, then return

Spring Highlights:

Wildflowers: Thrift, sea campion, and spring squill on the clifftops
Birds: Choughs, ravens, and peregrines on the cliffs
Seals: Often visible in the harbour entrance
Porpoises: Sometimes seen from the headland

Solva Woollen Mill (51.8744°N, -5.1936°W)

Address: Middle Mill, Solva SA62 6BD
Opening: Daily 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (spring hours)
Entry: Free
Phone: 01437 721227
Website: solvawoollenmill.co.uk

The oldest working woollen mill in Pembrokeshire, producing beautiful blankets, throws, and accessories. Watch the traditional looms in action and browse the shop for unique souvenirs.

Solva Arts and Crafts: The village has numerous galleries and studios:

Solva Pottery: Handmade ceramics
The Glass Studio: Hand-blown glass
Various galleries: Along the main street

Afternoon: Final Explorations and Departure

Last-Minute Options:

Option 1: Newgale Beach (51.8556°N, -5.1200°W) A 2-mile stretch of golden sand, perfect for a final walk. Popular with surfers and dog walkers.

Parking: Large car park alongside beach
Facilities: Toilets, seasonal cafe, surf hire

Option 2: Porthgain (51.9489°N, -5.1833°W) A tiny harbour village with industrial heritage, art galleries, and The Shed restaurant (book ahead).

Option 3: St Davids Cathedral (if missed earlier) Return for a final visit, or attend Evensong (usually 5:30 PM).

Souvenir Shopping in St Davids:

Oriel y Parc: National Park visitor centre and gallery
Celtic Wildcat: Welsh crafts and gifts
Various galleries: Along Cross Square and High Street

Departure Tips:

Allow extra time for narrow roads
Fill up with fuel in Haverfordwest (fewer options on coast roads)
Check traffic on the A40 (can be slow near Carmarthen)

Practical Information

Getting to Pembrokeshire Coast

By Car (Recommended):

From London: M4 to Swansea, A48 to Carmarthen, A40 to Haverfordwest. 4.5-5 hours.
From Cardiff: A48/M4 to Carmarthen, then A40. 2.5 hours.
From Birmingham: M5 to Bristol, M4 to Swansea, then as above. 4 hours.

By Train:

Main Line Stations: Haverfordwest, Pembroke Dock, Milford Haven, Fishguard Harbour
Operator: Great Western Railway (from Swansea/Cardiff/London Paddington)
Journey Times:
- London Paddington to Haverfordwest: 4.5 hours (change at Swansea or Cardiff)
- Cardiff to Haverfordwest: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Swansea to Haverfordwest: 1 hour 15 minutes
Prices: Off-peak returns from £45 (London), £25 (Cardiff)

By Bus:

T11: Haverfordwest to St Davids (hourly, 40 minutes)
349: Haverfordwest to Tenby (hourly, 1 hour)
National Express: London to Haverfordwest (daily, 6 hours)

By Air:

Nearest Airport: Cardiff (CWL), 2 hours drive
Alternative: Bristol (BRS), 2.5 hours drive
Ferry: Irish Ferries from Rosslare to Pembroke Dock (4 hours crossing)

Getting Around

Car Hire:

Haverfordwest: Enterprise, Europcar (book ahead in spring)
Pembroke Dock: Limited options

Taxis:

St Davids: 01437 720222, 01437 721111
Haverfordwest: 01437 769999
Tenby: 01834 842424

Cycling:

Bike hire available in St Davids, Tenby, and Haverfordwest
Quiet roads but hilly—good fitness required

Spring Weather and What to Pack

Typical Spring Conditions:

March: 7-12°C, frequent showers, strong winds possible
April: 9-14°C, improving weather, occasional frost at night
May: 11-16°C, often warm and settled, best weather of spring

What to Pack:

Essential Clothing:

Waterproof jacket (essential—coastal weather changes fast)
Warm layers (fleece or down jacket)
Walking boots (waterproof, ankle support)
Comfortable trainers (for town exploring)
Hat and gloves (for windy clifftops)
Sun hat and sunglasses (spring sun is strong)

Beach/Swimming:

Wetsuit (if planning to swim—water is 9-11°C)
Beach shoes (for rock pooling)
Towel and dry bag

Wildlife Watching:

Binoculars (essential for seabirds and seals)
Camera with zoom lens (200mm minimum for puffins)
Field guide (Collins Bird Guide recommended)

Other Essentials:

Backpack (25-35L for day walks)
Water bottle (refill stations in towns)
Sunscreen (SPF 30+, even in spring)
Insect repellent (midges can be bad in May)
First aid kit (blister plasters essential)
Cash (some places don't take cards, especially on islands)
Power bank (phone battery drains fast taking photos)

Money and Costs

Daily Budget:

Budget: £60-80/day (hostel, self-catering, free activities)
Mid-Range: £120-180/day (B&B, pub meals, paid attractions)
Luxury: £250+/day (hotels, fine dining, private tours)

Typical Costs:

Coffee: £2.50-3.50
Pub lunch: £12-18
Restaurant dinner: £20-35
Pint of beer: £4-5.50
Glass of wine: £5-8
Attraction entry: £6-15
Boat trip: £25-45

Tipping:

Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service not included
Pubs: Not expected for drinks, £1-2 for food service
Taxis: Round up to nearest pound

Safety and Emergency Information

Emergency Services:

Emergency: 999 (coastguard, ambulance, fire, police)
Coastguard: 999 or VHF Channel 16
Non-Emergency Police: 101

Coastal Safety:

Check tide times before walking (tides come in fast)
Stay on marked paths (cliffs can be unstable)
Tell someone your walking plans
Carry a charged phone
Beware of adders (rare, but present in dunes and heathland)

Medical:

Withybush Hospital: Haverfordwest SA61 2PZ (main hospital, A&E)
Minor Injuries: Tenby, Pembroke Dock
Pharmacies: In all main towns

Responsible Travel

Wildlife Watching Guidelines:

Keep your distance from seals (50m minimum)
Never approach nesting birds
Stay on paths to avoid disturbing ground-nesting birds
No drones on islands or near seabird colonies
Take all litter home

Coastal Path Etiquette:

Close gates behind you
Keep dogs on leads near livestock and wildlife
Yield to uphill walkers
Say hello—it's a friendly community!

Supporting Local:

Buy local produce (look for "Pembrokeshire Produce" label)
Eat at independent restaurants
Shop at local galleries and craft shops
Use local guides and tour operators

Where to Eat - Complete Guide

St Davids Area

The Bishops ⭐⭐⭐

Type: Gastropub
Price: ££-£££
Address: 21 Cross Square, SA62 6SE
Phone: 01437 720300
Best for: Special occasions, local ingredients

The Farmers Arms

Type: Traditional pub
Price: ££
Address: Goat Street, SA62 6RF
Phone: 01437 720224
Best for: Real ales, casual dining, dogs

Cwtch Restaurant

Type: Fine dining
Price: ££££
Address: 22 High Street, SA62 6SD
Phone: 01437 720871
Best for: Michelin-listed cuisine

Dale and Marloes

The Griffin Inn ⭐⭐⭐

Type: Riverside gastropub
Price: ££-£££
Address: Dale Road, Dale SA62 3RB
Phone: 01646 636222
Best for: Seafood, waterside dining

The Shed Bistro

Type: Seafood bistro
Price: £££
Address: Porthgain Harbour SA62 5BN
Phone: 01348 831518
Best for: Crab, lobster, harbour views

Tenby Area

The Plantagenet ⭐⭐⭐

Type: Historic restaurant
Price: £££
Address: Quay Hill, Tenby SA70 7BX
Phone: 01834 842350
Best for: Romantic dinners, historic atmosphere

The Blue Ball Restaurant

Type: Seafood
Price: £££
Address: Upper Frog Street, Tenby SA70 7JD
Phone: 01834 842566
Best for: Fresh fish, intimate setting

Stackpole Area

The Stackpole Inn ⭐⭐⭐

Type: Village gastropub
Price: ££-£££
Address: Stackpole SA71 5DF
Phone: 01646 672324
Best for: Post-beach dining, local produce

Where to Stay - Complete Guide

St Davids

Twr y Felin Hotel (Luxury)

Price: £180-280/night
Address: St Davids SA62 6QT
Phone: 01437 725555

Warpool Court Hotel (Mid-Range)

Price: £120-180/night
Address: St Davids SA62 6BN
Phone: 01437 720300

YHA St Davids (Budget)

Price: £25-40/night
Address: Llaethdy, St Davids SA62 6PR
Phone: 0345 371 9643

Tenby

The Park Hotel (Luxury)

Price: £150-250/night
Address: North Cliff, Tenby SA70 8DG
Phone: 01834 842501

Giltar Hotel (Mid-Range)

Price: £100-160/night
Address: The Esplanade, Tenby SA70 7DU
Phone: 01834 842881

Newport (Preseli Hills)

Llys Meddyg

Price: £140-200/night
Address: East Street, Newport SA42 0SY
Phone: 01239 820008

Spring Events and Festivals

March:

St David's Day (March 1): Parades, concerts, special menus across Wales
Spring equinox: Ancient sites like Pentre Ifan see gatherings

April:

Puffin arrivals: Late April sees first puffins on Skomer
Easter events: Many attractions open for season
Bluebell season: Peak viewing in woodlands

May:

Hay Festival (nearby): World-famous literary festival (late May)
Preseli Hills walking festival: Guided walks and events
Wildflower peak: Best time for coastal blooms

Final Tips for Your Spring Adventure

Book ahead: Spring is increasingly popular—book accommodation and Skomer trips well in advance
Be flexible: Weather can change plans—have indoor alternatives ready
Start early: Wildlife is most active in the morning
Bring binoculars: Essential for seabirds and seals
Respect wildlife: Keep your distance, stay on paths
Try the local produce: Pembrokeshire potatoes, lamb, and seafood are exceptional
Learn some Welsh: "Bore da" (good morning), "Diolch" (thank you)
Take your time: The best experiences come from slowing down and observing

Pembrokeshire Coast in spring is a place of renewal and wonder. From puffins waddling through bluebells to seals swimming in crystal bays, every day brings new discoveries. Take a deep breath of that fresh Atlantic air, listen to the seabirds calling, and let this magical corner of Wales work its timeless magic on you.

Croeso i Sir Benfro—Welcome to Pembrokeshire!