Renowned for being home to the UK’s only coastal National Park, Pembrokeshire boasts a plethora of stunning, unique walks, with gentle strolls and more strenuous treks for all kinds of adventurers.
The many circular walks in the area offer a fantastic way to enjoy Pembrokeshire’s incredible landscape, providing a rewarding day out – often with a chance to stop at a pub or cafe along the way or at the end. Here are just a few of our favourite circular walks in Pembrokeshire to enjoy.
1. Porthclais/St David
Distance: 2.6 miles
This short coastal walk offers a lovely way to explore the area around the historic city of St David’s. Start from the city and make your way down to the picturesque St Non’s, where you can see the chapel ruins, the supposed birthplace of St David himself. Head along the rugged coast and through the idyllic Porthclais harbour before looping back to St David’s, passing through fields and farmland.
This route here is reasonably level and makes for a lovely amble with diverse views before heading back to the city to enjoy the beloved attractions there, such as the Cathedral and Bishop’s Palace.
Want to stay in St David’s and explore the various other nearby walks? See our selection of holiday cottages in St David’s.
2. Dinas Head
Distance: 3.0 miles
Dinas Island is actually not an island but a promontory that is partially attached to the mainland between Fishguard and Newport. The circular walk around the headland here has an especially remote feel, offering amazing sea panoramas and views across to Newport Beach.
Trace the windswept clifftop route and keep your eyes out for a range of coastal birds and wildflowers. You’ll also see the remains of a 19th-century church that was destroyed by a storm.
3. Manorbier Short Walk
Distance: 3.4 miles
A walk around Manorbier offers fantastic valley views, a rugged coast, stunning natural features and historical sites – what more could you want out of an afternoon amble? The short walk will take you past the medieval castle (which is a brilliant attraction in itself), the dovecot, along the top of Manorbier Beach to King’s Quoit (a Mesolithic burial chamber) and across dramatic red sandstone cliffs.
4. Ceibwr/Moylgrove
Distance: 3.8 miles
The walk here starts off from the tranquil village of Moylgrove, a tumble of traditional painted cottages, grey stone chapels and two stone river bridges. From the village, you’ll head to the dramatic coastline, where the magnificent strata of the cliffs can be viewed in all their glory. Admire the stunning Ceibwr Bay and the striking collapsed cave known as the Witches’ Cauldron, marvelling at this remote, wild landscape.
The Penrallt Garden Centre is a good place to stop off on the loop, serving as the perfect spot to rest and recharge with a fresh scone or slice of cake.
5. Carew/Cresswell Quay
Distance: 4.9 miles
If you’re after riverside views and countryside adventures, embark on this lovely walk that starts from either Carew or Cresswell Quay before looping round and traversing through country fields, pretty villages and interesting historic sites.
Carew Castle and Tidal Mill are particular points of interest that could mark the start or end of your walk. On the walk, you’ll encounter various river and waterway environments with the chance to see various birdlife, such as wading birds and barn owls, during the evening or early morning.
6. Stackpole Head
Distance: 4.9 miles
This glorious circular walk on the Stackpole estate gives you a delightful taste of everything Pembrokeshire has to offer. From picture-perfect sandy beaches and sculpted limestone cliffs to enchanting woodland trails and lovely lakeside views, the walk around Stackpole Head showcases the best of the best.
The route here takes you past Bosherston Lily Ponds and over the charming eight-arch bridge. Other key points along the walk include historic Stackpole Quay (a former limestone quarry) and Barafundle Bay, a beautifully remote beach and the perfect escape.
This small selection of walks really only scratches the surface of trails and treks in Pembrokeshire. For more information on these routes and other fantastic walks across Pembrokeshire, see our circular walk directory.
Where to Stay in Pembrokeshire
Still not booked your stay in this stunning corner of the world? Whether you’re planning a walking holiday or just want to get away from it all, our wonderful Pembrokeshire holiday cottages serve as the ideal base for your adventures, perfect for cosying up after a day exploring coastal paths or country trails!
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