What to do in Pembrokeshire

Escape to the islands, beaches, cafés and heritage attractions of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. The park, situated in the southwest corner of Wales, is a popular destination with families heading to the beach, walkers seeking a scenic challenge and photographers wanting to capture the rugged natural beauty of the region. Stay in one of the charming towns located in the sprawling park and go on excursions around the coastline to see different parts of this picturesque area.

While all of these beaches are worth exploring, it’s Harbour Beach, at the rear of the harbour, which offers the best protection from the wind and must be considered one of the most child-friendly beach destinations in Pembrokeshire. Recently named the finest beach in Europe, Harbour won out over competitors from Portugal, Croatia and Italy. Considered the jewel in the crown of Pembrokeshire’s tourism portfolio, it’s postcard-perfect, if a little crowded during peak season.

Managed by the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales, it is a wildlife sanctuary, world-renowned for its seabirds — gannets, guillemots, razorbills, fulmars, kittiwakes, Manx shearwaters, chough and the ever-popular puffin.

Visit Pembroke Castle to explore ancient battlements, keeps and towers and find exhibitions that retell its almost thousand-year history. Norman invaders established Pembroke Castle in 1093 on a promontory overlooking Pembroke River. William Marshall, the Earl of Pembroke, developed the castle in 1189, turning it into today’s imposing landmark. It has been the home to the Tudor and Stuart families and was the birthplace of Henry VII, King of England.

Freshwater East Beach is a beach of rugged natural beauty loved by families, naturalists and watersport enthusiasts. It’s a curving bay of golden sand and rolling dunes situated on Wales’ world-famous Pembrokeshire coastline. At Freshwater East Beach you can enjoy swimming in summer, surfing in winter and relaxed walks all year round.