Bishop’s Palace
A 12th-century pope had decreed that two trips to St Davids were equal to one to Rome – turning it into a centre of pilgrimage for the entire Western world. Thousands flocked to see the shrine of St David in the newly built cathedral. But the bishop’s home was no match for this magnificence. Enter Henry de Gower. Between 1328 and 1347 he turned a building only fit for ‘servants and animals’ into an immense palace.
The east range was his private domain. The south range was for show and ceremony. It was here in the great hall that Bishop Henry dispensed justice, held feasts and welcomed distinguished pilgrims.
The Reformation marked the beginning of the end. In fact William Barlow, first Protestant Bishop of St Davids, may well have stripped the lead from the roofs himself to spark a slow decline. But even as a ruin this palace beside its glorious cathedral remains an awe-inspiring space.
Tudor Merchant’s House
Time travel to Tudor Tenby and discover what life was like at our 15th century merchant’s house.
Colby Woodland Garden
Colby’s hidden wooded valley is full of surprises. With an industrial past and a secret garden, it’s the perfect place for heritage hunting and natural play.
Picton Castle
Picton Castle & Gardens is a magnificent 14th-century stronghold in the heart of Pembrokeshire. With over 700 years of rich history, the castle is set within 50 acres of enchanting gardens and woodlands.
We are a Partner Garden of the Royal Horticultural Society, and offer an inspiring blend of natural beauty and historic splendour. Visitors can explore the castle’s beautifully furnished rooms, discover its remarkable collections, and uncover the stories that have shaped its past.
PaddleWest
The upper reaches of the Daugleddau estuary are a truly special and rarely visited part of the National Park. A huge range of wildlife can be seen in and around its waters. The quiet natural landscape is occasionally punctuated by riverside architecture of bygone eras so there is always something to see. Let our guides help you safely explore these beautiful spots and share with you these amazing places. Tours last around three hours from start to finish though longer trips can be arranged by request. Our staff will meet you with all the equipment you need at a parking place near the estuary. You will then take part in a short paddling expedition and arrange your transport back to your car.
Pembroke Castle
One of the most magnificent of Britain’s castles is the “birth place of the Tudor Dynasty.” You can climb the 80ft Great Keep, descend into a pre-historic cave and look down into a prisoner in a medieval dungeon. There is also a cafe and gift shop. It is open year round and there are free to join guided tours every day led by friendly and engaging castle guides. During school holidays there are falconry displays, historic re-enactments and family entertainment. The main exhibition rooms display models and weaponry as well as telling the story of the history of the castle. You can also visit the room that King Henry VII the founder of the Tudor Dynasty was born.
Folly Farm
If you are looking for a fun and educational family day out in Wales then there is nowhere better than Folly Farm! With a zoo, farm, fairground and indoor and outdoor adventure play you’ll leave understanding why it has twice been voted ‘Best Family Day Out in Pembrokeshire and Wales’.
Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo with Holiday Park 🏆 Family Favourites Award Winner
St David’s Cathedral
Set on a spectacular Pembrokeshire peninsula jutting out into the Atlantic upon the site of an earlier sixth-century monastery built by St David, the patron saint of Wales, St Davids Cathedral has been a site of pilgrimage and worship for more than 800 years. Today this splendid building erected to the glory of God remains a vibrant, living church offering a place of peace for prayer and devotion.
Carew Castle & Tidal Mill
Carew Castle and Tidal Mill’s rich history spans over 2,000 years and tells of knights of the realm, kingmakers, Elizabethan intrigue and Civil War devastation. Set in a stunning location overlooking a 23-acre Millpond, the Castle is one of the most architecturally diverse in Wales; from the west a Norman fortress, yet from the north a splendid Elizabethan mansion. The site also incorporates the only restored Tidal Mill in Wales, an 11th century Celtic cross, a Medieval bridge and picnic area all linked by a mile-long circular walk, suitable for buggies and wheelchairs, with magnificent views over the Millpond.
Carew Castle and Tidal Mill – Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
Wales Coastal Path
The Welsh coastline has many contrasts and really does offer something for everyone. From cliff top strolls to estuarine wanders, picturesque fishing villages to vibrant cities, industrial heritage to unconquered castles, desolate windswept beaches to bustling seasides. The Wales Coast Path not only takes you through the Welsh landscape, it takes you through its heritage and its communities. The Pembrokeshire section is home to the iconic and world-class landscape of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and wildlife rich islands. The Path (which has National Trail status here) passes through some of Britain’s most spectacular and breath taking scenery, including 58 beaches and 14 harbours and the UK’s smallest city – St Davids.
Freshwater West
This sand and rocky beach is the hunting ground of the surfer always on the lookout for that perfect wave; a surfers paradise.
St. Catherine’s Island
St Catherine’s island is home to a Palmerston fort and a WW2 Anti aircraft gun placement. Visitors the island are welcome. For opening times search Saint Catherine’s Island on facebook it is the best place due to tides and weather.
Castell Henllys Iron Age Village
Come and enjoy a unique prehistoric day out at Castell Henllys, Britain’s only Iron Age village that has been reconstructed on the exact location where roundhouses would have stood 2500 years ago. Explore our roundhouses and immerse yourself in Iron Age life, spot a variety of wildlife in our woodland and relax in our riverside café. Throughout the year we hold a variety of events and workshops that educate, inspire and celebrate the ancient way of life. Please visit our website for more details about upcoming events. The Iron Age people enjoyed the company of hounds so your dog will be more than welcome to share in your exploration as long as they are on a lead.
Castell Henllys Iron Age Village – Pembrokeshire Coast National Park