5-Day Pembrokeshire Coast: Coastal Path, St Davids & Wildlife Adventure

Daily Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Pembroke

Arrive independently at Pembroke, a historic market town dominated by one of the finest Norman castles in Britain. Born here was Henry VII, founder of the Tudor dynasty. Settle into your comfortable guesthouse or B&B and spend the afternoon exploring the magnificent Pembroke Castle, set dramatically on a rocky ridge above the River Pembroke. Walk the town’s medieval streets, visit the excellent selection of local pubs and restaurants, and prepare for the walking adventure ahead. Welcome pack with detailed route notes, OS maps, and GPS tracks provided at your accommodation.

Day 2: Broad Haven to Solva (11 miles / 18 km)

After breakfast, a short transfer brings you to Broad Haven, whose golden beach marks the southern end of St Brides Bay. Today’s walk offers magnificent coastal variety: low clifftop paths dip down to small sheltered coves before opening onto the sweeping expanse of Newgale Sands, one of Pembrokeshire’s finest beaches. Pass reminders of historic coal mining at Druidstone, then climb dramatically before descending into Cwm Mawr. The highlight approaches as you discover the hidden beach at Gwadn at the entrance to Solva Harbour, then climb the Gribin headland with its ancient Iron Age settlement. Descend into the picture-perfect Solva Harbour, with its colorful boats and whitewashed cottages. Overnight in Solva.

Day 3: Solva to Whitesands Bay via Ramsey Sound (13 miles / 21 km)

Climb from Solva past Iron Age promontory forts onto dramatic clifftops. Pass Caerbwdi Bay and Caerfai Bay, both crowned by ancient forts, before reaching St Non’s Chapel, the birthplace of St David, Wales’ patron saint. Drop into the tranquil harbor of Porthclais, with its lime kilns and welcoming cafe. As the path approaches Ramsey Sound, the churning tidal currents between mainland and Ramsey Island (an RSPB bird sanctuary and grey seal haven) provide spectacular viewing. Pass St Justinian’s Lifeboat Station before the cliffs gradually lower toward the glorious expanse of Whitesands Bay, a surfer’s paradise with golden sand, beach sauna, and cafe. Short transfer to the enchanting cathedral city of St Davids for your two-night stay.

Day 4: St Davids to Porthgain via Whitesands Bay (13 miles / 19.5 km)

From St Davids, Britain’s smallest city, follow quiet lanes back to Whitesands Bay before rounding St Davids Head, one of the most dramatic headlands in Wales. Pass the ancient stone ramparts of Clawdd y Milwyr (Warriors’ Dyke), a 3,000-year-old clifftop stronghold. A Neolithic burial chamber (dolmen) perches dramatically on the ridge, with the rocky mass of Carn Llidi rising behind. Continue along wild, exposed clifftops past remote coves before ascending Carn Penberry. The route descends to Abereiddy, where a flooded slate quarry has become the extraordinary Blue Lagoon, its deep turquoise water a stunning contrast against dark cliffs. The final stretch passes remnants of the industrial past before the glorious arrival into Porthgain, a picture-perfect harbor village that once exported slate and brick worldwide. Transfer back to St Davids for your final night.

Day 5: Departure from St Davids

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in St Davids, with time to explore the magnificent St Davids Cathedral, a pilgrimage site for over 1,500 years, and the adjacent ruins of the medieval Bishop’s Palace. Browse the city’s art galleries and craft shops before departure. Regular bus services connect St Davids to Haverfordwest for onward rail connections to Cardiff and beyond. Your hosts can provide luggage storage and transfer assistance for your departure.