Pembrokeshire is a stunning corner of Wales. Known for its dramatic coastal landscapes, ancient castles, and charming villages, it’s home to the only coastal National Park in the UK. Pembrokeshire offers a wide range of walks suitable for all ages and abilities. In this article, we’ll take you through eight of the best walks in Pembrokeshire, each featuring breathtaking scenery and fascinating landmarks.

Tips For Walking In Pembrokeshire

Pembrokeshire has some of the most diverse walks in the UK. From beautiful, long-distance coastal trails, to easy day trips, there really is something for all abilities. Just like anywhere in Wales, the weather can be changeable all year round, so make sure to check the forecast and plan accordingly. In the winter, high winds and high tides can be dangerous on the coastal routes, so make sure you’re planning ahead.

In terms of equipment, a good pair of walking shoes or boots is essential for the more challenging walking routes listed here. Save the flip-flops for the beach!

So, grab your walking boots, and let’s explore!

Walking Routes In Pembrokeshire

1. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path

Difficulty: Challenging  |  Distance: 186 miles

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is a long-distance trail that stretches 186 miles along the coastline of Pembrokeshire. It’s one of the many incredible sections on the Wales Coast Path, which circumnavigates the entire coast of Wales. It’s also one of the many brilliant long-distance walks in Wales — if you’re planning to do it one go, you might want to check out our tips for beach campsites in Wales.

This long-distance walk is perfect for those who want to truly immerse themselves in the beauty of the region. Along the way, you’ll encounter clifftops, sandy beaches, picturesque villages, and historic landmarks. Highlights include St. David’s Cathedral, St. Govan’s Chapel, and Tenby’s medieval town walls. And of course, if you’d rather tackle this one in stages, there are plenty of shorter sections along the way.

2. Marloes Sands Circular Walk

Difficulty: Moderate  |  Distance: 4.5 miles

This circular walk takes you along the breathtaking Marloes Peninsula, with its dramatic cliffs and stunning beaches.

The 4.5-mile route begins and ends at Marloes village and is moderately challenging, with some steep sections. Landmarks include Marloes Sands, one of Wales’ most beautiful beaches with fascinating geological features, and the impressive Marloes Mere, a freshwater lake and a haven for birdwatchers.

3. Stackpole Wildlife Walk

Difficulty: Easy |  Distance: 6 miles

The Stackpole Estate Wildlife Walk is a leisurely 6-mile route that explores the diverse landscapes of the Stackpole Estate, from woodland and farmland to cliffs and beaches.

This easy walk is suitable for families and those looking for a more relaxed pace. Notable landmarks along the route include the picture-perfect Barafundle Bay, the 18th-century Stackpole Court, and the Bosherston Lily Ponds, a series of interconnected lakes surrounded by woodland.

4. St. David’s Head Coastal Walk

Difficulty: Moderate  |  Distance: 4.9 miles

This 4.9-mile walk takes you along the rugged coastline of St. David’s Head, offering panoramic views of the Irish Sea and the Pembrokeshire coast.

The route starts and ends at the Whitesands Beach car park and is moderately challenging, with a few steep sections. Along the way, you’ll pass the remains of an Iron Age fort at Coetan Arthur, the ancient St. David’s Head burial chamber, and the iconic St. David’s Lifeboat Station.

5. Tenby to Saundersfoot Walk

Difficulty: Moderate  |  Distance: 4.5 miles

This coastal walk connects the popular seaside towns of Tenby and Saundersfoot, exploring a variety of landscapes, from sandy beaches to wooded valleys.

The 4.5-mile route is moderately challenging and offers plenty of opportunities to stop and soak up the views. Highlights along the way include the picturesque harbour town of Tenby, Monkstone Point with its dramatic cliffs, and Saundersfoot’s bustling waterfront.

6. Strumble Head Walk

Difficulty: Moderate  |  Distance: 6.8 miles

The Strumble Head Walk is a great walk that takes you to one of Pembrokeshire’s most iconic landmarks: the Strumble Head Lighthouse. This 6.8-mile route begins at the Strumble Head car park and follows the Pembrokeshire Coast Path to the lighthouse, perched on a small island just off the coast. The walk offers stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and is an ideal spot for seal and seabird watching.

You can download a route map here.

7. Newport to Dinas Island Walk

Difficulty: Moderate  |  Distance: 5 miles

The Newport to Dinas Island Walk is a 5-mile coastal trek that offers incredible views of the Pembrokeshire coast and the picturesque town of Newport.

This moderately challenging walk begins at Newport Parrog and follows the coastal path to Dinas Island, a stunning headland that provides panoramic views of the surrounding area. If you’d like to extend the walk, you can walk around Dinas Head, with amazing views along the coast in both directions, and inland to the Preseli Hills. Along the way, you’ll encounter secluded coves, dramatic cliffs, and a variety of wildlife. Key landmarks include the Iron Age fort on Dinas Island, the historic St. Brynach’s Church in Cwm-yr-Eglwys, and the charming Pwllgwaelod beach. At Pwllgwaelod you’ll find the charming Old Sailors pub, perfect for a post-walk feed or pint of the good stuff.

8. Preseli Hills Walk

Difficulty: Challenging|  Distance: 7 miles

For those seeking a more challenging walk, the Preseli Hills Walk is a 7-mile route that takes you through the heart of the Preseli Mountains. This area is steeped in history and mythology, with ancient burial chambers and standing stones scattered through the landscape.

The walk begins at the Bwlch Gwynt car park and takes you to the summit of Foel Cwmcerwyn, the highest point in the Preseli Hills. From here, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside and Pembrokeshire coast (on a clear day!) Landmarks along the route include the Bronze Age burial cairn at Carn Menyn, the famous bluestones at the Stonehenge quarry site, and the peaceful Gors Fawr Stone Circle.

So there you have it! Pembrokeshire is a walker’s paradise, offering a diverse range of walks that cater to all abilities and interests. From the dramatic coastline of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path to the serene beauty of the Stackpole Estate, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a casual ambler, Pembrokeshire’s walking trails will leave you with unforgettable memories.