The picturesque landscapes of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park in Wales call out to nature lovers and adventure seekers from across the globe. If you’re planning a family trip to this beautiful locale, there’s a host of activities, attractions, and experiences you and your family can enjoy. This article offers a guide to make the most of your visit, focusing on the best tips for an enriching and fun-filled day with your kids at this celebrated national park.
Planning your Day at Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
The first step in ensuring a memorable family outing at the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park requires a well-thought-out plan. This section offers practical and valuable suggestions for an enjoyable day.
Check the Weather
Before starting your trip, it’s essential to check the weather forecast. Pembrokeshire’s weather is known for its unpredictability. A sunny morning could quickly turn into a rainy afternoon. Therefore, packing appropriate clothing and essentials like waterproof jackets, hats, and sunscreen is advisable.
Plan your Route
The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is vast, with multiple trails and paths. Plan your route based on your kids’ ages and stamina. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is a popular choice for families, offering a variety of trail lengths with mesmerising coastal views.
Check Forums for Tips
Online forums can be a treasure trove of first-hand experiences and unique tips. Engage with these forums to know about the best time to visit, lesser-known spots, suitable paths for kids, and tips to face any challenges on your trail.
Best Beaches to Visit in Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
Pembrokeshire is synonymous with stunning beaches offering a mix of activities for every family member. Here, we will discuss some of the best beaches you should definitely include in your itinerary.
Tenby
The Tenby beach with its golden sand and turquoise water is a favourite among families. Safe for kids, it also offers a plethora of water sports for adventure enthusiasts. Picnics, sandcastle building, and swimming are some of the cherished activities here.
Barafundle Bay
Rated one of the best beaches in the world, Barafundle Bay promises a perfect family day-out. It’s secluded, tranquil, and has clear waters, making it ideal for a relaxing day of sunbathing, swimming, or exploring the nearby cliffs.
Broadhaven South
This crescent-shaped beach offers breathtaking views, especially at sunset. Broadhaven South is perfect for a lazy afternoon picnic, a brisk walk, or a fun-filled beach ball game.
Exploring Castles with Kids
Pembrokeshire is not just about natural beauty; it is also steeped in history. The region is dotted with many castles that will spark your children’s imagination and provide a glimpse into Wales’s rich heritage.
Pembroke Castle
Pembroke Castle is a must-visit. The birthplace of Henry VII offers an interactive exhibition for kids. They can step back in time and discover the castle’s history through engaging displays and activities.
Carew Castle
Next, visit Carew Castle, known for its stunning location overlooking a 23-acre millpond. The castle’s Tidal Mill is one of the only three restored tidal mills in Britain, offering a fascinating insight into the life of the past.
Manobier Castle
Lastly, do not miss out on Manobier Castle. This well-preserved fortress provides a panoramic view of Manobier beach and village, making it a perfect spot for a family photo.
Visit St. David’s – Britain’s Smallest City
A visit to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park would be incomplete without exploring St. David’s, Britain’s smallest city. Located within the park, it offers a unique combination of history, culture, and local charm.
St. David’s Cathedral
Start your visit with the impressive St. David’s Cathedral, a sacred site dating back to the 6th century. You and your kids can marvel at its remarkable architecture and learn about St. David, the patron saint of Wales.
St. David’s City Walk
Take a leisurely stroll around the city with the St. David’s City Walk. This guided tour reveals the city’s history, from ancient times to the present day, in a lively and engaging manner.
Local Shops and Eateries
Don’t forget to explore the local shops selling unique gifts, arts, and crafts. Treat your family to traditional Welsh cakes at one of the local eateries to round off your visit.
Remember, the key to a successful family trip to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park lies in planning, choosing the right activities, and making the most of the time you have. Happy travelling!
Wildlife Adventure for Kids
Let your kids discover the rich biodiversity of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park by engaging them in wildlife exploration. This section guides you on how to make it enjoyable and educational.
Seal Watching
One of the highlights of wildlife adventure in Pembrokeshire is seal watching. Every Autumn, hundreds of Atlantic grey seals give birth to their pups along the coastline. Guided boat tours are available that provide a fantastic opportunity for the kids to witness this spectacular event from a safe distance.
Bird Watching
Your kids can experience the joy of bird watching at the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. Introduce them to a variety of birds like puffins, guillemots, and razorbills at the cliffs of Ramsey Island. Make sure to pack binoculars and a bird identification book to enhance their experience.
Bug Hunting
Engage your kids in a fun bug hunting session. Encourage them to gently lift rocks and logs and discover the numerous insects and bugs that call the park their home. It’s a great way to teach them about the importance of small creatures in our ecosystem.
Visit to Wildlife Trust Nature Reserves
Finally, a visit to the Wildlife Trust Nature Reserves is a must. Kids will enjoy exploring the woodland, meadow, and wetland habitats, each housing unique wildlife species. Your little ones can participate in the various activities organized by the reserve like pond dipping and moth trapping.
Top Safety Tips for Visiting with Kids
Visiting a national park with kids requires some precautions to ensure everyone’s safety. Here are a few essential safety tips for your visit to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
Stay on the Path
The park’s trails can be challenging and uneven. Always stay on the marked paths and avoid wandering off. This is especially important when visiting the cliffs or the beach during the high tide.
Dress Appropriately
Make sure your kids are dressed appropriately for the weather and the activities planned. Lightweight, comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear are essential. Also, remember to pack hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect them from the sun.
Keep Hydrated and Carry Snacks
Ensure your children stay hydrated, especially during summer. Also, have healthy snacks handy to keep their energy levels up.
Teach Kids about Wildlife Safety
Educate your kids about the importance of not disturbing wildlife and maintaining a safe distance from them.
Visiting the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park with kids can create unforgettable family memories. From exploring the stunning beaches and castles to experiencing the rich biodiversity, there’s something to keep every member of the family intrigued and entertained. Plan your visit well, keeping in mind the kids’ interests and safety. You’ll leave the park with a deeper appreciation for nature and a shared family experience that you’ll cherish forever. Happy exploring!
