Visiting the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park by Train

Pembroke Dock Station: South of the National Park

Fishguard Station: Northern Access Point

Walk the Pembrokeshire Coast Path

Whether it’s the moorland of the Preseli Hills or the wooded Gwaun valley, Pembrokeshire has it all! The star of the show, though, is the dazzling coastline that goes on for 186 miles from St Dogmaels in the north to Amroth in the south, replete with rugged clifftops, wide beaches and winding estuaries. If you walk the full Pembrokeshire Coast Path, you’ll experience some of the most varied scenery in the UK. You don’t have to be an intrepid hiker, however, to enjoy this beautiful scenery, and there are plenty of accessible stretches too.

Cultural visits and castles

History buffs and culture seekers will find plenty to get the pulse racing in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. A highly recommended visit is Castell Henllys Iron Age Village in the heart of the national park. At this unique attraction, you’ll find Iron Age roundhouses rebuilt on the foundations of a hill fort. Set in 30 acres of national parkland, this is a memorable way to experience something different and learn about life in the Iron Age (open daily between 10am and 5pm). 

Another top cultural attraction is Carew Castle and Tidal Mill, voted Best Attraction at the Pembrokeshire Croeso Awards 2024. Fun for all the family, consult the packed programme of events, from archery to interactive Horrid Histories talks, before you travel.

Pembrokeshire has a variety of bus services around the national park. A popular choice are the Coastal Buses that zip up and down the Pembrokeshire Coast, which run seven days a week in Summer. Visit the Pembrokeshire County Council website for timetables and up-to-date travel information. 

Elsewhere in the national park, an extensive local bus network connects the area’s major towns and tourist hotspots. Recently launched, you can also make use of the Fflecsi Pembrokeshire, a new on-demand transport service in North West Pembrokeshire. By train, you can also move around the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, with hub stations in Tenby and Fishguard providing good access to various stations throughout the park. And, of course, walking along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path is a scenic way to get around too!

As with all UK National Parks, the Pembrokeshire Coast has an inspiring range of places to stay. Choose from cosy cottages, scenic campsites, or boutique hotels to adapt your national park experience to your travel plans. If you’re walking the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, there are plenty of guest houses, cottages, and campsites along the route, from Hendre Eynon Campsite near the start of the route from St Dogmaels to Castlemead Hotel near the latter stages.

Seasonal guide

Many locals recommend late Summer as the ideal time to visit the Pembrokeshire Coast. If you adore exploring the great outdoors, you’ll be able to make the most of long days and warm weather to hike on scenic trails, or relax on stunning beaches. In August and September, the peak summer crowds die down slightly, while attractions and public transport still operate with Summer schedules.

What to pack on your car-free adventure

Visiting the Pembrokeshire Coast by train is the best way to experience this special landscape without the hassle of driving on narrow roads and finding car-parking spaces. For unforgettable beach trips, come prepared with plenty of activities for the family. To keep packing simple, choose a lightweight microfibre beach towel, and collapsible water bottle. If you’re going to get some steps in on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, remember to bring comfortable shoes.

Visitor Information Centres

Visit the National Park Visitor Centre at Oriel y Parc Gallery and Visitor Centre in St Davids, as well as centres run by Pembrokeshire County Council at Haverfordwest, Fishguard, Milford Haven, and Saundersfoot. Wherever you are in Pembrokeshire, you’ll be able to find local and national tourist information, and public transport information. Pop in for tips from friendly local staff and volunteers, who can help you get the most out of your visit.

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