Pembrokeshire Coast National Park

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is a protected coastal landscape in southwest Wales, designated to conserve a long stretch of shoreline, islands and adjacent countryside. It is organised around a continuous cliff-and-beach coastline with numerous headlands and sheltered bays.

The park is known for dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, offshore islands and a long-distance coastal trail that runs the length of the park, drawing walkers and wildlife watchers. Important features include island nature reserves with seabird colonies and mainland headlands with panoramic sea views.

The park was established in 1952 to protect the coastal environment and provide public access to the shoreline. Since designation it has supported conservation of habitats and development of managed access for recreation and nature tourism.

The park extends along the Pembrokeshire coast in western Wales, encompassing the coastal strip around St Davids, Milford Haven and numerous offshore islands such as Skomer; the nearest regional centres are Haverfordwest and the city of Cardiff to the east.

• Founding and path length: Established in 1952, the park is the only UK national park focused primarily on a coastal landscape and attracts walkers to its 186-mile coastal path.
• Wildlife access: Coastal boat trips and island wildlife reserves provide the best chances to see seabirds and grey seals; some islands require advance permits or seasonal restrictions.

What to See #

• Skomer Island: An island reserve known for large seabird colonies and puffin populations, visited by wildlife boat tours from the mainland.
• St Davids: The medieval city and its cathedral that functions as a local service and visitor centre for the park's northern reaches and coastal walks.
• Pembrokeshire Coast Path: The long-distance coastal trail that traces the park's shoreline for 186 miles, linking cliffs, beaches and headlands and used by walkers to experience the park end to end.