Pembrokeshire Coast National Park

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park stretches along the coast of Pembrokeshire in Wales, covering rugged cliffs, sandy beaches and the Preseli Mountains. It was set up in 1952 and covers 650 square miles, making it the only UK park focused mainly on coastal scenery. The park’s 420-kilometre coastline includes islands such as Skomer and Skokholm, noted for their seabird colonies. Milford Haven’s deep water forms one of the best rias in Britain, while the Preseli Hills rise inland with moorland and wooded valleys. The landscape shows varied rock types with natural arches, stacks and sea caves along the shore. Elegug Stacks provide nesting ledges for razorbills and guillemots each spring, while Carn Llidi and nearby hills give a stark upland feel. St Bride’s Bay opens broadly to the west, bounded by Ramsey Island and Skomer, and the southern coast presents limestone cliffs and the Bosherston lakes. The park also holds historic sites like Pentre Ifan and holds seven Special Areas of Conservation. Visitors walk the 299-kilometre Pembrokeshire Coast Path, mostly at cliff-top level with steep climbs and descents. The route links beaches awarded many Blue Flags and Green Coast Awards, while the National Trust cares for places such as the Bosherston lakes. The park authority organises projects like Changing Coasts, inviting visitors to photograph coastal changes from fixed points.