Pembrokeshire Coast Path

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path runs for 186 miles along the edge of Pembrokeshire in southwest Wales. It stays mostly on cliff tops, climbing and descending a total of 35,000 feet. At its highest point it reaches 574 feet above sea level, and at its lowest it is only 6 feet above low water. The path offers views in every direction at different points along its length. It begins at Amroth in the south and ends at St Dogmaels in the north, where it links with the Ceredigion Coast Path. The route passes 58 beaches and 14 harbours as it follows the coast. The path was planned after the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park was created in 1952. Naturalist Ronald Lockley surveyed a coastal route and submitted his report in 1953. Landowners agreed to most sections, and the path opened in 1970 after 17 years of work. More than 100 footbridges and 479 stiles were built along the way. The path forms part of the 870-mile Wales Coast Path, opened in 2012. It is walked in shorter sections by most people, and dedicated bus services serve the whole route. The landscape along the path changes from steep limestone cliffs to sheltered red sandstone coves and wide beaches. It passes through rugged volcanic headlands and flooded glacial valleys. The route avoids built-up areas in places but stays close to the coast whenever possible. Seaside towns such as Tenby and St Davids lie along the way, with shops, campsites and traditional cottages for walkers. The path also offers views of wildlife-rich islands like Skomer and Ramsey, where seabird colonies nest on the cliffs.