Much as we’re always sorry to see the end of summer, there’s a certain satisfaction when the final blackberries are fading from the hedgerows and the mornings and evenings have that chill in the air…because we can look forward to the roaring log fires, bracing walks and hearty casseroles that come with the change in the season!
And it’s quite possibly one of the best times to visit Pembrokeshire. We’re blessed in the west with some of the finest, mild and sunny autumn days (of course, we also have our fair share of blustery, sou’ester days too, but that’s all part of the fun of it!). There’s arguably nothing nicer than cosying up in an oak-beamed bar with a robust red and a nourishing roast after a yomp along the coast path in a force niner!
Here are some Celtic Haven suggestions for making the most of the wonderful Welsh west coast in autumn and winter.
Get out, whatever the weather
Whether you’re lucky enough to enjoy unseasonably warm days, when you can nurse a Brains outside the pub, or battening down the hatches in a hooly, there’s little more satisfying than earning your dinner with a hike.
We’re gifted with some of the most scenically stunning coastal walks in Great Britain and you can choose to tackle as much or as little of it during your time here. These are just a few of the options available.
With 180 odd miles of Pembrokeshire coastal footpath to choose from, you might be wondering where on earth to start. Right from your front door! From Celtic Haven it’s easy to step right out so why not tackle the walk to Lydstep Point for starters. This is mostly on the level, although it’s a steep scramble down if you want to go and see Lydstep Caves.
Fancy something a bit more challenging? Then set your sights on St Govan’s Head, 14 ½ miles away.
In the opposite direction from Lydstep, Amroth marks the very start of the Pembrokeshire coast path. A walk in this direction will take in Tenby and a picturesque woodland amble between there and Saundersfoot. If the tide’s out it’s possible to walk along the beach from Saundersfoot all the way to Amroth.
There’s also a lovely circuit from nearby Manorbier, taking in the remote sandy bay of Swanlake (and a breeze at just three miles!)
Hole up in a cosy pub
You never need veer too far off a footpath to find a cosy pub. There are plenty of lovely watering holes to choose from in and around Tenby. Some of the best in the area include:
The Lydstep Tavern – new owners have revived this friendly local and you’re sure of a warm welcome.
The Castle Inn, Manorbier – cosy and friendly with a great selection of ales.
The Lifeboat Tavern, Tenby – a charming, old world pub with good food, real ales and an open fire.
The Five Arches Tavern, Tenby – the perfect spot to chow down on home-made steak and ale pie or a roast.
If you want to relive your childhood memories of pubs, head to The Sun Inn at St Florence for a picture postcard pub serving meals in a basket.
Last but by no means least, be sure to save time for a lazy Sunday lunch at Waves, roasted strip loin of prime Welsh beef, Yorkshire pudding and rich gravy…mmmmmmmmmmmmm.
Retreat indoors
Don’t be deterred or down-heartened by the less clement days…If it’s definitely an indoors rather than an outdoors day, then why not check out some of the following attractions.
With most activities you can think of – and many under cover – Heatherton World of Activities near Tenby is perfect for a rainy day. Paintballing, treesurfing, bowling and archery to name but a few.
There’s also the Silent World Aquarium at Tenby, rather bizarrely housed in a converted chapel. The founders opened their collection to the public in 1989, which now includes marine life from around the Pembrokeshire coast as well as creepy crawlies and reptiles.
Test your striking skills at the Phoenix Bowl at Milford Haven with a spot of ten pin bowling. Or visit the Solva Woollen Mill at Haverfordwest, the oldest working Woollen Mill in Pembrokeshire and one of only two remaining in the county. You can watch the looms at work and browse the gift shop.
Head along to the Tudor Merchant House at Tenby to see how our ancestors lived. Kids can try on Tudor costumes and play with replica toys. The house belonged to a middle class merchant who lived in it with his family and servants and traded from the room by the street entrance. (NB. Open Mar to Oct)
Unwind with some R&R at the spa
Of course, whilst there is an abundance of adventure to be found on our doorstep, you may decide not to venture too far, but instead indulge in some Pembrokeshire pampering, Celtic Haven style. From facials to hydrotherapy and Aroma Energisers, you won’t have to drag your weary limbs far for some R&R (respite and recuperation from the elements!).
Opt for a Celtic Haven Half Day for £59 and enjoy two treatments from a list including a Celtic Haven Taster Facial, Holistic Well-being Back Massage, Aroma Energiser, Hydrotherapy Bath, Body Scrub, Jessica Mini Manicure and Jessica Mini Pedicure.
Or indulge in a Radiant Spa Day for £85 and enjoy an Exotic Lime & Ginger Salt Glow, Exotic Frangipani Wrap or an Exotic Coconut Milk Ritual Wrap.
All of the spa day and half day packages include lunch at Waves and use of the leisure facilities.
Find out more about autumnal breaks at Celtic Haven and our current offers here.
It’s not too late to treat your loved one to a Valentine’s getaway in a cosy 12th century clifftop cottage in the heart of the scenic Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
