National park in Wales
| Coordinates: | 51.86, -4.97 |
|---|---|
| OS grid ref: | SM 95 21 |
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park occupies the rugged western edge of Pembrokeshire, running along a dramatic shoreline of cliffs, sandy bays, hidden coves and offshore islands. It is the only park in Britain designated specifically for its coastline, with a famed long-distance path that draws walkers to headlands, sea stacks and tidal estuaries.
The park is rich in wildlife: islands such as Skomer, Skokholm and Grassholm support internationally important seabird colonies, while grey seals haul out on remote beaches and choughs and wildflowers thrive on the cliff tops. The geology is equally striking, with folded and weathered rock faces that record a long natural history and create dramatic coastal scenery.
Human history here runs deep, from prehistoric sites and medieval castles to maritime wrecks and the tiny cathedral city of St Davids, which has been a pilgrimage destination for centuries. Fishing villages and historic harbours give the coast a strong cultural identity, while arts festivals and local food traditions keep community life lively through the seasons.
Tourism is a major local industry, supporting businesses from accommodation to outdoor-guiding, yet the park also contains working farmland and important energy and shipping infrastructure nearby, notably at Milford Haven. Managing visitor pressure, housing affordability and nature conservation is an ongoing social and economic balancing act for residents and park authorities.