“Rain rain, go away, Come again another day” goes the popular English nursery rhyme. The reality is, wherever in the UK you spend your holiday, you are likely to have some rain. Wales is no different.
But a bit – or even a lot – of the wet stuff does not need to spoil your holiday. Rainy days can still be fun days.
Read on for our favourite all-weather – or even wet weather – days out in Pembrokeshire and West Wales.
And, what’s more, we’ve made sure to include activities that are at least partially open through the winter months, although please do check before travelling.
Scolton Manor
There’s plenty to see and do at Scolton Manor, situated just outside Haverfordwest. From April to October visit the Victorian Manor House, with a family ticket costing under £10. Parking is an extra small charge.
All year round, explore the Park, Grounds and Walled Garden where there’s plenty to see, even in the rain – just don’t forget your wellies and waterproofs! A range of exciting play areas and trails await you in the Park, and there’s even a Steam Train!
Additionally, you’ll find a Beekeeping Centre, the Station Shop and Edie’s Tea Room where you can warm up and dry off. The recipe for a great day out!
Folly Farm
A fantastic day out for all the family, Folly Farm has plenty to offer on a rainy day. Head for Carousel Woods for soft play areas, and an indoor adventure playground. There’s a handy café and burger bar for adults, too!
Don’t forget the vintage indoor funfair which is packed with rides aplenty for all ages. The Jolly Barn, Tractor Train and some of the indoor zoo exhibits are all good wet-weather activities, too.
Folly Farm is even better on a dry day, do we recommend taking advantage of the boomerang ticket offer, meaning you can return for half price.
Tenby or St David’s Lifeboat Stations
Both Tenby and St David’s have modern slipway Lifeboat Stations which are worth a couple of hours of your time. Learn about the history of the station, past rescues and the active lifeboats at each station, as well as the work of the RNLI.
Tenby’s Lifeboat station is situated on the north side of Castle Hill and has a public gallery where visitors can watch the lifeboat launch.
St David’s Lifeboat Station is at St Justinian’s, a short drive away from Wales’s smallest City.
Do check seasonal opening hours before travelling.
St David’s Cathedral
No visit to West Wales is complete without a visit to St David’s Cathedral. Unusually, it is situated in the valley to keep it hidden from sight from the sea.
The present Cathedral was begun between 1180-1182 and is built in Norman style, although over the years there have been many additions and amendments.
Sit awhile and enjoy a moment’s peace inside the wonderful space. The cathedral receives over 300,000 visitors each year – but never feels busy. Find refreshment at the Cathedral’s Rectory Café, or try one of the many cafes and pubs in St David’s.
St David’s Cathedral is open all year long. Entry is free but donations are encouraged.
Creative Café
Situated in Narberth and Haverfordwest, the Creative Café is Pembrokshire’s longest-established pottery painting studio. Open 7 days a week, the combination of coffee and painting is perfect for a rainy day.
Fire up your arty side and decorate a cup, plate, mug, money box, the list goes on!
For more information check out the Facebook pages: Creative Café Haverforwest
Torch Theatre
Much more than a Theatre, Milford Haven’s Torch Theatre has plenty to keep you occupied, whatever the weather.
Try for last-minute tickets for a production, watch a film in the Cinema or enjoy the regularly changing exhibitions in the gallery. There’s also a café, although out of season it is mostly limited to pre-theatre dining.
Tudor Merchant’s House, Tenby
A good choice to combine with a visit to Tenby Lifeboat Station, the Tudor Merchant’s House is in the heart of the historic town and will give you a taste of life in the 15th Century.
Learn how the merchant’s produce including salt, linen, painted cloth, wine and sugar were imported from overseas or arrived by coastal trade routes.
This National Trust attraction does have limited opening, with Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays being the norm in the summer months and fewer days in the off-season. Keep an eye on the website for details.
Rain rain, go away!
Do let us know of any other great all-weather activities and days out in Pembrokeshire. And watch this space for a rundown of rainy day activities in other parts of West Wales.
