Budget-Friendly Family Fun in Pembrokeshire
Welcome to Pembrokeshire, a place full of natural beauty, fun activities, and friendly people. This beautiful county in Wales is a perfect destination for a family holiday, and the best part is that you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy it. In this blog, we’ll guide you through some fantastic places to visit in Pembrokeshire on a budget.
Discover the Birthplace of Kings at Pembroke Castle
Every visitor to Pembrokeshire must experience at least one Castle. So, first on our list of Pembrokeshire activities on a budget is the beautiful Pembroke Castle. This magnificent castle was the birthplace of King Henry VII, and it’s a must-visit attraction when in Pembrokeshire. The castle has a rich history that dates back to the 11th century and is well worth exploring. The admission fee is very reasonable, and it also offers free audio guides, which are a great way to learn more about the castle’s fascinating history.
Family Fun and Natural Beauty at the Stackpole Estate
Another great place to visit in Pembrokeshire is the National Trust-owned Stackpole Estate. For the price of the parking fee (free if you’re a National Trust member) you can explore the Bosherston Lilly Ponds, the wonderful sand dunes and more. What’s more, the area also has a fantastic beach, Barafundle Bay, which was named one of the best beaches in the world by Passport magazine. It’s also worth a trip to the Stackpole Walled Gardens, a beautiful 6-acre walled garden which provides horticulture training and work experience to adults with learning disabilities.
Wildlife Encounters at the Welsh Wildlife Centre
For those interested in wildlife, Pembrokeshire offers plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with nature. One of the best places to visit is the Welsh Wildlife Centre in Cardigan. The centre is set on the banks of the River Teifi and offers nature trails, bird-watching hides, wetland marshes and a fantastic café with a beautiful view. Admission is free, with just a £4 (2023) daily parking charge, and it’s a great way to spend a few hours exploring the Welsh countryside and getting closer to nature.
Dive into Adventure at the Blue Lagoon
If you’re looking for some outdoor adventure, then head to the Blue Lagoon in Abereiddy. This former slate quarry has been turned into an adventure playground, with activities such as coasteering, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. If you’re not into watersports, you can still enjoy the beautiful scenery and take a walk around the quarry. It is highly recommended that for your safety you enjoy any watersports, coasteering or wild swimming as part of an organised group.
Explore the Majestic Preseli Hills
Another great place for outdoor adventure is the Preseli Hills (also known as the Preseli Mountains). This beautiful range of hills offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, and horse riding. There’s even a neolithic burial chamber, Pentre Ifan, which is free to visit. The views from the hills are spectacular, and on a clear day, you can see all the way to Ireland. The best part is that the Preselis are free to explore, so plan a route, pack a picnic and spend the day exploring the hills.
Sun, Sand, and Charming Streets in Tenby
If you’re looking for a family-friendly beach, then head to Tenby. This charming town has three beautiful beaches, and they’re all perfect for swimming, sandcastle building, and sunbathing. The town itself is also worth exploring, with its cobbled streets, colourful houses, and medieval walls. The great news is that it’s free to visit the beaches, and there’s plenty of parking available.
186 Miles of Breathtaking Coastal Paths
Last but not least, Pembrokeshire is home to some of the most beautiful coastal paths in the UK. The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park offers over 186 miles of stunning coastline to explore. The coastal path is free to access, and it’s a fantastic way to spend a day (or a week!) with the family, taking in the beautiful scenery and spotting wildlife such as seals and dolphins. Choose a section of the National Trail to walk and take the handy coastal bus back to your car, or do one of the many circular walks available.
Unforgettable Memories Await in Pembrokeshire
So there you have it, Pembrokeshire is a fantastic destination for a family holiday, offering tons of activities and attractions to suit all ages and interests. From exploring historic castles to enjoying outdoor adventures and relaxing on beautiful beaches, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful part of Wales.
What’s more, you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy all that Pembrokeshire has to offer. Many of the attractions and activities we’ve mentioned in this blog are very affordable, and many are even free. So, whether you’re on a tight budget or simply looking to save some money, you can still have a fantastic time in Pembrokeshire without overspending.
