If you’re looking for an easy and enjoyable way to explore West Wales, then a family walk is the perfect solution. Walking is a free activity, a big bonus in these cash-strapped days, and there’s plenty of time for chatting and wholesome family fun.
Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire are full of beautiful and interesting places to explore, including dramatic coastline, ancient woodland and rolling hills. There are plenty of walks that the whole family can enjoy.
Here, we’ve highlighted some of the best walks that are up to 5 miles in length, so you’re sure to find something that suits you and your family.
Abermawr beach and Woods Circular Walk, Pembrokeshire
This 2.1-mile circular walk is a great option for families with younger children. Explore the storm beach at Abermawr with a history of shipwrecks, and spot the unlikely site of Brunel’s abandoned railway line which planned to bring passengers to embark a ferry to Ireland.
You’ll also pass small quarries covered with ferns woodland birds and bluebells in May/June.
Full walk information: Abermawr Beach and Woods Walk
Pembrey Country Park & Beach, Carmarthenshire
This fantastic country park has over 500 acres of parkland to explore and enjoy with lots of different activities. Within the country park, there are three Nature Trails. These waymarked walks are themed: Woodland Walk (3km), Pond Walk (1.8km) and Plant Walk (1.4km). The handy information booklet and is packed with things to spot, too.
The walks are mostly flat and easy to navigate, suitable for all levels of fitness. So, take your time and enjoy the great outdoors!
As a bonus, Pembrey also offers a Historic Augmented Reality Trail where you can learn about what went on in the park in both World Wars.
More information: Pembrey Country Park Walks & Trails
Dinas Island, Pembrokeshire
Not actually an island but a headland, Dinas is a brilliant circular family walk along the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path. There are steep climbs and it can be a little challenging in places, but the stunning views and sense of achievement make it all worthwhile. Children will enjoy looking across to Goodwick to try and spot the ferry making its way to Ireland, too.
We recommend sticking to the 3 mile headland circuit walk and cutting back to the start via the sheltered valley path between Cwm-yr-Eglwys and Pwllgwaelod, but there is also an option to make the walk a larger circuit via Dinas village itself, a total of 7 miles.
More information and full walk details: Dinas Island Walk
Cwm Gwaun Valley Waterfalls and Woodlands, Pembrokeshire
Why not explore the beautiful ancient woodlands and waterfalls of the Gwaun Valley in West Wales?
You’re spoilt for choice for short walks in this area of Pembrokeshire, so we’re including a couple of our favourites.
The 3.3 mile circuit from Gelli Fawr has plenty to recommend it, including the stunning waterfall and a ruined fulling mill. We’ve taken children on this walk many times. Full information and map: Gelli Fawr Walk
If you like the idea of something shorter, check out this set of three Cwm Gwawn/ Sychpant Short Walks instead where you can pick whatever takes your fancy, or even a combination.
One of our favourites is the 4-mile Cwm Gwaun walk. This route takes you past the stunning Cwm Gwaun waterfall, and is a great way to explore the area and get some fresh air.
Preseli Hills, Pembrokeshire
Situated in the north of Pembrokeshire, the Preseli Hills (or mountains, if you prefer) are stunning. You can literally see for miles, and there is nowhere like it to blow the cobwebs away.
Foel Eryr is a must-walk with little ones. It’s infinitely doable and we find it rounds off a morning in Newport (Pembs) with a pub lunch perfectly. Simply park in the Bwlch y Gwynt car park at the side of the B4329, carefully cross the road and head up to the summit of Foel Eryr. The 360° views from the top will take your breath away. It’s the perfect spot for a family selfie too! You may spot some wild horses if you’re lucky. Make sure to have a look at the information boards in the car park before heading off to learn how locals saved the Preselis from development. Map: Foel Eryr Summit Walk
For something a little longer in the Preseli Hills, try the 5-mile Foel Cwmcerwyn circular walk from Rosebush. Foel Cwmcerwyn is the highest summit in the range and you’ll experience 360° panoramic views and then join the ‘Golden Road’ which runs the length of the Preseli Ridge.
