Exploring the Best of South Wales: Margam Country Park to Barafundle Bay Beach

A historical estate featuring a Neo-Gothic mansion, vast gardens, and a vibrant wildlife population.
First stop: the picturesque Margam Country Park. It's the perfect place to stretch your legs and enjoy a cup of hot tea from the on-site café before continuing your trip west. Here, surrounded by historic gardens and rolling parkland, you'll find a 19th-century Tudor Gothic castle and a Grade I-listed abbey. As you explore the grounds, keep your eyes peeled for deer. The park is home to three different species – see if you can spot them! 🅿️ On-site parking is available.

Welcome to Tenby – one of the prettiest seaside towns in Wales. There's so much to see and do here, but first, start with lunch. You can park your car at the multi-storey pay and display car park.

A cosy Tudor Square spot serving British comfort classics and drinks.
The Baytree restaurant offers a relaxed dining experience in a cosy setting, complete with exposed stone walls, wooden beams, and large windows. They serve classic British cuisine, focusing on fresh seafood caught daily by local fishermen and ingredients from nearby farms. They also have a good selection of wines to complement your meal. 🗓️ Check the opening hours and book a table in advance.

The sandy cove between Castle Hill and East Cliff overlooking the ancient castle ruins.
Castle Beach is a special coastal spot nestled between the ancient ruins of Tenby Castle and the rugged cliffs of the Pembrokeshire coastline. This small sandy cove changes with the tide, forming distinct sections as the water ebbs away. Its secluded location behind castle walls and access via steep paths add to its charm.

A castle with a rich history dating back to the 12th century, built by the Normans during their invasion of West Wales.
After a leisurely stroll along the beach, you can explore the ruins of Tenby Castle, situated atop Castle Hill, offering impressive views of the sea. While only a small tower remains, the castle's rich history spans from its Norman beginnings in the 12th century to its involvement in various conflicts and sieges over the centuries.

The small cliffside chapel, accessed by a stairway named after the 6th-century hermit who lived there.
Hop in the car and head southwest to St Govan's Chapel in Bosherston. There's a free car park minutes away from the chapel (and often an ice cream van, too). You'll follow the coastal path by foot to St Govan's Head, taking in the magnificent views of the dramatic coastline, blue sea, and limestone cliffs. 🅿️ Car parks are available nearby.

A rugged and scenic promontory on the southern coast of Pembrokeshire, known for its dramatic cliffs and stunning views of the Celtic Sea.
Take a peaceful walk along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path from St Govan's Chapel towards the Coastguard Lookout. Saint Govan's Head is a rugged and scenic headland on the southern coast of Pembrokeshire, celebrated for its striking cliffs. Legend has it that St. Govan, an Irish hermit, was saved from pirates by a miraculous cliff opening, where he decided to live thereafter. The headland provides stunning views of the Celtic Sea and can be reached by descending a steep set of stone steps leading down to the chapel.

A restaurant at Stackpole Manor, overlooking the Lily Ponds of Bosherston, Barafundle Bay, and Broadhaven Beach.
In the evening, you'll reach the charming village of Stackpole on the western edge of Pembrokeshire. Enjoy dinner near the coast at the Stackpole Inn, a 17th-century pub serving traditional Welsh delicacies along with all the usual pub-dinner favourites. 🗓️ Check the opening hours and book a table in advance. 🅿️ Street parking is available.

Park your car before taking a relaxing stroll along the beach. Parking spaces are located directly behind the small tea-room building.

A pristine and secluded sandy beach located between dramatic cliffs along the Pembrokeshire coastline.
The final stop on today's road trip is Barafundle Bay – just in time for sunset. This secluded, unspoiled location has been listed as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It's also described by locals as the 'Jewel in the Crown'. Take a stroll here at sunset and unwind after the excitement of the day. For parking, follow the signs to Stackpole Quay. You'll then park in Stackpole Quay car park and walk 10–15 minutes from here to Barafundle Bay Beach.

A hotel, situated near Manorbier Castle and Tenby Castle, offering accommodations with sea-view options and breakfast.
Now it's time to relax, rest your head and enjoy a dreamy night's sleep at the lovely Giltar Hotel, Tenby. 🅿️ On-site parking is available.