Latest news with #VisitPembrokeshire
Yahoo
8 hours ago
- Yahoo
Discover the little Pembrokeshire village described as 'heaven on earth'
From Tenby to Narberth, Saundersfoot to Fishguard, there are so many picturesque places to visit in Pembrokeshire. But it's a small coastal village described by visitors as "heaven on earth" that needs to be top of your 'must-visit' list. The "delightful little village" of Solva is located just eight minutes (by car) away from St Davids. The Pembrokeshire village comes highly recommended by travel experts as well as visitors. Already in 2025, Solva has been named among the best and most beautiful villages in the UK by The Telegraph and Daily Mail, respectively. It also featured on a list of Britain's poshest villages along with the likes of Abersoch on the Llyn Peninsula (North Wales). There is a lot to like about Solva, according to The Telegraph. The news outlet explained: "Once you clap eyes on this village, with its flower-draped, stone cottages in bright ice-cream pastels and deep, fjord-like harbour where boats gaily bob, you'll be sorely tempted to jack in the day job and move to the coast pronto." You can pay a visit to the beach in the harbour, where you will find a large stretch of sand, and plenty of rock pools and caves to explore, Visit Pembrokeshire said. Once you've been to the harbour, there is lots to see and do in the village itself, with an array of galleries, craft shops and pubs. Or you can go for an "exhilarating" ramble on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. The Telegraph continued: "Up and over gorse-clad cliffs and coves to St Davids. Stop for a spiritual moment at St Non's where, legend has it, St David was born in 500AD." The news outlet added a trip to nearby St Davids was one of the best days out when visiting Solva. There you can take in its mighty medieval cathedral as well as make a trip to Whitesands Bay. Solva comes highly recommended by travel experts and visitors. (Image: Getty Images) The best time to visit Solva, isn't in the height of summer, but spring or autumn, when "you'll feel the magic", the news outlet added. Somewhere to stay For somewhere to stay in Solva, The Telegraph recommended the 16th-century Cambrian Inn (doubles from £135), which has a pistachio-green façade and blends period features with bright, modern flair. Best places to eat If it's food you're after, pay a visit to "local legend" Mrs Will the Fish and order a boat-fresh seafood platter, then pop into MamGu for Welshcakes which come in various flavours. Best pubs in Solva As for Solva's top pubs, The Telegraph recommended a visit to the Ship Inn (for cosy beams and craft beers) and the Harbour Inn (for waterfront views). Solva also comes highly recommended by tourists and visitors, boasting a 4.5 rating (out of 5) on Tripadvisor from 353 reviews. One person, talking about their experience in Solva, said: "Possibly one of the prettiest places on earth! "Come an hour before high tide and bring your crab bucket & wetsuit! An hours crabbing, a hot chocolate from the lovely cafe at the end of the harbour, then get involved jumping off the harbour wall. "The Harbour Inn pub at the car park is excellent, then cross the footbridge and walk up the small path for 5 minutes to get a stunning view of the bay." RECOMMENDED READING: 'Genteel' seaside town in Pembrokeshire with 'glorious' beaches among UK's best The 'secret' Pembrokeshire village named among the best in the UK to live in The 2 'charming' seaside towns among the best in Pembrokeshire according to locals Another visitor added: "This place is heaven on earth! Oh my! It's so beautiful. Visited at high and low tide and both stunning in different ways. "I took a little swim off the slipway on the quay, although did not go too far (being wary of currents in a place I do not know). "Lovely to walk to the Quay at high tide and right out along the beach at low tide."
Wales Online
7 days ago
- Wales Online
Bucket-list beach with a stream running to the sea, a castle and surfers love it
Bucket-list beach with a stream running to the sea, a castle and surfers love it It's brilliant for families, has picture perfect scenery and is just as pretty as some of the better known destinations Manorbier Bay, Pembrokeshire. (Image: ChrisAt - Getty ) If you're looking for a beach that flies a little under the radar but still delivers on views, great surfing conditions and golden sand, Manorbier might be worth a visit. Tucked into the south Pembrokeshire coastline just west of Tenby, this sandy, dune-backed beach sits in the shadow of a medieval castle. It has a bit of everything with rock pools, jaw-dropping views and even a stream that cuts down through the dunes before spilling into the sea. The beach faces south-west which makes it a popular spot for surfers although this particular beach can have some strong currents, so there are a number of warnings online advising people to stay cautious. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What's On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here Manorbier has been described as being 'perfect for rock-pooling' (Image: Getty ) According to Bluestone Wales, it's 'a favourite among families, perfect for rock-pooling and for water activity enthusiasts.' The Pembrokeshire Coast Path runs right past it, so it's an ideal spot to add to your beach bucket list if you're taking on some of the walk. Article continues below Sea waves crashing against the rocks (Image: Getty ) Manorbier Castle also overlooks the beach which was built in the late 11th century by the Anglo-Norman de Barry family and later came under the control of the Earls of Pembroke. The main entrance is a fortified gateway with a portcullis and heavy door, while a smaller postern gate gives access to the beach, and the entire castle looks like it was purpose-built to be the perfect beach backdrop. If you head south east along the cliffs, you'll also find King's Quoit which is a Neolithic burial chamber that's been perched there for around 5,000 years. Manorbier castle as seen from the beach, is a Norman castle which was founded in the 11th century. (Image: Getty ) Visit Pembrokeshire describes the beach itself as 'a sandy, dune-backed beach with a stream running down the northern end,' and gives the usual local advice to check tide times before you head down even if you're not surfing, as it can shrink quickly on an incoming tide. (Image: Getty ) Parking is fairly limited as there's space for around 30 cars in the National Park car park just above the beach and a few more along the road toward Freshwater East. Toilets are available, and an ice cream van is usually parked up during peak times, so it's perfect if you're heading on a family day out. Manorbier Bay in the spring sunshine (Image: Getty ) In the village itself, you'll find a couple of cafés, a pub, and a mix of places to stay with everything from guesthouses to a Youth Hostel at nearby Skrinkle Haven which is definitely a good base if you're looking to explore this quieter stretch of coastline away from the more crowded tourist spots. Although if you are sticking around for a few days, there are some brilliant beaches nearby that are worth the extra drive (or walk, if you're up for a longer stretch along the coast path). Freshwater West Beach is one of Wales' best (Image: Mario Sánchez Prada ) Freshwater East is the closest and has a wide, gently shelving bay that's great for swimming and tends to stay pretty calm even when it's windy elsewhere. A little further west you can also find Swanlake Bay which is a real hidden cove that's only accessible via the coast path or footpath from the road above. There's no car park or facilities, but you'll usually have it almost to yourself. If you're after postcard-perfect scenery, Barafundle is about a 20-minute drive away and is often described as one of the best beaches in the UK (though it does get busy in summer). It's a bit of a walk from the car park at Stackpole Quay, but you're rewarded with golden sand, turquoise water and dramatic cliffs. For something wilder and more remote, Broad Haven South and the Bosherston Lily Ponds are also close by and you can walk from one to the other and back again in a big loop. But if you don't mind spots with a bit more buzz, you could also head over to one of the beaches named in the UK that's also in Pembrokeshire if you'd prefer more things to do inland while making the most of the sea air. Saundersfoot is one of 20 coastal towns to make the Sunday Times list of best in the UK. Article continues below The beach itself backs onto the cute and quirky village with stunning foodie options and lovely residents who instantly make you feel welcome, so is well worth stopping off at if you're in the area. Let us know if you have a favourite beach in Pembrokeshire, or anywhere else in Wales in the comments below.
Wales Online
21-06-2025
- Wales Online
This laid-back harbour town has dolphin views and lush seafood worth the drive
This laid-back harbour town has dolphin views and lush seafood worth the drive Come for the wildlife stay for the incredible food scene This small harbour town is a surprising goldmine for marine life-watching on the Pembrokeshire coast. (Image: Portia Jones ) Looking for a wildlife hotspot on the glorious Welsh coastline? The small harbour town of Fishguard is a surprising goldmine for marine life-watching on the Pembrokeshire coast. From the shoreline between Poppit and Strumble, porpoises slice through the waves with astonishing regularity. Dolphins aren't shy either; they're often spotted between Poppit and Fishguard, sometimes venturing right into the harbour or Newport Bay for a splashy appearance. Seals? They're adorable local celebs during pupping season when chunky pups haul out onto public beaches for a well-earned rest. Head to Strumble Head for one of Sea Trust Wales' porpoise watches and get clued up by local experts. Just down the road, their Ocean Lab visitor centre, near Fishguard and Goodwick station, lets you observe native sea creatures in a capture-and-release aquarium. If you fancy swapping your binoculars for a boat trip, there are regular wildlife-watching excursions along the coast, offering front-row seats to seabird colonies, playful dolphins, and dramatic cliffs. Between the marine life, epic views, and a small-town food scene that punches well above its weight, Fishguard isn't just a stop on the way to somewhere else. It's the destination. Here's how to make the most of a long weekend in Fishguard. Article continues below Wildlife watching trip There's so much wildlife here Fishguard, Wales, offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, particularly marine life. According to Visit Pembrokeshire, common and bottlenose dolphins are frequently spotted in Fishguard Bay, sometimes even popping into the harbour, much to the delight of residents and tourists. You can also spot harbour porpoises, minke whales, and even fin whales with specialised boat trips that depart from Fishguard. North Pembrokeshire Tours offers fun boat trips to Strumble Head running from April to October, weather permitting. On this brilliant wildlife trip, you'll see the landing place where French forces made the historic last invasion of mainland Britain en route to the dramatic Strumble Head lighthouse. Your trusty skipper will also take you to Emerald coves and secret beaches, hidden from view, where seals bask in the sun, and porpoises feed at the turn of the tide. Book here Coastal Walks and History There are loads of lovely walks around Fishguard (Image: Portia Jones ) Before diving into Fishguard's wildlife and culinary offerings, it's worth building up an appetite with a bracing coastal hike. A short walk from the town centre takes you to Fishguard Fort, an old defensive site with sweeping views across the bay. Built in the 18th century to protect against French invasions, the fort is now a peaceful spot to watch the ferry from Ireland glide into the port. The real local legend, though, is how Fishguard's women, dressed in distinctive red cloaks and black hats, helped repel the last invasion of Britain in 1797. Their formidable appearance supposedly tricked the French into thinking a much larger army awaited them. After exploring the town, it's time to dive into Fishguard's thriving food scene, starting with a banging brunch. Visit The Last Invasion Tapestry Before your next meal, take a short walk to Fishguard Town Hall, where the impressive Last Invasion Tapestry is displayed. The last time Britain was invaded, it happened right here in Fishguard. On February 22, 1797, French troops landed just outside town in a chaotic attempt to stir up rebellion. It didn't last long. Local resistance, led by the legendary Jemima Nicholas, quickly brought the invasion to an end. It was over almost as soon as it began, but Fishguard still holds the title for the last invasion of Britain and wears it with pride. This short but dramatic campaign was the last time a hostile foreign force set foot on mainland Britain, and you can relive the story through the stunning Last Invasion Tapestry. This award-winning masterpiece, stretching an impressive 30 metres, was designed and stitched by around 80 talented local women in 1997 to mark the bicentenary. With intricate details that bring history to life, alongside storyboards and artefacts, you can understand how a small Welsh town became the setting for a momentous chapter in British history. Fishguard is one of my favourite places in Pembrokeshire (Image: Portia Jones ) Gorsedd Circle In 1936, Fishguard hosted the National Eisteddfod, Wales' legendary festival of music and poetry. To mark the occasion, the Gorsedd Circle was built. Just a short five-minute stroll from Fishguard Square, this historic stone circle is well worth a visit. Stand among the stones and picture the poets, musicians, and bards who once gathered here. It's got a bit of a mystical feel, perfect for soaking up some Welsh culture. You'll also get splendid views over Lower Town and Fishguard Fort across the bay. A little history, a little scenery, what's not to love? Lower Town Harbour and kayaking Wander down to Lower Town Harbour, a postcard-perfect fishing port that's been used as a filming location for movies like Moby Dick. (Image: Getty ) Wander down to Lower Town Harbour, a postcard-perfect fishing port that's been used as a filming location for movies like Moby Dick. If you're lucky, you'll find pop-up seafood stalls serving freshly caught crab or lobster sandwiches here. The simplicity of ultra-fresh seafood, a squeeze of lemon, and a touch of salt is a food lover's dream. Want an adventure while you're here? Kayaking in Pembrokeshire is hands down one of the best ways to explore this jaw-dropping coastline. With 220 miles of rugged cliffs, secret caves, and golden beaches, it's a paddler's paradise. And let's not forget, this is Britain's only coastal National Park, so you're in for some seriously epic views! Hop in a kayak with Kayak King in Fishguard, and you'll be treated to an unforgettable tour of the Pembrokeshire coast. Glide through crystal-clear waters, weave in and out of hidden sea caves, and get up close to incredible marine life. Keep your eyes peeled for the resident seals lounging on the rocks or bobbing in the waves, and if you're lucky, you might even spot a playful porpoise! No experience? No worries! Kayak King's expert guides ensure everyone feels right at home, from total newbies to confident paddlers. Their stable, sit-on-top kayaks are extremely easy to handle, and they are best suited for sheltered waters, making it a fun and stress-free adventure for all ages. Where to eat in Fishguard Pembrokeshire is having an absolute moment when it comes to food. (Image: Portia Jones ) With waters full of diver-caught scallops, St Brides Bay crayfish, plump mussels, lobsters, bass and mackerel, Pembrokeshire serves up a serious coastal bounty. And Fishguard? It's holding its own with an impressive food scene that makes the most of all that local bounty. Independent cafés, cosy pubs and clever kitchens are turning out gastro-delights from just-landed seafood to creative plates you'd expect in a much bigger town. Here are a few of our top picks. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What's On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here Cresswell's Café For a properly comforting Welsh lunch, Cresswell's Café is a must. This local haunt is famous for its Sunday lunches and traditional Welsh cawl. Their homemade soups and generously filled sandwiches are excellent options if you're looking for something lighter. Mannings Ffres With a welcoming ambience and a creative menu, Mannings Ffres is always a good breakfast choice. This café-greengrocer hybrid is a firm favourite with locals and uses quality ingredients sourced from Pembrokeshire's best producers. Their new breakfast stack is loaded with sausage patty, crispy bacon, black pudding, flat mushroom, and a perfectly cooked Trebover egg. Don't forget to try their locally roasted coffee—it's strong, smooth, and the perfect way to wake up before a day of exploring. Mannings Ffres is always a good breakfast choice (Image: Independent Coffee Guide ) The Gourmet Pig If you're looking for a quick yet high-quality breakfast, head to The Gourmet Pig. This award-winning deli stocks artisan Welsh cheeses, fresh pastries and local produce. Their sausage rolls and Pembrokeshire butter croissants are dangerously good, making it hard to choose just one item. If you're going on a long coastal walk, grab a freshly made baguette with local cheese and chutney for a top-tier picnic. Janes Fishguard – Coffee Shop If you love a cosy café with homemade treats, you'll adore Janes. This family-run spot is a charming blend of coffee shop and haberdashery, making it a unique place to unwind with a steaming cup of coffee. They serve Segafredo coffee (rich, smooth, and just the right level of indulgence) alongside a menu of homemade cakes, light lunches, and hearty bites. If you're after a proper Welsh treat, their bara brith (a traditional fruit loaf) is a must-try, moist, lightly spiced, and perfect with a slather of butter. Hooked @31 Fish and chips might be a classic, but it's an art form in Fishguard. At Hooked @31, you'll find some of Pembrokeshire's crispiest, freshest fish and chips. Their beer-battered cod, homemade tartar sauce, and double-cooked chips are nothing short of perfection. They also serve loaded fries with toppings like pulled pork, Welsh rarebit, and fresh seafood. Ffwrn Named after the Welsh word for oven, Ffwrn is a one-of-a-kind spot in a beautifully converted 1930s church hall. With its mix of vintage and industrial curiosities, lush greenery, open-plan space, and cooking centred around a roaring Fire, it's a must-visit dining spot in Pembrokeshire. On the menu? Crisp wood-fired pizzas, Middle Eastern-inspired sharing plates, and plenty of vegan and gluten-free options. Pair with local ales, hand-picked wines or a cheeky cocktail. Ffwrn isn't just about great food—it's also a buzzing event venue that hosts live performances and themed events. The Royal Oak Royal Oak Inn, Fishguard (Image: Wales Online ) For a cosy, atmospheric dinner, The Royal Oak is frankly unbeatable. This pub is where the surrender treaty was signed after the 1797 French invasion and it still holds its historic charm today. Expect filling portions, a fantastic selection of local ales, and a lively crowd of locals and visitors. Live folk music nights (usually on Tuesdays) are a great way to experience Pembrokeshire's musical heritage while enjoying a locale ale. Hot Chilli Indian Restaurant If you're craving richly spiced, comforting Indian food on the Welsh coast, Hot Chilli Indian Restaurant is a spot worth visiting. This family-run Bengali and Welsh eatery serves flavour-packed curries, sizzling tandoori dishes, and homemade desserts in a warm and welcoming setting. The extensive menu features all the beloved classics—from creamy kormas to rich, slow-cooked rogan josh—alongside a few house specials crafted by the chefs. However, if you still have room after your main course, it's worth saving space for dessert. Traditional Indian kulfi, flavoured with mango or pistachio, is a perfect way to end the meal—refreshing, sweet, and indulgent. JT at the Abergwaun Hotel JT at the Abergwaun Hotel is a must-visit spot (Image: Portia Jones ) The restaurant at The Abergwaun Hotel offers a contemporary twist on European cuisine, celebrating the finest Welsh produce. Expect carefully crafted dishes that balance bold flavours with fresh, local ingredients. Typical starters include crispy teriyaki pork belly with a zingy yuzu ponzu dressing or sticky king prawn bao buns packed with marinated cucumber and a punchy lime dressing. Mains are just as impressive, expect perfectly cooked Welsh ribeye, fillet steak with house chips, a rich peppercorn sauce, or teriyaki-glazed salmon with fennel-roasted new potatoes and charred broccoli. Vegetarians will also be well-served, with dishes like the spring vegetable medley featuring crispy nut bites, halloumi, and a fresh herb sauce. Late night drinks and ents The Ship Inn If you're not ready to call it a night, head to The Ship Inn for a proper old-school pub experience. Tucked away in Lower Town, Fishguard, right by the mouth of the River Gwaun, The Ship Inn is a popular alehouse with roots stretching back to the late 18th century and is brimming with character, sea-faring tales, and a cracking selection of real ales. Inside, walls are decked with old maritime photos, maps, and quirky memorabilia, adding to its wonderfully unspoiled charm. It's a Free House and a proud feature in the Good Beer Guide, so you know you're in for a top-notch pint. Theatre Gwaun If you're looking for an offbeat venue, Theatre Gwaun is a community-run theatre and cinema that offers indie films, live performances, and occasional comedy nights. It's an unexpected but fantastic way to round off the evening. Stay at the Abergwaun Hotel The Abergwaun Hotel is a boutique bolthole where the food is the real star. (Image: The Abergwaun Hotel ) The Abergwaun Hotel is a boutique bolthole where the food is the real star. Once a derelict building that stood empty for a decade, local couple Dan and Lois, who both have a background in high-end hospitality, gave it a new lease on life in 2020. The result? A stylish, contemporary 4-star hotel with five luxury en-suite rooms, a two-bedroom apartment, and a restaurant that's putting Fishguard on the foodie map. The rooms are bright and airy, with simple, elegant décor that uses neutral tones and soft textures. They are where minimalism meets comfort—nothing too fussy, just a relaxing space to crash after a day of eating and epic coastal walks. One of the rooms is even dog-friendly, so your adventure-loving pup doesn't have to miss out. When the hotel appeared on Channel 4's Four in a Bed in 2024, the visiting contestants praised the spotless rooms and cloud-like beds. One guest flopped onto the mattress and declared, "It's like lying on a cloud", while another couple admitted: 'This is going to be hard to beat.' Dan and Lois, owners of the Abergwaun Hotel in Fishguard. The couple and the hotel featured in an episode of Four in a Bed. (Image: Channel 4 ) The Real Star: The Food While the rooms are lovely, the real reason to stay here is the food. The hotel's restaurant, JT at The Abergwaun, is run by co-owner Dan, a chef who turns local ingredients into bold, inventive dishes. Here you'll find European flavours with a Pembrokeshire twist, all served in a laid-back, intimate setting. The menu changes with the seasons, and the quality is consistently high, whether you opt for the full-tasting menu or simply stop by for a well-crafted cocktail. The restaurant has received a Good Food Award for Gastro Pubs (Gold Seal) and is quickly establishing a reputation as one of the best places to eat in this part of Wales. Article continues below If you need proof, look no further than the reactions on Four in a Bed. Confident in his breakfast skills, Dan served up a morning feast that left one guest saying: 'I've eaten in restaurants all over the world, and that's probably one of the best breakfasts I've ever had.' High praise, indeed.
Pembrokeshire Herald
13-05-2025
- Business
- Pembrokeshire Herald
Carmarthenshire celebrates tourism investment during Wales Tourism Week
Visit Pembrokeshire marks Wales Tourism Week by highlighting the county's vital visitor economy VISIT PEMBROKESHIRE is marking Wales Tourism Week 2025 by shining a spotlight on the county's thriving visitor economy – a key pillar of local life that is both culturally enriching and economically essential. Tourism in Pembrokeshire contributes an estimated £604 million to the local economy each year, welcoming over 6.3 million visitors and supporting 23% of all local employment. It stands alongside energy and agriculture as one of the county's three economic cornerstones. However, the value of tourism goes far beyond economic impact. It supports local supply chains, preserves cultural and natural heritage, and helps sustain services in rural communities. As the only UK National Park primarily designated for its coastal landscape, Pembrokeshire's natural beauty continues to attract visitors from around the world. Neil Kedward: Chair of Visit Pembrokeshire Neil Kedward, Chief Executive of Seren Collection and Chair of Visit Pembrokeshire, said: 'Tourism is the lifeblood of Pembrokeshire – it supports thousands of livelihoods, sustains our rural communities, and showcases the very best of Welsh culture and our extraordinary land and seascapes to the world. 'Its value goes beyond visitor spend. It fuels and binds our local supply chains, sustains hospitality and creative businesses, and keeps vital services working in rural areas. 'As we mark Wales Tourism Week, it's time to recognise not only the economic value of our visitors, but the way tourism enriches lives, preserves our heritage, and strengthens our sense of place. Investing in sustainable, high-quality tourism really is investing in the future of Pembrokeshire and the wellbeing of our communities.' Tourism in the county is a diverse and dynamic ecosystem, encompassing accommodation providers, attractions, activity organisers, artists, retailers, food and drink producers, heritage organisations and more. Despite its diversity, 99% of tourism-related businesses in Pembrokeshire are microbusinesses—many operating in remote or rural locations. Emma Thornton, Chief Executive of Visit Pembrokeshire Emma Thornton Visit Pembrokeshire Chief Executive added: 'We support and connect businesses and organisations involved in tourism with each other, and our mantra is 'stronger together'. Visit Pembrokeshire is the glue that brings people together, delivering Pembrokeshire's 2024–28 Destination Management Plan in collaboration with public and private sector partners.' Visit Pembrokeshire was launched in November 2020 as the county's official Destination Management Organisation (DMO) – the first of its kind in Wales. Its role is to champion sustainable, year-round tourism that balances the needs of visitors with those of residents, while spreading footfall more evenly across the county to ease pressure on popular hotspots. Recognises important role of tourism in Pembrokeshire: Henry Tufnell MP Local MP Henry Tufnell also praised the sector, saying: 'Tourism is absolutely central to Pembrokeshire – not only as a cornerstone of our local economy, but as a reflection of the pride we take in our landscapes, heritage and communities. 'While the sector has faced real challenges in recent years, the dedication and resilience shown by local businesses, supported by organisations like Visit Pembrokeshire, is truly inspiring. With continued support and collaboration, I'm confident tourism in the county has a bright and sustainable future.' The Wales Tourism Week campaign highlights the value of tourism across the nation, and Pembrokeshire's events and achievements this week serve as a reminder of just how deeply embedded tourism is in the county's identity.
Pembrokeshire Herald
12-05-2025
- Business
- Pembrokeshire Herald
Second homes tax brings in £12.5 million for Pembrokeshire Council despite cut
Visit Pembrokeshire marks Wales Tourism Week by highlighting the county's vital visitor economy VISIT PEMBROKESHIRE is marking Wales Tourism Week 2025 by shining a spotlight on the county's thriving visitor economy – a key pillar of local life that is both culturally enriching and economically essential. Tourism in Pembrokeshire contributes an estimated £604 million to the local economy each year, welcoming over 6.3 million visitors and supporting 23% of all local employment. It stands alongside energy and agriculture as one of the county's three economic cornerstones. However, the value of tourism goes far beyond economic impact. It supports local supply chains, preserves cultural and natural heritage, and helps sustain services in rural communities. As the only UK National Park primarily designated for its coastal landscape, Pembrokeshire's natural beauty continues to attract visitors from around the world. Neil Kedward: Chair of Visit Pembrokeshire Neil Kedward, Chief Executive of Seren Collection and Chair of Visit Pembrokeshire, said: 'Tourism is the lifeblood of Pembrokeshire – it supports thousands of livelihoods, sustains our rural communities, and showcases the very best of Welsh culture and our extraordinary land and seascapes to the world. 'Its value goes beyond visitor spend. It fuels and binds our local supply chains, sustains hospitality and creative businesses, and keeps vital services working in rural areas. 'As we mark Wales Tourism Week, it's time to recognise not only the economic value of our visitors, but the way tourism enriches lives, preserves our heritage, and strengthens our sense of place. Investing in sustainable, high-quality tourism really is investing in the future of Pembrokeshire and the wellbeing of our communities.' Tourism in the county is a diverse and dynamic ecosystem, encompassing accommodation providers, attractions, activity organisers, artists, retailers, food and drink producers, heritage organisations and more. Despite its diversity, 99% of tourism-related businesses in Pembrokeshire are microbusinesses—many operating in remote or rural locations. Emma Thornton, Chief Executive of Visit Pembrokeshire Emma Thornton Visit Pembrokeshire Chief Executive added: 'We support and connect businesses and organisations involved in tourism with each other, and our mantra is 'stronger together'. Visit Pembrokeshire is the glue that brings people together, delivering Pembrokeshire's 2024–28 Destination Management Plan in collaboration with public and private sector partners.' Visit Pembrokeshire was launched in November 2020 as the county's official Destination Management Organisation (DMO) – the first of its kind in Wales. Its role is to champion sustainable, year-round tourism that balances the needs of visitors with those of residents, while spreading footfall more evenly across the county to ease pressure on popular hotspots. Recognises important role of tourism in Pembrokeshire: Henry Tufnell MP Local MP Henry Tufnell also praised the sector, saying: 'Tourism is absolutely central to Pembrokeshire – not only as a cornerstone of our local economy, but as a reflection of the pride we take in our landscapes, heritage and communities. 'While the sector has faced real challenges in recent years, the dedication and resilience shown by local businesses, supported by organisations like Visit Pembrokeshire, is truly inspiring. With continued support and collaboration, I'm confident tourism in the county has a bright and sustainable future.' The Wales Tourism Week campaign highlights the value of tourism across the nation, and Pembrokeshire's events and achievements this week serve as a reminder of just how deeply embedded tourism is in the county's identity.
