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Pembrokeshire |
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Pembrokeshire |
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A Welsh county at the far south-western tip of the nation, jutting out into the sea and with a rural landscape |
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Pembrokeshire is a Welsh county that can be found at the far south-western tip of the nation, jutting out into the sea. Its landscape is very rural with a small population of only around 115,000. The county town is Haverfordwest which has a historic castle founded by Gilbert de Clare, an English Baron of the 12th century. |
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 The beautiful Pembroke Coastline Photo by RATAEDL |
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There is also the tiny settlement of St David's which complete with fabulous Cathedral is the smallest city in the United Kingdom. having a population of less than 2000! The Cathedral, is built on the site of a monastery founded by St David himself, the popular Patron Saint of Wales. |
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 St David's Cathedral Photo by RATAEDL |
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Other urban settlements include Pembroke, and the beach holiday resort of Tenby. |
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 Tenby Harbour Photo by Skellig2008 |
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The county has an impressive 275 km of coastline, which includes a number of vitally important bird breeding sites, numerous bays and many stunning beaches. It's this natural beauty that makes Pembrokeshire so appealing and the joy of setting off on an adventure across this maritime county is hard to match. One of the best ways to enjoy the scenic wonder of this Welsh treasure is via the Pembrokeshire Coast Path and almost all of the coastline is included in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. |
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 Walking the Pembrokeshire Coast Path Photo by jaybergesen |
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Points of geographic interest include the Milford Haven estuary. This natural Harbour cuts deep into the county's landscape and is formed by the confluence of the Western and Eastern Cleddau rivers and Pembroke River. Milford Haven is one of the deepest natural Harbour's in the world and is now home to a huge port. To the north of Pembrokeshire are the Preseli Mountains, a fabulous stretch of high moorlands that sweep across the top of this wonderful district. Many prehistoric monuments have been found in Preseli and it is thought to be the source of the giant bluestones used in the construction of the world famous Stonehenge in Wiltshire England. |
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 Carrag Samson, near Abercastle Harbour Photo by RATAEDL |
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Caldey Island is one of a handful of islands off the Pembrokeshire coast and is famous for its ancient monastery. The island of Skomer can be reached by boat from Tenby. World famous for its impressive breeding seabird population, Skomer is a popular day trip and offers a chance to see some of Britain's most exciting wildlife. A huge collection of bird species can be spotted including Great Cormorants, European Storm Petrels and the fantastic Atlantic Puffins! Birds of prey can also be seen on the island such as Kestrels, Short-eared Owls and Peregrine Falcons. The island is also home to grey seals, a smattering of stunning wildflowers and even the elusive Harbour Porpoise. |
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 A Puffin on Skomer Island Photo by richardrichard |
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Away from the scenic beauty, Oakwood Theme Park offers a chance to get the heart thumping and experience some real G-force thrills. It is located in Narberth and includes the 'Speed' rollercoaster which has a 97 degree drop! |
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 Hydro Ride at Oakwood Theme Park Photo by Brian Marshall |
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The true highlight of Pembrokeshire though must be its fine array of beaches. Whitesands Bay is one of the best and is an award winning Blue Flag standard stretch of sand. The beach can be found two miles west of St David's and is said by some to be the best surfing beach in Pembrokeshire as well as one of the best tourist beaches in the world. Broad Haven is a picturesque seaside resort and home to a large, west facing beach, perfect for summer bathing, surfing and sailing. |
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 Whitesands Bay Photo by Richard Stebbing |
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 Surfing in Whitesands Bay Photo by treehouse1977 |
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 Relaxing on Broad Haven Beach Photo by Sarah and Iain |
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Pembrokeshire is a county jam packed full of fun, beauty and relaxation. It's a place that demands your attention and where plans are best laid aside. |
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St David’s Cathedral is open from 8:40am to the end of evensong. Entry is FREE. The Close, St Davids, Pembrokeshire, SA62 6RH. Tel: 01437 720 202 |
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Oakwood Theme Park is open all weekends from April to October and daily during school holidays from 10am to 5pm (6pm during high summer, closed in winter). Entry costs around £20 for adults, £14.50 for children. Canaston Bridgem, Narberth, Pembrokeshire, SA67 8DE. Tel: 01834 891 373 |
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