Pembrokeshire is a fantastic place for dog owners, with an array of exciting days out tailored for you and your pet. Whether you’re looking for beautiful beaches, scenic walks or fun attractions this region has something you’ll both love.
Here’s a list of some of the top dog-friendly experiences along with some wooftastic tips to help you squeeze the most from a pet-friendly getaway:
What are the best dog walks?
Walk Name | Description | Postcode |
---|---|---|
Freshwater West | A stunning sandy beach ideal for dogs to run and play. This walk is around 3 km long with a flat terrain and free parking available at the nearby beach car park. | SA70 8PX |
Gwaun Valley | A gentle 4 km circular walk through beautiful beech woods, perfect for a relaxing stroll. Parking is available at the Pontfaen bridge. | SA65 9SE |
Stackpole to Barafundle Bay | This scenic 5 km coastal walk offers breathtaking views and leads to one of Pembrokeshire’s most beautiful beaches. Parking is available at Stackpole Quay. | SA71 5DF |
St David’s Head | A 6 km moderate walk offering spectacular views of the coastline. Dogs should be kept on leads due to livestock. Free parking is available at Whitesands beach. | SA62 6PS |
Little Milford | This 3 km walk through ancient woodland is a great spot for wildlife watching. Free parking is available at Little Milford car park. | SA62 4ET |
Pembrokeshire’s Beaches are a pooch paradise
Book a Pet Friendly Cottate in Pembrokeshire
From a dog’s perspective, it don’t get much better than the beach. You can dig, chase (and lose) your ball, run about like a nutter and sniff other dog’s bums. What more can you ask for? Thankfully Pembrokeshire has some cracking beaches that are as fun for dogs as their owners. Here’s the main ones:
- Postcode: SA71 5LS
- Parking: The nearest car park is at Stackpole Quay, about a 0.5-mile walk from the beach.
- Description: Often described as one of Britain’s most beautiful beaches, Barafundle Bay offers golden sands and crystal-clear waters, surrounded by dunes and pine trees. Its remote location ensures it stays less crowded.
- Dog rules: Dogs are welcome year-round without restrictions. However, be prepared for a bit of a walk to reach the beach as it’s inaccessible by car.
- Facilities: Limited – no facilities on the beach itself, but there are toilets and a café at Stackpole Quay.
- Freshwater West
- Postcode: SA71 5HW
- Parking: Two car parks, which fill up quickly in summer.
- Description: A stunning beach with extensive sand dunes, it’s a hotspot for surfers thanks to the strong Atlantic swells. It has also appeared in several films, including Harry Potter.
- Dog rules: Dogs are allowed all year round, making it perfect for a long beach stroll.
- Facilities: Next to the southern car park is Cafe Môr, a popular solar-powered café serving seafood and local dishes.
- Newport Sands (Traeth Mawr)
- Postcode: SA42 0NR
- Parking: There is parking available at the northern end of the beach.
- Description: This mile-long beach on the Nevern Estuary offers a mix of sand and pebble, with sand dunes and stunning views. It’s a popular spot for dog walkers, surfers, and families.
- Dog rules: Dogs are welcome all year round.
- Facilities: The northern end has toilets and a shop.
- Broad Haven South
- Postcode: SA71 5DR
- Parking: Parking is available above the beach, but be prepared for a walk down steep steps.
- Description: With golden sands and surrounding dunes, this scenic beach is perfect for dogs who love to roam. It’s part of the Bosherston Lakes area, so you can combine a beach visit with a walk around the lily ponds.
- Dog rules: Dogs are welcome all year round.
- Facilities: Basic – nearest facilities are in the village, a short drive away.
- Amroth Beach
- Postcode: SA67 8NF
- Parking: Ample parking is available near the beach.
- Description: This half-mile-long beach is flat and sandy, great for games and paddling. There are interesting rock pools at low tide, and you can see remnants of an ancient forest during extreme low tides.
- Dog rules: A dog-restricted zone applies to the central and western areas from May to September. Outside of this period, dogs are allowed freely.
- Facilities: The village of Amroth offers cafes, shops, and toilets.
Here’s the revised list of top five pet-friendly activities in Pembrokeshire, with TripAdvisor scores and additional info, replacing option 4:
1. Pembrokeshire Coast Path
TripAdvisor Score: 5.0/5
Cost: Free
This stunning 186-mile trail is perfect for dogs, offering scenic views of cliffs, beaches, and diverse wildlife. Ideal for both short and long walks.
Postcode: SA62 6BN (St Davids Visitor Centre)
2. Heatherton World of Activities
TripAdvisor Score: 4.5/5
Cost: Paid (varies by activity)
A family-friendly park welcoming dogs on leads. With a range of activities like go-karting and mini-golf, it’s a great spot for both pets and families.
Postcode: SA70 8RJ
3. Marloes Sands and Mere Coastal Walk
TripAdvisor Score: 4.5/5
Cost: Free
A beautiful coastal walk perfect for nature lovers and dogs, with opportunities to spot seals and seabirds along the way.
Postcode: SA62 3BH
4. Porthgain to Abereiddi Walk
TripAdvisor Score: 4.5/5
Cost: Free
This coastal path offers dramatic views and a unique walk along the Blue Lagoon, a popular spot for dogs to explore. The path runs between the old harbor village of Porthgain and the Blue Lagoon at Abereiddi.
Postcode: SA62 5BN
5. Stack Rocks to St Govan’s Walk
TripAdvisor Score: 4.5/5
Cost: Free
A coastal walk featuring limestone stacks and the historic St Govan’s Chapel. Keep dogs on leads due to the cliffs, but the views are spectacular.
Postcode: SA71 5DR (Stack Rocks Car Park)
These activities offer a variety of options for outdoor adventures with your pet, from scenic coastal paths to family-friendly parks.
Getting lost in the past with your pooch
If the idea of tramping around ancient ruins and digging up all those dark and mysterious stories of the past is up your alley (aka you’re a history nerd) then Pembrokeshire has you covered.
There are some great historic sites you can visit and best of all you can take the dog(s) along too. They might not appreciate the finer points of that castle’s design but it’s something new to wee on.
- Pembroke Castle: This medieval castle welcomes dogs on leads, allowing you to explore the historic site together. Learn about the birthplace of Henry VII while your dog enjoys the variety of sights and scents around the grounds.
- Carew Castle and Tidal Mill: Dogs are welcome at this historic site, which boasts stunning views of the surrounding area. Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch by the millpond while taking in the scenery.
- St Govan’s Chapel: A picturesque chapel built into cliffs, it’s a lovely spot for a walk, although dogs must be kept on leads due to the steep steps leading to the chapel.
Dog-Friendly Dining in Pembrokeshire
Looking for a bite in Pembrokeshire where you and your pup can both drool over the menu? These dog-friendly spots make sure no one gets left behind.
- The Cambrian Inn, Solva
Type of Food: British pub food, famous for burgers and Sunday roasts.
A welcoming pub by the river in Solva, offering hearty meals like burgers and Sunday lunches. The bar and terrace are dog-friendly, making it a great place to relax after a coastal walk.
Location: Solva, SA62 6UU
Phone Number: 01437 721210 - The Golden Lion, Newport
Type of Food: Modern British cuisine, using locally sourced ingredients.
This pub in Newport has a dog-friendly bar area and garden, offering fantastic locally sourced food and beer. It’s a perfect spot for a cosy meal with your pet.
Location: East Street, Newport, SA42 0SY
Phone Number: 01239 820321 - The Swan Inn, Little Haven
Type of Food: British pub classics with a focus on fresh seafood.
Situated on a hill overlooking Little Haven Beach, The Swan Inn welcomes dogs both inside and outside. They even offer a doggie menu, so your furry friend can enjoy a meal alongside you.
Location: Little Haven, Haverfordwest, SA62 3UL
Phone Number: 01437 781880 - Coco’s, Milford Haven
Type of Food: Contemporary dishes with a focus on local produce, plus a dedicated dog menu.
This stylish restaurant overlooking the marina offers a dedicated dog menu, with options ranging from dog-friendly tasting platters to full meals. It’s a must-visit for dog owners looking for something special.
Location: Milford Haven Marina, SA73 3AA
Phone Number: 01646 697083 - The Canteen, Newport
Type of Food: Stone-baked pizzas, with vegan and gluten-free options available.
A pizza parlour known for its relaxed, dog-friendly atmosphere during the day. It’s a great pitstop to grab a delicious pizza while you’re exploring the area, with takeaway options available.
Location: Newport, SA42 0PH
Phone Number: 01239 820131
Pembrokeshire truly offers something for everyone, making it a top choice for a holiday with your dog. From breathtaking beaches to lovely gardens and exciting activities, it’s a region that caters well to canine companions.