Solva to St Davids Coastal Walk - Pembrokeshire

Route on website - www.welshmanwalking.co.uk/pembrokeshire

Begin your journey in the historic heart of St Davids, parking near the cathedral before catching the seasonal 400 ‘Puffin Shuttle’ bus to Solva. This charming harbour village has a rich maritime history — once a bustling port for lime and coal, Solva is now beloved for its tidal harbour, colourful cottages, and thriving local art scene.

From Solva’s quay, pick up the Pembrokeshire Coast Path heading west. The route climbs gently out of the village to deliver spectacular views back across St Brides Bay. The cliffs here are known for their striking folded rock formations, a visible reminder of the area's geological past. Keep your eyes peeled for seabirds such as fulmars and kittiwakes, and in summer, the vibrant blooms of sea thrift and campion.

The path undulates along headlands and dips into secluded coves like Porth Clais, once a small medieval harbour used by the monks of St Davids. It’s worth pausing here to explore the old lime kilns and enjoy the peaceful setting.

The final stretch into St Davids takes you past rolling farmland before arriving in Britain’s smallest city, which holds immense cultural and spiritual importance in Wales. At its heart lies the magnificent St Davids Cathedral, founded in the 12th century on the site of an earlier monastery established by St David, the patron saint of Wales, in the 6th century. For over a thousand years, this has been a major pilgrimage site, in the Middle Ages, two pilgrimages to St Davids were considered the spiritual equivalent of one to Rome.

Wander through the cathedral grounds and the atmospheric ruins of the Bishop’s Palace, then explore the city’s cafés, galleries, and craft shops before heading back to your starting point.