Highlight • Viewpoint
St Brides Haven
Hiking
4.9
(43)
Road cycling
5.0
(3)
St Brides Haven is a picturesque viewpoint and sheltered cove nestled on the Pembrokeshire coastline in West Wales, offering panoramic views across St Brides Bay. Situated within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, this spot is renowned for its dramatic coastal scenery and rich natural features. The viewpoint itself sits at an elevation of approximately 55 metres, providing an excellent vantage point over the bay. It is located on the Marloes peninsula, a short distance from villages like Marloes, Dale, and Little Haven Pembrokeshire.
Visitors are consistently drawn to the tranquil atmosphere and the sheltered nature of St Brides Haven, making it a favourite for those seeking a peaceful coastal escape. Hikers and families particularly appreciate the calm waters and the abundance of rock pools, which provide endless opportunities for exploration. The excellent water clarity on calm days also makes it a popular destination for divers and snorkelers, eager to discover the vibrant underwater world within the Pembrokeshire Marine Special Area of Conservation.
Before you go, it's helpful to know that St Brides Haven offers basic but essential facilities, including toilets and a small, free car park for about 20 cars. A short, rolled stone path leads from the parking area to the viewpoint, making it accessible for many. The beach itself is a mix of shingle and pebbles, revealing a sandy bay at low tide. It's a dog-friendly location year-round, so your canine companions are welcome to join your coastal adventures.
The best time to visit St Brides Haven is during calmer weather, when the sheltered waters are ideal for activities like bathing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The area is also a haven for walkers, with the renowned St Brides Haven Pembrokeshire Coast Path running along the edge of the bay. This path offers spectacular views across St Brides Bay to distant landmarks like St David's Head and Ramsey Island, making it perfect for best coastal walks near St Brides Haven.
What truly makes a visit memorable are the small details: spotting cuttlefish and jewel anemones while wild swimming in St Brides Haven Pembrokeshire, or watching children delight in the extensive rock pools teeming with spider crabs and starfish. The charming St Bridget's Church, dating back to at least the 13th century, overlooks the bay, adding a historical touch to the natural beauty. An elevated lawned picnic area with wooden benches provides a perfect spot for lunch, allowing you to soak in the serene surroundings.
For those looking to explore the area further, a variety of routes are available for walking and hiking. Whether you're interested in a gentle stroll along the beach or a more challenging section of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, you can find suitable options. Many hikers use komoot to discover detailed trail information, including St Brides Haven viewpoint information and family friendly activities, helping them plan their perfect day out in this beautiful part of West Wales.
Tips
July 19, 2022
Road cycling
Plenty of rock pools will keep budding explorers happy for hours. There are toilet facilities at the car park.
June 24, 2023
Hiking
August 13, 2021
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near St Brides Haven
4.9
(21)
105
hikers
7.64km
02:03
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
23
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
9
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 60 m
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Saturday 4 July
17°C
14°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 22.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best walking trails and routes around St Brides Haven, and how long do they typically take?
St Brides Haven is a fantastic starting point for exploring the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. While the intro mentions the path, for specific routes, you can head north towards Little Haven or south towards Marloes Sands. A popular option is a circular walk incorporating the coastal path and inland tracks, which can range from 1.5 to 3 hours depending on your pace and chosen loop. Hikers often enjoy the stretch offering views towards St David's Head and Ramsey Island.
What is the difficulty rating and elevation change like for walks around St Brides Haven?
The Pembrokeshire Coast Path around St Brides Haven is generally considered intermediate. While the viewpoint itself is at an elevation of about 55 metres, the coastal path involves undulating terrain with ascents and descents. Expect some moderate climbs and descents, typical of coastal walking, but nothing overly strenuous for regular hikers. The path is well-maintained, but sturdy footwear is always recommended.
What specific natural features and wildlife can be observed at St Brides Haven?
Beyond the general coastal beauty, St Brides Haven is renowned for its vibrant marine life. Divers and snorkelers frequently spot cuttlefish, prawns, jewel anemones, crabs, and even seahorses around a known reef. The extensive rock pools, especially at low tide, are teeming with sea life like spider crabs and starfish, making them perfect for exploration. A small stream also runs across the bay, adding to the natural charm.
Are there any permits required to visit St Brides Haven or use its facilities?
No, there are no permits required to visit St Brides Haven or to use its basic facilities like the car park and toilets. It is part of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, which is freely accessible to the public. However, if you plan to engage in specific activities like commercial diving or large group events, it's always wise to check with local authorities.
Is St Brides Haven suitable for families with young children, and what are the rules regarding dogs?
Absolutely, St Brides Haven is very family-friendly. The sheltered, shallow waters are safe for children to paddle, and the extensive rock pools offer hours of discovery. There's also an elevated lawned picnic area with benches. The beach is dog-friendly year-round, meaning your canine companions are welcome to join your coastal adventures without seasonal restrictions.
What are the parking options at St Brides Haven, and how quickly does it fill up?
St Brides Haven has a small, free car park that can accommodate about 20 cars. While convenient, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season (summer) and on sunny weekends. To secure a spot, it's advisable to arrive early in the morning. If the main car park is full, alternative parking options are limited, so planning your visit for off-peak times or having a backup plan is recommended.
Are there any cafes, pubs, or accommodation options directly near St Brides Haven?
St Brides Haven itself has very basic facilities and does not host cafes, pubs, or dedicated accommodation. However, the nearby villages of Marloes, Dale, and Little Haven are just a short drive away and offer a selection of pubs, cafes, and guesthouses. For a unique stay, the 19th-century St Brides Castle, overlooking the bay, is now a self-catering holiday complex.
What makes St Brides Haven a good spot for wild swimming or paddleboarding?
St Brides Haven is highly regarded for wild swimming and paddleboarding due to its sheltered cove and excellent water clarity on calm days. The bay faces north-west, providing protection from prevailing winds, which often results in calm, inviting waters. The shallow entry and rich underwater ecosystem also make it a popular choice for those looking to explore while swimming or snorkeling.
Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known spots near St Brides Haven worth exploring?
Beyond the main beach, consider exploring the historical elements. The medieval St Bridget's Church, dating back to at least the 13th century, overlooks the bay and is worth a visit. The restored Pump House, built in 1904, also offers a glimpse into the area's past. For stargazers, the rural location with minimal light pollution makes St Brides Haven an excellent spot for observing the night sky.
What are the best coastal walks that start or pass through St Brides Haven?
St Brides Haven is perfectly situated on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, offering numerous excellent coastal walks. You can head north towards Little Haven, enjoying dramatic cliff-top views and potentially spotting wildlife. Alternatively, walking south will take you towards Marloes Sands and the Marloes Peninsula, known for its rugged beauty. Many hikers choose to do sections of the path as out-and-back routes or link them with inland trails for circular walks.
How crowded does St Brides Haven get on weekends or during peak season?
While generally tranquil, St Brides Haven can experience increased visitor numbers on sunny weekends and during the peak summer season. The small car park is often the first indicator of how busy it is, filling up quickly. If you prefer a quieter experience, visiting early in the morning, later in the afternoon, or during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) is recommended.