06 February 2026
Founded around the 6th century by Wales’s patron saint, St Davids grew from a small monastic settlement into an important centre of pilgrimage during the medieval period. Its status was cemented by the presence of St Davids Cathedral, which drew worshippers from across Britain and Europe. Despite being one of the smallest cities in the UK, St Davids has retained its historic character, shaped by centuries of religious, maritime and rural life, and today remains a unique blend of spiritual heritage and coastal culture. For those wanting to stay longer in this beautiful location – see our guide on 48 hours in St Davids.
From gentle strolls to longer clifftop adventures, these walks around St Davids showcase some of the finest walking routes in Pembrokeshire.
St Davids to Whitesands Bay Coastal Walk
Overview
One of the most iconic coastal walks in Pembrokeshire, this route follows the Pembrokeshire Coast Path from St Davids to Whitesands Bay. Along the way, walkers are treated to sweeping Atlantic views, rugged cliff formations and wide open skies. The path passes through a landscape shaped by wind and sea, with views stretching towards St Davids Head and Ramsey Island on clear days. Finishing at one of Pembrokeshire’s finest sandy beaches, this walk perfectly combines dramatic scenery with a relaxing seaside finale.
Distance & Difficulty
Approx. 4 miles return – Moderate
Highlights
- Panoramic coastal scenery everywhere you look
- Wildflowers during spring and summer are breathtaking
- Sandy beach to explore and relax on
Local Tips
- Ideal for sunset walks
- Take a well earned break at the Café at Whitesands
- Sturdy footwear recommended
St Non’s Chapel & Well Pilgrimage Walk
Overview
This gentle and atmospheric walk leads from the heart of St Davids to St Non’s Chapel, believed to be the birthplace of Wales’s patron saint. Following quiet lanes and coastal paths, the route descends into a sheltered valley where the ruined chapel and holy well sit overlooking the sea. Popular with pilgrims, history lovers and casual walkers alike, this route offers a unique blend of spiritual heritage, coastal beauty and peaceful surroundings, making it one of the most rewarding short walks in the area.
Distance & Difficulty
1.5 miles return – Easy to moderate
Highlights
- Chapel ruins are close to the footpath
- Holy well is easy to reach
- Coastal views are spectacular
Local Tips
- Combine with a visit to the magnificent St Davids Cathedral and Bishops Palace
- Stop for lunch in one of the fantastic dining spots in the city- see our guide to Eating out in St Davids
Ramsey Sound & Ramsey Island Viewpoint Walk
Overview
This spectacular clifftop route follows the coastline towards Ramsey Sound, offering far-reaching views across to Ramsey Island, one of Wales’s most important wildlife reserves. The walk showcases some of the wildest scenery in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, with towering cliffs, crashing waves and powerful tidal currents below. It’s particularly popular with experienced walkers, photographers and wildlife enthusiasts, who come to spot seals, seabirds and even dolphins in these rich waters.
Distance & Difficulty
5–6 miles return – Moderate
Highlights
- Seals can usually be spotted from late summer through to late Autumn
- A wide range of seabirds can be seen along the cliffs
Dramatic cliffs
- Bottle nose dolphins and porpoises have been spotted between May - September
Local Tips
- Check tide times
- Bring windproof layers
St Davids Countryside & Caerfai Bay Loop
Overview
This varied circular walk combines the best of inland and coastal Pembrokeshire, leading walkers through quiet country lanes, farmland and rolling fields before joining the coast near Caerfai Bay. Known for its distinctive red cliffs and sheltered beach, Caerfai provides a beautiful contrast to the more exposed coastline nearby. The route is ideal for those who want a relaxed, scenic walk with fewer crowds, offering plenty of opportunities for picnics, paddling and peaceful sea views.
Distance & Difficulty
4 miles – Easy to moderate
Highlights
- Beautiful red sandstone cliffs
- Peaceful countryside scenery
- Sheltered sandy bay at Caerfai
- Quieter than main coastal routes
Local Tips
- Great picnic spot
- Great for families & leisure walkers
St Davids to Solva Coastal Walk
The coastal walk from St Davids to Solva follows a beautiful section of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, linking Wales’s smallest city with one of its prettiest harbour villages. It combines dramatic clifftop scenery, quiet coves, and far-reaching sea views. For more information, see our guide to 48 hours in Solva.
Overview
This route showcases some of the finest coastal scenery in West Wales. Leaving St Davids, the path quickly joins open clifftops where the Atlantic stretches out ahead. Along the way, walkers pass rocky inlets, seabird nesting sites and sheltered bays, with frequent viewpoints across St Brides Bay.
As you approach Solva, the landscape softens and the path descends into the sheltered harbour, where colourful houses, boats and cafés provide a welcoming finish.
Distance & Difficulty
Distance: Approx. 4 miles (6.5 km) one way
Time: Around 2–3 hours (without long stops)
Difficulty: Moderate, with some steep climbs and uneven paths
Highlights
- Dramatic Clifftop Views
- Wide, uninterrupted views across the Atlantic with constantly changing light and sea colours.
- Regular sightings of seabirds, seals offshore, and seasonal wildflowers along the cliffs.
- Several small, rocky coves that feel remote and unspoilt.
- A picturesque harbour setting with boats, cafés, shops and galleries in Solva.
Local Tips
- Getting There & Back - Walk one way and return by local bus or taxi, or retrace your steps for a longer day walk.
- Best Time to Go - Spring to early autumn offers the best conditions. Early mornings and evenings are quieter in summer.
Porthgain Coastal & Harbour Loop
Overview
Just a short drive from St Davids, the picturesque harbour village of Porthgain provides a fantastic starting point for a circular coastal walk. Once a busy industrial port exporting slate and stone, Porthgain now blends historic character with colourful harbour scenery and a lively food scene.
The loop takes in dramatic cliffs, the well known “blue lagoon” quarry remains and sweeping sea views before returning to the harbour via farmland and lanes, making it a perfect half-day walk combined with lunch or refreshments by the water.
Distance & Difficulty
3–4 miles – Easy to moderate
Highlights
- The Blue Lagoon at Abereiddi
- The colourful harbour with some great places to eat – The Sloop Inn & The Shed Fish & Chip Bistro
- Industrial heritage surrounds the harbour
- Fantastic local art at The Harbour Lights Gallery
Local Tips
- Arrive early in summer as parking is limited
- Combine with lunch at either the Sloop Inn or The Shed
- Give Coasteering a go at the Blue Lagoon with Celtic Quest Coasteering
Final Thoughts
St Davids is one of Pembrokeshire’s finest walking destinations, offering a mix of coastline, history and countryside. These routes provide unforgettable ways to explore West Wales.
