Bordered by the sea on three sides out in the southwestern edge of Wales, lies Pembrokeshire. Given its location, it’s no surprise this county is a hotspot for watersports, coastal walks and fabulous seafood. So rich and rare is the coastline here, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is the only one in the UK created primarily to protect and preserve the coast, and it covers a massive 1/3rd of the county.
It isn’t all about seafaring though, as the vast majority of the county’s land is agricultural. Between the two, it’s plain to see that it is an exceptional area to roam for a rural retreat. There’s plenty of hikes and dog walks in Pembrokeshire where you can best explore this wonderful landscape and enjoy a great day out with your pup.
Country & country park walks
Crymych trail
This long circular walk is the perfect chance for you and the pooch to explore hidden hamlets, eco-communities, rolling fields, rich woodland, and ancient landmarks. This is your opportunity to explore the agricultural interior of the county, which is often neglected when people discuss walks and dog walks in Pembrokeshire. However, the number of interesting landmarks you’ll visit, and outstanding views, make this a ramble to remember.
The area around Crymych is a rich tapestry of farmland and tales, and you will pass many historical attractions along this walk. From the ancient fort of Foeldrygarn to the modern ecovillage of Lammas. You’ll also find Meini Gwyr, the remains of the only known raised henge in Wales, as well as the mysterious Ogham Stone.
After your walk, you and the pup can further explore the area and hike up the formidable Frenni Fawr, or you can start the Golden Road walk, another of our favourite dog walks in Pembrokeshire listed below, or venture to see the quirky Cilwendeg Shell House Hermitage. There are a few takeaways in Crymych, otherwise, stop by the Butcher’s Arms in Tegryn for refreshments.
Walk Length: 30km
Difficulty: Moderate/Challenging
Starting Point: Maes Ploveilh Car Park
Terrain: Trails, hills, fields, roads, even
Free Parking: Yes
Address: Crymych, Wales, SA41 3QE
More information: Pembrokeshire.gov, Visit Pembrokeshire
Felindre Farchog
This wonderful walk is half countryside and half woodland, so you and the pooch can enjoy the best of both landscapes. The woodland section of the walk is especially enchanting, and we guarantee you won’t forget a wander in Ty Canol woods and nature reserve. The trees are gnarled and covered in moss and lichen, and the largest block of ancient woodland in Wales. There are also large outcrops of cracked rock that look more like a film prop than real landscape.
The area is rich in archaeological sites as well as rare flora and fauna, so history and wildlife enthusiasts will adore this route, as well as visiting nearby sites like Pentre Ifan. Meanwhile, your pup will love running through the meadows, sniffing around the undergrowth, and a little paddling in streams and wetlands along the way.
You’ll find parking and local facilities at the start and end of your walk in Felindre Farchog, including the sunny Salutation Inn.
Walk Length: 5km
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Felindre Farchog
Terrain: Trails, fields, woodland, steps, uneven, roads, flat
Free Parking: Yes
Address: Felindre Farchog, Nevern, SA41 3UY
More information: First Nature
Llys y Fran reservoir & dam
Llys y Fran is itself a lovely village, but for many, the name is more directly related to the country park and reservoir. It has been closed for redevelopment, but as it re-opens in 2020 after extensive reworking, it will be worth paying a visit. We’re banking on it being your future favourite dog walk in Pembrokeshire!
The work has included refurbishing the visitor centre, building a new outdoor activity centre and waterside cabin, and creating bike trails and skills area. With the trails tidied and the area given a breath of new life, it’s sure to be a delightful day out with the dog.
You can wander here as long as you like, exploring the waterside, woodland and meadows. In terms of keeping to the beaten track, the most popular walks are the 2.5km family trail and the 11km perimeter trail that circles the reservoir. The latter is tranquil and gives you and the pooch opportunity to explore all the different areas of the park. There is a cafe and facilities onsite. But if you fancy heartier fare and a tipple, it’s only a short drive to Rosebush or Wolfscastle.
Walk Length: 2.5km to 11km
Difficulty: Easy
Starting Point: Main entrance
Terrain: Paths, trails, flat, undulating
Free Parking: No
Address: Clarbeston Road, SA63 4RR
More information: GPS Routes, Visit Pembrokeshire
Pembroke castle
We seem to have included castles on a lot of our favourite dog walks, but why not, when so many are dog-friendly and make for amazing days out. Pembroke Castle is no exception, as pups on leads are welcome throughout the castle year-round.
They aren’t allowed in the cafe or shop, but your furry friend can otherwise wander wherever you go. In fact, dogs can even attend weddings here. Pooches are well catered for, and there’s ample outdoor seating for you to still enjoy a drink or light bite, with water bowls all around the site.
While you’re visiting, you can spend hours strolling around this magnificent medieval castle and learning about the centuries of history within its walls. The site has been occupied since Roman times, but it is perhaps most famous for being the birthplace of the first Tudor king, Henry VII. There are lots of activities and exhibits to see and keep people and pooches busy for hours.
There are good facilities in the castle, including a shop and cafe. Beyond the castle walls, Pembroke has plenty of dog-friendly pubs to choose from. For example, The Royal George and Watermans Arms are mere yards away.
Walk Length: As long or short as you like
Difficulty: Easy
Starting Point: Main entrance
Terrain: Paths, lawns, uneven, flat, steps
Free Parking: No
Address: Pembroke, SA71 4LA
More information: Pembroke Castle, Wikipedia
Woodland walks
Gwaun Valley woods
You could spend hours exploring the magnificent Gwaun Valley. Walking here you’ll find magical woodland, gorgeous glades and water meadows, and silver streams and the river flowing through. This land doesn’t just feel like the land that time forgot, it is just that, as the hamlets here still follow the Julian calendar, while the rest of the world shifted to the Gregorian calendar back in the 16th Century!
One of our favourite spots for dog walking in Wales, let alone Pembrokeshire, you and your dog can lose yourself in this enchanting valley for days and still feel it’s magic. This walk is fairly flat, perfect for focusing on enjoying your surroundings on a gentle stroll while your pup noses through the undergrowth.
Beginning in Fishguard also means you and the pooch can follow your nose to The Dyffryn Arms, affectionately known as Bessie’s. This utterly unique pub has buckets of charm, where the beer is served straight from a hatch in Bessie’s living room.
Walk Length: 8km
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Llanychaer
Terrain: Trails, woodland, uneven, fields, flat
Free Parking: Yes
Address: Cwm Gwaun, Fishguard, SA65 9SB
More information: GPS Routes, Visit Pembrokeshire
Colby woodland garden
This wonderful woodland dog walk in Pembrokeshire begins in Amroth and winds northward into the woods to Colby. This National Trust site allows dogs on leads to explore the woodland garden and meadow. There are plenty of wowing flower displays in the garden, including Britain’s tallest Japanese Redwood. There is also historical interest here, as the site was once a coalfield, and there are remains to this industrial heritage hidden away amongst the trees.
More exciting for your pup, the meadow has ponds and streams as well as open grass, so they’ll have a whale of a time running and splashing around. At the end of the walk on your return to Amroth, you can enjoy a stroll along the prom with your pooch.
If you can tether the pooch or leave them with a companion for a moment, you can pop into the gift shop or second-hand book store. There is also a tea room here. However, Amroth has more options for refreshments. Both you and the dog can come inside to enjoy a rest in the New Inn. The Smuggler’s bar is also nearby, but only allows dogs outside.
Walk Length: 4km
Difficulty: Easy
Starting Point: Amroth
Terrain: Trails, woodland, uneven, fields, flat
Free Parking: Yes
Address: Brookside Villas, Amroth, Narberth, SA67 8NQ
More information: GPS Routes, National Trust
Little Milford
Nestled in the Cleddau Valley is the lovely Little Milford. The ancient woodland here is being restored to its former glory and you can spend hours wandering the winding paths amidst the trees with your furry friend.
A length of this circular walk is along the edge of the mudflats, and there are waders and waterbirds aplenty here, making it a wonderful walk for wildlife lovers. Meanwhile, your pooch will probably enjoy playing in the mud and paddling in the water far more. There’s also a number of streams in the woods, so it might be wise to have a towel in the car ready to dry off the dog.
This short route is easy walking, and a great choice for an interesting family walk in fairytale-like surroundings. Kids (and dogs) will love hunting around the woods and undergrowth looking for the creepy crawlies, or building dens from discarded branches. You’ll often find a few of these rustic shelters left behind by previous explorers.
Walk Length: 3km
Difficulty: Easy
Starting Point: Little Milford car park
Terrain: Trails, woodland,
Free Parking: Yes
Address: Lower Freystop, SA62 4ET
More information: National Trust
Waterside walks
St David’s Head
The coast a few miles away from Britain’s smallest city is a lovely landscape to explore on dog walks in Pembrokeshire. The headland here is one of the most spectacular in the country, and purple heather spills over the rocky crags and you’ll have extraordinary views over the fields, beach, and Ramsey island.
With slopes, steps, and rocky paths this isn’t an accessible walk, and one best saved for adults. Some areas will have livestock, so keep a lead handy. And given the proximity to the cliffs, it’s your choice if you feel safer having the dog on the lead. With the brisk sea breeze carrying in the smells of the sea and wildlife and the great exercise of rambling up the cliffs, this is a walk your pup is still sure to love.
There are no facilities on the walk, but there are toilets and a cafe on the beach near where you park. Do note, the beautiful sandy beach has some dog restrictions in the summer.
Walk Length: 6km
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Whitesands beach car park
Terrain: Trails, grassland, cliffs, hills, steps
Free Parking: Yes
Address: Whitesands, near St David's, Pembrokeshire, SA62 6PS
More information: National Trust, Visit Pembrokeshire
Saundersfoot to Tenby (Pembrokeshire coastal path)
For the adventurous amongst you, you can enjoy several days holidaying and dog walking with your furry friend. But walking the whole of the long-distance trail will take even a skilled walker about a fortnight!
Otherwise, you can sample this smaller section of the path between Saundersfoot and Tenby. You and the pup will love this long walk by the sea, with the wind in your hair (or fur), and admiring the blue flag beaches at each end.
Along your walk, be sure to stop off in Monkstone Beach, a beautiful dog-friendly beach. At Tenby, simply return to the start along inland paths. (Unless you’d prefer to stay by the sea, in which case return along the route you’ve followed.)
There are plenty of perfect pit stops in both towns. Such as The Mulberry restaurant in Saundersfoot and the bar of the Captain’s Table. There are loads of dog-friendly pubs in Tenby too.
Walk Length: 12km
Difficulty: Challenging
Starting Point: Saundersfoot
Terrain: Trails, hills, grassland, woodland
Free Parking: No
Address: The Harbour, Cambrian Terrace, Saundersfoot, SA69 9ER
More information: Countryfile, Walking Britain
Abermawr
This is both a popular woodland stroll as well as a seaside dog walk in Pembrokeshire. The neighbouring Abermawr and Aberbach beaches are not only stupendous to look at but are dog-friendly all year.
Framed by cliffs adorned in flora, there are several trails leading from the pebble bank that backs the beach up into the woodland, where you’ll wander on this route. In the spring, a carpet of bluebells blooms amidst the trees, making this gorgeous walk even prettier.
As these are remote, rural beaches you’ll find them perfect for a secluded seaside stroll with your furry friend. It does mean you won’t find facilities near the beach though. The Farmer’s Arms is in nearby Mathry, and you and the dog are welcome inside for a drink and a rest.
Walk Length: 1.6km
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Abermawr beach turning circle
Terrain: Trails, fields, woodland, beach, shingle, flat, uneven
Free Parking: Yes
Address: Abermawr, Pembrokeshire
More information: National Trust
Lawrenny
Find yourself immersed in this watery world as you wander the ancient oak-filled valley of Lawrenny. You’ll walk among the trees overlooking the Daugleddau, exploring the mudflats, tidal creeks and saltmarshes.
The variety of habitats, and abundance of water, is sure to be a hit with any pup. Looking out across the marshes and the little boats shored up is an especially picturesque view and a highlight of this charming circular walk.
Given the tidal nature of the waterways, there is an alternative route for high tide. Similarly, it should be firm but muddy, so we advise good footwear. (And perhaps a towel for the pooch!) There is a tea room at Lawrenny Quay, where you can sit outside with your pup and enjoy the mixed menu of homemade delights. You can also pay a visit to the Lawrenny Arms pub before or after the walk.
Walk Length: 4.8km
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Lawrenny Quay
Terrain: Trails, fields, woodland, slopes, uneven
Free Parking: Yes
Address: Lawrenny Quay, Lawrenny, Kilgetty, Pembrokeshire, SA68 0PR
More information: Quayside Lawrenny, National Trust
Stackpole
This walk is the perfect chance to admire the tranquil waters of Bosherston Lily Ponds with a gentle stroll around the lakes before tramping around the nature reserve before returning back along the coastline.
You’ll be able to pause and enjoy the hidden gem of Barafundle beach on this route, and let your pup race across the sand and paddle in the waves before continuing on your way, stopping on Stackpole Head to admire the natural rock arches below. In the summer, you’ll find breeding seabirds lining the cliffs.
If you fancy a shorter walk, you could simply complete a lap of the lake starting in Bosherston. It’s a serene spot and the perfect place for you and the pup to reconnect with nature.
You’ll find facilities in Stackpole Quay and Bosherston, each having a cafe, toilets and parking. There are further toilets and parking at Broadhaven South. There are also picnic spots along the route, such as Barafundle, where you can paise for a light lunch while enjoying the fabulous views.
Walk Length: 9.6km
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Stackpole Quay car park
Terrain: Trails, grassland, woodland, slopes, uneven, steps
Free Parking: No
Address: 88A Main Street, Pembroke, SA71 4HH
More information: National Trust, The Swansea Bay
Hill walks
Preseli hills
You and your pup are sure to love this ramble down the Prehistoric “Golden Road” along the spine of the Preseli Hills. This is a fantastic walk sure to tire out even the most energetic of dogs. You’ll have marvellous views along the length of the route, including possibly the best view of Snowdonia in the country, which appears like a painted backdrop over the fields and hills. In fact, on a clear day, you can even see across to Ireland.
This magical land is also the presumed source for the bluestones that were used in Stonehenge. There are a pair of quarries you’ll pass on this walk, and you may glimpse a standing stone or two. Plus, there are a number of historical and ancient spiritual sites of significance you’ll see, including Carnalw Hillfort, Foeldrygarn, and Bedd Arthur.
Although this is usually a linear walk, you can make it circular by walking to Rosebush, then on to Pantmaenog. We suggest stopping in Rosebush to rest and refresh at Tafarn Sinc.
Walk Length: 19km
Difficulty: Challenging
Starting Point: Bwlch Gwynt car park
Terrain: Trails, hills, grassland, uneven
Free Parking: Yes
Address: B4329, Rosebush, Haverfordwest, SA41 3TJ
More information: GPS Routes, Countryfile, Ordnance Survey
Great Treffgarne mountain
Despite the grand name, the scale of this landscape is certainly more hill than a mountain. The craggy rocks that crown the hill are majestic, though, and the perfect spot to stop for a picture with your pooch. In fact, the walking here is so gentle, it’s a great walk to enjoy with all the family, dog included, and kids will love clambering around the rocks for a bit.
From the top of the ”mountain”, you can see for miles over the rolling countryside as far as the sea and will have mesmerising views of the rolling fields. Your pooch will love all the open space, and plenty of bracken to nose through on your way up to the rocks. The quirky names of landmarks, rolling countryside and breathtaking views make this one of our favourite dog walks in Pembrokeshire.
Given the rural location, you won’t find any facilities along the walk, but you’re a short drive from Wolf’s Castle, and dogs are welcome to join you in the bar of the Wolfe Inn. Or you could head to the Pump on the Green in Spittal.
Walk Length: 7.5km
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Layby by Nant y Coy Mill
Terrain: Trails, hills, grassland, even
Free Parking: Yes
Address: A40, Treffgarne, Haverfordwest, SA62 5LR
More information: Ordnance Survey, Baby Routes
Garn Fawr viewpoint
Admittedly, this is an outcrop rather than a hill, but it’s awfully fun to climb and has unbelievable views over the countryside, cliffs, and sea. The views here are so extensive, it’s been a viewpoint for millennia. An iron age fort was built here to take advantage of the vantage point, and several thousand years later, it became a lookout post in the First World War.
If you and your pup are still geared up for adventure after climbing the volcanic rock and admiring the scenery, there are many more wonderful walks nearby, such as Dinas Island or Pen Anglas headland. Otherwise, you’re both sure to love scrambling up rocks and rollicking through open fields on this short but exciting walk by the coast.
If you happen to be here past sunset, this area is also a designated Dark Sky Discovery Site, and you’ll have unbeatable views of the stars and Milky Way. There are no facilities, so you’ll have to take a short drive into one of the nearby villages to find local amenities.
Walk Length: 1.6km
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Garn Fawr car park
Terrain: Trails, hills, grassland, uneven
Free Parking: Yes
Address: Garn Fawr, Trefasser, SA64 OJJ
More information: National Trust, Go Stargazing
More information about Pembrokeshire: Wikipedia, Visit Pembrokeshire, Wanderlust, The Guardian
More walks: Telford, Shropshire, Suffolk