Sometimes we all need to get away from it all.
And what better way to do it than a country-escape? Somewhere that feels a million miles from home, but isn’t really that far. No flights or passports are involved – just a little cottage in a beautiful part of the British countryside. A place to relax and re-charge your batteries.
My happy place is Pembrokeshire, in Wales. It has all the ingredients for the perfect rural getaway. Let me tell you why…
![](http://lizziewoodman.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/16960860977_556d160602_o.jpg)
Rugged beauty… Pembrokeshire has some of the most stunning coast in Britain. It’s rugged, but exquisitely beautiful. The colours are so vivid – bright turquoise sea, yellow gorse and rich weathered stone. Every time I see it, it takes my breath away. The best way to enjoy is to walk a section of the coastal path. My favourite bit is the stretch around the lighthouse at Strumble Head.
![](http://lizziewoodman.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/9454038156_7686de6789_o.jpg)
Or, for sheer variety, you can’t beat the walk between Porthgain and Abereiddy. It’s a three-mile circuit, and you’ll see everything from disused industrial buildings, a breath-taking blue lagoon to fossils on Abereiddy beach.
![Porthgain](http://lizziewoodman.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/DSCF2600.jpg)
Beautiful beaches… South Pembrokeshire is where you’ll find the soft, sandy beaches. The bustling town of Tenby has a fantastic beach for families. It’s busy, but there’s plenty of space for everyone. If you’re after something truly magical, head to Manorbier. This beautiful little beach is overlooked by a stunning medieval castle. It’s like something from a fairy tale. The beach gets busy, but it’s worth it.
![The beach at Manorbier](http://lizziewoodman.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/15688669781_3f4d81d073_o.jpg)
Bustling towns… When you’re ready to take a break from the coastal path, Pembrokeshire has lots of busy little towns and villages to explore. St David’s is a tiny city, dominated by its beautiful cathedral. It’s also packed with lovely shops, cafés and restaurants. It’s always busy, but has a lovely, friendly atmosphere. The local deli is a great place to stock up on local food. Newport is also a wonderful place to spend a morning. It has an antique shop, a gallery and the Canteen is a great place for brunch.
![The Canteen, Newport](http://lizziewoodman.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/IMG_0484.jpg)
Captivating castles… There are a lot of castles in Pembrokeshire and you must visit at least one. As I mentioned earlier, Manorbier is a fairy tale castle perfect for romantics. For those that like things a little bit more imposing, try Pembroke Castle. It’s fantastically well-preserved and very impressive. For a relaxed family day out, I’d recommend Carew Castle. It’s a great place for kids to run around, and surprisingly relaxing for the adults too, thanks to its tranquil setting.
![Manorbier Castle](http://lizziewoodman.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/20110613-1-Manorbier-Castle.jpg)
Ancient history… Medieval castles are just part of the story of Pembrokeshire. There’s so much more to discover. Visiting the ancient burial chambers at Pentre Ifan is a wonderful way to experience this history first hand. It’s a beautiful spot, which you reach by foot or by car. The standing stones are breath-taking and so is the atmosphere. There’s just something about it that feels, well, magical.
![Pentre Ifan](http://lizziewoodman.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/15070560754_4f0ac71ea9_o.jpg)
Where should you stay?
It doesn’t get much more perfect that a traditional Welsh cottage. I prefer the north of the county as it’s more secluded and rugged. A great place to start your search is with Powell’s Cottage Holidays. They have some beautiful holiday rentals available – whether you’re looking for peace and quiet, a beach, or a bustling town.
Where should you eat?
Porthgain is a great place to head to if you’re hungry. Sample the fish and chips at the Shed, or visit the traditional Sloop Inn. And I guarantee you’ll fall in love with the Welsh ice cream for sale by the green. St David’s also has no shortage of cafés and restaurants.
![Sunset at Pwl Deri](http://lizziewoodman.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/16505041263_51cbca0e9b_o.jpg)
Which all adds up to the perfect rural escape. Visit Pembrokeshire and see for yourself!
This was a collaborative post with Original Cottages
Lizzie this is a lovely post. So often I think, where to shall we go in Britain….I may just give Pembrokeshire a try!x
It really is the most magical place, Helen!