Pembrokeshire Coast Path Stage 1: Amroth to Pembroke

Best hiking season: May through September provides optimal conditions, with May-June and September offering the best balance of good weather and manageable crowds. The coastal location moderates temperature extremes, but exposes walkers to weather systems and strong winds.

Weather patterns and challenges: The Pembrokeshire coast experiences a maritime climate with mild winters and moderate summers. Rainfall occurs throughout the year but can be heavy, even in summer. Sea mists can develop rapidly, particularly in early morning and evening hours. Wind exposure is significant on clifftop sections.

Seasonal hazards include:

• Muddy and slippery paths after rain, particularly on exposed cliffside sections.
• Temporary closures of sections of path due to erosion or conservation work.
• Tidal crossings can affect some areas, though detours do exist.

Timing of facilities/refuge openings: Most coastal accommodations, cafes, and visitor facilities operate fully from Easter through October but smaller hostels and campsites may close from late autumn through to early spring. Plan accordingly.

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path offers exceptional accommodation variety along its length:

B&Bs/Guesthouses: £60-120 per night (double room), representing the most common and reliable option. Walker-friendly establishments typically offer packed lunch services, drying facilities, and early breakfast options.

Hotels: £120-200+ per night, available in larger coastal towns like Tenby, Milford Haven, Pembroke and St David's.

Bunkhouses/hostels: £18-40 per night (dormitory bed), strategically located at key points including Broad Haven, St Davids and Manorbier. YHA properties offer excellent walker facilities and represent outstanding value.

Bunkhouses/Hostels: £25-45 per night, basic but clean dormitory-style accommodation popular with budget-conscious walkers and groups.

Booking requirements and timing: Advance booking is absolutely essential during peak season (June-September), particularly for weekend dates and in smaller coastal villages with limited options. Book at least 4-6 months ahead for summer trips, with some popular establishments filling up to a year in advance.

Popular stopover points: Key overnight locations include Tenby, Manorbier, Pembroke, Solva, St Davids, Fishguard and St Dogmaels.

Nearest airports/major cities:

• Cardiff Airport (2 - 2.5 hours to Amroth or Pembroke)
• Bristol Airport (3 hours to Amroth or Pembroke
• Major cities: Cardiff, Bristol, Swansea (1 - 1.5 hours to Amroth or Pembroke)

Public transportation options:

• Swansea: direct service to Pembroke (frequent services)
• Cardiff: direct service to Pembroke
• Excellent bus network connects all coastal towns

Trailhead access:

• Amroth: Start from the sandy beach
• Pembroke: Finish at Pembroke town centre
• Outstanding public transport eliminates car dependency

Evacuation points and bail-out options:

• Saundersfoot (bus links)
• Tenby (train station and bus links)
• Manorbier (bus links)
• Freshwater East (bus links)

Accommodation costs for a complete 4 day trek:

• Mid-range option (B&Bs/guesthouses): £80-140 per night (£320-560 total)
• Mixed accommodation (hostels/B&Bs): £60-110 per night (£240-440 total)
• Budget option (camping/hostels): £35-65 per night (£140-260 total)

Transportation expenses:

• Return train fare to/from London: £80-150
• Local buses to accommodation off-route up to £9 per day for a pass: £36
• Baggage transfer service (optional): £100 - 150 for complete route

Food and supplies:

• Breakfast (usually included in accommodation): £0-12 per day
• Packed lunch: £6-12 per day (£24-48 total)
• Evening meal: £18-35 per day (£72-140 total)
• Snacks and drinks: £12-20 per day (£48-80 total)

Additional expenses:

• Official guidebooks and maps: £35-60
• Equipment purchases/replacements: varies significantly
• Emergency fund: £200-300 recommended

Total estimated budget ranges:

• Comfort option (B&Bs, baggage transfer, restaurant meals): £600-800
• Standard option (mixed accommodation, some baggage transfer): £400-500
• Budget option (camping/hostels, carrying own pack): £250-350

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path sees moderate to high foot traffic in summer, especially near hotspots like Tenby and St Davids. Despite its popularity, much of the path retains a peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere, especially in the northern sections or during shoulder seasons..

Quieter alternatives for maximum solitude:

• Walking in late Spring, or early Autumn
• Hiking midweek rather than weekends
• Starting very early (6-7am) to avoid crowds at popular sections
• Choosing alternative inland routes where available
• Focussing on less-touristed areas like the northern coast beyond Newport

Cultural considerations: The trail passes through Welsh-speaking communities, especially in the north. While English is widely spoken, respectful engagement with the local Welsh culture and language adds to the experience.

Typical hiker demographics: Typical hikers include UK-based walkers, solo travelers, and international nature enthusiasts. While camaraderie among trekkers is common in busier months, the trail offers ample opportunity for solitude and reflection, especially during early morning or off-peak periods.