Written by Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Sarah kelly
27/08/2025
John Disandolo, Pexels
St Davids, known as Britain's smallest city, offers a unique blend of ancient history and dramatic coastal beauty. It invites visitors to explore its magnificent cathedral, wander its charming streets with independent shops and eateries, and discover the rugged Pembrokeshire Coast Path, which features stunning beaches and abundant wildlife.
The city's compact size fosters a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, rather than a bustling party scene. Visitors can enjoy various local pubs and cafes, which often serve local produce and craft beverages. These spots provide relaxed settings for socialising over meals and drinks, while community events, such as the annual carnival, bring together both locals and tourists.
Top 7 Things to do in St Davids
Exploring St Davids involves discovering ancient religious sites, enjoying dramatic coastal landscapes, and participating in diverse outdoor adventures on and around the water.
1. Explore St Davids Cathedral
Stepping into St Davids Cathedral reveals centuries of Welsh history and spiritual significance. The magnificent purple-grey stone structure, nestled in a hollow to protect it from the sea, offers a profound sense of peace. Visitors can admire the intricate architecture, the shrine of St David, and the beautiful stained glass. Allowing time to simply sit and absorb the atmosphere is highly recommended.
Cost: Entry is free, though a donation of £4.50-£5 per adult is suggested to help with maintenance. Guided tours are sometimes available for an additional fee, such as special talks at £7.50.
Transport: The Cathedral is centrally located within St Davids and easily accessible on foot from anywhere in the city.
2. Wander the Ruins of Bishop's Palace
Adjacent to the Cathedral, the atmospheric ruins of St Davids Bishop's Palace offer a glimpse into medieval grandeur. Exploring its crumbling arches and grand halls allows visitors to imagine the lavish life of past bishops. The scale of the palace, built between 1328 and 1347, is impressive even in its ruined state, with its distinctive chequerboard patterning and elaborate windows providing excellent photographic opportunities.
Cost: Admission fees apply: approximately £3.50 for adults, £2.65 for senior citizens/students/children under 16, and £10.50 for a family ticket (2 adults, up to 3 children). Children under 5 are free. Online booking may offer a 5% discount.
Transport: The Bishop's Palace is located directly next to St Davids Cathedral, making it easily walkable from the city centre.
3. Walk a Section of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path
Embrace the stunning coastal scenery by walking a section of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. From St Davids, routes lead to dramatic headlands like St Davids Head or picturesque bays such as Caerfai Bay or Whitesands. The path offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, opportunities to spot diverse wildlife including seals and seabirds, and a chance to truly connect with the natural beauty of the area. Remember to wear suitable footwear for uneven terrain.
Cost: Free.
Transport: Sections of the path are accessible directly from St Davids. For more distant points, the 'Celtic Coaster' shuttle bus (seasonal) runs around the St Davids Peninsula and can take you to various access points, including Whitesands Bay. Taxi services are also available.
4. Enjoy Whitesands Bay
Whitesands Bay, or Porthmawr in Welsh, is a wide expanse of pale golden sand renowned as one of the best surfing beaches in the region. Whether you are keen to try surfing or prefer a relaxing day by the sea, the beach caters to all. The northern end is popular with surfers, while the southern end offers calmer waters. Lifeguards patrol seasonally, and facilities include toilets and a café. It is also an excellent starting point for walks to Carn Llidi for panoramic views.
Cost: Parking at Whitesands Bay costs approximately £5 per vehicle during the season (March to October). Surfboard and wetsuit hire are available seasonally.
Transport: Whitesands Bay is about two miles north of St Davids. You can drive and use the paid car park (SA62 6PS) or catch the seasonal Celtic Coaster Shuttle Bus from Oriel y Parc in St Davids.
5. Take a Wildlife Boat Trip to Ramsey Island
Embarking on a boat trip from St Justinians to Ramsey Island offers an exhilarating way to experience Pembrokeshire's diverse marine wildlife. Cruising around the island, you can witness swirling currents, dramatic sea caves, and spot Atlantic Grey Seals, porpoises, and a variety of seabirds, including guillemots and razorbills. Some tours also offer opportunities to see puffins at certain times of the year. This guided voyage is both informative and provides stunning coastal views.
Cost: Prices for a 1-hour guided wildlife voyage to Ramsey Island are around £36 per person, with discounted rates for children. Under 5s cost approximately £25. Daily sailings are available from March to November.
Transport: Boat trips depart from St Justinians, located about 2 miles (3km) west of St Davids. Free parking for approximately 40 cars is available, with a seasonal overflow car park for £4. Directions are typically provided upon booking, or you can use Google Maps for 'St Justinians'.
6. Go Sea Kayaking on the St Davids Peninsula
Discover the hidden coves, sea caves, and dramatic cliffs of the St Davids Peninsula from a unique perspective by joining a guided sea kayaking adventure. These sessions cater to various experience levels, from relaxed introductions for beginners and families to more adventurous explorations. You will be equipped with all necessary gear and guided by experienced instructors, allowing you to paddle through clear waters and observe coastal wildlife up close. It is a fantastic way to connect with the rugged beauty of the Pembrokeshire coastline.
Cost: Guided sea kayaking sessions vary. A 3.5-hour 'Discovery' or 'Explorer' session typically costs around £60 per person. Full-day adventure kayaking sessions can cost about £80 per person. Equipment is included.
Transport: Kayaking companies usually have a base in St Davids where you meet, get kitted up, and are then driven to the best launch location for the day's conditions in a company minibus.
7. Visit Oriel y Parc National Park Visitor Centre
Oriel y Parc serves as the official Visitor Centre for the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and offers a wealth of information about the local area, its history, and wildlife. The centre features a gallery with changing exhibitions from Amgueddfa Cymru – Museum Wales and local artists. It's an excellent starting point for planning explorations, with knowledgeable staff on hand. A café and gift shop are also available.
Cost: Entry to the visitor centre and gallery is free.
Transport: Oriel y Parc is located on the edge of St Davids, accessible by a short walk from the city centre. It also has parking available.
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