Haverfordwest Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Haverfordwest, Wales- one of the most beautiful towns in Pembrokeshire.


Welcome to Haverfordwest, a charming and historic town on the banks of the Western Cleddau in Pembrokeshire, South Wales. Haverfordwest is a cultural hub with a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and plenty of exciting outdoor activities to keep you busy.

Let’s take a closer look at what you can do in this beautiful town.

Introduction to Haverfordwest

Haverfordwest is a town with a long history, dating back to the Middle Ages, and it has been an important trading post for centuries. Today, it is a vibrant and bustling town with a charming mix of old and new, historic buildings and modern amenities.

List of Places to Visit in Haverfordwest

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Haverfordwest Castle - A twelfth-century Norman castle with impressive views of the town and river.

  2. St. David’s Cathedral - This stunning cathedral is considered to be the birthplace of Christianity in Wales.

  3. Haverfordwest Town Museum - A fascinating museum showcasing the history of Haverfordwest and Pembrokeshire.

Natural Attractions of Haverfordwest: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park - Haverfordwest is located near the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, which has some of the most stunning coastal views in Wales.

  2. Picton Castle and Gardens - Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens and explore the historic castle.

  3. The Milford Haven Waterway - Take a boat tour of the waterway, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including seals and dolphins.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Haverfordwest

Haverfordwest is surrounded by beautiful countryside, and there are plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. Some of the most popular routes include:

  1. The Pembrokeshire Coastal Path - This famous trail offers breath-taking views along the coast.

  2. The Preseli Hills - These rolling hills offer plenty of hiking and biking opportunities, as well as fantastic views over the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Haverfordwest: Activities and Tours

  1. Kayaking and Canoeing - Take a relaxing kayak or canoe trip down the Western Cleddau.

  2. Horseback Riding - Explore the countryside on horseback with one of the local equestrian centres.

  3. Walking Tours - Join a guided walking tour of Haverfordwest to learn more about the town’s history.

Week-Long Itinerary for Haverfordwest

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore the town’s historic buildings, including Haverfordwest Castle and St. David’s Cathedral.
Day 2 Hike the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path and stop at one of the local beaches for a picnic.
Day 3 Take a kayak or canoe trip down the Western Cleddau.
Day 4 Visit one of the local gardens, such as Picton Castle and Gardens or Scolton Manor.
Day 5 Explore the Preseli Hills on foot or by bike.
Day 6 Take a boat tour of the Milford Haven Waterway.
Day 7 Shop for souvenirs and local products before departing Haverfordwest.

Food and Drink Scene of Haverfordwest

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Welsh Rarebit - A traditional Welsh dish made with melted cheese, beer, and mustard on toast.

  2. Cawl - A hearty Welsh stew made with lamb and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  1. Welsh Beer - Try one of the locally brewed beers, such as Felinfoel or Brains.

  2. Welsh Whiskey - Sample some of the local whiskey, such as Penderyn.

Where to Stay in Haverfordwest: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. The County Hotel - A charming, historic hotel located in the heart of Haverfordwest.

  2. Llys-y-Fran Country Park and Campsite - A beautiful campsite with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

What to Buy in Haverfordwest: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Pembrokeshire Sea Salt - Bring home a bag of locally harvested sea salt.

  2. Welsh Wool - Pick up a traditional Welsh blanket or jumper.

Local Culture and Customs of Haverfordwest

Haverfordwest is a town with a proud Welsh heritage, and the local culture reflects this. Visitors can expect to hear Welsh spoken and see traditional Welsh costumes during festivals and parades.

Best Time to Visit Haverfordwest

The best time to visit Haverfordwest is in the late spring and summer when the weather is warm and sunny, and the countryside is in bloom.

Do’s and Don’ts of Haverfordwest

Do:

  1. Try the local Welsh food and drink.

  2. Take advantage of the numerous outdoor activities in the area.

Don’t:

  1. Forget to pack a raincoat, as the weather can be unpredictable.

  2. Ignore the rich history and cultural heritage of the town.

Safety and Health

Safety in Haverfordwest

Haverfordwest is a safe town with a low crime rate. Visitors should take normal precautions to avoid crime, such as not leaving valuables unattended.

Health in Haverfordwest

Haverfordwest has several medical facilities, including a hospital and several GP clinics. Visitors should make sure they have adequate medical insurance before travelling to Wales.

Getting to Haverfordwest: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Haverfordwest

The nearest airport to Haverfordwest is Cardiff International Airport, which is approximately 2.5 hours’ drive away.

Bus Stations Near Haverfordwest

Haverfordwest has a bus station, which connects the town to other destinations in Pembrokeshire and South Wales.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Haverfordwest by train, with the nearest train station located in neighbouring Pembroke.

How to Get Around in Haverfordwest

Haverfordwest is a small town and can easily be explored on foot. Visitors can also use local buses or taxis to get around.

Where to Go Next from Haverfordwest: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. St. David’s - Visit the picturesque city of St. David’s, home to the stunning St. David’s Cathedral.

  2. Tenby - This charming seaside town is a great place to relax and unwind.

Conclusion

Haverfordwest is a fantastic destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and the great outdoors. With its stunning natural beauty, fascinating historic sites, and friendly locals, this town offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to hike the coastal path, explore ancient castles, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery, Haverfordwest is the perfect destination.