Manorbier Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do in Manorbier with this complete travel guide. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, food, and accommodation, we've got you covered. Plan your trip now!


Introduction to Manorbier

Manorbier is a small coastal village situated in Pembrokeshire, South Wales, known for its picturesque landscapes, fascinating history, and outdoor adventures. The village is home to a range of cultural attractions, including museums, castles, and ancient ruins, as well as natural wonders such as sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and lush forests. Visitors can explore the village on foot, hike the nearby trails, or try their hand at water sports like surfing, kayaking, and swimming. Manorbier is also renowned for its food and drink scene, with a range of traditional dishes, local produce, and craft ales to sample.

List of Places to Visit in Manorbier

Here are some of the top attractions to visit in Manorbier:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Manorbier Castle: A stunning medieval castle built in the 12th century and home to fascinating historical exhibits.

  • St. James Church: A beautiful 13th-century church with intricate stonework and stained glass windows.

  • Manorbier Old Rectory: A historic building dating back to the 18th century, now home to a museum featuring local art and artifacts.

  • Carew Castle: An impressive ruin dating back to the 13th century, set in stunning natural surroundings.

Natural Attractions of Manorbier: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Manorbier Beach: A stunning sandy beach ideal for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.

  • Coast Path: A scenic hiking trail that offers stunning views of the coastline and surrounding countryside.

  • Skrinkle Haven: A hidden cove with a secluded beach nestled between dramatic cliffs.

  • Caldey Island: A peaceful, car-free island just off the coast of Manorbier that is home to a Cistercian monastery and beautiful gardens.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Manorbier

Manorbier is a hiker’s paradise, with a range of trails and routes to explore. Here are some of the top hiking and biking routes in the area:

  • Pembrokeshire Coast Path: A 186-mile trail that runs along the Welsh coastline and offers some of the most stunning views in the country.

  • Manorbier to Tenby: A scenic 6-mile route that takes in beautiful beaches, cliffs, and forests.

  • Castlemartin Range: A range of trails suitable for all abilities, set in stunning natural surroundings.

Best Things to Do in Manorbier: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the top things to do in and around Manorbier:

  • Surfing: Manorbier is a prime spot for surfing, with local surf schools offering lessons and equipment rentals.

  • Coasteering: A thrilling activity that involves climbing, swimming, and jumping off rocks and cliffs into the sea.

  • Boat Tour: Take a boat tour around the stunning Welsh coastline, spotting wildlife and taking in the stunning views.

  • Food and Drink Tour: Sample some of the best local produce, including lamb, cheese, and craft beer, on a guided food and drink tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Manorbier

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Manorbier:

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation

Arrive in Manorbier and check into your accommodation. Spend the day relaxing on Manorbier Beach and exploring the village.

Day 2: Historical Sites and Museums

Visit Manorbier Castle, St. James Church, and Manorbier Old Rectory for an insight into the fascinating history of the area.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventures

Take on one of the hiking or biking trails in the area, or try your hand at coasteering or surfing.

Day 4: Caldey Island

Take a boat trip to Caldey Island and explore the peaceful island and its monastery and gardens.

Day 5: Food and Drink Tour

Take a guided food and drink tour of the area, sampling local produce and craft beer.

Day 6: Relaxation

Spend the day relaxing in Manorbier, taking a stroll around the village and enjoying the stunning views.

Day 7: Departure

Depart Manorbier and head to your next destination or home.

Food and Drink Scene of Manorbier

Manorbier is home to a range of traditional Welsh dishes, local produce, and craft beer. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cawl: a traditional Welsh soup made with lamb, potatoes, and vegetables.

  • Welsh rarebit: a cheesy, savory snack made with the local cheese.

  • Laverbread: seaweed paste often served as a breakfast dish.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Ales: Manorbier has a thriving craft beer scene, with local breweries producing a range of delicious ales.

  • Welsh Whisky: Welsh whisky is renowned for its unique flavor, often described as smoky and peaty.

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

Manorbier has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay in the area:

  • Manorbier Bed and Breakfast: A charming bed and breakfast located in the heart of Manorbier.

  • The Castle Inn: A cozy and welcoming pub with guest rooms located just a stone’s throw from Manorbier Castle.

  • Manorbier Youth Hostel: A comfortable and affordable option for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home as a reminder of your trip to Manorbier:

  • Welsh cheese and lamb products

  • Local craft ale

  • Welsh woolen products

Local Culture and Customs of Manorbier

Welsh culture is rich and diverse, with a range of customs and traditions that are still observed today. In Manorbier, visitors can expect to encounter a warm and welcoming community that is proud of its heritage and traditions. It is customary to greet people in Welsh with “Croeso!” which means “welcome!” and to try local dishes and beverages when visiting.

Best Time to Visit Manorbier

The best time to visit Manorbier is between May and September, when the weather is mild and sunny, and the outdoor activities are in full swing. However, the area is beautiful year-round, and there is always plenty to see and do in any season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Manorbier

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Manorbier:

Do:

  • Try the local dishes and beverages

  • Respect the local wildlife and natural environment

  • Take care when hiking or participating in outdoor activities

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment

  • Disrespect local customs and traditions

  • Be loud or disruptive in residential areas

Safety and Health

Safety in Manorbier

Manorbier is a relatively safe area, but visitors should take care when participating in outdoor activities and when walking alone at night. Always follow any signs and warnings when hiking or participating in water sports, and never venture too far off the beaten path.

Health in Manorbier

The local medical facilities are excellent, and there are several pharmacies in the area. Visitors should bring any necessary medication with them, and make sure they have adequate travel insurance before arriving in Manorbier.

Getting to Manorbier: Transportation Options and Logistics

Manorbier is easily accessible by road, rail, and air. Here are the transportation options available:

Airports Near Manorbier

The nearest airport to Manorbier is Cardiff International Airport (CWL), which is approximately 90 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Manorbier

Buses run regularly from nearby towns and cities, including Tenby, Pembroke, and Swansea.

Other Options

Train services run from London Paddington to nearby stations, including Tenby and Pembroke Dock.

How to Get Around in Manorbier

Manorbier is a small village that can easily be explored on foot. Alternatively, visitors can hire bicycles, cars, or take a bus to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Manorbier: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to explore after your visit to Manorbier:

  • Tenby: A charming seaside town with a range of cultural attractions and a picturesque harbor.

  • Pembroke: A historic town known for its impressive castle and beautiful natural surroundings.

  • St. David’s: A small city famous for its medieval cathedral and stunning coastline.

Conclusion

Manorbier offers a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventures that are sure to impress any visitor. From stunning landscapes to fascinating museums, there is something here for everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your trip to Manorbier and explore all that this hidden gem of South Wales has to offer.