Active pursuits, historic landmarks and escapes to peaceful beach towns await in Haverfordwest. This welcoming market town dates back almost a thousand years. During the Elizabeth era it was one of Wales’ most important trading ports. Today, Haverfordwest celebrates its history at castles, galleries and museums while also being a gateway to the magnificent Pembrokeshire coastline.
The town center streets are a delight to explore on foot and straddle the gently flowing Western Cleddau. Make your way to the ruins of the 12th-century Haverfordwest Castle. Inside the castle’s former prison warden’s house is the Haverfordwest Town Museum, which presents a through-the-ages exhibition of the town’s history. Stroll south along the river to the remains of Haverfordwest Priory and its ecclesiastical medieval garden.
Peak inside the bookshops, chain stores and galleries that line the narrow lanes. Shop for locally produced food and drink at the Haverfordwest Farmers Market, held on the riverbank every Friday. Enjoy lunch or dinner at waterfront pubs such as the Bristol Trader, which has been open since the 1700s.
More attractions await outside of the town center. Play a round of 18 holes at Haverfordwest Golf Club and see displays of vintage aircrafts at the Welsh Spitfire Museum. Wander around the gardens, lakes and woodland at Hilton Court. Browse art displays, explore stately halls and gaze up at tall trees at Picton Castle and Gardens.
Just a short drive west and easily accessible via rented car or public bus is St. Brides Bay. It’s a rugged coastline peppered with seaside towns such as St. David’s, Newgale, Broad Haven, Little Haven and Marloes. A coastal bus service links the bay’s towns or you can walk between them via the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.
Situated in West Wales, Haverfordwest has direct train connections with both Cardiff and Swansea. The town comes alive in the summer months with food, drink and music festivals. One example is August’s Haverfordwest Beer and Cider Festival.
