When summer crowds have disappeared and the Pembrokeshire coast takes on a golden autumn glow, St Davids is an especially rewarding place to visit. Britain’s smallest city offers dramatic scenery, fascinating history and plenty of cosy places to retreat to when the weather turns.
Start your visit at St Davids Cathedral, one of Wales’s most remarkable historic buildings. Set in a peaceful valley beside the River Alun, the cathedral has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries. Take time to explore the beautiful interior and then wander around the atmospheric ruins of the nearby Bishop’s Palace.
Autumn is also a fantastic season for exploring the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. Wrap up warmly and head out for a coastal walk, where you may see seals, seabirds and perhaps even dolphins offshore. The scenery is spectacular at any time of year, but autumn’s changing light, quieter paths and crashing Atlantic waves give the coastline a particularly wild character. A walk towards Whitesands Bay is a great option, while more adventurous walkers can explore sections around St Davids Head.
For wildlife lovers, autumn is a wonderful time to visit Ramsey Island. Boat trips from St Davids can provide the chance to spot seals, porpoises and a variety of seabirds, although trips are weather-dependent at this time of year. Even if the sea is too rough, the harbour and surrounding coastline offer plenty of opportunities for enjoying the outdoors.
Back in the city, browse the independent galleries, craft shops and cafés. After a bracing walk, there is nothing better than settling somewhere warm with a hot drink, homemade cake or hearty Welsh lunch. The quieter autumn atmosphere makes it easy to explore at your own pace.
