Manorbier - Pembrokeshire Coast Path - Manorbier
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This walk lies within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, which was designated a National Park in 1952, primarily for its coastline. The National Park includes the 300-kilometre Pembrokeshire Coast Path National Trail. In addition to coastal scenery, Walk 2036 includes historical and archaeological points of interest. It can be combined with a visit to Manorbier castle.
The route follows a track inland from the National Park car park towards the Church of St James, which overlooks the castle. It is a Grade 1 Listed Building with a Norman nave. A minor road leads into Manorbier, where there is a range of facilities, including: the Castle Inn, Castlemead Hotel, a post office, a shop and accommodation. The entrance to the castle lies at the southern end of the village.
Manorbier Castle is a 12th Century motte and bailey castle. Despite two minor assaults in 1327 and 1645, it remains remarkably well-preserved. Perhaps its main claim to fame is as the birthplace of Gerald of Wales, son of Sir William de Barri, who is said to have described this part of the Welsh countryside as the "pleasantest spot in Wales". Visit the Castles of Wales website for further information about Manorbier Castle and other castles of Britain.
A footpath leads east from the village and goes clockwise around Hill Farm to join Pembrokeshire Coast Path. Facilities belonging to the Royal Artillery range can be seen on top of Old Castle Head to the east. Those who wish to add an optional detour can follow some steep steps down to the secluded beach below the range. Walk west along the Coast Path to King's Quoit, which is located beside the cliff path, overlooking Manorbier Bay. It is a Neolithic burial chamber consisting of a large capstone supported by two small sidestones. The Coast Path runs below the headland to reach the beach at the back of Manorbier Bay, where a track traces the route back to the car park.
Wales - South Wales - Pembrokeshire - Coast
Features
Ancient Monument, Castle, Church, Great Views, Pub, Public Transport, Sea, Toilets