Manorbier Bay - Swanlake Bay

Peter Salenieks

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This walk lies within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, which was designated a National Park in 1952. The circular route follows part of the 300-kilometre Pembrokeshire Coast Path National Trail, taking in the South Pembrokeshire Heritage Coast between Manorbier Bay and Swanlake Bay. It then continues along a footpath up low cliffs at the back of Swanlake Bay, passing East Moor Farm and Atlantic View before rejoining the Pembrokeshire Coast Path via a permitted path. For a gentler gradient, it is also possible to continue along the minor road towards Manorbier Bay. This circuit can be combined with a visit to Manorbier castle, which is a well-preserved 12th Century motte and bailey castle.

The beaches at Manorbier Bay and Swanlake Bay are both listed in the Marine Conservation Society's Good Beach Guide. Manorbier Bay is readily accessible, whilst Swanlake Bay offers a more secluded beach that can only be reached via footpaths. The Freshwater East to Skrinkle Haven Site of Special Scientific Interest encompasses the foreshore, coastal slope and dunes along this part of the coast. Points of interest include the Old Red Sandstone cliff exposures, plant fossils and rare plants, such as purple broomrape, which has a characteristic bluish stem and bluish-violet flowers. It is thought to be in decline nationally and only occurs at one site in Wales - the fixed dune grassland overlooking the car park at Manorbier.

Wales - South Wales - Pembrokeshire - Coast