The Paddock

This is a prime part of Pembrokeshire for beaches, with top swimming spot Freshwater East and the cliff-framed Barafundle Bay both within a 20-minute drive of the park. Kayak on the placid waters at this stretch of shoreline or set off on a coastal walk around Stackpole Head, just around the corner, for sweeping views. For other strolls by the sea, venture down to Saint Govan's Chapel (15 minutes' drive), squeezed onto the side of a limestone cliff, or go to Green Bridge (10 minutes) to see an especially scenic natural limestone arch flanking the water. If hanging off the front of a crag sounds like your cup of tea, climb on the limestone Stack Rocks or bounce over to Bosherston (both around 10 minutes’ drive); at the latter location, you can also stroll around the lush lily ponds. For more inland touring, the medieval-era Pembroke Castle (15 minutes) is so massive that it should keep you busy for a couple of hours at least.