As summer draws to a close, Pembrokeshire settles into a gentler pace. The beaches become quieter, the days turn crisp and clear, and the landscape slowly shifts from green to gold.
From woodland walks and windswept beaches to wildlife, historic places and cosy spots to stop for lunch, autumn is one of our favourite times to explore Pembrokeshire.
We asked our team what they love about the season and where they’ll be heading this autumn. From favourite coastal walks to the best places to warm up afterwards, these are their recommendations for making the most of Pembrokeshire in autumn.
Woodland walks and autumn colour
There’s something rather special about exploring Pembrokeshire’s woodlands in autumn, when the leaves begin to turn and the air takes on that unmistakable seasonal crispness.
Just a 20-minute drive from Grove, Colby Woodland Garden is a beautiful place to embrace the changing season, with woodland paths winding through the trees and down towards the coast at Amroth.
For another local favourite just a 10-minute drive from Grove, Claire, our Duty Manager, recommends heading to Canaston Woods and Minwear Woods.
“I love to explore Canaston Woods and Minwear Woods on foot, passing the historic Blackpool Mill nestled in old broadleaf forest. My best tip would be to keep your eyes peeled for birdlife as you make your way along the estuary.”
If you’d like to explore the surrounding countryside on two wheels, Grove guests can also make use of our e-bikes, offering a different way to discover the woodland, lanes and landscapes around Narberth.
Quieter beaches and coastal walks
One of the best things about Pembrokeshire in autumn is the peace and quiet. Once the summer crowds have gone, some of the county’s most beautiful beaches feel wonderfully wild and secluded.
Wrap up warm, bring the dog and head to the coast for a bracing walk along the sand, with little more than the sound of the waves for company.
For Zoe, our Owner, one beach stands out above the rest: Tenby South Beach.
“Tenby South Beach may be one of the most famous beaches in Pembrokeshire, but it’s still a firm favourite of mine and the views over to Caldey Island are just incredible.”
For a longer coastal adventure, Jane, our Receptionist, recommends a walk from Stackpole Quay to Bosherston and Barafundle Bay.
“A good, old classic is the brilliant loop from Stackpole Quay, Bosherston and Barafundle. It never disappoints and the views on the walk always amaze me, especially as you reach the top of the steps to Barafundle.”
And after a day exploring the coast, there’s no better way to warm up than with a private coastal sauna. In partnership with Wild Water Sauna, the experience brings together soothing heat, fresh sea air and beautiful coastal views. The sauna moves along the Pembrokeshire coastline, with different beaches and landscapes to discover each time. It’s a wonderfully restorative way to round off an autumn day by the sea.
Wildlife along the Pembrokeshire coast
Autumn is a wonderful season for wildlife watching, and the Pembrokeshire coast offers plenty of opportunities to see nature at its most spectacular.
Head west to Marloes Peninsula for a dramatic coastal walk, where you may be lucky enough to spot seals below the cliffs. Karen, our General Manager, counts it among her favourite walks:
“My favourite walk is the loop around Marloes Peninsula, followed by lunch at Runwayskiln.”
For another perspective on the coastline, take to the water with a wildlife boat trip around Ramsey Island. Keep your eyes peeled for seals, seabirds and other marine life as you explore the island’s rugged coastline from the sea.
Or, discover the coast in a more hands-on way with Grove’s coastal foraging experience. Accompanied by a renowned Pembrokeshire forager, explore the shoreline and learn to identify and harvest wild seaweeds, herbs and shellfish before gathering around an open fire on the beach to enjoy a wild feast, cooked over a handcrafted Solva Stove.
Discover Pembrokeshire’s hidden corners
Autumn is also a lovely time to explore some of Pembrokeshire’s lesser-known places, when there’s more time and space to take things at your own pace.
Andreas, our bar manager, says there’s plenty to discover around Narberth itself:
“We’re blessed to be surrounded by a network of paths and bridleways that offer lots of interesting walking routes and points of interest. Discover a deserted Welsh chapel, an ancient settlement perched on the hill nearby, or stroll into Narberth to visit our derelict castle and local museum.”
For something a little more active, Jane also recommends Llys-y-Frân Lake, where you can try paddleboarding, mountain biking or walk the 10km trail around the lake.
“It’s the perfect place to try out paddle boarding for the first time. You can also go mountain biking there, or follow the 10k trail around the entire lake.”
Lunch, local pubs and somewhere cosy
After a morning spent exploring, there’s nothing better than finding somewhere warm and welcoming for lunch.
Karen’s Marloes walk leads naturally to Runwayskiln, while Claire recommends the Griffin Inn in Dale after exploring St. Ann’s Head.
Around Carew, you can combine a visit to the historic castle with a stop at the Carew Inn, which is particularly lovely after watching the sunset over the castle.
And when the day’s exploring is done, there’s always Grove. Return to the hotel for a seasonal meal, a drink by the fire and the chance to settle into the slower rhythm of autumn.
Autumn at Grove
Perhaps the best way to experience Pembrokeshire in autumn is not to rush. Leave room for a long walk, an unplanned stop for lunch, a quiet beach and an extra drink at the end of the day. With woodland, coastline, countryside and historic places all within easy reach of Grove, there’s plenty to discover.
