How long is the Pembrokeshire Coast Path?

186 miles (299 km) from St Dogmaels to Amroth. It opened in 1970 at about 180 miles and has grown with diversions.

How many days does it take?

Official guidance suggests around 12 days at 15 miles a day, guidebooks use about 14 stages over two weeks, and our plan is 15 days. Some experienced walkers do it in 9 to 10 days, but that is a very long push.

Is the elevation really 11,000 metres?

Roughly yes: published figures put the total ascent at about 10,500 to 11,000 metres across the whole walk. It is the sum of all the ups and downs over many days, not a single climb.

Which direction is best?

Most guidebooks go north to south, from St Dogmaels to Amroth, and the official gates and stiles are numbered that way. Walking south to north eases you in with gentler terrain before the steeper northern cliffs. Either works.

What is the best month to walk it?

May to September gives the longest days and the most open places to stay. May and June bring wild flowers and seabirds, and September brings seal pups on the beaches. Welsh weather changes quickly in any month, so pack for rain.

Can I wild camp on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path?

Wild camping is not legal in Wales without the landowner's permission. Some walkers say they have camped quietly, but you risk being moved on, so use campsites or ask the landowner first.

Is there a best section if I only have a week?

The stretch from Broad Haven north to Cardigan is about 85 miles and is often rated the best part, but it is also the hardest. The middle section around St Brides Bay is the easiest. Pick by how hard you want the week to be.

Is the walk good for anyone scared of heights?

Not entirely. There are long stretches of unfenced cliff edge, especially in the north. Walkers with a fear of heights can choose the gentler middle and southern sections, such as St Brides Bay, Pembroke or Tenby to Amroth.

Can I do it with a dog?

Yes, many walkers do. Keep your dog on a lead near livestock, cliff edges and nesting birds, and check your accommodation accepts dogs.

Pembrokeshire Coast Path: 186-Mile Wales Walk Guide with Stages and Tips

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