Pembrokeshire Car Hire

Guide of Pembrokeshire

Geography

Pembrokeshire, also known as Pembroke and Welsh Sir Benfro, is a county in southern Wales, bordered by Ceredigion to the northeast, Carmarthenshire to the east, the Bristol Channel to the south, and St. Bride's Bay and Cardigan Bay of St. George's Channel to the west and northwest. The rough and winding coastline of the county creates a peninsula with multiple projecting headlands. The modern county of Pembrokeshire runs parallel to the mediaeval county of the same name. Haverfordwest is the county's administrative centre.

Climate in Pembrokeshire

Pembrokeshire has a moderate marine climate, with summers that are warm rather than hot and winters that are mild to cold. Pembrokeshire seldom receives really severe weather, allowing it to be visited all year. Summer's hottest month is July, while winter's coldest month is January. Rainfall occurs very equally throughout the year, with October being the wettest and May being the driest. The weather, like the rest of the UK, is unpredictable, and it is possible to experience parts of all four seasons in a single day.

Culture

During the Bronze and Iron Ages, Pembrokeshire served as a major cultural hub. Megalithic relics like dolmens, alignments, standing stones, and stone circles may be found in abundance in the northwestern part of Pembrokeshire, which includes the southern slopes of the Preseli Hills. Warrior's Dyke, an ancient earthwork, may be seen today among the towering cliffs of St. David's Head. Throughout the southern regions, artefacts like tombs, cairns, and hut circles attest to a previous Iron Age population.

Things To Do in Pembrokeshire

Explore the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park

The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, established in 1952, is the UK's only coastline national park, spanning around 630 square kilometres. It is made up of four primary landscapes: the Preseli Hills, Caldey Island, the Daugleddau Estuary, and the shoreline and coastal islands of St Bride's Bay. It is a haven for hikers, surfers, kayakers, and everyone who appreciates being outside. The breathtaking coastline, with its spectacular cliffs, secret bays, isolated coves, beautiful beaches, and a profusion of unusual flora and animals, will captivate you. Before commencing your tour, stop by the park's visitor centre in Haverfordwest to get information and purchase souvenirs. Hikers will particularly enjoy the Pembrokeshire Coastline Path, a recognised national path constructed in 1970 that covers a 186-mile walking circuit with breathtaking coastal views.

Enjoy a historical day out at Pembroke Castle

Pembroke Fortress, built in 1090, is by far the most impressive mediaeval castle that served as the Earldom of Pembroke's family seat. Major renovations were carried out in the early twentieth century, and it is now one of Pembrokeshire's most popular tourist sites. From its massive circular keep, the Norman castle sits on the summit of a hill and provides stunning views of the surrounding region. Explore the Norman Hall, the Prison Tower, the North Hall, and Wogan's Cavern, a natural cave under the castle. Exhibits within the castle depict the civil war between Cromwell's army and Pembroke Royalists, as well as the famed Pembroke Yeomanry. Pembroke Castle was featured in the Hollywood film 'Me Before You,' which was based on Jojo Moyes' book of the same name.

Take your kids to the Dinosaur Park at Tenby

If you have children, the Dinosaur Park in Tenby is a great place to visit. Step back in time as they explore for prehistoric creature fossils in the Dino Dig and Jurassic Journey zones. Prepare for a thrilling journey as you begin the Dinosaur Trail, where you will encounter about 30 of these giant monsters wandering around. The Tubey Ride, Wales' unique tube slide, will appeal to younger visitors. There are various additional things to enjoy, such as the bubble ride, disco boats, astra-slide, trampolines, and so on. Later in the day, enjoy a great outdoor meal before finishing the day with a game of T-Rex golf.

Eating Out in Pembrokeshire

Pembrokeshire has a diverse seaside cuisine that will undoubtedly wow you. Here are some of our favourite restaurants and bars for an unforgettable dining experience. The Griffin Pub, situated in the little community of Dale in the Pembrokeshire National Park, features a rooftop terrace from which to snap beautiful sunsets while drinking Welsh ales. Their Pint of Shell on Prawns is served with wholemeal toast. Blue Ball is considered one of Tenby's finest restaurants, serving a variety of Welsh steaks and vegan meals in addition to seafood. Try their Moules Frites, a delicious mussel meal. The Shed is a Porthgain cafe where the cuisine is rather pricey. However, the atmosphere compensates. Enjoy the entire sea bream seasoned with garlic, lemon, and herbs.

Transport

Airport

Cardiff Airport (CWL), the closest international airport situated 74 miles away, serves Pembrokeshire.

Getting Around Pembrokeshire

The county's public transportation system comprises a network of local coastal buses that go nearly everywhere, as well as rail services. However, keep in mind that they may not be as frequent as you may be used to in larger cities. For this reason, many visitors choose to hire vehicles as it gives them flexibility and convenience that public buses cannot. Whether you’re looking for a compact sedan or a massive SUV, Enjoy Travel has you covered. Alternatively, taxis are available but they can be pricey.

Top Tips when hiring a car in the Pembrokeshire

• When considering a rental car in Pembrokeshire, ensure that your driving licence is valid and accepted by the rental company. Some agencies might require an international driving permit for non-UK licences.

• For larger groups or moving needs, van hire options are available from various rental agencies. It's advisable to book these in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or in popular cities like Tenby, St. David's, or Pembroke.

• Different vehicles suit different terrains and group sizes. From compact cars for town travel to larger vehicles for exploring the countryside or visiting beaches, consider your itinerary to choose the right vehicle.

• It's highly recommended to inspect the vehicle thoroughly before your trip. Note any existing damages to the rental property and ensure they're documented in the rental agreement to avoid being charged for pre-existing issues upon return.

• Pembrokeshire boasts stunning coastal towns and beautiful beaches, many of which are accessible by car. However, some remote locations might require vehicles with better access capabilities, so plan accordingly depending on which beach you want to visit.

• While luxury cars are available for rent, they might come at a higher cost. Make sure to check the availability and pricing in advance if you're interested in renting a luxury vehicle.

• Before driving off, understand the rental terms, including insurance coverage, fuel policies, and additional fees. Some locations might require you to pay tolls or parking fees, so it's wise to have some local currency for such expenses.

• Always obey the country's driving laws and regulations, especially speed limits and parking restrictions. Drivers in the UK drive on the left-hand side of the road, which might be different from what you're accustomed to.

• Lastly, when returning the rental vehicle, ensure it's in the same condition as when you received it. Refuel as needed to avoid additional charges, and return it on time to avoid extra fees.