The abundance of natural flora, excellent garden attractions and truly
spectacular landscapes combine to give Pembrokeshire a well deserved reputation
as a paradise for those who love the outdoor life. Almost a third of the
county, including the entire coastal strip are in the Pembrokeshire Coast
National Park.
Many of Pembrokeshire's garden attractions reflect their surrounding natural
environment. Rather than being formal landscapes, most are collections of
exotic species in a natural setting. This is certainly true of the National
Trust's Colby Woodland Garden near Amroth and Picton Castle and Gardens near
Haverfordwest. These are woodland gardens par excellence - Colby has a
marvellous walled garden with a splendid Gothic gazebo. Picton, where the
Norman castle gave rise to a grand country house, can boast 40 acres including
an extensive collection of medicinal and culinary herbs. It also has the added
attraction of access to the castle, which is notable for its 18th century
interiors and medieval undercroft, or crypt.
Smaller, but equally compelling gardens in the north of Pembrokeshire include
Penlan Uchaf in the Gwaun Valley, the 17th century Manorowen Walled Garden near
Fishguard and Bro Meigan near Boncath. Bro Meigan has recently been appointed a
partner garden of the Royal Horticultural Society and has an extensive range of
plants and tempting tearoom.
In the south of Pembrokeshire, Begelly Park with its Japanese garden is an
excellent place to go to and visitors never fail to be delighted by Bosherston
Lily Ponds near Pembroke. Pembroke.
For a unique experience, a trip to the National Nature Reserve on the island of
Skomer is only 15 minutes by boat from the Dale Peninsula. It is awe inspiring,
particularly in May and June, when carpets of bluebells and campion act as a
backdrop to thousands of puffins and other seabirds.
Explore Pembrokeshire in more detail at
www.visitpembrokeshire.com
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