"St Davids - The Spiritual Heart of Wales" Saint Davids by M0B1US

The picturesque village of St Davids (Tyddewi in Welsh) is officially the smallest city in the UK, conferred city status by Queen Elizabeth II because of the presence of St Davids cathedral.

Situated within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park St Davids and surrounded by spectacular coastal scenery St Davids is the Spiritual Heart of Wales as Wales' patron saint St David who was born here founded a monastery here in the 6th century.

As well as being on the Pilgrimage trail of thousands each year, its close proximity to the Pembrokeshire Coast makes it a great base to explore the many fabulous beaches and spectacular scenery that abounds.

St David's Cathedral

Apart from visiting the historic cathedral, you can also have a look at the adjacent ruins of the medieval Bishops Palace, destroyed during Henry VIII's dissolution of the monasteries in the 16th century.

In the village there are many artists and galleries, of which a lot have their own shops and studios. There are a number of excellent B&Bs in and around the village as well as a number of inticing cafes and restaurants where you can satisfy your hunger.

Visit the spectacular beaches such as Whitesands Bay, which has been awared the prestigious European Blue Flag Award.

Overlooking Whitesands Bay is Carn Llidi, the highest point on the peninsula from where you can enjoy a fantastic 360o panoramic view of the land and sea all around.

Why not also visit nearby Solva, a beautiful fishing village in a small valley just south of St Davids.

View of Ramsay Island from Carn Llidi

Getting around here can be quite difficult without private transport such as a car, which provides the most flexibility in the small lanes around the peninsula.

Unfortunately during the high season these same roads can become clogged with thousands of holidaymakers!

There is a local bus service that can get you to St Davids from Haverfordwest (linking with the rail network) and Fishguard (linking to ferries to Ireland).

The fairly flat country of Pembrokeshire also lends itself well to cycling as an excellent means of getting around.

Finally many people walk the 299km (186 miles) Pembrokeshire Coast Path National Trail, which covers some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in Britain, staying at the many YHA hostels, and B&Bs along the way...

Location

• Pros:Small but perfectly formed
• Cons:Gets choked with tourists during the summer months...