Wales
PEMBROKESHIRE
The view from Strumble Head
Thanks to the generosity of the owners of Ty Pinc (see Places to Stay lower down the page) who allowed our researchers to stay in their property free of charge, this area was able to be visited and researched during early September 2011. As funding for new research is so difficult to source in this economic climate we are extremely grateful for this opportunity to add a wealth of new information for our web visitors.
The maritime county of Pembrokeshire can be found in the South West corner of Wales and is bordered on two sides by Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire. To the centre of the county is the historic town of Haverfordwest and to the North West can be found the United Kingdom’s smallest city, St David’s, which has a population of approximately 2000 residents.
Pembrokeshire contains a predominantly coastal national park, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and it is within this park that the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path trails for about 186 miles along sandy beaches, craggy cliff paths and through picturesque villages. Along the coast can be seen numerous lighthouses, set on high cliffs, including the one in the picture above, that can be found at the top end of Pembrokeshire off Strumble Head on the tiny island of Ynys Meicel. With amazing seascapes this area is well worth a visit.
For some suggestions out of the many places to visit in Pembrokeshire, please read on and for places to stay please scroll to the bottom of the page.
ATTRACTIONS TO VISIT
Ocean Lab
One of the interactive exhibits on display
Ocean Lab is located on the Parrog at Goodwick in Fishguard within a building with an innovative design that is set on a curve and has a mezzannine floor running throughout the entire length. As well as the Tourist Information Centre and a Cyber Cafe there is a small shop area offering a selection of gifts and local products.
Some of the live exhibits
Also located on the ground floor is a small children's soft play area and a beautifully decorated tunnel leading to the interactive centre as well a another room which is used for talks & video displays. NB There is another display area located up on the mezzanine that can be accessed by a staff operated lift. Outside there is a pleasant picnic area with accessible tables and a path leading along the breakwater out to the harbour.
For more detailed accessibility information and a link to their own website please click here.
Newport Parrog Beach
The view at the start of the trail
Located at Parrog Beach near Newport, this trail follows a short section of the Pembrokeshire National Coastal Path which covers 186 miles of some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery in Britain. Several interpretation boards (with maps) that show the walking routes in the immediate area are located by the car park.
The seating was good and had space for a wheelchair user to park alongside
The trail our researchers chose sets out across the estuary side and is flat and well surfaced. There is an abundance of wild flowers and birds all along this path and there are really beautiful views right along the estuary and out towards the sea. Further along the path rises up and across a bridge over a stream, but it is still hard surfaced and achievable. They returned after this point but were able to see that the path continued flat and firm along the estuary for a long way. This is an enjoyable mainly level trail that would be suitable for most visitors including those needing easy access.
For more detailed accessibility information about the trail please click here.
Welsh Wildlife Centre
The award winning and unusual design of the centre
The visitor centre is located within the Teifi Marshes Nature Reserve on the banks of the River Teifi. The centre building won an award for architectural design in 1993 when it was first constructed and remains an impressive structure. It is constructed largely of wood and glass and offers visitors panoramic views over the surrounding landscape including theTeifi River, the town of Cardigan and woodland.
The centre is light, airy and fully accessible
The building is set on three levels and into a hill so that each level can also be accessed from the hill as well as by the internal lift and stairs. The lower ground floor level has information, a shop and toilets and the ground floor level has the designated accessible toilets and a series of interactive exhibitions. The first floor level which has some amazing views also houses the Glasshouse Café. From this level it is possible to go outside over an access bridge to a picnic area which is set on grass overlooking the river estuary and where again the views are beautiful.
For more detailed accessibility information please click here.
The Otter Trail
The bird hide has excellent views over the lake
As well as the wealth of information inside the Welsh Wildlife Centre, there are three trails (blue, red and yellow) that offer visitors a firsthand experience of exploring the landscape of this beautiful area. A map showing the routes is available from the information area inside the centre.
The gate to the 'red' Otter Trail
The (blue) Badger Trail is the designated ‘disabled friendly’ trail but this includes some steepish inclines so our researchers chose the flattest route which is the first section of the Otter Trail (red route). It proved an excellent choice. It was wide and flat and had a tarmac surface and our researchers were able to go along to the kingfisher hide. This was accessible via a ramp and had good access to viewing window looking over a lake.
For more detailed accessibility information about the trail please click here.
St Davids Cathedral
St David's Cathedral
The city of St Davids (in reality a small pictureque village, lying within the National Park) was granted city status by Queen Elizabeth II because of the presence of the cathedral. Construction of the present imposing Cathedral began in 1181 but there has been a monastic community (founded by Saint David) on this site that was once called Menevia since the 6th century. There is step free access to most areas of this impressive large building including a wheelchair lift up to the refectory cafe.
The ruins of the adjoining Bishop's Palace
This is an amazing site to visit and visitors are able to gain insight into what life must have been like in this isolated religious community and why it became an important place of pilgrimage over the following centuries. There is access to the adjacent ruins of the medieval Bishop's Palace (managed by CADW) across Ford Bridge which is located near the South Porch.
For more detailed accessibility information about St Davids and a link to their own website please click here.
Oriel-Y-Parc
The tower showing the 'living' grass and sedum roof
This newly built gallery/information centre is also located at St Davids. It is based on a circular shape, and has a tower at one end. It has been designed to incorporate very green credentials with grass/sedum on parts of the roof, solar panels and many other environmentally friendly features. As well as an information centre and cafe there are interactive models showing the contribtuion the centre is making to saving the environment.
There is an audio guide that is easy to use
The art gallery that has some amazing sculptures is located downstairs and there is also a visiting artist situated in the tower where there is further art on display. A programme of special exhibitions and dates/details of the schedule of 'artists in residence' is available on the centre's own website.
For more detailed accessibility information about and a link to their own website please click here.
Hilton Court
The courtyard at Hilton Court
Hilton Court residence and estate dates back to 1323, however the present gardens and nursery were started in 1989 and have been gradually extended over the following years. As well as the garden centre and balconied tearoom, the stable block and outbuildings which are set around a Victorian courtyard have been converted to house a restaurant and craft shops.
The path leading from the Tearoom to the Gardens
The shop and tearooms are accessed via the garden centre. The entrance fee for the gardens, which cover 8 acres and include two lakes and woodland, is paid in the tearooms and a map is available showing paths and highlighted features.
For more detailed accessibility information about as well as a link to their own website please click here.
Scolton Manor
Scolton Manor House
Scolton Manor is home to Pembrokeshire's County Museum and offers a wide visitor experience. As well as exploring the Victorian Manor House there are exhibits and a wealth of displays about the landscape, wildlife, history and culture of this beautiful and diverse county housed in the Stable Block and Exhibition Hall. A cafe and shop are also situated within the house.
There is good access to the exhibits
The landscaped estate is now a country park with a series of woodland nature trails and a Visitor Centre which houses a display room, toilets and a small interactive exhibit. There is also a small garden centre on site.
For more detailed accessibility information about please click here.
Llys-Y-Fran
Llys-y-Fran Centre is an impressive structure
This is a large country park covering 350 acres including a 212 acre reservoir that is located near Haverfordwest, a few miles south of the Preseli Hills section of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. The visitor centre which includes a gift shop and cafe has impressive views over the dam and reservoir.
The view across the lake from the car park on the far side of the valley
There is vehicular access to the other side of the valley via a narrow road that leads down from the centre to the foot of the dam, across a small bridge and then winds up to a car park overlooking the lake. NB Whilst this road does have some magnificent views and is well worth exploring, visitors should also be aware it has seriously challenging gradients in places.
For more detailed accessibility information and a link to their own website please click here.
Withybush Woods
The pathways are well maintained
The present day woods, that are now an open space for everyone to enjoy, once formed part of the estate of Withbush Bush House which dated back to the 16th century. It was privately owned until the second world war when it housed RAF pilots flying from the nearby aerodrome. Sadly it then fell into decay and was demolished in 1971.
The lilies on the lake are very pretty when in bloom
There is an excellent circular trail around a lake that our researchers found had a well surfaced path that was mainly level throughout and that offered visitors a wealth of pretty views.
For more detailed accessibility information and a link to their own website please click here.
Folly Farm
These friendly Giraffes are just one of many different species at Folly Farm
Folly Farm is a family owned visitor attraction covering 200 acres. It was created in 1988 and has steadily been extended and improved during the intervening years and now attracts around 400,000 visitors a year. There is a lot to see and do at this attraction including the Jolly Barn and play area which also contains a wide variety of farm animals, the Vintage Fair, Carousel World, the Interactive Zone and Folly Zoo.
The Big Wheel ride has ramped access
There is also ramped access to the Big Wheel which has a wheelchair accessible gondola/capsule for visitors who need to remain seated in their wheelchairs whilst enjoying the ride and the Land Train is also wheelchair accessible.
For more detailed accessibility information and a link to their own website please click here.
Carew Castle and Mill
A view of Carew Castle taken from the access road
The Carew site incorporates a castle, a mill, a causeway, a medieval bridge and a picnic area. The castle is set in a stunning countryside location overlooking the 23 acre Mill Pond and a causeway leads to the mill which is one of only 3 restored tidal mills in the British Isles. A varied programme of events is held at the site throughout the summer months and details can be obtained by contacting the Castle.
There are display boards under the arches inside the castle
The path that goes around the lake can be used this to access the Mill and Castle and the surface is compressed stone and flat. There are lovely views of the Castle and Mill and benches along the route. From this it is possible to cross the causeway to the Mill and the entrance fee paid here then covers both the Mill and the Castle. Outside the Mill, the views of the Castle pond are stunning and the mud on the estuary side of the causeway is busy with birdlife. NB There is stepfree access to the ground floor of the Mill and much of the Castle including the shop and herb garden is wheelchair accessible.
Our researchers enjoyed their visit to Carew Castle & Mill and thought it was an excellent day out for visitors of all ages.
For more detailed accessiblity information about Carew and a link to their own website please click here.
Sunderland Flying Boat Centre
The centre celing is covered in models and exhibits
The Flying Boat Visitor Centre in Pembroke Dock, which opened in 2009 is the only centre within the UK devoted to explaining the story of these unique aircraft. For thirty years Pembroke Dock was linked with the flying boat operations. This centre seeks to recount some of the stories from this momentous era of the 20th century and in particular it focuses on the history of a unique flying boat, Sunderland serial number T9044 which sank during a gale in November 1940.
Volunteers manning the workshop area
The centre is a small building set inside the docks at Pembroke and it is a really interesting and informative place to visit. Our researchers found the staff very friendly and willing to chat about their passion for Sunderland Flying Boats and the work that goes into restoring the parts of the flying boat that is slowly brought up from the bottom of Pembroke dock.
For detailed accessiblity information about the centre and a link to their own website please click here.
Stackpole Quay
The scenery at Stackpole Quay is stunning
The Quay is part of Stackpole Estate, which is now owned and maintained by the National Trust but was formerly the lands of Stackople Court a large privately owned house that was demolished in 1963. The estate is located between the villages of Stackpole and Bosherston near Pembroke and lies within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. It consists of 12 square kilometres (4.6 sq miles) of farmland, woodland, lakes, beaches and cliffs.
The Bay is accessible and pretty
Vehicular access to Stackpole Quay is down a series of narrow winding lanes to a large car park. From the car park visitors needing step free access have a choice of two ramps down into the cafe courtyard. Once down there is another ramp up into the café itself and there is also access down to the bay where the view out to sea is outstanding and can be best seen from a small headland (accessible to wheelchairs) by the quay.
For more detailed accessiblity information about Stackpole Quay and a link to their own website please click here.
Tenby Museum and Art Gallery
The Museum and Art Gallery are located in an elevated position above the town
Tenby Museum & Art Gallery was established 1878 making it the oldest independent museum in Wales. Its collections and displays which are continually being extended are intended to preserve and promote the history of the town for local residents and visitors. Located on Castle Hill on the site of the living quarters for Tenby's castle, in a former life during the 19th century it was also home to the National School. It is important for visitors with limited ambulant ability and wheelchair users to note that this National Award winning museum is located at the top of a steep hill and there is no adjacent parking.
There are excellent views from here
Access to the ground floor is through a small shop. This floor has a variety of exhibits and an audio guide is available or alternatively a printed sheet. Step free access to the first and second floors is via a staff operated lift. The first floor gallery contained a variety of different art work and the second floor has a mixture of interesting exhibits. A programme of temporary exhibitions and events staged throughout the year is available on the Museum website.
For more detailed accessiblity information about and a link to their own website please click here.
PLACES TO STAY
The first two accommodations included has been assessed by one of our wheelchair user researchers for accessibility. Please note however whilst we have tried to ensure that the accommodation included will meet most wheelchair users needs we advise you to consult with each provider about your own specific requirements.
N.B. Our researchers assess for accessibility not quality so for accommodation inspection gradings e.g. Diamond ratings, follow the links to each providers own website.
Ty Pinc
The exterior of Ty Pinc
Ty Pinc is on the edge of the quiet and peaceful village of St. Nicholas which lies in the north west of Pembrokeshire. This attractive four bedroomed property is set well away from any busy roads. There is a ground floor bedroom which can be either twin or super king and has a well equipped en-suite wet-room. It also has double patio doors on to decking that runs around the south and east of the house. Upstairs there is a master double bedroom with en suite bathroom, a double bedroom, a single bedroom and a family bathroom.
There is excellent space to manouevre
There is a light and airy, triple aspect kitchen/dining room with double patio doors that open on to decking along the west side of the house. Leading from the kitchen, through a large opening, is the spacious lounge which again has triple aspect windows, meaning the room commands wonderful views which include distant views of the sea. The whole living space is generous and this means visitors can flow from one area to another very easily. Outside there is patio furniture on the decking where there are views over the garden and neighbouring orchard.
Sun streams into the lounge through the patio doors
Our researchers found Ty Pinc a comfortable, relaxing and restful place to stay as it is fully equipped for all visitors including those with easy access needs and their family members. They found it made a great base to explore the area and an ample supply of leaflets and maps about the wide range of places to visit has been made available for visitors and Mary the owner is close at hand, if needed, to supply any additional information required. St Nicolas is only a short distance from Strumble Head Lighthouse where, as you can see from the photograph at the top of this page, the view from the car park is simply stunning.
NB It is even possible to bring horses along too as livery can be supplied.
For more detailed accessibility information and a link to their own website please click here.
Hampton Court Log Cabin
The log cabin is set within the holiday park
This 3 bedroomed log cabin has been specifically designed to be accessible for all visitors including people with more complex access needs. It is the only cabin located on a mobile home holiday park, next to a private house in Templeton in Pembrokeshire. The property is ideally located to explore this area of Wales which has a wealth of attractions to visit as well stunning scenery and a picturesque coastline.
Underneath clearance to the cooker hob and sink
Access into the property is via a ramp into the lounge which our researchers found warm, spacious and well equipped. The kitchen has been created to enable easy use from varying heights, with underneath clearance to the sink and in addition the hob and work surface can be raised and lowered according to each individual visitors need.
The bedroom with the ceiling hoist
A ceiling hoist is tracked between one of the bedrooms and the well equipped shower room with changing bed and closomatic toilet. There are two further bedrooms, a double and a single/twin as well as a second accessible bathroom.
For more detailed accessibility information about the apartment and a link to their own website please click here.
Self Assessed Properties
The following properties have not yet been assessed by our own researchers but have completed a self assessment ticklist therefore we strongly advise you to consult with each provider about your own specific requirements.
Apple Cottage
The exterior of the property
Apple Cottage (sleeping six people) is one of Rosemoor's nine Country Cottages situated just two miles from St. Bride's Bay in Pembrokeshire making it ideally located to enjoy the surrounding countryside. The property is set in a valley and the grounds cover approximately 35 acres including a Nature Reserve. The ground floor of the cottage is all on one level and includes a ground floor bedroom with a double bed that has an en-suite with a wheel-in shower.
For more detailed accessibility information and a link to their own website please click here.
Rosedene Guesthouse
Rosedene Exterior
Rosedene Guesthouse is located in the small village of Hodgeston part of the Pembrokeshire National Park. Nestled in cared for grounds it is located near the ancient church alongside the well kept village green. All bedrooms are on the ground floor and have an en-suite tiled shower, WC, wash basin, etc. One of the rooms has been specifically adapted for people with disabilities.
For more detailed accessibility information and a link to their own website please click here.
Cornerstone Cottage
There is ramped access to the cottage
This single storey detached cottage is located within the quiet village of Castlemartin in the Pembrokeshire National Park only 6 miles from Pembroke. It was originally a Smithy dating back to 1860 but has been carefully redesigned (with accessibility in mind) to provide a modern holiday home whilst still retaining the original charms and character of the building. The cottage sleeps up to four people in two bedrooms and also has a fully accessible wet-room.
For more detailed accessibility information and a link to their own website please click here.
The Granary
Exterior of The Granary
Clynfyw cottages (pronounced 'Klin-view') are based on a 200 acre family-run organic farm and woodland, set in a quiet, beautiful environment with stunning views of the Cych valley and north Pembrokeshire countryside. The cottages are just eight miles from the bustling market town of Cardigan and the Cardigan Bay coastline with its beautiful beaches. The town of Newcastle Emlyn is also only five miles away and there are two pubs serving food within a short distance of the cottages.
The Granary sleeps six people in three twin bedrooms (two of which are en-suite) and has a third bathroom. All the rooms are on one level and it has an open plan dining room, sitting area also has a large decking area with a picnic table and sun loungers, great for those long summer evenings!
Along with the farm there are another two accessible cottages on site, raised beds, a pottery, sculpture trail and woodland walk for guests to enjoy.
For more detailed accessibility information and a link to their own website please click here.