This walk covers a very scenic section of the Pembrokeshire coast from Freshwater East to Manorbier Castle. The walk distance ‘point to point’ is over 4 miles, so a ‘there and back’ retracing your steps along the coast path is about 9 miles.

The start point is at the splendid Freshwater East beach, a superb wide arc of golden sands flanked by richly coloured rock faces and sloping hillsides.

The coast path is clearly way marked by posts with the familiar acorn icon directing the way through the dunes behind the beach. There’s a steady climb uphill and a great view ahead of headlands which gradually “step” towards Manorbier into the distance.

An open section provides a fine view looking across the natural arc of Freshwater East bay to the headland at Trewent Point.

Continuing onwards along the edge of open fields at the top of gently sloping cliffs the views open up across this wonderful coastline.

There are occasional surprises too as the path skims near the edge in places, above some steep cliff sides with dramatic sheer rock features which contrast with the turquoise hued waters.

Swanlake Bay soon comes into view, with the backdrop of rolling green countryside into the distance and the shimmering waters across the bay, the scenery is outstanding.

At Swanlake Bay we headed down onto the deserted beach, a tranquil idyll with just the sounds of waves breaking gently on the shore.

Back on the path as it rises again and the open aspect provides yet more wonderful views westwards across Swanlake Bay.

At the next headland Manorbier Bay comes into view, on this occasion albeit obscured by a morning sea mist rolling in, for dramatic effect.

The path meanders downwards on a steep zigzag track downhill the along sloping ground, high above the rugged coastline.

It’s a more gentle descent following the path to reach Manorbier Beach. A wide rocky beach with a freshwater stream which tumbles a course through pebbles, as it winds its way to the shoreline.

From the beach we made our way uphill along the roadside, which runs below the imposing walls of Manorbier Castle, into the village.

At the top of the road is the magnificent entrance of the Norman castle. This was the birthplace and home of Geraldus Cambrinus, ‘Gerald of Wales’, one of Wales most famous chroniclers of the ages. He was born here in the 12th Century and he described his birthplace as “the most pleasantest spot in all Wales”.

Within the castle is a small cafe and gift shop. There are tables and seats in the courtyard, so you can end a coastal walk here in historical and pleasant surroundings.

You can wander around the castle grounds, towers and accessible areas, though an entrance fee is charged. See Manorbier Castle Website for current prices.

You can enjoy wonderful views from the towers overlooking the grounds and the bay. Gerald of Wales was probably just a tad biased, but you can appreciate why he held that opinion all those centuries ago, with the splendid views from here.

After exploring the castle, a short distance up the road is the local pub, The Castle Inn. It has a fine beer garden to enjoy something more refreshing in summer and snug bars for other times. The return to Freshwater East is back along the same coast path route.

Route Recap

Distance – A return back along the coast path makes an ‘out and back’ walk of about 9 miles.

Time – allow about 3 hours to include time for a wander on the beach and a refreshment break in the village.