Wales Day 2 – Pembrokeshire

Today was grey and wet - although not overly cold. We have a few full day trips planned so today we wanted to explore the local area with a view to having an early afternoon.

First stop was the medieval stone circle of Carreg Sampson just out of Abercastle right on the coast. Thanks to the SatNav we had not trouble negotiating the narrow roads to arrive at the coastal town nestled in a cove that reminded us of Polperro in Cornwall. But there was no sign of the circle. So we continued our drive on the cliff tops passing through Trefin. As we turned a corner I sighted the circle on the edge of a cliff. We pulled over and took some photos but it was a little wet to trek over to them.

From there we made our way the short distance to St David’s. The cathedral is Wales’ holiest place and is sunk in a depression. Apparently this was to hide it from Norse raiders. In 1124 Pope Calixtus II declared that two pilgrimages to St David’s were equivalent to one to Rome, and three were equal to one to Jerusalem.

Once inside the ornately carved oak ceiling was very impressive. The interior was dimly lit with a spotlight accenting a carved cross that hung above. The inner row of stone pillars seemed to be leaning and Merrilyn told me that there had been an earthquake in the 13th century. I guess if it hasn’t fallen by now it should be safe!

Henry Tudor’s crypt is also here. He defeated Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth Field in 1485 to become Henry VII and found the family of Tudor.

He stopped in the quiet seaside village of Solva. Although we had plans to walk the cliff tops it was still raining so instead we found a little pub and enjoyed a hot meal (still looking for rarebit) and a pint of local ale. Very relaxing.

For the afternoon we decided to look at some of the many castles that are dotted through Wales. Most are closed this time of year but we still enjoyed walking around Carew Castle and Llawhaden Castle. The castle at Carew overlooks the river and has enormous stone windows that must have provided its occupants a spectacular view. At its entrance is the Carew Cross – an 11th century Celtic cross that is one of the oldest in Wales.

We were thankful for the SatNav on the return journey as it guided us through some narrow country roads straight to our front door. As I write this James is playing with his toy train set he got from Santa and Merrilyn is preparing a wonderful dinner. Tomorrow we plan to head for the Brecon Beacons.

Photos are here.