For more than 1,500 years, pilgrims have journeyed to St Davids, drawn by its remarkable religious heritage, dramatic coastal scenery and peaceful atmosphere. As the birthplace of St David, the patron saint of Wales, this small city became one of Britain’s most important pilgrimage destinations during the medieval period. It was once said that two pilgrimages to St Davids were equal to one pilgrimage to Rome, making it a place of profound spiritual significance for travellers from across Britain and beyond.
Today, many of these historic routes remain, offering an opportunity to experience the same breathtaking landscapes, ancient pathways and sacred landmarks that have welcomed pilgrims for centuries. Whether you’re walking for reflection, history or simply to enjoy the beauty of Pembrokeshire, these routes provide a unique way to discover the timeless character of Britain’s smallest city.
Approximately 3 miles
St Davids Cathedral & St Non's Chapel Walk
This gentle walk links two of the most significant religious sites in Wales. Begin at St Davids Cathedral, the heart of Welsh Christianity for over 800 years, before following quiet lanes and coastal paths to St Non’s Chapel and Holy Well.
According to tradition, St David was born here around the 6th century, and the holy well beside the chapel has long attracted pilgrims seeking its healing waters. Along the route, enjoy sweeping views across St Brides Bay before returning through the peaceful Cathedral Close.
Approximately 4 miles
The St Davids Head Pilgrim Walk
Following part of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, this walk leads to the dramatic headland overlooking Ramsey Island. While renowned for its scenery today, this landscape has been considered spiritually significant for thousands of years.
Along the route you’ll discover Coetan Arthur, a Neolithic burial chamber dating back over 4,000 years, alongside Iron Age earthworks and breathtaking sea views. It is a walk that beautifully combines ancient history, archaeology and the peaceful solitude sought by many modern pilgrims.
Approximately 2 miles
Cathedral Valley & Bishop's Palace Walk
Beginning at St Davids Cathedral, this peaceful circular walk explores the historic Cathedral Valley, where pilgrims have arrived for centuries. Wander through the tranquil landscape surrounding the cathedral, taking in the impressive ruins of the Bishop’s Palace, once home to some of the most powerful medieval bishops in Britain.
The route meanders through riverside paths and quiet green spaces rich in wildlife. Keep an eye out for kingfishers along the River Alun, as well as butterflies and a variety of birdlife that thrive within this sheltered valley. Combining history, nature and spirituality, this gentle walk offers a chance to slow down and appreciate the landscape that has welcomed visitors for over a millennium.
Approximately 4.5 miles
Porthclais Harbour, St Non's & St Davids Cathedral Walk
Starting at the historic harbour of Porthclais, once an important landing point for pilgrims arriving by sea, this scenic route follows the Pembrokeshire Coast Path towards St Non’s Chapel and Holy Well. According to tradition, this is the birthplace of St David, making it one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in Wales.
From St Non’s, continue into the heart of Britain’s smallest city, where the magnificent St Davids Cathedral has welcomed pilgrims for over 800 years. Take time to explore the Cathedral and the neighbouring Bishop’s Palace before returning to Porthclais through the peaceful Cathedral Valley, completing a walk that perfectly blends coastal scenery, Welsh heritage and sacred history.
Stay at Penrhiw Priory
Situated within the peaceful Cathedral Valley, Penrhiw Priory offers the perfect base for exploring the historic pilgrimage routes of St Davids. Many of these walks begin just moments from the Priory.
