Haverfordwest Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Haverfordwest Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Haverfordwest packs a punch when it comes to sightseeing. The town's medieval castle (SA61 2EF, open daily 10am-4pm) dominates the skyline and offers fantastic views across the town. It's free to enter and houses the town museum - worth an hour of your time.

Just outside town, Picton Castle and Gardens (SA62 4AS) scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. The 40-acre gardens are spectacular year-round, with the woodland garden particularly good in spring. Open 10am-5pm March-October, entry £12 adults.

For rainy days, head to Palace Cinema (SA61 2LJ), Haverfordwest's independent picture house. It's got three screens and shows all the latest releases at about half the price of big multiplexes.

Scolton Manor (SA62 5QL) sits just north of town. This Victorian country house has beautiful grounds, a play area and the Welsh Honey Farm on site. TripAdvisor users give it 4/5, praising the woodland walks and tearoom.

Pet Friendly

Dogs will love a Haverfordwest holiday almost as much as their owners! Many cottages welcome pets, often with enclosed gardens where they can run safely while you enjoy the hot tub.

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path offers 186 miles of walkies heaven. Most sections allow dogs year-round, though some beaches have summer restrictions. Newgale (15 minutes from Haverfordwest) allows dogs on the northern section all year.

For food, The Bristol Trader pub (SA61 2DP) in town has a dog-friendly bar area and water bowls. They do good pub grub too. The Farmers Arms in Mathry (SA62 5HA) welcomes dogs inside and out, with treats behind the bar.

I recommend packing towels specifically for dog paws - the Pembrokeshire soil can be muddy after rain and nobody wants muddy paw prints in their hot tub!

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Haverfordwest

St Davids Cathedral (SA62 6RD) sits about 16 miles northwest of Haverfordwest in Britain's smallest city. This purple-stone cathedral dates to 1181 and sits in a hollow to hide it from marauding Vikings. The ceiling is made from Welsh oak and the intricate carvings are spectacular. A recent TripAdvisor reviewer wrote: "Absolutely stunning building with so much history. The staff were so knowledgeable and friendly."

Pembroke Castle (SA71 4LA), 20 minutes south of Haverfordwest, is one of Wales' most impressive Norman castles. It's the birthplace of Henry VII and has a massive round keep you can climb. They've got a full-size recreation of a medieval tent encampment in summer. Kids love the dragon's lair exhibition. Open 10am-5pm daily, adults £8.50, kids £6.50.

Skomer Island (depart from Martin's Haven, SA62 3BJ) is a wildlife paradise. From April to July, over 30,000 puffins nest here. The boat trip takes 15 minutes and costs £40 return (plus landing fee £11). Boats run Tuesday-Sunday, but don't operate in high winds. Visitor numbers are limited to 250 daily, so arrive early. After a day watching wildlife, your hot tub will feel even better!

Is Haverfordwest good for shopping?

Yes! The town has a mix of independent shops and high street names. The riverside shopping centre has the big brands, while the old town has quirky independents. Don't miss the market in the Riverside Shopping Centre on Fridays and Saturdays.

What's the best beach near Haverfordwest?

Broad Haven is closest (15 minutes) and good for families. Newgale (15 minutes) is better for surfing. My personal favourite is Marloes Sands (25 minutes) - it's huge, rarely crowded and was used in the film 'Snow White and the Huntsman'.

Can I get around without a car?

It's possible but challenging. The 400 Puffin Shuttle bus connects coastal villages and the T5 runs to St Davids. Taxis are available but book in advance, especially for evening restaurant trips.

Where's good for a special meal?

The Griffin Inn in Dale (SA62 3RB) serves incredible fresh seafood. For something fancy, try Llys Meddyg in Newport (SA42 0BH) - their tasting menu is amazing. Book both well in advance.

Is there good mobile reception?

In Haverfordwest itself, yes. In rural cottages, it can be patchy. Most cottages offer WiFi, but check speeds if you need to work. The hot tub will have better reception than your phone!

What should I pack that I might forget?

Swimming gear for the hot tub! Also walking shoes, binoculars for wildlife spotting and a torch if your cottage is rural. Supermarkets close early on Sundays, so plan accordingly.

Some helpful links:

1. Visit Pembrokeshire Official Site
2. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
3. Transport for Wales - Train Times