Pembroke

Medieval walls still circle this fortress town, their limestone battlements rising above narrow streets that have barely changed since Norman times. Pembroke feels properly ancient - not the polished heritage experience of some Welsh towns, but something rawer and more authentic.

Pembroke Castle dominates everything, its massive round keep visible from miles around. The birthplace of Henry VII isn't just another ruin - it's a proper fortress with intact towers and chambers you can explore. Below the castle, the town's main street slopes down past Georgian houses and old coaching inns, leading to the Mill Pond where swans glide between the willows.

Venture beyond the walls and you're into some of Pembrokeshire's most dramatic coastline within minutes. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path winds past secluded coves and clifftop meadows, while Freshwater East offers one of the county's finest beaches - a sweeping arc of sand backed by dunes. Dobby's Grave provides a curious diversion for Harry Potter fans, though the medieval churches like St Decuman's Church tell older, quieter stories.

Getting here is straightforward enough - the A477 runs straight from the M4, though it's a good hour's drive from Swansea. Trains connect via Tenby, but having a car opens up the coast properly.

Staying at one of the nearby parks makes perfect sense. You're close enough to walk into town for dinner, yet far enough out to wake up to proper countryside. Places like Freshwater East Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite put you right on the coastal path, while inland options like Parke Farm Camping offer peace after busy days castle-hopping. The location works brilliantly as a base for both the Pembrokeshire coast and the quieter countryside inland.