St Davids, a small city in West Wales, holds the UK record for being Britain's smallest city by population, with fewer than 2,000 residents living within its boundaries. Despite its size, the city is a traveller's paradise, surrounded by breathtaking coastal scenery and abundant wildlife.
A City Steeped in History
St Davids, also known as Dewisland, is located in the heart of Pembrokeshire county, within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. Although it was awarded city status as recently as 1995, its roots go back to the 5th century, when St David, the patron saint of Wales, lived there and founded a monastery in the 6th century. In 1972, the city was designated as a conservation area by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
The city is home to St David's Cathedral, built in the 12th century, which sits in a sheltered valley next to the ruins of the medieval Bishop's Palace. The cathedral is one of the most important sites of Christian pilgrimage, and it is famously said that two pilgrimages to St David's Cathedral are equal to one pilgrimage to Rome.
Cultural Heritage and Attractions
St Davids is dotted with Bronze Age stones, Neolithic tombs, tiny chapels, and healing wells. The highlight of the city is the St David's Cathedral Festival, held each May, which celebrates classical music and offers a chance to see the historic building up close. The 13th century Tower Gate and the Celtic Old Cross are also popular with history enthusiasts, while art galleries along the narrow streets add to the city's cultural appeal.
A Tripadvisor review of the cathedral reads: “St David's Cathedral and environs has to be one of the most beautiful places on earth. The Cathedral itself is a wonder in every sense. A sanctuary of peace with a quite astonishing history and staff at the bookshop a warming delight. Whether you pray or not, the refectory serves excellent food.....the Welsh cawl a must to have! On a wet windy November day St David's lifted the spirits in all senses.”
Cafes, Pubs, and Natural Beauty
Despite its small size, St Davids offers a surprising foodie scene. The city has a handful of top-rated pubs, including The Bishops, The Farmers Arms, and the nearby Sloop Inn, all of which have garnered glowing reviews on Google and Tripadvisor. Cosy cafes and restaurants line the streets, with spots like The Perennial Gardens and Cafe, Mamgu's Kitchen St Davids, and Pilgrims Cafe at Oriel Y Parc perfect for quick bites. For more substantial meals, No.16 St Davids, The Really Wild Emporium, Grain, and Michelin guide recommended Blas Restaurant at Twr y Felin Hotel are among the options.
The city is also known for its natural beauty, with stunning coastal paths and beaches nearby. Blue Flag awardee Whitesands Bay is popular with surfers and beach lovers, while Abereiddy Beach, famous for its Blue Lagoon, offers rugged beauty and rock-pooling opportunities. Other nearby beaches include Caerfai and Whitesands. A marine life centre, sea aquarium, 9-hole links golf course, and adventure boat trips to offshore islands make St Davids a wholesome holiday destination.
