Narberth, a small market town in Pembrokeshire with a population of fewer than 3,000, has been hailed as one of the best places to live and work in Wales. The Sunday Times previously declared it the best place to live in Wales, with its independent shops, award-winning chefs, and hotels regularly earning accolades. Located 11 miles from Haverfordwest and 21 miles from Carmarthen, the town has become a well-known gem, attracting visitors for its high street and community feel.
“It’s lovely,” said Chris Lees-Price, owner of Hwb, a tap and food hall housed in a former primary school. “To my mind it’s just a typical small Welsh town, there’s that sense of community. The community here likes to protect local businesses by using them, and there’s a real pride in the town because you see how hard people have had to work to make things happen.” Since opening in December 2021, Hwb has become a bustling hub offering burgers, tacos, street food, coffee, and craft ale.
Nora Divina, who runs the independent shop No. 47 with her partner Dominic, emphasises the town’s friendly atmosphere and the importance of its independent retail scene. “The shops are all independent and they’re all different types of shops, too. I think it’s important that it keeps that independent feel because there aren’t many towns left in Wales like that,” she said. The high street features butchers, antique shops, bakeries, and shoe shops, with no Wetherspoons or McDonald’s in sight.
Narberth’s foodie reputation is further cemented by Top Joe’s, a pizzeria and town house near the Town Hall. Its pizza chef was recently named one of the best in the world at the Pizza World Championships in Italy. Tomos Williams-Mason, guest experience manager at Top Joe’s, highlights the town’s charm. With a strong sense of community and a thriving independent sector, Narberth continues to attract visitors and new residents alike.
