St Davids, the United Kingdom's smallest city, offers a picturesque escape for a sunny weekend, blending historical significance with natural beauty and culinary experiences.
The city is named after Wales's patron saint, Saint David, whose shrine is housed within the magnificent St Davids Cathedral. This site has been a pilgrimage destination for centuries, visited by historical figures such as Edward I and William the Conqueror. Visitors can explore the cathedral's architecture and examine carvings depicting medieval life found beneath the choir seats. Unlike many cathedrals, St Davids is set amidst rolling green fields, providing a tranquil atmosphere.
For dining, Santos tapas restaurant provides an authentic Spanish experience. Highlights include toasted bread with tomato, crispy potatoes with aioli, and flavorful meatballs. The restaurant's vanilla ice cream has also been noted as exceptionally good.
Accommodation options include the Twr Y Felin Hotel, a converted windmill offering a blend of quirky charm and modern comfort. The hotel features a notable art collection, with 250 pieces related to St Davids and the Pembrokeshire coast. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a two-person spa and the hotel's restaurant, Blas, which serves seasonal dishes.
The St David’s Head coastal walk is a recommended four-mile circular route starting from Whitesands car park. This walk showcases the dramatic Pembrokeshire scenery, with clifftop paths offering views of rocky outcrops and distant islands. The route also passes prehistoric monuments, including the Neolithic burial chamber known as Coetan Arthur. Wildlife enthusiasts can look for seabirds, seals, and dolphins.
Whitesands Bay, located two miles from the city, is a prime beach destination. Known for its soft sand and clear waters, it is a popular spot for swimming and surfing. The beach area also includes a café.
Within the ruins of the 14th-century St Mary's College, once part of the cathedral complex, is MamGu’s Kitchen café. This establishment offers a modern take on classic Welsh dishes, including unique options like Marmite Welsh cakes with beans and cheese, crempogs, and rarebit for breakfast. A notable offering is Welsh-cake churros served with a chocolate dipping sauce.
