A seaside town in Pembrokeshire has been named one of the UK’s best.
From St Andrews to Bude, consumer champion Which? has released its annual list of the best seaside towns in the UK.
The survey compiled feedback from thousands of panel members about their UK seaside stays, including ratings of 135 different towns, villages, and resorts.
Towns were rated for scenery, attractions, value for money, and overall visitor satisfaction.
The best seaside towns in the UK
The top 10 best seaside towns in the UK for 2026, according to Which?, are:
- Bamburgh
- Tynemouth
- St Andrews
- Aldeburgh
- Crail
- Frinton-on-Sea
- Portmeirion
- St Davids
- Bude
- Southwold
Why St David's is among the UK’s best seaside towns
The Which? report said: "Often described as the UK's smallest city, St Davids feels like one in name only.
"Its handful of cafés, pubs and shops clustered around a sweet little square feel more like a village."
St Davids earned a destination score of 79% and was rated highly for its scenery (5 out of 5) and tourist attractions (4 out of 5).
Which? praised its natural setting on the far western edge of Wales, adding: "Surrounded by the heathland, beaches and cliffs of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. It's wild and as far from urban life as can be.
"Then you see its cathedral lying low, vast and magnificent at the edge of town, and St Davids' importance makes sense."
The cathedral was built in the 12th century on the site of a 6th-century monastery and is the burial place of Wales’ patron saint, David.
St Davids is also recognised for its green credentials, having been named the UK’s first eco-city.
What is the population of St Davids?
Known as the UK’s smallest city, St Davids has a population of just around 1,750, according to the 2021 census.
By comparison, London’s population now exceeds nine million residents.
Things to do in St Davids
St Davids is home to several independent shops, galleries, and cafes.
Shops
Popular shops recommended by visitors on Tripadvisor include:
- Oriel y Parc Landscape Gallery and Visitor Centre
- Goat Street Gallery
- Chapel Chocolates
- Unsunghero Surf Shop
- St David’s Book Shop
Best restaurants
When it comes to dining, top-rated eateries, according to Visit Pembrokeshire, include:
- Blas at Twr y Felin Hotel
- The Really Wild Emporium
- Grain
- The Farmers Arms
- The Grub Kitchen
St David's Cathedral
One of the town’s main attractions is St David's Cathedral.
According to its website, the present cathedral was erected sometime between 1180 and 1182 and has survived both an earthquake and the collapse of its tower in the 13th century.
The cathedral is open for general visiting from 10am to 4pm Monday to Saturday, and from 1pm to 3pm on Sundays.
Its most distinctive features include a 16th-century wooden nave ceiling and an impressive stained-glass window made by the William Morris Company.
On the opposite bank of the river stand the ruins of the Bishop’s Palace, described by The Times as “brooding Gothic ruins.”
A short walk from the city centre, visitors can also follow the coastal path to St Non’s Chapel, which is said to feature a well with healing properties.
What is your favourite seaside town? Let us know in the comments below.
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