When it comes to UK staycations, I think that most would agree that Cornwall has long held the crown. With its rugged coastline, surf culture and postcard-perfect fishing villages, it’s the name that instantly springs to mind when people think of seaside getaways.
We are, of course, biased, but we wanted to share some thoughts on how Pembrokeshire, across the Bristol Channel, actually makes a very compelling case of its own.
With stunning coastal scenery, award-winning beaches and a (tiny) fraction of the crowds that you will find in Cornwall, we think that Pembrokeshire is the dark horse of British holiday destinations and gives Cornwall a run for its money for the ultimate staycation destination.
What is a staycation?
A ‘staycation’ is typically a holiday spent in one’s own home country or near one’s home, rather than traveling abroad.
The concept of the staycation has evolved over the years. Once seen as a second-best option to travelling overseas, staycations have grown in popularity as people rediscover the joys of exploring closer to home.
Rising travel costs, environmental concerns and the appeal of avoiding airports have all contributed to this shift. The Covid-19 pandemic further accelerated the trend, with many discovering hidden gems right on their doorstep.
Today, the staycation is no longer viewed as a compromise but as a rewarding and sustainable way to enjoy diverse landscapes, local culture and quality time without the stress of long-distance travel.
UK staycations
We are blessed with many beautiful areas across the British Isles that should be on anyone’s staycation shopping list, but we thought we should pit a staycation heavyweight (Cornwall) against Pembrokeshire and share five reasons why we think that Wales takes the crown of the ultimate UK coastal getaway.
Welcome to Pembrokeshire, where (in our humble opinion) Wales does the seaside better…
1] Fewer crowds, more charm
Cornwall might have Poldark, but Pembrokeshire has peace and quiet.
You can stroll for miles along Newport Sands and share the entire beach with just a handful of other souls, many of whom will be of the canine variety. There is no need to play Tetris with deckchairs or apologise to strangers every time you open your picnic.
Newport feels like one of those places time forgot – in the best possible way. The pace is slower, the smiles more genuine and the sunsets across the estuary have been known to stop people mid-sentence (and mid-pint if you are enjoying an evening at the Boat Club).
2] Better value, better views
Let’s be honest – Cornwall can feel like a luxury tax zone these days. A family week in Padstow can cost as much as a small car.
In Newport, you can enjoy your holiday without the London prices. The sea views come free with your morning coffee (head to The Cat Rock Cafe or just sit in the garden at Peg-y-Don…), and you can still find a pub that serves a hearty local ale without requiring a mortgage application.
3] Beaches that don’t need a filter
Cornwall’s beaches get plenty of Instagram love, but Pembrokeshire’s coastline is also the real deal – all rugged cliffs, golden sand and turquoise coves that could fool you into thinking you’ve landed in the Med.
Barafundle Bay, Whitesands, and Newport Sands all boast Blue Flag credentials, but it’s their raw beauty that wins hearts (and steals memory card space).
You won’t need to edit the photos – unless you want to tone down the smugness of your smile.
4] Real Wales, real warmth
Cornwall might flirt with the English Riviera vibe, but Pembrokeshire is proudly and unmistakably Welsh.
You’ll hear the lilt of the language in local pubs, see red dragons flying from cottages, and enjoy a level of friendliness that feels refreshingly unforced.
In Newport, you’ll be greeted like an old friend – even if it’s your first visit. It’s the sort of place where you pop in for a pint and somehow end up chatting about fishing, rugby, and the weather (in that order) for two hours.
Ignore the stories you may have heard about the Welsh hating the English. This simply isn’t true (in our experience) and the whole area is incredibly welcoming. Yes, the Welsh are rightfully proud and happy to dish out the banter, but we were charmed when we first visited the area over 40 years ago and feel the warmth of the welcome every time we visit.
5] Easier to reach, harder to leave
Cornwall’s traffic jams are the stuff of legend.
Pembrokeshire, meanwhile, offers a far more civilised route to relaxation. A few hours from the Severn Bridge, and you’re breathing sea air instead of exhaust fumes.
And once you’ve unpacked, watched the evening sun dip over the bay and realised you haven’t checked your phone in hours, you’ll understand why leaving is the hardest part…
We have a winner!
I hope that you can tell that the tongue was firmly in the cheek whilst writing this post 🙂
We love Cornwall and have spent many glorious moments there, so we are just poking the stick into the hornets nest rather than actually suggesting that Cornwall is rubbish.
Cornwall has the PR machine, sure. But Pembrokeshire – and Newport in particular – has the heart, the views, and the vibe that makes a holiday feel like a real escape.
So next time someone suggests Cornwall, smile knowingly and say, “Actually, we’re heading to an amazing holiday cottage in Pembrokeshire.” Then sit back, enjoy the lack of crowds, and let them fight for parking in St Ives, or queue for the over-priced ice cream, while you toast another perfect Pembrokeshire sunset.
