The Carew Castle circular walk is one of our favourites. At a distance of around a mile it’s not very long but no less enjoyable for it. Depending on the circumstances that very fact maybe one of the things that makes this such a pleasant walk.
Another is definitely the location. Carew Castle is set on a tidal estuary overlooking a huge Millpond which provides as impressive a setting for any Castle we know of. At high tide on a windless day it really is hard to beat.
The circular takes you right around the castle (as well as the tidal mill) which means you get to view it from every possible angle
So, if you’re looking for a short but hugely photogenic circular walk in Pembrokeshire ,this could be the one for you.
How to get to Carew Castle
The easiest way to get to Carew Castle is by car. Fortunately, Carew is very well sign-posted from the A40.
From Haverfordwest
- Take the A40 towards Carmarthen.
- At Canaston Bridge roundabout take the A4075 towards Pembroke
- You’ll pass Oakwood Theme Park and then Cresselly before arriving at Carew
- Before crossing the bridge, turn right and this will take you to the car park, opposite the Castle.
- Alternatively, if you want to park closer to the castle, cross the bridge and head up the hill.
- You will see the castle car park on your right.
- Carew is approximately 8 miles from Canaston Bridge and take around 12 minutes.
From Carmarthen
- Take the A40 heading towards St. Clears.
- At the St. Clears roundabout take the first exit for the A477, sign posted Tenby.
- Keep on this road passing through Red Roses and Stepaside.
- At the Kilgetty roundabout proceed straight-ahead (on the A477).
- Pass through another roundabout and you will then get to Carew Cheriton roundabout.
- Turn right at this roundabout towards the village of Carew.
- You will immediately see the castle and the car park on your left.
- If you want to view the castle from the other side of the river, carry on down the hill and over the bridge.
- At the end of the bridge turn left for the car park.
- Carew is approximately 18 miles from St. Clears, and around a 23 minute drive.
Where to park for the Carew Castle circular walk
The Carew Castle circular walk
If you’ve parked up at the castle you’ll have a nice map to follow. If you parked next to the pond you won’t. But you can’t really go wrong. This is a circular walk after all. And you’re circling a great big castle. Whether you decide to walk clockwise or anti clockwise keep it on your left or right hand side and walk in a big circle.
Our preferred option is to walk anti clockwise from the pond car park. We do feel the views (and photos) are better walking in that direction, but that’s personal preference. In terms of parking we prefer not to take up space in the castle car park for those just visiting the castle. Plus, it’s the first one we come to!
You’ll see the path at the front edge of the millpond carpark. Just turn right on to it.
There are plenty of convenient benches on the Carew Castle circular walk if you decide to take the weight of your feet and drink in the views.
Cross the bridge and head towards…..
…..the tidal mill
A different angle of the castle on the millpond
As you walk around the back of the castle you get some very different views. You’ll be walking along a road here so stay alert.
Near the Castle car park and entrance you’ll find this very handy map with some interesting information on the Castle.
As you descend the hill you’ll see this impressive Celtic cross before passing the gatehouse.
You’ll be back out on the road now to cross the bridge before turning immediately left back towards the millpond carpark. Do be aware of traffic here. This can be a busy road and on the bridge there is a walkway but no pavement and no separation from the road. There’s no pavement or walkway on the road back to the carpark.
Carew Castle circular walk statistics
- Distance = 1 mile
- Walk Time = 20-25 minutes
- Total Time = 30-45 minutes
- Map Ref. SN 04663 03648
Facilities
There are public conveniences opposite the Castle car park as well as a public house, The Carew Inn, which serves food.
Thoughts on the Carew Castle circular walk
What we really love about this walk is the potential for some great photos.
The absolute best time for that is when the tide is in on a sunny and still day. It’s also pretty special in the early morning mist and/or frost.
Other nearby Castles in Pembrokeshire include Pembroke (5 miles), Manorbier (6 miles), Tenby (7 miles) and Llawhaden (10 miles).
As well as this great walk there are plenty of other walks in Pembrokeshire including the Pembroke Castle Walk and all of the Preseli Hills walks.
If you are visiting Pembrokeshire now or in the near future please be aware that social distancing rules still apply in Wales. Please keep yourselves and others safe.
Where to stay near Carew Castle
There are lots of places to stay near Carew Castle. More independents than large chain hotels. We always use Booking.com to check what’s available where.
There’s also an abundance of accommodation in nearby Tenby which is just under 7 miles away.
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Other Posts on Walks in Pembrokeshire
10 thoughts on “Carew Castle Circular Walk”
This is an outstanding walk. We’re serious, when we come back to Wales we’ll be in contact. We saw saw great things in Wales, but we missed so many cool castles.
Thanks Tom and please do 👍
We love travelling to see castles. Added this to our long list!!
Brilliant! Thanks guys 👍
I look forward to the day when I can explore some castles! I feel like a trip to Pembrokeshire will be on my list for sure.
Brilliant! Thanks Kasia
So get out of the car and walk around in circles? Ok I think I got it and won’t be lost. Another very cool looking castle. I imagine that Misty morning shot would be spectacular. Definitely a nice short stop on a road trip.
That’s it John! Yes it’s pretty amazing at that time.
This looks like the perfect leg stretch. Not too difficult, delightful views 🙂 (plus, welsh castle!)
All we need is a waterfall and we are in great shape lol
😆 thanks Lannie! You could always follow the river back to source!