8 rainy day activities in Pembrokeshire
You’ve checked the weather forecast and it says rain, but don’t let that put you off.
A rainy day in Pembrokeshire doesn’t have to spoil your holiday. If anything, it’s the perfect excuse to plan some seriously exciting activities for the whole family to enjoy.
Whether you’re pitching up in a tent for the weekend or cosying up in a caravan for a week-long stay, there’s plenty you can do both indoors and outdoors to make sure everyone has a good time.
From exploring a local castle to painting pottery or enjoying a much-needed spa day, discover the top rainy day activities for your holiday in Pembrokeshire.
Things to do in Pembrokeshire on a rainy day
Finding things to do at the last minute only causes stress, which is why we’ve put together eight great rainy day activities to save you the time and hassle.
Whether you’re looking for things to do as a couple, as a family or even with your dog, there’s something to suit both the active and the laid-back. Let’s get inspired!
1. Explore a castle
Wales is home to over 641 castles and is often said to have more castles per square mile than any other country in Europe. In Pembrokeshire specifically, there are more than a dozen castles, from grand fortresses to small clifftop ruins.
Exploring a castle offers the best of both worlds. If it’s raining, you can shelter inside, and if it brightens up, you get to explore the magic of its grounds. From Pembroke to Carew and Picton to Manorbier, there’s no shortage of castles to step inside and travel back in time.
2. Visit a museum or gallery
Enjoy a bit of Welsh history? Visiting a museum or gallery is a great way to stay out of the rain while soaking up some local history, learning about why Pembrokeshire is such a great place to visit.
It’s an educational day out for children and adults alike, and more often than not, it’s free or low-cost, making it an easy and affordable way to fill a few hours and come away feeling inspired.
3. Go pottery painting
This one is for those who like to get creative. Pottery painting is an interactive and skilful activity but you don’t have to be good at painting to do it. It’s a great activity for both those who love painting and those who just want to have a bit of fun.
Pottery workshops such as wheel throwing are also a great one for date night (if you’ve ever seen the film Ghost, you’ll know what we’re talking about). It’s an opportunity to learn a new skill and enjoy an activity with a group of people as well as laugh, get messy and work together with your partner.
From pottery events to group experiences and 1:1 throwing, pottery is suitable for all age groups.
4. Burn off energy at an indoor play centre
Got young children? An indoor play centre is a win-win for both the child and the parent. For the child, it gives them a chance to burn off some energy, while the parent can sit back and have a break from keeping them entertained.
The most important thing to remember here is to book early. A rainy day on the weekend, during the holidays, or in half-term means it’s going to be busy and probably one of those activities that most people think of when the weather takes a turn.
5. Splash about at a swimming pool
Why would you go swimming in the rain? A fair question, as it doesn’t stop you from getting wet. However, splashing about at an indoor swimming pool is more fun than being out in the rain.
Swimming keeps everyone active and tires out children who’ve been cooped up in the caravan, so everyone gets a calmer evening. From toddlers and teenagers to grandparents, everyone can swim at their own pace, and it gets the whole family involved.
Public swim sessions at local leisure centres are usually affordable, and a few hours in the pool easily fills a wet afternoon.
6. Catch a film or show
For the theatre and film lovers, why not catch a film or show at one of the local theatres or cinemas? It’s a more relaxing way to shelter from the rain, but it may need a bit more planning, especially in the school holidays.
If you fancy seeing a show, it may be worth looking ahead to see what’s on, or if you’re last minute, a couple of days before might just be enough time to grab yourself some tickets.
There may even be some live music playing in the local area, so it’s worth chatting to our team about what’s going on that’s worth seeing.
7. Book a spa day
One of the more expensive activities, but one that’s definitely worth it, especially if you’ve got a child-free afternoon. Booking a spa day offers a space to relax, lounge and take your time.
You can even book yourself a massage or an afternoon experience if you fancy treating yourself. Some spas even offer those indoor-outdoor pools, which, in the rain, can be very therapeutic and relaxing as you’re kept warm by the water.
Recommendation: St Brides Spa Hotel in Saundersfoot is a great pick if you’re looking for sea views and an infinity pool.
8. Enjoy a pub lunch and cosy up by the fire
And last but not least, and a particular favourite amongst Brits: a cosy pub lunch by the fire.
A country pub is particularly great after a long walk as you feel like you’ve earned it.
Just make sure to book in advance, especially if there is a large group of you, as some places don’t do walk-ins, particularly on a Sunday, when everyone goes out for Sunday lunch.
Sit down, fill up your bellies and wait for it all to blow over.
Stay at Nolton Cross, whatever the weather
Looking for somewhere to stay?
Nolton Cross Caravan Park is ideally located for a range of activities and events in Pembrokeshire.
With castles, wildlife, museums and play centres right on its doorstep, you won’t have to travel far to find something to do.
Nolton Cross is open from March to November for caravan holidays and camping stays, and there’s plenty to enjoy whatever the weather.
Our team can help with ideas for things to do in the local area or, if you don’t mind travelling a bit further, suggest other exciting things Pembrokeshire has to offer.
Get in touch with our team today to book your stay, or if you have any questions, just ask – we’d be more than happy to help.