Narberth

Narberth's a proper market town that punches above its weight. Once you've wandered past the independent shops and the castle ruins that sit right in the heart of things, you'll understand why locals are quietly proud of the place. The castle itself is the main draw - medieval walls and earthworks that give you a real sense of medieval Welsh power, even if there's not much of the structure left standing. From the top you get decent views across the Tâf Valley, which is worth the short climb alone.

The town works best as a base for exploring Pembrokeshire rather than a day-trip destination. If you're staying at Bluestone Resort - just 2.7 miles away - you'll find Narberth makes a cracking evening out. The restaurants and cafes have genuine character, not the chain-filled blandness you get in some Welsh towns. Families with older kids will enjoy the exploration aspect, though the castle won't keep under-eights entertained for long. History types will appreciate the medieval atmosphere, even if the remains are fragmentary.

Allow an hour or two to get the feel of the place properly. The castle grounds are typically free to wander, and you can pick up provisions or grab lunch from the local shops. It's within striking distance of Llandissilio Holiday Park and Cowpots Camping too, making it a genuine hub for the area. Visit mid-week if you can - weekends get busier and parking gets tight.