St Davids Cathedral Pilgrimage

St. David's is renowned as the birthplace of the Patron Saint of Wales, St. David, who is thought to have been born on St. Non's Bay, where a ruined chapel and spring mark the spot. This spot has been a sacred location for pilgrims for around 4000 years, particularly during the Middle Ages. The town grew up as a result of pilgrimages, whilst the church became rich, as is clear from the size of  the Cathedral and ornate Bishop's Palace.  St David taught his followers to ‘be joyful, to keep the faith and to do the little things’.

St David's Cathedral is actually built on the site of a 6th century monastery, and pilgrims have been coming here for many hundreds of years. Building work on the present cathedral began in 1181. It is the holiest site in Wales. Within is a stall permanently reserved for the reigning monarch - the only such stall in the United Kingdom. 

The Cathedral's interior pillars date from the 12th century. Note the distinctive sloping floor and the stunning oak ceiling in the Nave. Guided tours are available, and you can prebook these via the Cathedral's website. 

St Davids Cathedral, St Davids, SA62 6RF. Tel: 01437 720202 or 720204. 

Open daily. Admission is free/donations welcome. 

Sunday

4th Sunday of every month

Daily Services (apart from Wednesday)

Wednesday

Across the stream from the Cathedral lies the Bishop's Palace mostly built in the 14th century, with parts dating from the 12th century). The splendid Great Hall, with its breathtaking window, was added by Bishop Henry de Gower between 1328 to 1347. Open air plays are often held here in the summer months.

St Davids Bishops Palace, St Davids, SA62 6PX. Tel: 01437 720517

Haverfordwest - 16 miles to St. Davids

Fishguard -15 miles to St. Davids -- Enquiries 0345 484950