UK’s tiniest city boasts breathtaking scenery despite having fewer than 2,000 residents
- UK Hidden Gems
- Nov 11
- 2 min read
Got half a day to spare? That’s all you need to explore the UK’s smallest city.
Set in the heart of Pembrokeshire, Wales, this picturesque city is surrounded by rolling hills, open countryside and sweeping sea views.
Despite its title, this hidden gem covers just 0.23 square miles and has a population of around 1,600, giving it the warm, friendly feel of a village rather than a city.
It briefly lost its official city status in 1886, but Queen Elizabeth II restored the honour in 1995, recognising its historic and cultural importance.
So, what makes this tiny place a city? The answer lies in its breathtaking cathedral. The 12th-century St Davids Cathedral is one of Wales’ most famous landmarks and an unmissable stop for anyone visiting the area.
Built from soft purple sandstone, the cathedral has been a major site of pilgrimage for almost 1,000 years.
It was originally home to the Shrine of St David, the patron saint of Wales, which was sadly destroyed during the Reformation.
Pope Calixtus II once declared that visiting St Davids twice was equal to making a single pilgrimage to Rome. The cathedral is also the final resting place of notable Welsh figures, including Edmund Tudor.
Just next door, across the River Alun, you’ll find the ruins of the Bishop’s Palace, another impressive site well worth visiting.
These Gothic remains were once part of Bishop Henry de Gower’s grand estate and are now a popular attraction for history lovers.
For those who enjoy art, the Oriel y Parc Gallery is a must-see. Just a short walk from the cathedral, it’s free to enter and displays art and artefacts from Amgueddfa Cymru, National Museum Wales, celebrating the area’s culture and creativity.
The gallery closes for the season on November 3, so this weekend is your last chance to visit.
St Davids is also perfectly located for exploring the Pembrokeshire coast, with the stunning Whitesands Bay just 2.5 miles away, ideal for a refreshing seaside walk after your visit.
Remember - LeaveNoTrace!
As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since the pandemic is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!
Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the hidden gem, it will help keep the area tidy.
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