Community

Adventure-hungry Gen Alpha teens find their thrill in Pembrokeshire

Published

5 months ago

July 28, 2025

Three in four 13- and 14-year-olds say life lacks excitement – but Pembrokeshire could be the escape they’re looking for

A NEW survey of UK teens has found that a staggering three in four Gen Alpha youngsters feel their daily lives lack adventure and excitement — and Pembrokeshire may be exactly the kind of escape they’re craving.

The research, which looked at the holiday habits and preferences of 13- and 14-year-olds across the UK, shows that young people are turning to Wales for breaks that offer adrenaline, nature and unforgettable moments. Among them, Pembrokeshire stands out — with its unique mix of coast, cliffs, wildlife, and wild water thrills.

Richard Carpenter, owner of TYF Adventure Ltd in St Davids, says today’s teens aren’t interested in sitting still on holiday.

“This generation doesn’t want to stay inside looking at screens,” he said. “They want to leap into the sea, scramble across rocks, and laugh their way through something new. Coasteering, surfing, kayaking – it’s not just fun, it’s transformative. You can see the change in their confidence by the end of the day.”

Hwyl in action

Researchers found that young people are chasing what the Welsh call hwyl – a word with no direct English translation, but one that describes the full-body joy of being immersed in the moment. From stargazing on the Preseli Hills to swimming in sea caves or dancing at local festivals, Pembrokeshire offers the kind of experiences that light up young imaginations.

One teenager recalled: “We went swimming in a cave in Wales and it was amazing.” Another said they loved “adventure memories where I get to create thoughts that would last in my head forever.”

Pembrokeshire topping teen wish lists

Of those surveyed, 67% had already visited Wales, but one in five said they hadn’t yet — and wanted to. Among those who had, nearly half said they “loved it” or thought it was “good.” Activities like coasteering at Abereiddy, paddleboarding at Barafundle, and seal spotting from Stackpole were all highlighted as “feel-good” and “story-worthy” moments that left a mark.

Carpenter added: “This is what Pembrokeshire does best – wild, active holidays that build connection, courage, and lifelong memories.”

A place to stay – with a twist

Beyond the action, Pembrokeshire is also providing memorable places to stay. From converted barns with hot tubs under the stars to glamping pods on the coast, and even a UFO-style cabin near St Davids, the region is embracing the trend for quirky and immersive breaks.

With more and more families seeking getaways that pull their children away from screens and into real-life adventure, Pembrokeshire is uniquely positioned to deliver. The message from Gen Alpha is clear: they want holidays that are wild, weird, and wonderful — and they’re finding that, right here in West Wales.

Community

Narbelles WI support Food Bank with festive donation

Published

17 hours ago

December 14, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Group marks December meeting with charity collection and Christmas celebrations

NARBELLES WI rounded off the year with a festive December meeting featuring a bring-and-share buffet, party games and a Secret Santa gift exchange.

Members also used the occasion to support families in need across the county, collecting food items and presenting a £120 cheque to Ann Watling from Pembrokeshire Food Bank. The donation represents the proceeds of the group’s bucket collection during Narberth Civic Week 2024.

A spokesperson for the WI said the group was delighted to finish the year “with fun, friendship and a chance to give something back to the community.”

(Photo: Narbelles WI members presenting the cheque to Ann Watling, Pembrokeshire Food Bank.)

Community

Annual charity carol service raises funds for good causes

Published

2 days ago

December 13, 2025

Tom Sinclair

MID and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service held its annual Charity Carol Service on Wednesday (Dec 10) at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel in Crymych.

The event brought together members of the local community alongside Fire Service staff for an evening of carols, readings and festive refreshments, marking the Christmas season in a warm and inclusive atmosphere.

This year’s service supported two important charities — the Fire Fighters Charity and Cancer Research Wales — with all proceeds going directly towards their ongoing work.

A total of £597 was raised on the night, which will be shared equally between the two charities.

The Service thanked the congregation at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel for hosting the event, as well as everyone who gave their time, support and generosity to make the evening such a success.

Community

3 Amigos toy bike run under way across Pembrokeshire

Published

2 days ago

December 13, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Castle Inn fun runners back festive charity event

THE ANNUAL 3 Amigos Christmas toy bike run is under way this afternoon (Saturday), with hundreds of motorcyclists setting off from Pembroke to raise funds for children’s services.

Riders gathered at The Commons car park in Pembroke from around midday before departing shortly after 1:00pm. The festive convoy is travelling along its traditional route, taking in Pembroke Dock and continuing through parts of the county including Neyland, Milford Haven and Haverfordwest.

The event is organised by the 3 Amigos and Dollies Motorcycle Group and has become a much-anticipated Christmas tradition in west Wales, with toys and donations collected for children receiving care within the Hywel Dda University Health Board area.

Also supporting the event are fun runners from the Castle Inn in Pembroke, who have been fundraising in aid of the 3 Amigos. The group are pictured alongside participants from today’s run.

The 3 Amigos have been raising funds for children’s wards and health charities for more than twenty-five years, with their Easter and Christmas events continuing to make a positive difference to young patients and their families.

Organisers have thanked the public for their support and asked road users to be mindful of the large convoy as it passes through towns and villages this afternoon.

Photo caption:
Festive fundraising: Fun runners from the Castle Inn, Pembroke, pictured supporting the 3 Amigos Christmas toy bike run (Pic: Martin Cavaney/Herald)