Entertainment
Free time reimagined as Pembrokeshire moves toward online leisure
In an age when digital convenience has begun to creep into every corner of our lives, many traditional viewers, readers, and hobbyists in the county of Pembrokeshire are finding their spare hours changed and challenged by new online options. Now, there are streamed film nights, virtual workshops, interactive gaming platforms, and creative classes for people to explore. The growing integration of broadband infrastructure, mobile apps, and on-demand culture now means that leisure does not depend entirely on where people are anymore. Now, it depends on how they choose to connect.
One of the most striking aspects of this change is how diverse online leisure has become. Beyond streaming and online education, even digital entertainment that was once considered niche, such as Bitcoin gambling sites, has found appeal across global audiences. These decentralised platforms allow users to deposit and withdraw funds instantly, often with lower transaction fees and enhanced privacy. They demonstrate how blockchain technology can make online play faster, borderless, and more secure. The innovation behind these systems shows us the wider trend toward user-centred, tech-driven leisure.
Across Pembrokeshire, that same transformation is evident in the more conventional spaces, too. Reliable connectivity now underpins a great deal of new digital opportunities. It is this connectivity that opens the door to streaming, live classes, and remote participation in community events. And this is not just for residents in towns, but also those in rural hamlets that were once held back by patchy coverage.
Pembrokeshire Leisure, operated by the county council, has become a local case study in how services can adapt. Its Pembs Leisure app lets users check timetables, book fitness sessions, and receive push alerts. Through its “Virtual Classes” programme, residents can stream yoga, strength training, and cardio sessions from home for roughly £5.50 per month. Instead of replacing in-person sessions, these options now complement them and give flexibility to commuters, carers, and others whose schedules limit time at physical leisure centres.
Even major events are moving online. Festivals, talks, history walks, and environmental sessions often include livestreams, interactive Q&As, or digital archives. Because of this, those unable to travel can still take part. For a county as geographically dispersed as Pembrokeshire, this digital layer adds reach without taking away from the local character of community gatherings.
The region’s natural and cultural assets are especially optimised to work with what commentators call “phygital” leisure, which are experiences that merge the physical and the digital. The 186-mile Pembrokeshire Coast Path, for instance, now features apps and online guides that offer augmented-reality interpretation, wildlife identification, and GPS-based navigation. These tools enhance, rather than replace, outdoor exploration. This is because it helps visitors engage more deeply with the area’s geology, flora, and maritime heritage.
This shift, however, is not without its challenges. Digital exclusion still affects certain demographics, particularly older adults or households without adequate devices. While libraries and community centres do offer digital-skills support, gaps are still evident. Likewise, online activities must compete with the lure of outdoor life that defines Pembrokeshire, from surfing in Newgale to kayaking in the Milford Haven Waterway. Creating the right balance between screen-based and open-air recreation is a vital element to consider for the county’s evolving identity when it comes to its leisure activities.
Yet the potential benefits are indeed clear. Online platforms make participation far more flexible. They reduce travel needs and also allow smaller organisations to reach wider audiences without the need for expensive venues. Hybrid delivery also strengthens resilience when faced with occurrences like weather disruptions or mobility issues. For younger residents, digital platforms can help to connect Pembrokeshire’s rural communities with global creative, educational, and entertainment ecosystems. This can all be achieved without eroding the area’s distinct sense of place.
Pembrokeshire’s embrace of leisure in an online capacity is more about expanding upon choices than it is about replacing traditions. The above are just a few examples of how local people are integrating technology into how they rest, learn and socialise. The county’s forward-looking approach is grounded in strong broadband, inclusive programmes, and an impressively creative use of digital media. It is this approach that ensures that free time in Pembrokeshire can be both modern and meaningful, wherever you happen to find yourself.
Entertainment
Huw Edwards criticises TV drama about his downfall
FORMER BBC news presenter Huw Edwards has issued a strongly worded statement criticising an upcoming television drama based on his fall from grace.
Edwards, who received a suspended prison sentence after admitting offences relating to indecent images of children, said the programme was produced without properly checking its claims with him.

The two-part drama, Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards, features actor Martin Clunes portraying the former newsreader.
In a statement published in the national press, Edwards claimed those behind the programme failed to verify key elements of the story before filming began. He said producers only approached him for comment after production had already been completed, and even then retained editorial control over any response.
He also questioned whether contributors to the programme had been paid, suggesting the drama may not accurately reflect events.
Edwards said he had already expressed “deep regret and remorse” for his crimes during court proceedings, having pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity.
He added that he found the offences deeply disturbing and offered a further apology, acknowledging that each image involved a real victim.
The former presenter said he is now working on his own account of the events, although progress has been slow due to ongoing health issues. He has previously spoken about long-term mental illness, which he said had worsened in the period leading up to his offences.
However, he stressed that mental health difficulties should not be used to excuse criminal behaviour.
Edwards rose to prominence as one of the UK’s most recognisable news anchors before his career collapsed following allegations of misconduct and subsequent criminal charges.
In September 2024, he was handed a six-month suspended sentence and placed on the sex offenders register for seven years. He was also ordered to complete a rehabilitation programme.
Responding to his criticism, a spokesperson for Channel 5 said the drama was based on interviews with those involved, including the complainant and journalists who broke the story, as well as court reporting and message evidence.
They added that the programme was produced in line with broadcasting regulations and that allegations featured in the film had been put to Edwards through his legal representatives in advance.
Entertainment
Easter egg trails return to Pembrokeshire as National Trust launches spring events
FAMILIES across Pembrokeshire are being invited to “hop into spring” as Easter egg trails return to National Trust sites across Wales.
The popular seasonal events will take place at thirteen locations nationwide, including Colby Woodland Garden near Amroth, offering a mix of outdoor adventure, nature exploration, and family-friendly challenges.
The National Trust Cymru says the trails are designed to keep children entertained during the Easter holidays while encouraging them to connect with nature, heritage, and the outdoors.
At Colby Woodland Garden, visitors can explore a wooded valley filled with winding paths, streams, and hidden corners while taking part in ten activity stations along the Easter trail.
Organisers say the site’s mix of natural play areas and historic features makes it an ideal location for families looking to enjoy the spring weather.
The Easter egg trail at Colby will run from Thursday (Apr 3) to Sunday (Apr 6), between 10:00am and 3:30pm.

Family-friendly activities
Across Wales, the trails include a wide range of themed activities, from wildlife spotting and creative challenges to physical games and imaginative play.
Each location features around ten activity points, with participants receiving a trail sheet, bunny ears, and a chocolate egg on completion. Vegan and allergy-friendly options are also available.
Normal admission charges apply, although National Trust members can enter for free. The Easter trail costs £3.50 per child.

Spring boost for tourism
The National Trust says the events are part of a wider effort to encourage families to make the most of outdoor spaces as the weather improves.
With gardens in bloom and longer daylight hours, organisers hope the trails will attract visitors from across west Wales and beyond.
A spokesperson said the programme offers “hours of fun, discovery and seasonal adventure for the whole family.”
More information and booking details are available via the National Trust website.
Entertainment
Action-packed Easter fun set for Carew Castle
A HOST of family-friendly adventures will bring Carew Castle to life this Easter, with a packed programme of events running from Saturday (Mar 28) to Sunday (Apr 19).
Set against the dramatic tidal reach and managed by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, the historic castle will once again become a hub of activity, offering everything from treasure hunts and medieval weapon displays to science workshops and live storytelling.
Egg hunts and medieval action
A brand-new Great Golden Egg Hunt will challenge children to explore the castle’s winding passageways and hidden corners in search of clues. Running daily from 10:00am to 4:00pm throughout the school holidays, the activity costs £2.50 per child in addition to normal admission.
Young visitors can also step back in time with Hands-On: Weapons and Armour sessions, held daily between 10:30am and 11:30am from Monday (Mar 30) to Sunday (Apr 12). Children will have the chance to handle replica weapons, try on armour, and experience medieval combat demonstrations at no extra cost.
The popular Find the Key! treasure hunt also returns, beginning at 3:00pm from the gatehouse. Running on selected days between Monday (Mar 30) and Sunday (Apr 12), the challenge invites children to track down the correct key to unlock a treasure chest.
Magic, stories and science
Creative youngsters can enjoy Magical Makes with Whimsical Wildlings on Tuesday (Apr 14), Wednesday (Apr 15) and Thursday (Apr 16), with drop-in craft sessions held in the castle’s undercroft from 10:30am to 2:00pm.
Meanwhile, Storymaster’s Quests: Tower of Doooooom! will take place on selected dates in early April, offering an interactive multimedia adventure created by author and games designer Oliver McNeil. The audience will shape the fate of their own hero in a tale filled with dragons, traps and treasure.
Hands-on learning continues with Wild Science sessions, featuring activities such as marine exploration, fossil hunting, owl pellet investigations and beginner bird walks.
Trebuchet returns
One of the highlights of the programme will be the launch of the castle’s giant trebuchet on Tuesday (Mar 31) and Tuesday (Apr 7) at 2:30pm, as the medieval siege engine is brought roaring back into action.
Daisy Hughes, Manager at Carew Castle, said: “Carew is an extraordinary place at any time of year, but Easter gives us the opportunity to really showcase everything it has to offer. The Weapons and Armour sessions in particular are always a favourite – there’s nothing quite like seeing a child’s face when they first lift a medieval sword.”
For full event details, visit the castle’s website.
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