The Lower Priory Woodland Walk

This ancient woodland trail leads all the way to Lower Priory, a small hamlet on the outskirts of Milford Haven, which is the site of a former monastic priory, founded in 1170 by Adam de Roche, and later dissolved by Henry VIII.

You can start the 1.4 mile walk just behind Havens Head Retail Park (where there is free parking), and within just a few metres you will be surrounded by nature. With the sound of trees rustling in the wind, and the water in the pills meandering alongside the path, you can switch off and relax as you stroll. 

Along the way on this walk you will see the remains of some old buildings, including what was Goose Pill Farmhouse, complete with horse mounting block. These hidden gems have recently been uncovered by the Goose Pill Path Volunteers, who were presented with the Mayor’s Civic Award by Milford Haven Town Council for their efforts to improve this historic footpath for all to enjoy. This route is a firm favourite for local family lifestyle blog “Diary of the Evans Crittens” – you can read more on their Goose Pill Woods to Lower Priory Walk, Pembrokeshire blog post, and even see photos of what the buildings would have looked like.

This route really captures the beauty of the seasons, from the leafy spring foliage and flowers to the smell of wild garlic, brightly coloured foxgloves at the start of summer, and the vibrant burnt orange leaves in autumn, there is something new to see each time you walk along this route. Home to an abundance of wildlife, if you’re lucky you can ever hear the odd woodpecker busy at work.

It’s advisable to put sturdy footwear such as walking boots or wellies on for this path, as it can become muddy during the winter, and when it rains during the British summer months. There are some steep inclines and narrow passing places where you may encounter cyclists or dog walkers, but everyone shares with care on this much-loved walking route. There are some resting places with benches on the route, so you can sit down and watch the world go by as you switch off from the hustle and bustle.

Why not join in a lap of this onto your “Wander around the Waterfront” to get some extra steps in?

Ideal for

• Taking in Milford Haven’s woodland scenery
• Dog walking (although they may get muddy paws)

Something to consider

• There are some short hills, so it is not highly recommended for wheelchairs / push chairs
• We’d advise wearing walking boots or wellies on this route – it can be muddy at all times of year