Pengelli Forest and Castell Henllys Walk
This walk explores the ancient woodland in Pengelli Forest in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. You'll also visit the fascinating Iron Age village of Castell Henllys which lies just to the east of the woods.
The forest is renowned for its rich diversity of flora, featuring mature oak, ash, and birch trees interspersed with hazel, holly, and rowan. In the spring, the woodland floor is awash with bluebells, wild garlic, and primroses, with mosses and ferns thriving in the shaded areas. The mix of trees and shrubbery supports a variety of wildlife, including woodland birds such as the coal tit, nuthatch, and woodpecker. Ironically, given its proximity to the coast, Pengelli remains somewhat sheltered and quiet, and offers an undisturbed habitat for species like dormice and the rare Welsh clearwing moth.
Just west of the forest is the Castell Henllys complex. The site is notable for its well-preserved reconstruction of roundhouses based on archaeological findings, giving visitors a glimpse into ancient life. It is considered one of the most significant historical attractions in the region.
The site itself is surrounded by hectares of countryside, offering a mix of woodland, heathland, and open meadows.
Pengelli Forest and Castell Henllys Ordnance Survey Map 
- view and print off detailed OS map
Pengelli Forest and Castell Henllys Open Street Map 
- view and print off detailed map
Pengelli Forest and Castell Henllys OS Map 
- Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking
Pengelli Forest and Castell Henllys Open Street Map 
- Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking
Further Information and Other Local Ideas
Just to the west there's some interesting ancient history at the photogenic Pentre Ifan. Here you will find the most well preserved neolithic dolmen in Wales and more great views. Near here there's the climb to Carn Ingli in the Preseli Hills. It's a worthy climb with a number of fascinating ancient sites dating from the Iron Age and the Bronze Age. There's also some glorious views to the coast from the summit.
Photos
Coed Pengelli/Pengelli Forest SSSI. The information board here maps out colour-coded walks and explains the importance of this ancient woodland area. In use since the 17th century for hunting and as a source of wood for charcoal,clogs and coppice, it was clearfelled for pitprops during and after WW1. The existing trees, which in some areas are mainly oak, are thus not very old, with some exceptions, but provide a valuable habitat for a range of wildlife including dormice. Charcoal-burning and other traditional woodland manufacture have been re-established.
Pant-teg Wood at Pengelli Forest. The forest area provides an occasional burst of open views from the more elevated parts, extending across lush farmland and surrounding hills. During autumn, the forest once again transforms as the deciduous trees take on hues of golden yellow and amber, offering a stunning display of seasonal colour. Beneath its picturesque woodland setting, Pengelli Forest is traversed by several well-maintained trails, ranging from easy loops suitable for families to longer routes for more experienced walkers. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path runs close by, showcasing the impressive tension between fertile woodlands and jagged coastal cliffs. As some sections can be boggy in the wetter months, appropriate footwear is recommended, but the tranquil atmosphere and opportunities for birdwatching make it a must for nature lovers.
Castell Henllys 1. The surrounding lush habitats support a variety of flora, including ancient oak trees that form part of the surrounding woodland, as well as wildflowers such as bluebells in spring and heather during the summer months. The heathland areas are home to low-growing plants that thrive in the acidic soils, including gorse and bilberry.
Wildlife in the area is equally diverse, with birds of prey such as buzzards and kestrels regularly seen overhead, while smaller songbirds like robins, wrens, and blackbirds can be spotted flitting through the hedgerows and greenery. Squirrels, rabbits, foxes, and deer are commonly seen in the woodlands, making it an exciting location for nature enthusiasts. Invertebrates such as butterflies, including species like the common blue and red admiral, are drawn to the wildflowers in the warmer months.
Castell Henllys 2. The wider landscape surrounding Castell Henllys offers panoramic views of the Pembrokeshire countryside, with the nearby Preseli Hills rising in the distance. This area is not only known for its natural beauty but also its geological significance, with the Preselis being the source of some of the bluestone used in the construction of Stonehenge. Visitors to the site can enjoy a combination of historical interpretation and scenic walks in the surrounding nature reserves, making Castell Henllys a popular destination for both heritage and outdoor activities.