A short visitor's guide to Narberth, Pembrokeshire: things to do, places to eat and drink, and what's on through the year.
Narberth (Welsh: Arberth) is a small market town in Pembrokeshire, Wales, founded around a Welsh court and later developed as a Norman stronghold on the Landsker Line, the linguistic and cultural boundary that historically divided Welsh-speaking north Pembrokeshire from the anglicised south.
Today Narberth is better known as an independent shopping destination: the compact town centre has an unusually high concentration of independent boutiques, galleries, delis and restaurants for its size. It has developed a strong reputation as a foodie town and a day-trip destination from the Pembrokeshire Coast.
The main cultural attraction is Narberth Museum in the Bonded Stores on Church Street, a community museum covering the town's history and its place on the Landsker Line. It is a good starting point for understanding the distinctive character of this part of Pembrokeshire.
Narberth has a well-above-average indoor offer for a small Welsh market town, with a cluster of galleries and craft studios along the High Street and Market Street.
Oriel Q Gallery on Market Street is a contemporary art gallery and one of the best in the area. Narberth Pottery on Market Street is a working studio gallery worth a visit. John Addyman on St James Street is a respected fine art dealer and framer. Autodromo near the bridge is an unusual addition: a model racing club and venue popular with enthusiasts. Narberth Library on the Towns Moor provides practical cover on a rainy afternoon.
Narberth has a good selection of pubs for a town of its size, mainly on Water Street, High Street and around the market square.
Dragon Inn on Water Street is the most-reviewed pub in town. Ivy Bush Inn on the High Street and The Eagle Inn on Water Street are reliable traditional choices. The Star in Narberth on Market Square is popular for its central location. Farmers Arms on Northfield Road is the quieter local option away from the main street.
Narberth's restaurant scene is punchy for a town of this size. The Angel Narberth on the High Street is the fine dining option, with a good local reputation. Top Joe's Townhouse & Pizzeria on the High Street is the most popular casual choice, with wood-fired pizzas and a buzzy atmosphere. The Contented Sole on Market Square handles fish and seafood. Get Stuffed Pizza Co on Market Street offers a more relaxed pizza option. Shaad Narberth on Market Square covers Indian cuisine.
Narberth's cafe scene is strong relative to its size, with several independent options on the main street and around the market square.
Lillies at the Towns Moor is a well-regarded local favourite. Rock'n'Dough Bakehouse on the High Street is the go-to for artisan bread and pastries. Oh Crumbs Bakery on Market Square is a popular stop for morning coffee and cakes. Stopio in Spring Gardens and Fire & Ice on St James Street round out a good selection for such a compact town.