St Davids Comedy Walking Tour

Taking a tour that mixes history with humor might not be everyone’s first choice, but for those looking for an entertaining way to explore St Davids, the Comedy Walking Tour delivers just that. Guided by lively actors embodying “the actual” St David, this 1.5-hour jaunt offers a playful take on the Welsh town’s landmarks, legends, and myths. Whether you’re a history buff, a family looking for light-hearted fun, or simply someone wanting to see St Davids in a different light, this tour aims to entertain with a healthy dose of silliness and wit.

What really shines here is the energy and storytelling skill of the guides—Dai and Rug—who keep the group engaged with their comedic flair, costumes, and improvisation. For just under $14, you get a surprisingly rich experience that blends local folklore, famous figures like Owain Glyndwr, and some fictionalized tales of Vikings, goats, and leeks. That said, this tour leans heavily into entertainment rather than strict historical accuracy, which is worth considering if you’re after a deep dive into factual history.

A potential drawback? Some travelers might find the humor a bit offbeat or in-jokes that don’t land for everyone. But if you’re happy to go along with the playful tone, you’ll find this an amusing and memorable way to explore the town. It’s most suited for those who appreciate comedy, families with kids, or anyone up for an unconventional sightseeing experience.

Overall, the St Davids Comedy Walking Tour offers a wonderfully light-hearted perspective on a historic Welsh town, proving that history can be fun when told with wit and theatrical flair. Now, let’s unpack what makes this tour tick, and why it could be a highlight of your visit to Pembrokeshire.

Key Points

• Humorous Guides: Dai and Rug are energetic, witty, and skilled storytellers bringing the stories to life with costumes and improvisation.
• Value for Money: At around $13.73 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to see St Davids and enjoy some laughs.
• Family Friendly: The tour is engaging for all ages, making it a great activity for families with teens or kids.
• Authentic Landmarks with a Twist: Visit Cross Square, St Davids Cathedral, and local sites, but with amusing stories that add a lighter touch.
• Interactive Experience: Expect plenty of theatrical moments, humorous anecdotes, and some playful embellishments.
• Short but Rich: The 1.5-hour duration is perfect for a quick yet entertaining sightseeing session that leaves you with memorable stories.

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

Starting Point: Oriel y Parc Landscape Gallery and Visitor Centre

Your journey kicks off here in an eco-friendly building overlooking the Pembrokeshire landscape. We loved the hidden garden, the legendary St Non’s Rocks, and a Neolithic picnic table—these small details set a tone of discovery blended with nature. The outside of the centre is designed to be environmentally conscious, which adds a modern, sustainable touch to your experience. The first 15 minutes allow for a relaxed start, and you might find it interesting that the tour begins with a mix of natural beauty and local lore.

Stryd yr Afr: The Historic Monks’ Street

As you walk down this once-tormenting space for monks now cleared of goats, Dai and Rug will spin tales of its past, heavily exaggerated for comic effect. Expect humorous descriptions that make the history accessible and fun, especially for younger or more casual visitors. Reviewers mention that the guides’ storytelling skills shine here, making the history engaging rather than dry.

Cross Square: The Heart of the Town

This bustling square is the tour’s hub, home to the iconic cross monument, the local market, and a war memorial garden. Dai shares stories about Welsh hero Owain Glyndwr and lesser-known legends of St David’s brotherhood. The lively atmosphere here lends itself well to storytelling, and the guides’ energetic delivery keeps everyone entertained. Visitors mention that this is a great place to absorb the local vibe and get some amusing insights into the town’s cultural fabric.

Stephen’s Lane: The Historic Inn

Next, you’ll see the site of what claims to be the oldest bed & breakfast in St Davids, dating back to the 11th century. Dai throws in a story about a monarch who stayed there, which adds a regal twist to your walk. The brief stop lets you envision centuries of visitors passing through, all narrated with a comedic twist that keeps it light.

RNLI Barometer: A Quirky Landmark

This authentic RNLI barometer isn’t just a weather instrument; it becomes a humorous talking point. Dai and Rug’s playful approach makes this stop more memorable—expect jokes about the unpredictability of weather and perhaps some cheeky comments about the sea. Reviewers appreciated the authenticity combined with comedy, making even simple landmarks fun to learn about.

The Cathedral and Final Stories

The tour culminates at St Davids Cathedral, where you can admire the stunning architecture at your leisure after the storytelling concludes. Dai recounts tales of an epic battle between the Devil and St David, and the original monastery’s lore. The guides do not go down the cathedral steps, leaving visitors free to explore on their own. Many reviews highlight the “theatrical and witty” storytelling here that leaves a lasting impression.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Meeting Point & Ending Location

The tour begins at Oriel y Parc Gallery & Visitor Centre, located conveniently in the town’s main area, and ends near the cathedral at 7 The Pebbles. The start point is accessible and close to public transportation options, making it easy to incorporate into your day.

Duration and Group Size

Clocking in at approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, this tour is a manageable length—long enough to be engaging without feeling rushed. With a maximum of 20 travelers, the group size remains intimate enough for lively interactions with the guides.

Cost and Value

At just $13.73 per person, it offers excellent value, especially considering the guides’ energy, theatricality, and the inclusiveness of the stories. While it’s not a deeply factual history lesson, the entertainment and local insights pack a punch for the price.

Accessibility & Booking Info

Since the tour is conducted with mobile tickets, booking is straightforward, and confirmation is immediate. Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, adding flexibility if your plans change.

What Reviewers Say

The tour scores a solid 4.7 out of 5 based on 79 reviews. Many praise the guides’ enthusiasm, storytelling skills, and humor. James_W notes both guides were “energetic and skilled story tellers,” and the humor was “very British.” Families, like Cath_D and Alison_M, appreciated the fun atmosphere, with one reviewer mentioning that teenagers enjoyed the laughter too.

Some criticism revolves around the comedic style—some thought there was too much humor at the expense of facts. As one reviewer pointed out, the stories are “heavily embellished,” and the costumes might seem simple or theatrical. But others enjoy the playful, theatrical approach, emphasizing that it’s all part of the charm.

A few reviewers mention that some jokes might feel “inside” or less accessible, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local legends or in-jokes. However, most agree that Dai and Rug’s energy keeps the tour lively and enjoyable.

The Bottom Line: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This walking tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy lighthearted, comedic storytelling and want a unique way to see St Davids. Families, friends, or couples looking for a casual, fun activity will find it a perfect fit. It’s especially good if you’re traveling with teenagers or kids, as the humor is engaging and lively.

If you’re after a serious historical deep-dive, this might not satisfy; instead, it offers a playful, exaggerated version of local tales that’s equally memorable. It’s also a fantastic choice for those on a budget, delivering good value for a dose of entertainment and local atmosphere.

Guides Dai and Rug bring a theatrical, humorous touch to the historic sites, making this tour stand out among more traditional sightseeing options. It’s a chance to enjoy St Davids in a way that’s informal, amusing, and slightly irreverent—perfect for a relaxed afternoon.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many families have enjoyed this tour, and it’s described as engaging for all ages. The guides keep the tone light and humorous, making it fun for kids and teenagers.

How long does the tour last?
About 1 hour 30 minutes, which makes it a good addition to a day of sightseeing without taking up the entire afternoon.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Oriel y Parc Gallery & Visitor Centre and ends near 7 The Pebbles, close to St Davids Cathedral.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with full refund.

Is the tour accessible and suitable for most travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is near public transportation, making it accessible for many.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the guided walk and entertainment; it does not specify additional inclusions, but the price is very reasonable for the experience offered.

Are the stories factual?
The guides playfully embellish stories for humor, and it’s not marketed as a strictly factual history tour. Expect a mix of legend, myth, and entertainment.

To sum it up, the St Davids Comedy Walking Tour stands out as a lively, affordable, and amusing way to experience this historic town. If you’re ready for a playful journey filled with theatrical storytelling and Welsh charm, this tour offers plenty of laughs and local flavor—perfect for making your visit to Pembrokeshire truly memorable.