Dale is a small settlement located in the county of Pembrokeshire, Wales. It lies to the west of the city of St Davids, close to the A487 road which connects St Davids with Haverfordwest. Administratively, Dale falls within the community of St Davids and the Cathedral Close and is part of the unitary authority of Pembrokeshire.
Geography
- The hamlet is situated in a low-lying valley near the eastern shore of the River Cleddau estuary.
- The surrounding landscape comprises typical Pembrokeshire coastal and agricultural terrain, with fields, pasture, and patches of hedgerow woodland.
Etymology
The name “Dale” derives from the Old English word dael, meaning “valley”. This reflects the settlement’s location within a shallow valley that opens onto the Pembrokeshire coastline.
History
- Historically, the area formed part of the medieval cantref (hundred) of Dewisland, which was under the jurisdiction of the Bishop of St Davids.
- Records of the specific hamlet of Dale are limited; it appears in Ordnance Survey maps from the 19th century and later, indicating a small residential cluster centered around a few farmsteads.
Demographics
- Dale is not listed separately in recent census data; population figures are aggregated with those of the wider St Davids community.
- The settlement consists primarily of private dwellings, with an estimated few dozen inhabitants.
Landmarks and Amenities
- The nearest significant landmark is St Davids Cathedral, situated approximately 2 kilometres to the east.
- A local public house, the “Dale Inn”, has historically served the community and surrounding rural area, though current operational status should be confirmed locally.
- The area is served by rural bus routes connecting St Davids with other towns in Pembrokeshire.
Transport
- Proximity to the A487 provides road links to major towns such as Haverfordwest (approximately 25 km north) and Fishguard (approximately 15 km south).
- The nearest railway station is at Haverfordwest, on the West Wales Line.
Governance
- Local governance is provided by Pembrokeshire County Council, with representation through the St Davids electoral ward.
- As part of the community of St Davids and the Cathedral Close, Dale participates in the community council that addresses local issues.
References
- Ordnance Survey maps of Pembrokeshire (19th–20th centuries).
- Pembrokeshire County Council records.
- Historical studies of the cantref of Dewisland.
Note: Detailed historic records and demographic statistics specific to Dale are limited; information presented reflects available cartographic and administrative sources.