St Govan's Chapel

St Govan's Chapel is a tiny stone structure built into a limestone cliff on the Welsh coast, measuring only a few meters in each direction. Stone benches line the interior walls, and a natural rock cleft forms the altar area where the chapel merges with its surroundings.

The site dates back to the 6th century, when an early Christian hermit lived here in a natural cave. The stone structure visible today was built later during the medieval period using limestone from the surrounding cliffs.

The name honors Saint Govan, a hermit whose legacy continues through local stories passed down across generations. The tiny chapel feels intimate to visitors, who sense a deep connection between human shelter and the surrounding stone.

Reaching the chapel requires descending a long flight of stone steps, which demands some physical effort. The area is sometimes closed for military training exercises, so checking local conditions before visiting is helpful.

Local legend tells of a sacred bell that pirates tried to steal but was magically returned by angels and now lies sealed within a nearby rock. Visitors often search for the rock cleft inside where tradition claims impressions of the saint remain etched into the stone surface.

Location: Stackpole and Castlemartin

Inception: 13 century

Elevation above the sea: 23.3 m

Length: 5.3 m

Width: 3.8 m

Made from material: limestone, slate

Part of: St Govan's Chapel and Well

GPS coordinates: 51.59870,-4.93673

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:43