Pembroke Range North: Vol 1

Traditional climbing remains the main focus with the classic crags, Carey-y-Barcud, Porthclais, and Caerfai rightly taking pride of place, although St David’s Head is now given the prominence it deserves. For something different, inland crags make a first appearance with some good bouldering available – the northern crags being reminiscent of Peaks. Anyone prepared to trade a crash pad for a wetter landing will find DWS with some premier areas including Barrel Zawn but also some new crags including Crag yAfr – home to the worst puns in climbing. To cap it all there are even some sport routes!

The author, Steve Quinton, has done an outstanding job – if it looks like a crag, he’s been there – stellar or choss. The descriptions of the great, the bad, and the ugly are all lovingly documented with a wry understatement.

If the script and topos don’t inspire you, the photos will hopefully tempt you out of that armchair and onto the crag. If you decide to venture out, the maps and approach shots will aid you on the way.