Pembroke Castle is the birthplace of the first Tudor king and has enough graceful majesty to more than match its place in history. The 11th century fort is packed full of surprises and won't fail to amaze first-time visitors to this gorgeous corner of Wales.

The oldest part of the castle was built in 1093 on a rocky outcrop surrounded by the Cleddau River. It served as the seat of major medieval barons and, in the 12th Century, acquired its most stunning feature - the 75-feet high Great Keep with its distinctive domed roof.

A limestone cave known as Wogan Cavern was linked to the castle in the 13th Century via a spiral staircase and can still be explored and marvelled at by visitors today. But you'll also want to climb Pembroke Castle's tower and admire views of Milford Haven, a site of special scientific interest.

Henry VII was born at Pembroke Castle in 1457, in a tower that now bears his name. He was the last English monarch to win his crown on the battlefield, at the Battle of Bosworth: an act that heralded the Tudor age.

All this history, as well as many other architectural wonders, can be discovered by visitors to Pembroke Castle today. Guided tours are offered daily and there is a full calendar of events, ranging from falconry to dragon days.

The castle, located half a mile from Pembroke Railway Station, also boasts a brass rubbing centre and an outdoor map of Wales that is the largest painting in the UK.

Reviews of Pembroke Castle

4.5

Top destination

5 - Excellent

23

4 - Good

17

3 - Okay

3

2 - Disappointing

0

1 - Terrible

0

4/5 - Good

Jenny

9 Sep 2019

Lots of steps to climb to the top of the towers but worth it. Very informative videos and historical sections.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

9 Sep 2019

The free guided tour was excellent! If you have the time, it is well worth it! Our guide, Jessica, was great!

Popular places to visit

Freshwater East Beach

4.5/5(37 reviews)

Stretching along the Pembrokeshire Coast, Freshwater East Beach is a haven for wildlife and a great spot for holidaymakers to spend a day. This sandy beach with its rolling dunes and striking red cliffs is a little off the beaten track so it never gets too crowded with visitors, leaving you plenty of space to explore the many rock pools.

Broad Haven South

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Broad Haven South during your trip to Stackpole and Castlemartin?

Manorbier Beach

5/5(2 reviews)

If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Manorbier Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Manorbier. Make some time to visit the monuments while you're in the area.

Manorbier Castle

4.5/5(33 reviews)

One of the foremost charms of the Pembrokeshire Coast, Manorbier Castle makes for a fantastic day out, especially for families and anyone with a passion for Welsh history. This well-preserved Norman Castle is to be found not far from the pretty seaside town of Tenby. With medieval frescoes visible in the old chapel and a fine gatehouse with intact defensive facilities, despite the inevitable decay caused by the passage of time, this remains a majestic and atmospheric structure.

Freshwater West

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Freshwater West during your trip to Pembroke? Visit the spas in this walkable area or simply enjoy its cafes.

Wogan Cavern

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Wogan Cavern during your travels in Pembroke. Discover the countryside and cafes in this walkable area.