Famed as the birthplace of Henry VII of England, Pembroke is a historically rich town in south-west Wales. It was established around an oval-shaped Norman castle and overlooks the Pembroke River, where the remains of medieval and Elizabethan slipways can still be seen today.
Things to do in Pembroke
In the heart of town is the Pembroke Museum, which occupies a Grade II-listed Georgian town hall. Its exhibits include maritime artefacts, vintage toys and a collection of 19th-century Welsh clothing, as well as silent movies of the British cinema pioneer William Haggar. Not to miss are the Pembroke Murals, which depict notable scenes, events and people from throughout Pembroke’s history.
The Pembroke Museum serves as a starting point for the Town Trail, which connects 30 local landmarks indicated by bronze plaques set into the pavement. Admire the 18th-century coaching inns of The Lion and The Old King’s Arms before visiting the medieval Church of St. Mary’s. A highlight of the trail is the Mill Bridge, from where artists such as Charles Norris and Paul Sandby painted Pembroke Castle. Rowboats can be rented for leisurely paddles on the Pembroke River.
Dominating the western end of town is Pembroke Castle, a medieval fortification that was extensively restored in Victorian times. Marvel at its five-storey central keep and unique gatehouse, which houses exhibits detailing the castle’s past. You can venture down the spiral staircase that leads to Wogan’s Cavern or stroll along the circular waterfront path that rings the castle.
Getting around Pembroke
Pembroke is just over an hour’s drive from Swansea and around two hours from Cardiff, which has flights to destinations across Europe. Regular trains connect to the Pembroke railway station and the town is compact enough to explore on foot.