Home to a striking 11th-century castle, this welcoming Welsh town is also a gateway to the picturesque coastal towns of south Pembrokeshire.
Pembroke is a town with a thousand-year-old history. Its streets are lined with architectural masterpieces, boutiques and friendly pubs. Come to this charming town to discover its medieval Norman castle and to explore the nearby beaches.
Tour the imposing Pembroke Castle, built in 1093 and famous as the birthplace of King Henry VII of England. Learn about the stories of famous residents, including the Earls of Pembroke, the Tudors and the Stuarts. Enjoy sweeping views of the town, its medieval defensive walls and surrounding countryside from the top of the 75-feet (23-meter) keep.
The castle forms part of the Pembroke Town Trail, a 3-mile (4.8-kilometer) trail that links 30 historical sites. Purchase a trail map from the Town Hall or Pembroke Tourist Information Centre and follow the trail on foot. Visit the old town quay and Wogan’s Cave, a natural limestone cave beneath the castle. Peak inside centuries-old churches, spot remnants of the old town ramparts and enjoy a stroll around the tranquil Mill Pond.
The trail incorporates Main Street, a commercial street framed by grand Georgian and Tudor houses. Admire George and Jeanne Lewis’ Pembroke Murals at the Town Hall. Browse for one-of-a-kind souvenirs at antiques shops and experience the hospitable atmosphere at one of the town’s traditional pubs.
Just a 10-minute drive or 45-minute walk past green meadows is the port town of Pembroke Dock. Retrace the town’s maritime history and peak inside a boat workshop at the Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre.
Don’t miss the chance to take daytrips to the beaches and villages set around Pembroke Peninsula. Many are interconnected by sections of the 186-mile (299-kilometer) Pembrokeshire Coast Path. Relax at wild and uncrowded beaches such as Barafundle Bay, Freshwater East Beach and Manorbier Bay.
It’s easy to get to Pembroke via trains from Cardiff and Swansea. Rent a car to reach nearby family-friendly attractions, including Oakwood Theme Park.