Castles in Pembrokeshire
Pembrokeshire in South Wales has a significant number of castles, so it makes a great holiday destination for those of you interested in history. Children of all ages will love exploring the towers, staircases and passageways within these historic buildings. There are fifty one castles and forts in the county with the four main castles being Pembroke Castle, Carew Castle, Manorbier Castle and Llawhaden Castle.
Pembroke Castle is almost entirely surrounded by a serene mill pond and is oval in shape. It was extensively restored during Victorian times and features an impressive five storey domed keep. There is also a complex gatehouse which dominates Pembroke’s main street.
Manorbier Castle’s basic plan is almost rectangular in shape. It has a battlemented curtain wall with niches and powerful corner towers. There is also an impressive gatehouse. The castle occupies a stunning location perched above the beach. It is renowned for being a fascinating castle with numerous staircases, towers and battlements to explore.
Carew Castle is an enormous stone castle set in a beautiful location next to a mill pond. A working tidal mill is adjacent to the castle and you can visit both attractions in the cost of the ticket.
Llawhaden Castle is actually a fortified bishop’s palace. It is located on high ground overlooking The Vale of Eastern Cleddau and this makes for a very impressive location! It is very castle like in appearance even though it was nothing more than a very grand residence.
Narberth Castle was built in a rectangular design. Unfortunately, it is nothing more than a ruin today although there are some fascinating legends attached to it. It is believed that the site may at some point have been occupied by Mabinogion, a collection of myths and legends. It also makes a good picnic spot as much of the area has been laid to grass.
The ruins of Haverfordwest Castle dominate this small town. Unfortunately, even though it appears impressive from the riverside very little remains of this castle except the outside wall.
Picton Castle was constructed during the thirteenth century and occupies a beautiful site. It has magnificent woodland and walled gardens. In fact there is forty acres of woodland gardens with collections of unusual shrubs and wild flowers.
Only a small tower remains of Tenby Castle which is perched on the top of Castle Hill. The old town walls, however, are remarkably complete and contain the narrow, quaint streets which make up the picturesque old town of Tenby.
