Pembroke is one of the larger towns in the county of Pembrokeshire. With a rich history and diverse culture, it attracts visitors from around the world who enjoy its beautiful beaches, and numerous attractions. Easy to reach by train, Pembroke makes a good base to explore gorgeous Pembrokeshire.

 

1. Explore the History of Pembroke Castle

Arguably one of the most impressive castles in Wales, Pembroke Castle has stood on this spot next to the River Pembroke since 1098 when Arnulf de Montgomery began the build. 

In the 1200s the imposing defensive walls were added to the castle complex, and Pembroke went on to play a major role in the English Civil War when Royalist soldiers besieged the castle. As part of the second civil war, in 1648 Oliver Cromwell took the castle and ordered it destroyed. 

After this turbulent history, it lay ruined for centuries until, in 1928, an extensive restoration programme began, and now it’s a popular tourist attraction. With a variety of exhibitions, an on-site cafe and lots to see and do, Pembroke Castle is a must-see when you visit the town.   

Pembroke Castle

 

2. Spend a Day at Barafundle Beach

Voted as one of Britain’s best beaches and often compared to an idyllic Caribbean beach, Barafundle Beach is hugely popular. Sheltered crystal waters and wide, sweeping sand makes this the perfect family beach for sandcastles and swimming. The bay is carved out of the rugged limestone cliffs that make up the Castlemartin Peninsula and the red sandstone of Stackpole Quay to the northeast. 
 
Behind the expanse of sand, a large dune complex and cool, shady pinewoods make the stroll from the car park to the beach relaxing and easy, and although there are no facilities, Barafundle Bay has won numerous awards. These include appearing on a list of the 12 best beaches in the world, winning Country Life magazine’s best picnic location in the UK and Wales Coast Awards’ Seaside and Green Coast. 

Safe for families, plenty of sand for digging, and great for getting away from it all - Barafundle Beach will keep you coming back for more. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by John C Hughes (@lordtenby)

 

3. Fun and Educational - Pembroke Museum

Pembroke’s Grade II town hall houses the Pembroke Museum. Displaying relics and artefacts relating to the town’s historic past, you can follow the story of the people who have called Pembroke home. From the Stone Age, through centuries of battles and royalty, politics and families, to today, the exhibits include children’s toys, traditional Welsh costumes, relics of the region’s maritime history, and countless old photographs.

Painted by local artists, George and Jeanne Lewis, the Pembroke Murals attract many visitors and depict, in glorious colour, the story of Pembroke and its people. For something a little different head out on a treasure trail around the town. Letting the bronze plaques lead you, there’s so much to learn about Pembroke through the centuries - it’s a great way to experience history.  

 

Pembroke has so much to offer the many visitors arriving every year, and with a wide choice of accommodation, it should be on everyone’s list of holiday destinations.

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