Photography attributed to Collin Allen (https://colin-allen.pixels.com/)
One of our highest recommendations for visits when you are camping with us at Eco Escape Campsite in Milford Haven or visiting Pembrokeshire at all has to be Pembroke Castle.
It is a striking architectural medieval construction, visible from many places in Milford Haven and a visit will take you back in time.
A castle is an excellent opportunity for adventure and for the rekindling of a childhood of playing Kings, Queens and Knights. That’s just for you - never mind the kids! ;)
For those of you who love photography, it provides an excellent opportunity for you to pull out your camera and take advantage of the surroundings.
And let’s be honest… who doesn’t love a Castle?!
A Very Brief History
Pembroke Castle has a long and fascinating history. In 1093 Arnulf de Montgomery had the inner bailey constructed, that still stands at the end of the promontory. Not long after that, the castle withstood a long siege by the Welsh. The late 12th Century saw a massive cylindrical tower, with an architectural feature stone dome added.
It is recommended that you go to the top of the castle to view the natural defensive position on the rocky peninsula that overlooks Milford Haven. The second floor of the Keep has two windows in the main room that are embellished with dog tooth moulding and a carved head - excellent surviving details that any history or architecture buff will love!
The keep is nearly 80ft high and all rooms are circular. The son in law of Strongbow, conqueror of Ireland, a man named William Marshall was the man responsible for a reconstruction of the castle in stone in the late 12th and early 13th centuries. Another stunning feature of the castle is the gatehouse with its complex barbican and three portcullises. Again a must for a history buff!
There is a flying arch battlement inside the gatehouse, that appears would have been of little use in the repelling of invaders who had gained entry to the castle - leaving it somewhat of a mystery. Overall the gatehouse remains a mighty area of defence and speaks to the skill and sophistication of the military architects involved in its creation.
It really is a stunning piece of architecture not to be missed when you are in the area.
Free Guided Tours
The admission price for Pembroke Castle includes a free guided tour which runs daily. Tour times are available on the website here. Guided tours allow you to get far more information about the history and stories of the castle. The expert knowledge of the guides bring the Castle to life and you will learn more from them than any book - or brief overview that we can give to you. Tours take place outdoors on ground level - making them very accessible.
We recommend checking out the castle website for advice on travel and parking here.