Castles, historic places and ancient sites
Castles & heritage in Pembrokeshire
Pembrokeshire’s landscape is peppered with everything from mysterious prehistoric tombs to medieval castles and Celtic religious shrines.
Pembroke Castle and Carew Castle are probably the finest castles in Pembrokeshire whilst Cilgerran Castle probably commands the most dramatic location perched high above the Teifi Gorge.
Llawhaden Castle was a fortified Bishop’s palace rather than a true castle with panoramic views from its battlements. Picton Castle is a cross between a medieval castle and a fortified manor house. Built in the 13th century by Sir John Wogan, it’s still occupied today by his descendants.
Manorbier Castle is a Norman baronial residence overlooking the beach. It was described by Gerald of Wales as ‘the pleasantest place in Wales’.
Pembrokeshire is packed with history every bit as spectacular as its scenery
Sally Hales, for Britain magazine
St Davids Bishops Palace was home to the Bishops of St Davids and initially built as a private residence but later in the 13th century became a much grander building for stylish entertaining. Lamphey Bishop’s Palace was built as a retreat for those medieval bishops seeking solace from the everyday stresses of Church and State.
The Tudor Merchants House in Tenby has been restored by the National Trust and recreates the home of wealthy merchants trading from Tenby during the 1500’s.
Other must-visits include St Govans Chapel near Bosherston. A small 13th-century chapel built into the sea-cliff and accessible only by steps from the towering cliff above. Pentre Ifan is Wales’ most iconic prehistoric site. The Neolithic burial chamber topped by a massive capstone is made from the same stones as the inner circle of Stonehenge.