Pembroke: Castle, town history and trails

Discover Pembroke through places that bring different chapters of the town’s history to life: the Norman castle dates back to 1093, while the Town Hall and churches preserve further traces of the past. There are also marked trails through the town, a route around the ponds that once formed the castle moat, and a section of the Angle path along the Pembroke River. You can choose how much to focus on cultural history and outdoor activity when planning your stay. When looking for a holiday apartment, consider whether you want your stay to centre on the castle, museum and churches, or more on walking trails and a seasonal water activity.

The castle and its underground history

Pembroke Castle was founded by the Normans in 1093. The Great Keep was built by William Marshal, adding another specific historical reference to the story of the castle’s foundation. The castle offers free guided tours daily; check the times for your visit before you travel. During your visit, you can descend into Wogan Cavern, considered the site of the earliest human habitation in Britain. Check the conditions for entering the cave in advance.

The museum and churches as places of history

Pembroke Museum is housed in the Georgian Town Hall, a Grade II listed building. Murals are permanently displayed in the foyer and on the upper landing. The collections offer a range of ways to explore history, including silent films by William Haggar, an authentic collection of 19th-century Welsh costume, historic children’s toys and maritime artefacts. An extensive archive of old photographs, postcards and oral histories complements these subjects.

St Mary the Virgin dates from the late 12th to early 13th century and has several stained-glass windows designed by Charles Kempe. Its Norman tower is Grade I listed and houses eight bells; bells have been rung at the church since the 1760s. St Mary the Virgin is open daily from 10 am to 4 pm. There may be restrictions during work on the tower and bell frame; check the latest notices before your visit. The Priory Church of St Nicholas and St John also has an information guide and an exhibition.

Town trails and a walk along the Town Walls

The Main Town Trail is about 3 miles long, and shorter alternative routes are also signposted. The Pembroke Town Trail is marked by 30 bronze plaques set into the pavements. The seasonal programme for 2026 includes guided walks along the Pembroke Town Walls, exploring the medieval fortifications in an hour. The route follows tarmac or paved surfaces and includes a single steep downhill section. Check before your visit whether suitable dates are available. The duration and the one steep descent are practical details to take into account when planning your day.

Ponds, a riverside trail and rowing boats

A circular route runs around Pembroke’s ponds, which once formed the castle moat. It is suitable for walking or cycling. The section from Angle to Pembroke follows the Pembroke River and leads into town. This gives you a choice of different ways to get outdoors alongside the historic walks. At Paddle West in Pembroke, the seasonal offering from April to September includes rowing boats; a half-hour session costs £10 per boat. The activity is weather-dependent, so confirm in advance that it is open.

If you’re looking for a holiday apartment in Pembroke, the balance of culture and outdoor activity you want can be a useful starting point for your decision.

More destinations

Discover more destinations: Pontfaen, Tenby, Abercastle, Boncath, Castlemartin, Saundersfoot, Cosheston, Wisemans Bridge.

Back to the main travel guide: Pembrokeshire.