6 castles in Pembrokeshire Wales that you HAVE to visit!
Wales is often referred to as ‘The Land Of Castles’, and with 600 castles, 100 of which are still standing, all around the country, it’s no wonder why! In fact, Wales has more castles than any country in Europe, and did you know Caerphilly’s leaning tower leans even more than the Leaning Tower of Pisa!
With their rich history, stunning structures and breathtaking landscapes, you can’t miss a tour of a Welsh castle on your next trip to Pembrokeshire. Here are six of our favourite castles in Pembrokeshire…
Pembroke Castle
The original family seat of the Earldom of Pembroke, Pembroke castle underwent major restoration in the 20th century and has been a grade I listed building since 1951. Pembroke Castle is the only castle in Britain which was built over a cave. Known as the Wogan Cave, it served as a port for ships and was protection against oncoming arrows. Surrounded by water on three sides, Pembroke Castle is an absolutely stunning location, and we hear that they do a great brunch too…
Carew Castle
Built upon a rugged landscape of southwest Wales’ Pembrokeshire, Carew castle was ransacked and battered during the English Civil War. It’s history boasts astonishing tales of family feuds and tumultuous tales, but the castle is now home to a large colony of bats, and supposedly a few ghostly spirits too. Watch out for the ‘White Lady’ if you do dare to visit!
Cilgerran Castle
On the River Teifi, perched upon a cliff face sits the ruins of Cilgerran Castle. The castle, largely ruinous, has been maintained by The National Trust since the 1930s and is open to the public.
Manorbier Castle
Described by famous Welsh renaissance man, Giraldus Cambrensis as “the pleasantest spot in Wales”, and proudly standing in a valley between two streams that follow sandy beaches to Manorbier Bay, you can see why. The castle now hosts live music events, weddings and even talks on beekeeping! With guided tours and a picturesque cafe between the castle walls, Manorbier Castle is the perfect day out.
Picton Castle
With lush gardens, owls and even an escape room, there’s something for everybody at Picton Castle. Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, the castle was home to the most powerful family in Pembrokeshire, the Philippses, who had huge sway over the political, social and economic aspects of all local life, but these days, with over 5 different places to eat inside the castle, and an endless amounts of activities to enjoy, it’s the absolute pinnacle of a family day out in Pembrokeshire.