In this edition of the Celtic Haven Resort's reviews
of Pembrokeshire's unique attractions, we explore the domineering
Pembroke Castle - a fascinating building that has played a pivotal
role in shaping the history of Britain.
One of the best preserved and most iconic pieces of Welsh
history available within the entire county, the castle affords
all-comers with the opportunity to embrace the wonderful history
and culture of Wales, as well as fantasise about times gone by in
which kings and knights called the fortified walls home.
The castle's outer defences are comprised of domineering walls
and turrets that were designed to repel any external threats from
opposition forces, with the castle's turrets boasting ostentatious
spiralling staircases - many of which lead into rooms fitted with
exhibitions portraying freeze-frames of historical activities,
designed to deliver an insight into the lives of its royal
occupants.
Standing atop of the turrets, clear days offer you the
opportunity to take in breath-taking vista views of the picturesque
town, surrounding countryside and Cleddau estuary, with the
sharp-eyed able to see as far as Milford Haven.
The inner ward of the castle is dominated by a huge round keep,
designed to protect the occupants in the event of an attack, as
well as hosting sizeable grass lawns that offer an open area for
children to play safely within.
Pembroke Castle also hosts many medieval re-enactments across
the holiday season, affording children and parents alike the
opportunity to step back in history and immerse themselves in the
battles of the past.
The majority of the site was built between 1189 and 1218,
however, a castle has existed on the site since 1093, when what is
now the inner bailey was built on the site by Arnulf of Montgomery,
in an effort to fortify the town against the Norman invasion of
Wales.
Since this first rudimentary fortification of Pembroke,
extensive efforts were made across the 12th Century
in an effort to reinforce the defences with William Marshal, the
1st Earl of Pembroke, overseeing the building of the stone
constructions that remain in place today.
The castle has consequently played a prominent role within the
rich history of Britain, with many significant figures that have
defined the course of the nation having close associations with the
location.
The most notable member of the nobility to be associated with
the castle is King Henry VII, who was born on the site in early
1457.
Henry ruled the Principality of Wales until 29 November 1489 and
was Lord of Ireland, before seizing power of the kingdom of England
- defeating Richard III in the culmination of the War of the roses
at the battle of Bosworth, a victory that saw the dominance of the
House of Tudor during the Sixteenth Century.
Another significant moment from the castle's illustrious history
derives from the troubled reign of King Charles I when possession
of the fortification was battled over by both Royalist and
Roundhead forces, with the latter stages of the power struggles
including an attacking force that was led by Oliver Cromwell
himself.
Nowadays, the castle is fortunately no longer a site of violent
power struggle and serves as one of the county's premiere tourist
attractions - with it hosting many activity days and events
including live music performances such as Rock the Castle.
The castle also hosts a number of modern day amenities to
facilitate an enjoyable day including a gift shop, café and a brass
rubbing centre that is open across the summer months.
A dog friendly attraction, the castle is a fifteen minute drive
from the Celtic Haven Resort and is well worth considering when
visiting the county - opening hours and admission fees are
available here.
Celtic Haven is one of Pembrokeshire's leading Spa and Resort
service providers, delivering boutique self-catering holiday
cottages and expert spa and wellness treatments to all of its
visitors.
Located just off the Pembrokeshire coastal path, the Celtic
Haven resort offers you the opportunity to relax and explore the
best that this beautiful county has to offer.