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6 of the most beautiful Pembrokeshire castles holiday cottages

6 of the most beautiful Pembrokeshire castles

Laura Mackenzie 18 October 2022

Did you know that Wales is frequently referred to as ‘the land of castles’ and is home to more fantastic fortresses per square mile than any other country in Europe?  

Head west to Pembrokeshire and you’ll discover a naturally beautiful coast and countryside rich with culture and heritage that is also reflected in its captivating castles and surrounding landscapes. 

We’ve picked out the top Pembrokeshire castles and, after a hard day’s exploring, you can retreat to one of our comfortable cottages in Pembrokeshire and rest up ready to plan more adventures!



Pembrokeshire's most beautiful castles


Pembroke Castle

 Pembroke Castle

Surrounded by a tranquil millpond, ideal for a refreshing stroll around, pretty Pembroke Castle is an imposing structure. 

Pembroke Castle also claims the title of being Pembrokeshire’s biggest castle and the birthplace of the first Tudor king!  

Pembroke Castle FAQs

Absolutely! Easily one of the top things to do in Pembrokeshire, Pembroke Castle is one of the most well-preserved and interesting medieval castles in Wales.

Pembroke Castle is famous for being the birthplace of Henry VII, Britain's only Welsh king and the founder of the Tudor dynasty. Step back in time and visit the very room where he was believed to have been born in 1457.

Yes, you can go inside Pembroke Castle, and you won’t be disappointed when you do! Read on to discover all that can be discovered within the walls of this striking medieval fortress.

Adventure to this captivating castle and you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained including:

  • A cute cafe serving up a satisfying range of homemade tasty treats and refreshing beverages
  • The Dungeon Tower: one of the few remaining authentic medieval gaols that takes the shape of an oubliette, from the French word ‘oublier’ meaning ‘to forget’
  • A gift shop selling a range of souvenirs, toys, games and fascinating books
  • The Great Keep: standing proud at 25m high, the keep was originally five stories high! Each floor played its part from the storeroom to the living quarters with roof access for soldiers to attack the enemy below should the castle ever be subject to an onslaught
  • Fascinating exhibition rooms uncovering the castle’s rich history
  • The world's largest map of Wales that highlights every important castle and religious landmark!
  • Wogan's Cavern: a vast cavern that was originally used for cave dwellers and is now home to pipistrelle bats and rumours of a great dragon’s lair! 




Carew Castle

 Carew Castle

Sitting proudly on the banks of the River Carew overlooking an idyllic 23-acre millpond, the 13th-century Carew Castle is a stunning sight to behold. 

You can also explore Wales’ only restored tidal mill, along with enjoying a lovely circular walk that includes an 11th-century Celtic cross, a medieval bridge and a picnic area with stunning castle views. 

There’s plenty on offer at this picturesque place that also includes a tearoom and gift shop, toilets, plenty of parking, regular activities, events, and re-enactments.

A visit to the nearby Carew Inn is also a must for a delicious meal with a spectacular view!

Carew Castle FAQs

The popular dog-friendly walk around Carew Castle is around a mile long with amazing views of the magnificent castle. 

Alongside some amazing Pembrokeshire walks, the circular Carew Castle walk is easily one of the prettiest places to pace in Pembrokeshire. 

Yes, you can go into Carew Castle. Please check the Carew Castle website for up-to-date opening times before visiting. 

Carew Castle has changed hands many times throughout history and is now managed by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority.  


Manorbier Castle

 Manorbier Castle

Perched upon the cliffs keeping watch over beautiful Manorbier Beach lies the enchanting Manorbier Castle

This fairy-tale castle with its enchanting turrets, great hall, chapel, and pretty gardens commands the perfect setting to soak up the delightful coastal atmosphere. 

Manorbier Castle is home to a calendar of exciting events throughout the year. Relax and enjoy some live music or step back in time and take on one of the most ancient activities with a thrilling archery session!

Explore this picturesque Pembrokeshire castle and gardens before refreshing with some delicious home-baked treats at the welcoming cafe.  

Manorbier Castle FAQs

Entrance to Manorbier Castle costs £6 for adults and £4 for children and seniors. A family ticket costs £18.

Please check Manorbier Castle's website for up-to-date opening times and prices before visiting.

Yes, you can walk around Manorbier Castle. There is a lovely 3-mile circular walk that incorporates the unspoilt local coastline that features the magnificent castle.

Yes, you can take dogs to Manorbier Castle. Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome at Manorbier Castle for a fun, family day out with their owners.




Picton Castle

 Picton Castle

This magnificent medieval castle was transformed into a grand stately home in the 18th century. Enjoy exploring the beautiful Picton Castle along with its 60 acres of wonderful woodland gardens and grounds. 

Pop into The Welsh Owl Garden and Zoo and discover over 25 species of owls and exotic birds along with reptiles and mammals, including famous Freddie the otter! 

A meal at Maria’s Courtyard Restaurant and Delicatessen is an absolute must. The cosy, warm atmosphere and authentic rustic food and wine set you up for a memorable dining experience. 

Picton Castle FAQs

Picton Castle can be found at: Picton Castle, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, SA62 4AS, OS Ref: SN011 135, 2 miles South of the A40. 

Follow the brown tourist signs to Picton Castle that are located on the A40, about 3 miles east of Haverfordwest.

Picton Castle Gardens is managed by The Picton Castle Trust who established a repair, conservation, and refurbishment programme to secure the castle’s long-term future. 

Picton Castle, its collections, and gardens were gifted to the Picton Castle Trust in 1987 by The Honourable Hanning Philipps and Lady Marion Philipps, who were the last family members to live in the castle.

Dogs on leads are welcome within the gardens, and with 60 acres to explore, both owners and pups will get plenty of opportunity for exercise! 

Dogs are welcome in the lower section of the restaurant and there’s also plenty of outdoor seating where you and your pooch can refresh after a busy day exploring! 

Only assistance dogs such as Guide Dogs are allowed in the castle and dogs are not permitted in The Welsh Owl Garden and Zoo.


Cilgerran Castle

 Cilgerran Castle

Cilgerran Castle, with its two looming towers, is a picturesque fortress perched high on a wooded crag watching over the spectacular Teifi Gorge, one of the country’s best examples of a tidal gorge. 

One of the best ways to appreciate the gorge’s gorgeousness is by canoeing on the river. Adventure Beyond and Cardigan Bay Active offer guided canoeing trips along the River Teifi, one of Wales' longest rivers. 

Rest up after a busy day adventuring on one of our cosy Cardigan Bay cottages

Cilgerran Castle FAQs

Yes, Cilgerran Castle is dog-friendly. Dogs on leads are free to explore the ground-floor levels. 

Cilgerran Castle was likely built as a ‘ringwork’ castle in 1108. A ringwork castle typically had a fence or defensive wall on top of a raised earth bank, protected by a ditch, and may have been supported by extra towers. 

Cilgerran Castle was probably built by Gerald of Windsor, the Norman adventurer husband of Nest, a famously beautiful Welsh princess.  




Tenby Castle

 Tenby Castle

Wander towards the edge of this pretty seaside town and you’ll find the remains of Tenby Castle perched high on the top of Castle Hill looking out to sea.

The ancient ruins of this popular Pembrokeshire castle lie above one of Pembrokeshire’s top beaches, the award-winning Tenby Castle Beach, the Sunday Times Beach of the Year 2019.

Discover more of Tenby's rich history at the nearby Tenby Museum and Art Gallery.

Tenby Castle FAQs

No, you don't have to pay to visit Tenby Castle, admission is free and it is open all year round with spectacular views of the pretty seaside town and beaches.

Tenby Castle has fallen into disrepair, yet a striking tower remains on top of Castle Hill. 

The medieval Tenby town walls are still extraordinarily complete, continuing to wrap this quaint seaside town in vibrant history.

St Catherine's Fort sits atop the tidal St Catherine’s Island and has a varied past including being home to a 13th-century chapel, a Napoleonic fortress, a luxury home, a wartime garrison, a zoo, and a movie location! 

Today, it’s a popular visitor attraction and iconic addition to Tenby’s picturesque landscape.




Stay in Pembrokeshire

Pembrokeshire 

Discover these spectacular castles during a well-deserved holiday in Pembrokeshire. Scattered throughout this coastal county, nestled within wonderful locations, you’ll discover everything from radiant rural retreats to sumptuous seaside stays. 

We have a wonderful selection of romantic getaways for that cosy couples' break, and plenty of holiday bases that cater for your four-legged friend too! There are family cottages in spades and even unique glamping stays if you're looking for a memorable holiday.



Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.

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