Epic is in our Heritage
Peppered across the chiselled Pembrokeshire coastline and interspersed amongst the wild emerald countryside is a deep and captivating history, noticeable physically by the presence of castles and cathedrals, museums and mills, chambers and chapels.
The entire Welsh landscape is rooted in mythology and heritage, which is in turn reflected in the strong patriotic culture and the even stronger sense of community you’ll find here. To gain a clearer understanding of the nation, you must travel back in time to the days gone by when Vikings ruled the land, when saints meandered the paths in pilgrimage and when famous icons from the past lived their lives here.
Such a journey is impossible you might say; not in Pembrokeshire, it’s not. Explore even the smallest section of Pembrokeshire and you’re bound to stumble across an interesting historical attraction or monument before you even realise it.
When we think of heritage, castles are more often than not the first thought to come to mind - particularly in Wales, as we have more per square mile than anywhere else in the world. Carew Castle and Pembroke Castle are two of the main ones in the area, though you might also wish to pay a visit to Manorbier, Llansteffan, Cardigan and Laugharne for even more. Picton Castle is hidden away on the Cleddau estuary and is more of a stately home museum these days with excellent landscaped gardens and a cafe to visit.
One of the most famous heritage sites in the county is St Davids Cathedral as it is built in the very same location where Saint David (Patron Saint of Wales) once built a monastery. It is believed that he was born a mile or two away along the coast at St Non’s Chapel where there lies a Holy Well, allegedly sprung at the time of his birth. Nestled behind the Cathedral is the ruins of a Bishop’s Palace, now a protected CADW attraction which once housed travelling bishops visiting the early monastery.
On the topic of bishops, there stands a second Bishop’s Palace in Lamphey near Pembroke plus there’s St Dogmaels Abbey in the north of the county. The latter now hosts an award-winning farmer’s market weekly meaning you can combine shopping and culture in just one visit.
Also in the north is Castell Henllys, near Newport. Plan a family day out here to learn all about the Iron Age era before skirting inland for a picnic at Pentre Ifan burial chamber and a picture at Carreg Coetan along the River Teifi. Carreg Samson, another Neolithic chamber, stands above the village at Abercastle.
Gwili Steam Railway near Carmarthen is where train fanatics should head to whilst Tudor Merchant House in Tenby is a great shout for those learning about this remarkable dynasty. Caldey Island is the perfect balance of beauty and culture with a boat trip across the seas to a monk-inhabited isle awarding fabulous coastline views.
Marvel at the unique landmark that is St Govans Chapel near Stackpole, a cliffside building once home to a solitary saint, before setting up your tripod at Strumble Head to capture the lighthouse on film.
Museums
A Victorian Manor House set in 60 acres of grounds with wildlife, a children’s play area, cafe and plenty of room for picnics.
Time-capsule look at the famous Welsh author’s home alongside the water with gift shop and cafe.
Last Invasion Tapestry Gallery
30-metre-long tapestry commemorating the last invasion of Britain by the French in 1797.
The newest exhibition honours the building of the Millennium Falcon for the Star Wars franchise at the Royal Dockyard here.
An interesting military fortress displaying weaponry and artillery from WWI and Waterloo. Fantastic guided tours available.
Milford Haven Museum & Visitor Centre
Explore the maritime history of this lively port with a look at past fishing industries and more.
