Pembroke Castle & Henry Tudor
King Henry VII was born at Pembroke Castle
Pembrokeshire is steeped in history with myths and legends entwined throughout the land, many important events have happened throughout the county and we've even had our fair share of significant figures pass through.
One figure in particular has a very strong connection with one of Pembrokeshire's most historical towns; Pembroke Castle was in fact the birthplace of King Henry VII.
Henry VII is most remembered for taking the throne in 1485 when the current king, Richard III, was defeated and killed in the infamous Battle of Bosworth. Henry took the throne despite arguments by other claimants and thus began one of the most memorable periods of British royal history by establishing a line of Tudor monarchs in succession. Upon Henry's death, his son went on to become King Henry VIII - best known for his six wives and the number of ways in which he liberated himself from his marriages.
Since the days of the Tudor birth, Pembroke Castle has been extensively restored. You can still the stone structure of a circulated keep and an oval shaped castle wall; you can even pay a visit to the Henry VII Tower which is where his mother Margaret gave birth. The historic site is located along the town's main street and is surrounded by a mill pond, giving for beautiful views on a sunny and calm day.
If you pay a visit to Pembroke Castle today, there are a number of exhibitions on display throughout the grounds including replica models of the castle, a tableaux illustrating the birth of Henry VII, figures of past Earls of Pembroke and a display illustrating Henry VII being looked after as a baby. An impressive piece inside the Castle is the Great Map of Wales, which is a 1000 square metre attraction situated in the centre of the castle grounds.
Free guided tours are available throughout the year, plus there is a great café onsite. The Castle also hosts a range of events including live music concerts, ghostly evenings and family-friendly activities, keep an eye out early summer for their popular Rock the Castle concerts.
