Things to do in Pembroke

We couldn’t talk about Pembroke without mentioning Pembroke Castle, the crowning glory of the town. Recognised as one of the best castles to visit in Britain, it’s a must-see. There’s no need to book — turn up and pay for your admission at the gate. You’ll get to join in with a free guided tour of the castle if you’d like,or make your way around at your own pace. Climb the keep, peer down into the medieval jail, and even climb down into Wogan’s cavern beneath the castle! 

The exhibits here give a glimpse into how life would have been in the 13th century and onward. Each room is decked out with tools, furniture, and people wearing the clothing of the era, eating, doing chores, and even battling! The William Marshal Tapestry is kept here, which is a work of volunteers depicting the life of the Earl of Pembroke. 

There’s no doubt your adventure around the castle will work up your appetite. Thankfully, the Castle Kitchen cafe offers up hearty homemade meals, snacks, and drinks you can eat inside or take out into the grounds.

What’s better than visiting this majestic castle on foot? Seeing it from a completely new perspective on the water! At Paddlewest, you can hire a rowing boat for 30 minutes and see the formidable castle and its walls via the tidal river. The waters here are calm, perfect for a leisurely row on a cheerful day to enjoy the architecture with plenty of photo opportunities.

If you fancy something a little more in-depth, join a three-hour guided canoe tour that starts in Pembroke and weaves its way downstream to Black Tar.

If you fancy wandering out of the castle grounds for a bite to eat, Rowlies Fish and Chips is just across the road to satisfy hungry tummies. It’s tucked down a little side street among the quaint Victorian buildings. You can sit inside the spacious restaurant area and order traditional favourites like cod and chips, haddock, and pies. There are kid's options too. Get your fill of generous, piping-hot portions before you carry on with your day out.

To steep yourself in yet more Pembroke history, the Museum is a fascinating stop. Found inside an old courtroom at the Town Hall, the Pembroke Museum is free to enter and holds many key artefacts telling the story of the heritage of the town. Did you know that Pembroke was the birthplace of Henry VII? You can learn all about the history of the castle and life in Pembroke from the neolithic period to more recent times, all with the help of the volunteers. 

You’ll find the Town Hall on Main street, not far from the castle. Wheelchair access including a lift is available so everyone can enjoy the collections.

If you stop by the Museum and want more things to do in Pembroke afterwards, pick up a Town Trail guide for pennies and continue your history lesson on foot throughout the town! There are 30 bronze plaques dotted at important points to help you learn more about the history of the buildings, streets, and landmarks here.

You can find QR codes to scan along the way if you’d rather take the tour digitally. The charming houses and shops make for a pleasant stroll as you make your way across Pembroke, plus there are benches to stop off at should you need a quick break.

For relaxing things to do near Pembroke, come to Stackpole. In this coastal nature reserve, you can find the Stackpole Walled Garden, six acres of plant, fruit, and veg-producing land that’smaintained by adults with learning difficulties. The gardens were first created in 1770 and have continued to provide produce for 250 years. Explore the willow arch, secret garden, and wildflower meadows as you make your way around.  

Take home freshly harvested fruit and vegetables by visiting the garden shop or pop in for refreshments at the Cawdors Tea Rooms — everything they serve is exclusively Pembrokeshire-produced.