Spectacular and forbidding Pembroke Castle was the home of the earls of Pembroke for over 300 years. A fort was established here in 1093 by Arnulph de Montgomery, but most of the present buildings date from the 12th and 13th centuries. The sinister, looming keep , built in 1200, is the oldest part. One hundred steps lead to the top, where there are great views over the town.
Next to the keep is the Dungeon Tower , where you can peer into the dank, dark prison cell. Nearby, with access through the Northern Hall, are steps to the creepy Wogan Cavern , a large natural cave that was partially walled in by the Normans and probably used as a store and boathouse.
The castle is a great place for kids to explore – wall walks and passages run from tower to tower, and there are vivid exhibitions detailing the castle's history. In the room in which he is believed to have been born, in 1456, a tableau commemorates Henry Tudor (Harri Tudur), who defeated Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth Field in 1485 to become King Henry VII.
Guided tours are available from May to August (adult/child £1.50/1). Falconry displays and costumed re-enactments are held in summer.
