Explore Pembrokeshire
Your complete guide to Pembroke Castle from South View Glamping — birthplace of Henry VII, Norman keep, ramparts and 900 years of remarkable Welsh history.
Drive from South View
From South View Glamping
Years of history
Birth of Henry VII
Open all year
Overview
Pembroke Castle is the closest major attraction to South View Glamping — just 6 minutes by car — and one of the finest medieval castles in all of Wales. Built on a rocky promontory above the tidal waters of the Pembroke River, it is one of the most formidable and best-preserved Norman castles in Britain, with a great circular keep that remains largely intact after nearly 900 years.
The castle is perhaps best known as the birthplace of Henry Tudor, born here on 28 January 1457 and later crowned King Henry VII of England, founding the Tudor dynasty that would produce Henry VIII and Elizabeth I. The room in which he was born is still visible today, making this a place where you can genuinely stand in the footsteps of history.
For guests staying at South View Glamping, Pembroke Castle is ideal for a half-day visit that can easily be combined with a trip to the Pembrokeshire coast. The historic town of Pembroke itself is also worth exploring, with a medieval main street, independent shops and good cafes within easy walking distance of the castle.
🏰
One of the finest medieval circular keeps in Britain
👑
First Tudor monarch born here in 1457
📍
The closest major attraction to the glamping site
👨👩👧
Excellent for children with towers to climb
🎭
Regular historical events and re-enactments
What to See
01
The castle's centrepiece is its magnificent circular keep, built around 1200 and standing nearly 25 metres high. Climbing to the top rewards you with extraordinary views across the town, the mill pond and the surrounding Pembrokeshire countryside. One of the finest Norman keeps in all of Britain.
02
The room in which Henry Tudor — later Henry VII — was born in 1457 can still be visited within the castle. Interpretive displays tell the story of his remarkable journey from this Pembrokeshire stronghold to the throne of England, through exile, invasion and the decisive Battle of Bosworth.
03
The extensive curtain wall and ramparts are largely intact and can be walked to give a full circuit of the castle at height. The views over the mill pond below and the surrounding medieval town are superb, and the scale of the fortifications becomes apparent as you walk.
04
Below the castle lies a remarkable natural limestone cavern known as the Wogan, which was used by the castle's occupants for shelter and storage. It is accessible during opening hours and gives a fascinating glimpse into the geology and early history of the site.
05
A well-presented exhibition inside the castle covers the full history of Pembroke Castle from its Norman origins through the Civil War siege to the present day. Informative panels, artefacts and interactive displays make it interesting for adults and children alike.
06
The medieval town of Pembroke that grew up around the castle is worth exploring in its own right. The main street has good independent shops and cafes, and the town's history as a plantation town established by the Normans is visible in its layout and architecture.
Visitor Tips
⏰
Pembroke Castle deserves at least 2 hours to explore properly. Allow 3 if you want to visit all the towers, walk the full ramparts and spend time in the exhibition.
👟
The castle involves uneven stone steps and surfaces throughout. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes. The spiral staircases in the towers are steep and narrow.
📅
Pembroke Castle runs a regular programme of historical events, re-enactments and family activities throughout the year. Check the castle website before visiting for what is on during your stay.
🍽
The town of Pembroke has several good cafes and restaurants within easy walking distance of the castle. Combine your visit with lunch in the town and make a half-day of it before heading to the coast.
Distance
Minutes by car
Miles from South View
Years of history
Pembroke Castle is just 6 minutes by car from South View Glamping in Hundleton, near Pembroke. It is approximately 2 miles away and is the closest major attraction to the glamping site.
Henry Tudor, later King Henry VII of England and the first Tudor monarch, was born at Pembroke Castle on 28 January 1457. The room in which he was born is still visible today.
Yes, absolutely. It is one of the finest and best-preserved medieval castles in Wales, with a remarkable circular keep, extensive ramparts and fascinating history. Entry is affordable and it makes an excellent half-day visit.
Allow 2 to 3 hours to visit Pembroke Castle thoroughly, giving time to explore the main keep and towers, walk the ramparts, visit the exhibition and enjoy the views over the mill pond.
Yes, well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome in the castle grounds and on the ramparts. Dogs are not permitted inside the main towers and buildings.
Explore More of Pembrokeshire
Staying at South View Glamping near Pembroke puts you within easy reach of the very best of the Pembrokeshire coast. Combine your visit to Pembroke Castle with any of these stunning nearby destinations.
Pembrokeshire’s most beloved coastal town with award-winning beaches, harbour and boat trips to Caldey Island.
One of the most beautiful beaches in Britain. Secluded National Trust cove accessible only on foot.
Charming harbour village with Blue Flag beach, independent restaurants and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Beautiful National Trust nature reserve with lily-covered lakes and Broad Haven South beach.
One of the most dramatic beaches on the Pembrokeshire coast with powerful surf and vast dunes.
Britain’s smallest city and home to a magnificent 12th century cathedral in west Pembrokeshire.
One of the best wildlife experiences in Britain, famous for its puffin colony visible April to July.
A dramatic two-mile stretch of sand on St Brides Bay, popular with surfers and families.
The only coastal national park in Wales with over 600 miles of footpaths and stunning scenery.
Your Base in Pembrokeshire
South View Glamping offers two private glamping stays near Pembroke, set on a quiet family-run smallholding on the edge of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. The perfect base for exploring Pembroke Castle and the wider Pembrokeshire coast.
A cosy adults-only shepherd’s hut with private hot tub, fire pit and peaceful countryside views near Pembroke. Designed for couples seeking a romantic rural escape with easy access to Pembroke Castle and the Pembrokeshire coast.
A private countryside cabin with electric hot tub, outdoor kitchen, fire pit and stunning views. Ideal for families or friends exploring Pembroke Castle and the Pembrokeshire coast from a peaceful rural base.
Secure online booking · Instant confirmation · Direct contact with hosts
