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Pembroke is located on the Milford Haven in Pembrokeshire, South Wales. The town is most famous for Pembroke Castle founded by the Normans in the 11th Century. The original fortress, a wooden structure, was built by Roger de Montgomery in 1093 and the present castle was built by William Marshal Earl of Pembroke and his sons between 1189 - 1245. It was built to subdugate the Welsh and also served as a springboard for the Norman campaigns against the Irish. With walls up to 19ft - 6m thick and a 75ft - 23m high tower the castle proved to be a great success having never fallen to the Welsh during it's turbulent history. In 1648 however during the Civil War the castle was captured by Oliver Cromwell's army who set about destroying the town's and the castle's defences. Fortunately the walls were strong enough to withstand the efforts of the "Model Army" and enough of the Castle was left to enable rebuilding and restoration of the castle throughout the 19th and 20th Century (pity the old Welsh churches could not have been protected from the self righteous tyrant and his taliban army).

The castle is also renowned as the birthplace of Henry Tudor, King Henry VII of England in 1457. It has dominated the town for over 800 years and it is still an impressive site to this day, being the main tourist attraction for the town of Pembroke. Pembroke is a beautiful, historic town and the streets still follow their medieval pattern. Many of the early houses remain on Westgate Hill as do the towns two churches and much of the original town wall. Visitors can take the popular town trail, or visit the daily indoor market and numerous small craft, gift and specialist shops. Although a relatively small town there is a choice of nightlife from restaurants, pubs, bars and nightclubs situated in the Main Street. Post Script..unfortunately one of Pembrokes best attractions the fascinating Museum of the Home, that was located in a terraced house opposite the castle entrance, is no longer in business. more information about Pembroke