Haverfordwest Castle in Pembrokeshire will be closed until 2028 while the fortress undergoes a €20.7 million (£17.7 million) restoration. Once finished, the castle is expected to become a regenerative tourist attraction.
Located in Pembrokeshire, southwest Wales, Haverfordwest Castle is thought to have been first erected around 1188. Although it was partially destroyed by Oliver Cromwell in 1648, it briefly functioned as a prison in the 18th century before later falling into ruin. Nowadays, all that is left of the castle is some towers, as well as parts of the inner and curtain walls.
However, a regeneration project is about to drastically change the nature of the building. While the ruins are closed until 2028, the site is undergoing a major renovation, aiming to turn Haverfordwest Castle into a tourist attraction capable of helping regenerate the wider town. The idea for the project was born when local councillor David Lloyd became aware of the economic impact of Cardigan Castle on its town centre.
The €20.7 million (£17.7 million) project is being funded by the UK Government, the National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Welsh Government Transforming Towns fund. Meanwhile, Pembrokeshire County Council is providing match funding.
“We are excited to see this ambitious project continue apace, and this next stage brings us much closer to what will be a flagship heritage attraction, boosting not only the town’s economy but also the wider area,” Pembrokeshire Councillor Paul Miller said in a statement.
Tourist attraction and more
As part of the refurbishment, the gaol building and the adjacent Governor’s House – both located within the castle’s grounds – will be transformed into an all-weather attraction focusing on Pembrokeshire’s history through immersive, interactive exhibitions.
The grounds will be free to access, while an open-air area with room for up to 500 people will allow the attraction to cater to larger-scale events. A café with a selection of local food and drink options, as well as a shop selling bespoke products, will complete the tourism-oriented offer.
“The new flagship heritage attraction will tell Pembrokeshire’s fascinating story in a fun, immersive and interactive exhibition space. You will explore how creativity and resourcefulness have shaped local life; feel the spirit of place, myths, legends and natural forces; and explore stories through playful, physical and digital experiences. There will be a new café selling locally sourced food and drink and a 500-seater outdoor event space with shows and live music expected to be programmed throughout the summer months,” Visit Pembrokeshire explains.
Moreover, the project will also focus on enhancing local biodiversity through a medicinal garden, micro-meadows and pollinator-friendly planting. Community spaces, a dedicated school programme and volunteering opportunities will add to the wellbeing of local residents.
During its first year of operation, which is scheduled for 2028, the local council expects the attraction to welcome around 63,000 visitors. The museum, café, shop, music events, markets and other activities are expected to boost Haverfordwest’s economy on a larger scale.
