Haverfordwest Castle, in Pembrokeshire, Wales, is set to be completely transformed (Image: Visit Pembrokshire)
An historic UK castle that has stood for more than 900 years is set to be transformed into a major visitor attraction as part of a £17.7million redevelopment. Haverfordwest Castle, in Pembrokeshire, Wales, has survived centuries of conflict, neglect and decay since it was first established in the 12th century. But now, the medieval fortress is entering a new chapter after reaching a major milestone in its restoration.
The ambitious project, funded through coalition-led Pembrokeshire County Council’s successful £17.7million UK Government levelling-up bid, will see the castle and its Grade II-listed former gaol building transformed into a flagship heritage destination. The fortress was first mentioned in 1188, although its original defences are believed to date back to the 1120s.
The fortress’ original defences are believed to date back to the 1120s (Image: Google Maps)
Initially built from timber and earth, it was attacked numerous times over the centuries before gradually falling into disrepair. Today, little remains of the medieval outer ward, while its original western entrance has long since disappeared.
Construction company Morgan Sindall has now completed a full replacement of the two-level roof on the castle’s more than 200-year-old gaol building, alongside major structural work to stabilise the historic building.
The next phase of the redevelopment will transform the three-storey building into an interactive visitor attraction telling the story of Pembrokeshire through immersive, hands-on exhibitions.
Visitors will also be able to enjoy a new café serving locally sourced food, a shop selling local and bespoke products, free-to-access castle grounds and a new 500-seat outdoor events space.
Once complete, the venue is expected to host community events including open-air theatre performances, fairs and markets.
The three-storey building will be transformed into an interactive visitor attraction (Image: Morgan Sindall Construction)
The two-level roof on the castle’s more than 200-year-old gaol building has been completed (Image: Morgan Sindall Construction)
As part of the restoration, the castle’s historic walls are also being carefully strengthened and repointed by specialist craftsmen, while archaeological excavations have allowed drainage to be replaced, footpaths to be made more accessible and parts of the grounds to be landscaped.
The project has also placed a strong focus on sustainability. Morgan Sindall says it has already reduced carbon emissions by more than 230 tonnes during construction, while old stone removed from the site has been reused to repair nearby Castle Back steps linking the fortress with Haverfordwest town centre.
Sections of the old roof have also been recycled for use at local horse training facilities, while a 1960s hardwood staircase will be turned into furniture for the castle’s future café.
The redevelopment is also expected to benefit the local community, with 10 apprentices already working on the project, five work experience placements created and local schools and colleges visiting the site to learn about careers in construction and heritage.
Rob Williams, area director for Morgan Sindall Construction in Wales, said: “It has been a real responsibility and privilege to work with Pembrokeshire County Council on delivering such a nationally significant project.
As part of the restoration, the castle’s historic walls are also being carefully strengthened (Image: Morgan Sindall Construction)
“We work on a lot of heritage projects and have developed a clear and robust process to ensure that we protect these incredibly important buildings and give them a new lease of life.
“Haverfordwest Castle and its grounds will deliver so much more value to the local community and visiting tourists than just being a historical landmark once the project is completed. The structure of the castle itself will be more secure, it will have an event space, and now the roof has successfully been completed, a visitor centre which lives and breathes history. All of which will be fully accessible to everyone.”
Refrom UK Councillor Paul Miller, deputy leader of Pembrokeshire County Council, added: “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.”
Labour Party County councillor Thomas Tudor said: “Haverfordwest Castle is without doubt the Jewel in the Crown for the County Town of Pembrokeshire, and I am so pleased that the redevelopment of the Castle is gaining momentum. Its brilliant news that Morgan Sindall Construction has reached a key milestone in the project to rejuvenate Haverfordwest Castle with the new roof now in place. The future is looking very positive for Haverfordwest, which can be enjoyed by tourists and residents alike.”
Renovation work is expected to continue over the coming months before the castle officially reopens to visitors in 2028.
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