Pembroke Dock Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Pembroke Dock Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Pembroke Dock sits on a strategic position on the Milford Haven Waterway, making it an excellent base for exploring Pembrokeshire. The town's maritime heritage is evident throughout with several historical sites worth visiting.

The Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre (Meyrick Owen Way, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6WS) offers fascinating exhibits on the town's shipbuilding past. Open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-4pm, it scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. I recommend allowing at least 90 minutes to fully appreciate the displays.

Just 2 miles away, Pembroke Castle (SA71 4LA) is a massive medieval fortress with an impressive 4.5/5 TripAdvisor rating. Open daily 10am-5pm in summer, it's where Henry VII was born. The castle has excellent exhibitions and offers guided tours that bring its history to life.

For natural beauty, head to Freshwater West Beach (SA71 5AH), about 8 miles away. This stunning stretch of sand featured in both Harry Potter (Dobby's death scene) and Robin Hood. The beach has a 4.5/5 TripAdvisor score and is popular with surfers.

Pet Friendly

Many cottages in Pembroke Dock welcome dogs, making it ideal for a break with your four-legged companion. The area has plenty of dog-friendly attractions and walks.

Freshwater West Beach allows dogs year-round, with miles of sand for them to run free. The coastal path sections near Pembroke Dock offer excellent walking routes where dogs can explore safely.

When you're hungry, The Shipwright Inn (Front Street, SA72 6JY) welcomes dogs in its bar area and even offers water bowls and treats. Their beer garden has fantastic waterway views - perfect for enjoying a pint while your dog relaxes after a busy day.

For supplies, Pets at Home (Pembroke Dock Retail Park, SA72 6SS) stocks everything you might need. We recommend packing towels for muddy paws after beach walks - the hot tub will be waiting for you, but your dog will need cleaning first!

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Pembroke Dock

The Defensible Barracks (SA72 6UT) is a remarkable Victorian military structure built in 1844 to defend the Royal Dockyard. This pentagonal fortress with its distinctive crenellated walls offers a glimpse into 19th-century military architecture. While currently undergoing restoration, you can still view the impressive exterior. One visitor noted: "An incredible building with so much potential - can't wait to see it fully restored."

The Pembroke Dock Flying Boat Centre (Front Street, SA72 6JY) commemorates the town's role as the world's largest flying boat base during WWII. Housing fascinating exhibits about the Sunderland flying boats that patrolled the Atlantic, it scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. A recent visitor commented: "What an eye-opener! I had no idea about this aspect of the town's history - well worth a visit."

The Gun Tower Museum (Front Street, SA72 6JY) is housed in a Martello tower built in 1851 to defend the dockyard. Open weekends from April to September (10am-4pm), it contains exhibits on local maritime history. With a 4/5 TripAdvisor rating, visitors praise its "knowledgeable volunteers" and "fascinating displays." The view from the top floor across the waterway is spectacular.

Is Pembroke Dock the same as Pembroke?

No, they're separate towns about 2 miles apart. Pembroke is the older medieval town with the famous castle, while Pembroke Dock developed in the 19th century as a royal naval dockyard. Both are worth visiting, but they have distinct characters and attractions.

Can I get to Pembroke Dock without a car?

Yes! Pembroke Dock has its own train station with connections to Swansea and Cardiff. The Irish ferry terminal also means there are good bus services. Once in town, many attractions are within walking distance, though a car is useful for exploring further afield.

When is the best time to visit Pembroke Dock?

May to September offers the best weather for enjoying your hot tub and exploring. The Pembroke River Rally in June and the Pembrokeshire County Show in August are highlights. Winter visits can be atmospheric, with fewer tourists and cosy evenings in your hot tub watching the harbour lights.

Are there good restaurants in Pembroke Dock?

Yes! Try The Shipwright (SA72 6JY) for excellent pub food with waterfront views, or The Dial Inn (SA72 6XQ) for traditional Welsh fare. For something different, Once Aboard (SA72 6TR) serves great coffee and cake in a converted chapel.

Can I see dolphins from Pembroke Dock?

Sometimes! The Milford Haven Waterway occasionally sees dolphins, but for better chances, take a boat trip from nearby Tenby or visit Cardigan Bay, where dolphins are regularly spotted. Nothing beats watching for wildlife from your hot tub with a pair of binoculars!

Is Pembroke Dock good for children?

Absolutely. Kids love the military history, especially the Flying Boat Centre. Nearby beaches provide endless entertainment and Folly Farm Adventure Park (SA68 0XA) is just 20 minutes away. Many cottages with hot tubs are family-friendly with enclosed gardens.

1. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
2. Visit Pembrokeshire Tourist Information
3. Pembroke Dock Town Council