News

Pembroke Castle excavation completed

Published

6 years ago

September 23, 2018

THE TWO WEEK archaeological excavation of Pembroke Castle has finished, with much information and material gathered to be analysed.

Dyfed Archaeological Trust, funded by the Castle Studies Trust, started the excavation on September 3, the first at the site for over 70 years. The excavations and topographic survey aimed to further advance the understanding of one of Wales’ and the UK’s most iconic castles.

The large outer ward has been an empty space since at least the eighteenth century, yet aerial photographs in 2013 revealed parch marks detailing the outline of a possible late medieval double-winged hall house. This was further confirmed by geophysical surveys carried out by Dyfed Archaeological Trust, funded by the Castle Studies Trust, in 2016. Such buildings are unusual in castles, particularly in the outer ward, generally associated with more lowly structures. This may suggest that the ward had been ‘gentrified’ matching historical accounts which place the birth of Henry Tudor in the outer ward: it may have occurred within this very building. It is thought more likely that he was born in what was a modern residence for the time, than in a guard tower on the castle walls.

Under the guidance of well-known castle expert Neil Ludlow, Dyfed Archaeological Trust excavated two trenches to understand more about the form, date, context and function of the remains. Additionally, they carried out a topographic survey to make a detailed record of the layout of the castle.

Neil Ludlow said prior to the excavation: “The geophysical survey carried out in Pembroke Castle, in 2016, funded by the Castle Studies Trust, showed a large, winged building that resembles, in plan, a late-medieval manor house. This is an unusual find within a castle, and has additional significance at Pembroke as the possible birthplace of King Henry VII.

“But this is still guesswork, as nothing else about the building is known. All we really know is that it was excavated in the 1930s without records. Thanks to the support of the Castle Studies Trust, some of these questions will be answered as well as learning more about later medieval high status living.”

Pembroke Castle stands on a site that has been occupied since at least the Roman period. Norman lords founded the first traditional castle there in the 11th century. Henry Tudor was born at Pembroke Castle on January 28 1457. On August 22 1485, Henry seized the English crown, defeating King Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth Field, in the culmination of the Wars of the Roses. He was the last king of England to win his throne on the field of battle, and was crowned Henry VII, first monarch of the House of Tudor.

On the first day of the excavation, a possible wall was quickly made visible in trench one, and trench two revealed a former path surface through the castle grounds and the suggestion of an outer wall. Bone, pottery, brick and tile were found, most from the early 20th century but with some late medieval and post medieval material as well.

The second day saw a second wall revealed close to the east, yet the walls appeared too close together to be associated with the walls seen on the parch marks. Large areas of mortared stone patches were revealed to the west, suggesting walls, and the outer wall of the building in trench two started to become exposed as well. A large amount of oyster shell was collected from the site as well as more pottery and bone.

On the third day, the full width of the wall in trench two was made visible at its western end, at roughly one metre wide, suggesting a substantial structure. In trench one the two walls located close together were thought to represent the cess pit.

The fourth day brought wind and rain, but did not deter progress, with more backfill being removed from both trenches to reveal the surviving walls of the structure. Day five saw good progress, removing almost all of the remaining backfill from trench one to reveal a rubble collapse layer – pre-dating the 1930s excavations. The large mass of masonry is thought to be a possible curving stair, whilst the top of the large wall in trench two was fully exposed.

The sixth day saw further poor weather, and so the focus was on washing and sorting the cleaned finds for bagging up. By the afternoon the weather improved somewhat and the team were able to start the removal of layers of building collapse within the trenches.

Members of the Castle Studies Trust who are funding the investigation visited the site on day seven to check on progress. Work continued in trench one revealing an area of potential bedrock within the possible small room at its eastern end. Collapse material has been removed from trench two to reveal a spread of mortar and slate, potentially a collapsed roof within the structure.
The eighth day saw a sample excavation of the small room in trench one completed, exposing more of a large outcrop of limestone bedrock in its base. Cadw gave permission to slightly extend the trenches and this was started in the afternoon.

The ninth day saw trench two extended to expose the return of the large wall in the northwestern corner of the building, which again appears to be a substantial wall, suggesting a tall building. The extension in trench one was also continued, but no continuation of any walls were seen, although a deposit of rubbish was revealed containing large quantities of roofing slate, oyster shell, bone and quite a few pieces of glazed tile.

The tenth day saw the return of the wall in the second trench fully exposed, the cobbled surface on the outside of the wall cleaned and a rough stone slab floor adjacent to the steps was exposed. They finished taking the eastern extension of the trench down to the correct level, and commenced excavation of the possible cess pit, which is being sampled for environmental analysis.

Day 11 saw the recording and site survey start, as they finished excavation of a small test pit in trench one, onto a second possible stone slab floor. The east end of the trench was found to contain a mix of material, with pottery dating throughout the medieval and later medieval period, as well as three shards of Roman pottery too.

Day 12 was spent undertaking further recording and drawing in the two trenches as the work drew to a close.

The recording was finished on the thirteenth day, as they started backfilling in the afternoon.

In between the volunteers stopped to watch the 1st Battalion Royal Welsh being given the freedom of Pembroke. The last day saw both trenches were backfilled and re-turfed by the end.

Business

Fresh flavours at new eatery in St Davids

Published

2 hours ago

November 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A NEW brunch spot has opened its doors in St Davids, promising a delicious twist on classic dishes in a welcoming and vibrant setting.

The Brunch House, a passion project by hospitality duo Hannah Bowie and Adam Sawyer, opened at Oriel Y Parc Visitor Centre on Saturday (Nov 16), drawing over 250 visitors on its first day.

With more than two decades of combined industry experience, Hannah and Adam have transformed the space through extensive renovations, creating an inviting environment for locals and visitors alike.

Hannah, who previously ran 35 Main Street in Solva, shared her excitement: “Brunch is my favourite meal of the day, and bringing The Brunch House to life has been a dream come true. We’re thrilled to offer something fresh and unique to St Davids.”

The menu features an inspired blend of Middle Eastern flavours from Hannah’s heritage alongside brunch staples like the Full Welsh and Pancake Stack. Standout dishes, such as chicken and waffles drizzled with house-made hot maple sauce, have already earned rave reviews.

Ben Richardson, one of the first customers, said: “The chicken and waffles were absolutely delicious. We’re already planning our next visit.”

The eatery’s warm atmosphere and quality cuisine have struck a chord with the community. Bethany Ellison, a local customer, remarked: “What Hannah and Adam have created here is phenomenal. The ambience, combined with the exceptional food, makes this place truly special. I wish them every success.”

Adam added: “We’ve worked hard to make The Brunch House our own, and the support from locals and holidaymakers has been incredible. It’s been amazing to see so many people walk through our doors already.”

The Brunch House is open daily from 9:30am to 4:00pm, with food served until 3:00pm.

Pictured above – Brunch with a twist: The Brunch House in St Davids run by Adam Sawyer and Hannah Bowie is the newest spot to enjoy freshly made dishes

Community

Kick off the festive season in style at the Riverside Winter Fair

Published

2 hours ago

November 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

GET ready to immerse yourself in a winter wonderland as Haverfordwest hosts its inaugural Riverside Winter Fair on Saturday, November 30th.

This free, family-friendly event promises a day of festive cheer with food, arts, crafts, games, music, and a big dose of community spirit.

The festivities will kick off at 11am with the opening of Haverhub’s Winter Market. Visitors can browse a variety of stalls 11am to 5pm, offering unique gifts, crafts, and delicious food.

Alongside the market, Haverfordwest’s Business Circle are hosting a “Taste of Pembrokeshire” food and drink market on Castle Square 11am to 5pm, offering a delicious selection of local produce.

For families with younger children, Fair Play will be hosting a Board Game Sketch Fest at the Edge Youth Centre / Picton Centre from 11am to 5pm. This event will feature a variety of games, activities, and art projects, providing a fun and engaging experience for children of all ages.

At 12noon children from Haverfordwest’s primary schools will be showing off banners they’ve been making as part of a community arts project, telling the story of the history of their school’s ward area.

They will take part in a vibrant parade led by the South Wales Police Band, marching through the town centre from Swan Square to the Old Quay. Join us at 11:45am on Swan Square to join the parade!

Once the parade reaches the Old Quay, the real fun begins. The main stage will host a variety of performances throughout the day from 12-5pm and Bristol Trader will be hosting an outdoor BBQ and bar for revellers.

Entertainment on the main stage will include a brand-new cantata performed by Fenton School’s children’s choir, the Cantabile Singers of Pembrokeshire, the County Orchestra and the South Wales Police Brass Band.

This captivating performance will tell the story of Haverfordwest’s rich history, drawing inspiration from recent archaeological discoveries.

Following the cantata, local band Sorted will take to the stage, delivering a high-energy performance of Ska and Two-Tone classics. Their energetic and breakneck live sets are guaranteed to get you up on your feet and skanking.

And for the grand finale Pure West Radio Riverside Shopping Haverfordwest will be hosting its annual Christmas Lights Switch On event. The celebrations begin at 12noon, leading up to the grand moment when the town’s Christmas lights illuminate at 6pm. As the town illuminates with festive lights, a spectacular fireworks display will light up the night sky.

For those seeking thrills, there will be fairground rides to enjoy. Thrill-seekers of all ages can experience the excitement of the various rides.

To add to the magic, Santa Claus will be making a special appearance, along with Sparkle the Elf and Friends a Giant Snow Globe and Bouncy Castle!

Artists Neil Musson and Jono Retallick will also be launching their model hot air balloon, a floating gallery and homage to the people of Haverfordwest. Find them floating through the town throughout the day.

The Riverside Winter Fair is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of community spirit. Local businesses and volunteers coming together to create a memorable experience for everyone.

Visit the website and sign up to the mailing list for full information delivered to your inbox ahead of the big day: www.riversidewinterfair.co.uk

Programme of events

11am-5pm Winter Market @ Haverhub

11am-5pm Taste of Pembrokeshire food and drink market @ Castle Square

11am-5pm Board Game Sketch Fest @ Picton Centre

11:45am Banner Parade assembles with South Wales Police Brass Band @ Swan Square

12noon Children’s Banner Parade from Swan Square to Old Quay

12:10pm Entertainment on Main Stage @ Old Quay

12-5pm BBQ and outdoor bar @ The Bristol Trader

12-6pm Family fun & Entertainment, Pure West Radio @ Riverside shopping Centre

6pm Switch on of the lights and fireworks display.

Charity

Pembrokeshire charities shortlisted for Welsh Charity Awards

Published

3 hours ago

November 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THREE Pembrokeshire organisations have been shortlisted for this year’s Welsh Charity Awards, set to take place on Monday (Nov 25) at the National Museum Cardiff.

The event, which coincides with the start of Welsh Charities Week, celebrates the contributions of charities, community groups, and volunteers across Wales. Representing the county are Milford Haven’s Megan’s Starr Foundation and Milford Youth Matters, alongside Narberth-based SPAN Arts.

The awards, organised by WCVA (Wales Council for Voluntary Action), are the only event dedicated to honouring the voluntary sector in Wales. A record 239 nominations were received this year.

Megan’s Starr Foundation

MEGAN’S STARR FOUNDATION, founded by Nicola Harteveld, is nominated in the Health and Wellbeing category, sponsored by Leaderful Action. The charity supports young people in Pembrokeshire facing mental health challenges, providing free counselling, peer support, and skill-building programmes.

The team said: “This nomination celebrates the heart and soul of our work. Every young person, volunteer, and family member who finds hope and belonging at Megan’s Starr is part of this incredible journey.

“Winning would inspire us to dream bigger, support more, and build a stronger, compassionate future together.”

Harteveld was Volunteer of the Year at last year’s awards.

Milford Youth Matters

MILFORD YOUTH MATTERS has been shortlisted for Fundraiser of the Year, co-sponsored by Thomas Carroll and Zurich Municipal. A fundraising team of seven young individuals, aged 15, has raised £10,000 annually through events such as a charity golf day, reshaping perceptions of young people in Milford Haven.

A spokesperson said: “This nomination recognises the dedication and hard work of our team, who have raised vital funds while developing skills and confidence to reach their full potential. We are extremely proud of their commitment.”

SPAN Arts

SPAN ARTS, based in Narberth, is a finalist in the Welsh Language category, sponsored by Mentrau Iaith. The organisation delivers bilingual arts programmes that celebrate community identity, inclusivity, and accessibility.

Director Bethan Touhig-Gamble said: “SPAN is based in an incredible bilingual county, where the Welsh language is part of the shared culture and identity. To have the work of our volunteers, trustees, staff, and creatives recognised is truly rewarding.”

WCVA Chief Executive Lindsay Cordery-Bruce said: “We’re delighted to have had a record number of nominations this year – 239 in total. That’s testimony to the quality work undertaken by volunteers, community groups, and charities across Wales. I couldn’t be more excited to meet the finalists on Monday and find out who’s scooped the top awards.”

The Welsh Charity Awards highlight the difference made by charities and volunteers across the country. For a full list of finalists, visit the Welsh Charity Awards website.

(Cover image: Milford Youth Matters receive a cheque from Tesco)