Pembrokeshire has starred in everything from Harry Potter and Sherlock to more recent productions such as Cleddau, making this dramatic coastline a fascinating destination for film and television fans. The striking scenery, romantic castles and sleepy coastal villages have tempted many a production crew to our shores, so if you fancy visiting places that have played a starring role on screen, here are some of the most famous film and TV locations in Pembrokeshire.
Fishguard Lower Town
If you’re a fan of the 1956 version of Moby Dick starring Gregory Peck, Lower Fishguard might look a little familiar when you visit. Used as a location for this classic adaptation, a visit is a must for Captain Ahab fans.
In 1971, the pretty harbour of Lower Fishguard also became the fictional Welsh seaside town of Llareggub, from Dylan Thomas’ classic Under Milk Wood. The harbour has not changed much since that time and still has the sleepy air of a bygone age. You can even pop to the Ship Inn, a favourite drinking haunt of stars Richard Burton and Peter O’Toole.
Freshwater West
If you’re a Harry Potter fan, the windswept dunes of Freshwater West beach will definitely ring a few bells. Famous for being the place where the faithful house elf Dobby was laid to rest, this has become a very popular place to visit for Potter aficionados. You can even visit his ‘grave’ – a tribute created by visiting fans. And if Ridley Scott’s epic version of Robin Hood is part of your DVD collection, you might also recognise these sweeping sands as the place where Russell Crowe’s Robin leads his men galloping into battle.
Freshwater West also featured in Their Finest, adding another notable production to the beach’s screen credentials and strengthening its reputation as one of Pembrokeshire’s most recognisable filming locations.
Marloes Sands
This stunning beach was the filming location for one of the biggest scenes in Snow White and the Huntsman starring Charlize Theron, Kristen Stewart and Chris Hemsworth. Again, the perfect spot for a dramatic battle, Marloes Sands played host to huge numbers of horses, actors and crew to create one of the most iconic scenes in the movie (with a little help from some CGI).
St Catherine’s Island, Tenby
An integral part of the character of Tenby, St Catherine’s Island is more well-known to some as Sherrinford – the maximum-security prison featured in the hit TV series Sherlock starring Benedict Cumberbatch. While you can’t visit the fort at the moment, it’s so close to shore that it’s easily visible from the mainland – a nice diversion for any visiting Sherlock fans.
Pembroke
If you’re a fan of tearjerker ‘Me Before You’ starring Game of Thrones actress Emilia Clarke, a trip to Pembroke is a must. The town, and arguably Pembrokeshire’s finest castle, serve as worthy co-stars in the film. The location is as lovely in person as it looks on film – there are some scenic walks along the river where you can admire Pembroke Castle towering above in all its glory.
Manorbier
Another great stop for screen tourism is Manorbier, where the castle featured in I Capture the Castle as well as the BBC adaptation of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. With its dramatic setting above the coast, it is easy to see why filmmakers have been drawn here.
Carew Castle
Carew Castle has also had its moment on screen, appearing in A Discovery of Witches. Its atmospheric ruins and waterside setting make it one of Pembrokeshire’s most evocative historic locations, whether you visit for its filming links or simply for a day out.
Pembroke Dock
For a more recent screen connection, Pembroke Dock has been linked with the Welsh crime drama Cleddau, adding a newer production to Pembrokeshire’s long film and television story.
It goes without saying that all these places make a lovely day out anyway, regardless of their movie affiliations! But if you’re tempted by a visit to some of Pembrokeshire more famous film locations, why not add them to your holiday ‘to do’ list?
To book your camping or caravan pitch at Rhosson Ganol campsite near St Davids, visit our Pembrokeshire Camping online booking page!
