It’s not hard to guess why Pembrokeshire has been chosen as the backdrop for a Hollywood blockbuster or two. The striking scenery, romantic castles and sleepy coastal villages have tempted many a film and TV crew to our shores. So, if you fancy visiting places that have played a starring role in some your favourite movies, here are five of the most famous film locations in Pembrokeshire.
Fishguard Lower Town
If you’re a fan of the 1954 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. While you wander through the streets, see if you can spot the buildings that were once Myfanwy Price’s sweet shop and Mrs Ogmore Pritchard’s house. 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 afficionados. You can even visit his ‘grave’ – a tribute created by visiting fans. Shell House may only have been there for the duration of shooting the movie, but the spirit of Dobby lives on.
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.
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.
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!
