Haverfordwest Priory: Ruins and Restored Medieval Gardens by the River Cleddau
Discover the tranquil ruins and unique medieval garden of the 13th-century Haverfordwest Priory by the peaceful River Cleddau.
Haverfordwest Priory is the atmospheric ruins of a 13th-century Augustinian priory located on the outskirts of Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire. Set beside the tranquil River Cleddau, the site features the remains of the priory church and cloister alongside Britain’s only restored medieval ecclesiastical garden. This peaceful riverside location offers visitors a glimpse into medieval monastic life, blending historical architecture with natural beauty in a serene setting.
A brief summary to Haverfordwest Priory
- Haverfordwest, Haverfordwest, GB
- +443000256000
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes as the ground can be wet and muddy, especially near the river.
- The priory and gardens are free to enter and open year-round during daylight hours.
- Bring a camera or drone for excellent photo opportunities of the ruins and riverside setting.
- Watch your step around uneven stone surfaces and be cautious of slippery areas after rain.
- Dogs on leads are welcome to explore the grounds with their owners.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus service from Haverfordwest town center to the priory area; the journey takes about 10-15 minutes. Service frequency varies, so check current timetables. Walking from the bus stop involves a short, flat riverside path. Tickets cost approximately £2-£4.
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Car
Driving from central Haverfordwest to the priory takes around 5 minutes. Limited roadside parking is available nearby, but spaces can be scarce, especially on weekends. Parking is free. The site is accessible via flat terrain from parking areas.
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Walking
A pleasant 20-30 minute walk from Haverfordwest town center follows flat, paved streets and a riverside path. The route is accessible for most fitness levels but may be slippery after rain. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Haverfordwest Priory location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Haverfordwest Priory
Medieval Origins and Augustinian Heritage
Founded around the early 13th century by Robert FitzRichard, the Augustinian Priory of St Mary and St Thomas the Martyr was established just outside the medieval town walls of Haverfordwest. It served as a religious and community center for Augustinian canons, known as Black Canons, who followed a monastic lifestyle of prayer, learning, and service. The priory’s church was a large cruciform structure featuring lancet windows and a central tower supported by pointed arches, indicative of early Gothic architecture. Though the priory was dissolved in 1539 during Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries, its ruins still reveal the scale and craftsmanship of this once-important religious institution.Architectural Remains and Archaeological Discoveries
Visitors today can explore the evocative stone ruins, which include parts of the church, cloister, chapter house, and foundations of other monastic buildings. The north and south transepts remain partially intact, with the chapel being one of the most preserved areas. Excavations begun in the 1980s uncovered many hidden features and artefacts, shedding light on the priory’s layout and daily life. The stonework’s durability has preserved notable details such as the pointed arches and lancet windows, while information boards provide historical context. The site’s riverside location adds a unique atmosphere, with the River Cleddau flowing quietly nearby.The Unique Restored Medieval Garden
One of the priory’s most remarkable features is its restored medieval garden, the only surviving ecclesiastical garden of its kind in Britain. Replanted to reflect the look, fragrance, and plant varieties of medieval times, this ‘pleasure garden’ was a rare feature for monastic communities, symbolizing both contemplation and enjoyment. The garden’s restoration offers visitors a sensory experience of the medieval monastic world, combining horticultural heritage with peaceful natural surroundings. It stands as a testament to the priory’s historical wealth and the monks’ connection to nature.Setting and Visitor Experience
Nestled beside the River Cleddau and just outside Haverfordwest’s town center, the priory grounds provide a tranquil and scenic environment. The flat grassy areas surrounding the ruins allow for leisurely exploration, though visitors should be cautious of uneven stone surfaces and potential trip hazards. The riverside setting enhances the site’s peaceful ambiance, making it ideal for short reflective visits, photography, and enjoying nature. The site is dog-friendly and open year-round during daylight hours, with free entry. However, the ground can be wet and muddy, especially after rain, so sturdy footwear is recommended.Historical Significance and Local Context
Haverfordwest Priory is part of the broader historical tapestry of Haverfordwest, a town with Norman origins and medieval importance as a market and administrative center. The priory’s foundation and survival through centuries reflect the town’s spiritual and civic development. Though the priory declined after the dissolution, its ruins remain a tangible link to Pembrokeshire’s medieval past. Nearby Haverfordwest Castle and other historic buildings complement the priory’s story, offering visitors a comprehensive glimpse into the region’s heritage.Conservation and Accessibility
Managed with care to preserve its fragile remains, the priory site includes safety measures such as signage warning of slippery surfaces and falling masonry risks. Visitors are advised to respect the ruins and avoid climbing on structures. The site is relatively accessible with level terrain around the grounds, though some uneven stone areas require caution. The priory’s open-air nature and free access make it an inclusive destination for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Ryan Davies bridge
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Hangar 5
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Picton Castle Gardens
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The Storybox
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Wiston Castle
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The Rising Sun Inn
3.0 km
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The Druidstone Hotel
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The Ocean Cafe Bar & Restaurant
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Sand & Stone Kitchen
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Black Pool Mill Restaurant
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Jolly Sailor
10.4 km
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The Alumchine Restaurant
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Ferry House Inn
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The Ferry Inn, Pembroke Dock
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Martha’s Vineyard
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The Wolfe Inn Wolfscastle
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The Shipwright Inn
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The Swan Inn
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Pinkcatshop.Com
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Riverside Shopping Centre
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The Sheep Shop
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Coast Aquatics
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St. Brides Inn
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The Trafalgar
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
