West Martello Tower, Pembroke Dock
Explore the historic 19th-century West Martello Tower, a coastal fortification guarding Pembroke Dock with stunning views and rich maritime heritage.
The West Martello Tower in Pembroke Dock is a historic 19th-century coastal fortification built between 1848 and 1851 to protect the strategic Royal Navy Dockyard. This robust stone tower, with thick walls and an oval footprint, stands as a testament to Britain’s maritime defense heritage. Though decommissioned in 1881 and no longer armed, it offers visitors scenic views of the Pembrokeshire coastline and insight into military architecture of the era.
A brief summary to West Martello Tower
- Fort Rd, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6SX, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear as the terrain around the tower can be uneven and rocky.
- Visit on a clear day to enjoy panoramic views of the Pembrokeshire coastline and capture great photos.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the nearby Pembrokeshire Coast Path for a scenic nature experience.
- Check local information for access updates, as the tower interior is generally closed due to preservation concerns.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services connect Pembroke Dock town center to nearby stops within a 10-15 minute walk of West Martello Tower. Buses run approximately every 30-60 minutes with a ticket price around £2-£4. Note that service frequency may reduce on weekends and public holidays.
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Car
Driving to West Martello Tower is straightforward via Fort Road in Pembroke Dock. Public parking is available nearby, but spaces can be limited during peak times. No parking fees apply. The site is accessible by car within 5-10 minutes from Pembroke Dock town center.
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Walking
From Pembroke Dock town center, a 20-30 minute walk along mostly paved and some uneven coastal paths leads to the tower. The route offers scenic views but includes some gentle slopes and uneven ground, so suitable footwear is recommended.
West Martello Tower location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about West Martello Tower
Origins and Military Purpose
Constructed between 1848 and 1851, the West Martello Tower was part of a defensive chain designed to protect the vital Royal Navy Dockyard at Pembroke Dock. The dockyard itself was established in 1814 to serve as a major shipbuilding and naval base on the Cleddau estuary. The tower’s design follows the classic Martello style—robust, circular or oval stone structures with extremely thick walls, intended to withstand artillery fire and provide a platform for heavy guns. Its strategic placement helped secure the dockyard against potential seaborne attacks during a period of heightened military tension in the mid-19th century.Architectural Features and Design
The tower stands approximately 56 feet tall with walls up to 11 feet thick, featuring a raised gun platform originally intended to mount powerful cannons. Its oval footprint and dry moat surrounding the base reflect typical Martello defensive architecture, optimized for durability and overlapping fields of fire along the coast. Although the tower was never fully armed or engaged in battle, its imposing presence and sturdy construction exemplify military engineering of the era. Over time, some internal floors have been lost, and the tower has undergone various changes, including partial filling of casemates and installation of small guns during later conflicts.Historical Context and Usage
The West Martello Tower was active as a defensive structure until its decommissioning in 1881. During the Spanish-American War and both World Wars, it served auxiliary roles such as troop quartering, storage, lookout, and signaling station. In the 20th century, it was also used for radio communications and anti-aircraft defense. Despite its military significance, the tower eventually fell into disuse and was considered an eyesore by some local authorities, leading to calls for demolition. Preservation efforts by local groups have since recognized its heritage value.Present Day and Visitor Experience
Today, the West Martello Tower remains a prominent historical landmark in Pembroke Dock, offering visitors a glimpse into 19th-century coastal defenses. Although the interior is not generally open to the public due to structural concerns, the tower’s exterior and surrounding grounds provide excellent photo opportunities and scenic views of the Pembrokeshire coast. The nearby Pembrokeshire Coast Path allows for leisurely walks combining natural beauty with historical exploration. The terrain around the tower can be uneven, so visitors should wear suitable footwear.Significance in Regional Heritage
The tower is one of only two surviving Martello towers in Pembroke Dock, marking an important chapter in Wales’ military and maritime history. It symbolizes the strategic importance of Pembroke Dock as a naval stronghold and reflects broader 19th-century British coastal defense strategies. Its preservation contributes to understanding regional heritage and the evolution of military architecture, connecting visitors with the past in a tangible way.Conservation and Future Prospects
While the tower has faced challenges from weathering and water damage, local efforts aim to maintain its structural integrity and historical significance. Though once used as a small museum, it is currently closed to interior visits. Ongoing conservation discussions emphasize balancing preservation with public accessibility, ensuring the West Martello Tower remains a valued cultural asset for future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
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- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
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For the architecture buff
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For the view chaser and sunset hunter
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- Waterfront
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For the social media creator & influencer
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For the eco-conscious traveler
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For the kind of experience you’re after
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For how adventurous you want the journey to be
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Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
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- Teen Friendly
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- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
