Pembroke Castle: Birthplace of Tudor Ghosts

Pembroke Castle is one of the largest and best-preserved medieval castles in Wales. Its most famous moment came on January 28, 1457, when Henry Tudor was born within its walls—the future Henry VII, founder of the Tudor dynasty. The castle’s long history of power, intrigue, and violence has left a rich supernatural legacy.

The History

Norman Origins

The first castle was built by Roger of Montgomery in 1093. It was rebuilt in stone by William Marshal, the famous knight and Earl of Pembroke, who created the massive keep that still dominates the site.

The Tudor Connection

Henry Tudor spent his early years at Pembroke before fleeing to Brittany. He would return to claim the throne at the Battle of Bosworth Field in 1485.

The Civil War Siege

In 1648, Parliamentary forces under Oliver Cromwell besieged the castle for seven weeks. The castle eventually surrendered, and Cromwell ordered it slighted (partially demolished).

The Hauntings

The Tudor Ghost

A figure believed to be connected to the Tudor family has been seen in the Henry VII Tower:

• A woman in rich medieval dress
• Sometimes carrying an infant
• Identified by some as Henry VII’s mother, Margaret Beaufort
• A sense of anxiety and determination accompanies her

The Phantom Soldiers

The siege of 1648 left many spirits behind:

• Cavalier soldiers in 17th-century dress
• The sound of cannon fire and muskets
• Screaming and the clash of weapons
• Particularly active around the gatehouse

The Wogan Cavern Spirits

Beneath the castle lies Wogan Cavern, a natural cave used for storage and as an escape route:

• Strange lights have been seen in the cave
• The sound of voices echoing from below
• A figure in a cloak disappearing into the darkness
• Some visitors refuse to enter due to overwhelming dread

The Drowned Soldiers

The castle is surrounded by water on three sides. Soldiers who drowned during sieges are said to:

• Rise from the waters at night
• Walk across the millpond
• Disappear into the castle walls
• Their waterlogged footsteps can sometimes be heard

The Grey Lady

A woman in grey medieval dress walks the battlements:

• Often seen at dusk
• Appears to be looking out for someone’s return
• Her identity is disputed—possibly a noblewoman waiting for news of her husband from war

Modern Investigations

The castle has been investigated by numerous paranormal groups:

• EVP recordings have captured voices in Welsh and English
• Thermal cameras have detected unexplained cold spots
• Photographs frequently show orbs and mists
• The Wogan Cavern produces particularly strong results

Visiting

Pembroke Castle is privately owned but open to visitors. It offers regular events and has embraced its supernatural reputation with ghost tours and Halloween events.

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From the birth of a dynasty to the death of a garrison, Pembroke Castle has witnessed history’s turning points. Those who made that history—and those who suffered for it—remain within its walls.