Pembroke River facts for kids
The Pembroke River is a small waterway located near the town of Pembroke in West Wales. It's an important part of the local area, flowing past a famous castle and connecting to a larger waterway.
The River's Journey
The Pembroke River starts its journey at Hogeston Hill, close to a place called Manorbier Newton. From there, it gently winds its way through Lamphey village. It then flows right past the historic Pembroke Castle. Finally, the river meets the Milford Haven Waterway at a spot known as Pennar Mouth. This is where two bodies of water join together.
As the river reaches the town of Pembroke, it forms three interesting pools. The first one is called Mill Pond. Further downstream, you'll find Middle Mill Pond. The last pool, located right below the castle, is known as Castle Pond.
Small boats can usually travel on the river from Pennar up to Mill Pond. However, the river is normally closed to boats at Castle Pond. But once a year, a special event allows small boats to enter Castle Pond. Also, since 1994, an exciting canoe race has been held on the river every year.
A Look Back in Time
Maps from a long time ago, like one from 1578, didn't always name the Pembroke River. However, they did show Pennar Mouth, where the river meets the larger waterway.
In 1804, an old newspaper called The Cambrian shared some interesting facts about the area. It mentioned that Pennar Mouth was the opening of the branch of the Haven where Pembroke town is located. It also noted that a dock could be built there, big enough for "all the vessels in England."
Soon after, a large dockyard was built. But it wasn't on the Pembroke River itself. Instead, it was built nearby on the River Cleddau. This dockyard grew into the town of Pembroke Dock.
Even though a big dockyard wasn't built on the Pembroke River, it was still very important. In 1833, a book called Topographical Dictionary described the town of Pembroke. It said the town was beautifully placed on a ridge of land that reached into Pennar Mouth Pill. This area formed a large southern creek of Milford Haven. The book also mentioned that the river nearly surrounded the town at high tide. It also noted that the entrance from Milford Haven to the creek was narrow at low tide. But it quickly opened up into a wide area called Crow Pool, which was full of excellent oysters.
Sadly, in February 1889, a tragic event happened on the river. The Bentlass ferry boat overturned and sank. All 16 people on board, including passengers and crew, were lost.
