Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre
Discover Pembroke Dock's maritime and aviation past, from WWII flying boats to the construction of the Millennium Falcon.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more volunteer time
Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more volunteer time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Pembroke Dock's maritime and aviation past, from WWII flying boats to the construction of the Millennium Falcon. +1
"A fascinating and valuably staffed museum with enthusiastic volunteers who share a wealth of knowledge. "
Chat with the Experts
Volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and eager to share stories. Ask them anything! :speech_balloon:
Don't Miss the Cafe
Enjoy lovely cakes and fresh coffee in a welcoming atmosphere. :coffee:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Flying Boat History
Main Exhibition Hall
Discover the legacy of the Sunderland flying boats and their crucial role in wartime operations.
Millennium Falcon Connection
Special Exhibition Area
Explore the surprising link between Pembroke Dock and the construction of the iconic Millennium Falcon.
RAF Pembroke Dock Memorial Window
Chapel
See the poignant memorial window dedicated to those who served at RAF Pembroke Dock.
Model Cockpit Experience
Interactive Zone
Sit inside a model cockpit and imagine yourself flying a historic sea plane.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Uncover Pembroke Dock's Rich History
Meet the Enthusiastic Volunteers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Chat with the Experts
Volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and eager to share stories. Ask them anything! :speech_balloon:
Don't Miss the Cafe
Enjoy lovely cakes and fresh coffee in a welcoming atmosphere. :coffee:
Free Parking Available
Convenient free parking makes your visit stress-free. :car:
Support the Charity Book Sale
Find great reads and support the museum's fundraising efforts. :books:
Tips
from all over the internet
Chat with the Experts
Volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and eager to share stories. Ask them anything! :speech_balloon:
Don't Miss the Cafe
Enjoy lovely cakes and fresh coffee in a welcoming atmosphere. :coffee:
Free Parking Available
Convenient free parking makes your visit stress-free. :car:
Support the Charity Book Sale
Find great reads and support the museum's fundraising efforts. :books:
Interactive Cockpit Fun
Experience what it's like to pilot a sea plane in the interactive cockpit. :airplane_small:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre for its rich historical content, particularly its focus on flying boats and the surprising Millennium Falcon connection. The knowledgeable and enthusiastic volunteers are frequently highlighted as a major asset, making the experience engaging and informative. While small, the museum is packed with fascinating details and offers a welcoming atmosphere with a pleasant cafe.
"Small museum but packed with information about the history of the dockyard, flying boats, and who knew that the Millennium Falcon was built here! Friendly and well informed staff, nice little cafe. We easily spent an enjoyable couple of hours here."
J O
"Had a good look round this museum. All about the Pembroke docks and the Sunderland flying boats. Great little cafe, lovely cakes. But the main attraction were the Volunteers so helpful and knowledgeable, they are a definite asset to the museum!"
Carol Capille
"What a fascinating and valuably staffed museum. The availability of voluntary experts with a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm are on hand at all times. We learned so much and were able to understand so much more than imagined about the engineering, history, location and battles of the sea planes and their brave crews. About how the planes were used in Australia and New Zealand, and the Rochester company. You can sit inside a model cockpit to fly the sea plane too. The addition of the Star Wars exhibition for the last craft built at Pembroke was for some a primary driver, for us -a bonus to learn about the sheer scale. There is a cafe with lovely fresh coffee, parking is free, and if Andy is on the desk, a warm Scottish welcome awaits you. If you are any where near, you I’ll not be disappointed. We supported the fundraising by using the charity book sale, and cafe. This unique museum is staffed by committed experts. Do go."
Peta Gilbert
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Heritage Centre is located in Pembroke Dock, Pembrokeshire. It's accessible by car, with free parking available on-site. Public transport options may include local bus services. Check local timetables for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, there is free parking available for visitors at the Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre, making it easy to access by car.
Pembroke Dock is well-connected by road. If traveling by public transport, you can reach nearby towns by train and then take a local bus service to Pembroke Dock.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, so it's always best to check the official website or contact the centre directly before your visit.
Admission prices are generally very reasonable, and the centre relies on visitor support and donations. Check their official channels for current pricing.
Booking in advance is usually not required for general admission, but it's a good idea to check if you're planning to attend a special event.
Information on discounts for specific groups like seniors or children is usually available on their website or by contacting the centre directly.
Yes, group visits are often welcomed. It's recommended to contact the centre in advance to arrange your group visit and discuss any specific needs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore exhibits on the history of the dockyard, flying boats, and the construction of the Millennium Falcon. There's also a model cockpit to try and a special memorial window. +1
Yes, children often enjoy the interactive elements like the model cockpit and the fascinating stories, especially the Star Wars connection.
Most visitors find that 2-3 hours is a good amount of time to explore the exhibits thoroughly and enjoy the cafe. +1
Absolutely! The centre features an interactive model cockpit where you can experience flying a sea plane.
The Memorial Window is a tribute to the personnel who served at RAF Pembroke Dock during its operational years, particularly during WWII.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, the centre has a lovely cafe that serves fresh coffee and delicious cakes, perfect for a break during your visit. +1
The cafe typically offers a selection of cakes, pastries, and hot drinks. It's a great spot to relax and refuel.
Pembroke Dock offers various local pubs and eateries if you're looking for more extensive dining options outside the centre.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is permitted. However, it's always best to check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits.
The flying boat exhibits, the Millennium Falcon display, and the RAF Memorial Window offer great photo opportunities. The exterior of the Georgian military chapel is also picturesque.
While not directly at the Heritage Centre, drone footage of Pembroke Dock and its historical sites, like Martello Gun Towers, has been captured.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the specific exhibits, the friendly and knowledgeable volunteers are excellent at engaging children with stories and answering their curious questions. The cafe offers a nice spot for a family break with snacks and drinks.
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts
The centre's connection to the RAF Pembroke Dock and its role in WWII offers a rich historical context. The memorial window is a particularly moving exhibit for those with an interest in military aviation history.
⭐ Star Wars Fans
It's a fantastic bonus for any Star Wars enthusiast visiting the area, adding a fun and unexpected dimension to the historical exhibits.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Aviation Legacy of Pembroke Dock
Visitors can delve into the operational history, learning about the strategic importance of Pembroke Dock in defending British borders and supporting naval operations. The centre also highlights the global reach of these flying boats, with mentions of their use in Australia and New Zealand. The 1945 RAF Pembroke Dock Memorial Window serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served.
Beyond its wartime contributions, Pembroke Dock also has a surprising connection to modern cinema. It was here that parts of the iconic Millennium Falcon for the Star Wars franchise were constructed. This unique juxtaposition of military aviation history and pop culture makes the Heritage Centre a truly captivating destination for a wide range of interests.
The Heart of the Centre: Its Volunteers
Visitors consistently praise the volunteers for their helpfulness and willingness to share detailed information about the planes, their crews, and the broader history of Pembroke Dock. Their commitment ensures that every visit is not just informative but also deeply personal and engaging. The centre's success and the rich visitor experience are a testament to their tireless efforts.
These committed experts are on hand to guide you through the engineering, history, and battles associated with the sea planes. Their dedication is a key reason why many visitors describe the centre as 'invaluable' and highly recommend it.
Beyond the Exhibits: The Pembroke Dock Experience
For those looking to support the centre, a charity book sale is often available, offering a chance to find interesting reads while contributing to the museum's upkeep and fundraising efforts.
The centre also occasionally hosts special events, such as the 'Forties Dinner Dance,' which celebrates the era and supports specific fundraising goals, like bringing home the original RAF Memorial Stained Glass Window.
+1 These events add another layer of engagement and community spirit to the Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre.
Social
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