Haverfordwest (Hwlffordd)

Introducing Haverfordwest (Hwlffordd)

Haverfordwest is a bustling no-nonsense town, a thriving shopping centre and public transport hub. Though it retains some fine Georgian buildings, it lacks the prettiness and historic atmosphere of many of its Pembrokeshire neighbours. It grew up around a shallow spot on the Western Cleddau River where it was possible to ford the stream, and takes its name from the Old English term haefer (billy goat) – this was the western haefer ford, the place where drovers crossed the river with their goats.

Founded as a fortified Flemish settlement by the Norman Lord Gilbert de Clare in about 1110, its castle became the nucleus for a thriving market and its port remained important until the railway arrived in the mid-19th century.

Last updated: Sep 29, 2008