Trade and Industry

These days, most people would associate Pembrokeshire with Oil refining, tourism and agriculture. The latter has been a major industry in the county for many centuries.

There are many other industries that once flourished in the County, but due to decreasing demand and increased competition, these have now disappeared.

In the early part of the 20th Century, Milford Haven was one of busiest fishing ports in the whole of the UK. The Docks were packed with trawlers and beamers landing their catch, which was transported up to London by train.

Coal mining and slate quarrying were once flourishing industries in Pembrokeshire and during the 18th, 19th and early part of the 20th Century there were many working coal mines and slate quarries found around the county.

There are many rural crafts that were once common practice around the county, but the changing times and advancing technology have seen many of them disappear.

Use the links to find out about the various trades and industries that have been important in the county.