Tenby Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, activities to do, local cuisine to try, where to stay, and more in Tenby, Wales with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Tenby

Tenby is a picturesque town perched on the western coast of Wales, overlooking the Bristol Channel. It is located in Pembrokeshire, one of the most beautiful counties in South Wales. Tenby offers a stunning coastline, vibrant wildlife, rich history, and plenty of outdoor activities. The town is renowned for its medieval town walls, narrow cobbled streets, colorful houses, and sandy beaches that are perfect for swimming and surfing.

List of Places to Visit in Tenby

Tenby has a lot to offer for tourists of all ages. From cultural and historical spots to natural wonders and outdoor adventures, here are some of the must-visit places in Tenby:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tenby Museum and Art Gallery: This museum is a treasure trove of exhibits on Tenby’s past, from the medieval era to the present. It also houses a collection of artwork, including paintings from famous Welsh artists.
  • St. Mary’s Church: This charming grade II-listed church is a must-see, with its stunning interior and fascinating history. The stained-glass windows are particularly noteworthy.
  • Tenby Castle: Explore the ruins of this Norman castle, which dates back to the 13th century and offers breathtaking views of the sea and town.

Natural Attractions of Tenby: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Caldey Island: Take a boat trip to this serene island to escape the hustle and bustle of Tenby. You can hike trails, bird-watch, and visit the Caldey Abbey, where monks still live and work, continuing a tradition that began over 1,000 years ago.
  • South Beach: This stunning beach can rival any beach from around the world with its clear waters, golden sands, and fantastic views. It also offers various watersports activities, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and surfing.
  • Pembrokeshire Coast National Park: Discover the natural beauty of this park, which stretches over 186 miles of the coastline. Visitors can hike, cycle, or drive along the winding roads to appreciate the breathtaking views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tenby

Tenby is a paradise for hikers and bikers. The town offers a range of trails suitable for different levels of experience. Here are some of the best hiking and cycling routes:

  • The Pembrokeshire Coast Path: This trail spans 186 miles from St. Dogmaels in the north to Amroth in the south, passing through Tenby. It offers challenging climbs and stunning scenery along the coast.
  • The Landsker Borderlands Trail: This trail runs for 64 miles and takes hikers from the dramatic coastline to rolling hills and farmland through the countryside.
  • The Celtic Trail West: This route runs for 84 miles and passes through Tenby. It follows along the rugged coastline of Pembrokeshire before heading inland, taking in the breathtaking hills and valleys of Wales.

Best Things to Do in Tenby: Activities and Tours

Tenby is a haven of adventure with a plethora of activities to choose from. Here are some of the best things to do in Tenby:

  • Water Activities: Kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing are some of the most popular watersports on offer at Tenby’s beaches.
  • Boat Trips: Take a trip around Caldey Island to enjoy the stunning natural surroundings and see the local wildlife, from Atlantic Grey Seals to puffins and gannets.
  • Golfing: Tenby has an excellent 18-hole golf course, which is both tricky and rewarding, a favorite among golf enthusiasts.
  • Explore History: Tenby boasts a long and rich history, discover it with walking tours around the town or by visiting historical monuments.
  • Attend Festivals: Summer months are a lively time in Tenby, with numerous festivals taking place, including the famous Ironman Wales and the Tenby Blues Festival.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tenby

A week in Tenby will give you enough time to explore its hidden gems. Here’s an itinerary that will help you make the most out of your visit:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the town of Tenby
Day 2 Visit the Caldey Island (half-day trip)
Day 3 Visit Pembrokeshire Coast National Park (full-day trip)
Day 4 Go on a scenic bike ride through the countryside
Day 5 Attend Tenby Blues Festival (subject to dates)
Day 6 Visit the historic castle and Tenby Museum and Art Gallery
Day 7 Experience the adrenaline rush of watersports at one of Tenby’s beaches

Food and Drink Scene of Tenby

Local cuisine is a must in Tenby, with its rich flavors and fresh seafood, including lobster, crab, and mussels. Here are some of the must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Welsh Cawl: This traditional lamb soup is a Welsh classic served with seasoned bread. It is a perfect hearty meal for a warm winter feeling.
  • Bara Brith: It is a rich, tea-soaked fruit bread that is perfect for a midday snack.
  • Fish and Chips: Tenby’s fresh, locally caught fish, and artisan chips are the best on the coast.

Local Beverages

  • Welsh Gin: Try the handcrafted gins made with local botanicals, including seaweed and nettles, resulting in rich flavor and a taste of Wales.
  • Welsh Whiskey: Penderyn distillery in the Brecon Beacons National Park produces some of the finest whiskeys in the world.

Where to Stay in Tenby: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Tenby offers a variety of accommodation options for all budgets. From luxury hotels to budget hostels, here are some of our top picks:

  • The Imperial Tenby: This iconic hotel, situated on Tenby’s seafront boasts excellent service and breathtaking views.
  • The Giltar Hotel: This fantastic hotel offers sea views and is situated close to Tenby Castle and other local attractions.
  • YHA Tenby Youth Hostel: Perfect for budget-conscious travelers, this hostel is spotless, and their staff is exceptionally friendly and helpful.

What to Buy in Tenby: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Tenby has some unique and beautiful souvenirs that make the perfect gift. Here are some local products that you can bring home:

  • Caldey Island Perfumes: Made exclusively with natural ingredients, these hand-crafted fragrances are from Caldey Island’s monastic tradition.
  • Welsh Blankets and Throws: Made of local wool, these cozy blankets are a testament to Welsh craftsmanship.
  • Welsh Lovespoons: This unique Welsh tradition is centuries old, with each lovespoon symbolizing different meanings of love.

Local Culture and Customs of Tenby

Welsh culture is a blend of British and Celtic influences, and Tenby showcases this beautifully. The Welsh are a friendly and hospitable people who value their language and traditions, many of which have been carefully preserved over centuries.

Best Time to Visit Tenby

The summer months are the best time to visit Tenby, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, it can get crowded during peak season. Spring and autumn are also good times to visit, when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. Winters can get bitterly cold, but the winter months also offer some of the best deals on accommodation.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tenby

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and tradition.
  • Explore the town on foot to appreciate its charming streets and buildings.
  • Try the local cuisine and wine.
  • Take a boat trip to Caldey Island.
  • Visit the coastal path and Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

Don’t:

  • Litter the streets or beaches.
  • Eat takeaway food on the beaches.
  • Park in unmarked areas.
  • Take stones or shells from the beaches.
  • Ignore safety warnings for watersports activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tenby

Tenby is a safe place to visit with low crime rates. That said, be aware of your belongings in tourist spots, and take precautions against pick-pocketing.

Health in Tenby

Wales has a free healthcare system, and emergency care is available at local hospitals and clinics. It is advisable to carry travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Additionally, the sun can be strong in summer, so bring sunblock and stay hydrated.

Getting to Tenby: Transportation Options and Logistics

Tenby is well-connected and relatively easy to reach. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Tenby

The nearest airport to Tenby is Cardiff International Airport (CWL), around 100 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Tenby

Tenby has its bus station (Upper Park Rd), and National Express runs an extensive network of coaches to Tenby from all over the UK.

Other Options

Tenby has a large pay-and-display car park at the train station, which is serviced by an excellent rail network to London, Manchester, and Nottingham.

How to Get Around in Tenby

Tenby is a small town that you can explore on foot. Staying in town places most of the main attractions in easy walking distance. Taxis are available, and the local buses are also reliable.

Where to Go Next from Tenby: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Tenby is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding areas of Pembrokeshire. Here are some nearby destinations to add to your itinerary:

  • St. David’s Cathedral: This iconic cathedral in St. David’s is the largest place of worship in Wales, known for its stunning architecture and serene surroundings.
  • Pembroke Castle: Explore the history behind the birthplace of King Henry VII, who is recognized for his Tudor reign.
  • Newport: Newport is a charming town located in North Pembrokeshire with a range of independent shops and restaurants, as well as the Pembrokeshire National Park Visitor Centre.

Conclusion

Tenby is an exceptional destination that has something for every type of traveler. From its cobbled streets and medieval history to sandy beaches and scenic biking routes, Tenby offers an array of activities. Plus, with its friendly locals, fresh cuisine, and beautiful landscape, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience in Tenby.

Tenby Harbour Tenby Harbour Gumfreston Church of St Lawrence. Outside there is the shaft of a churchyard cross, and three medicinal springs rise in the churchyard, the water of which contains iron and chalybeate. In the wood to the south of the churchyard wall are the ruins of the village that stood beside the quay on the river estuary. This was a transfer point for goods from the road to little coasting vessels. It was also on the pilgrimage route across south Wales to St David's. Gumfreston Church of St Lawrence. Outside there is the shaft of a churchyard cross, and three medicinal springs rise in the churchyard, the water of which contains iron and chalybeate. In the wood to the south of the churchyard wall are the ruins of the village that stood beside the quay on the river estuary. This was a transfer point for goods from the road to little coasting vessels. It was also on the pilgrimage route across south Wales to St David's. Choice of attractions on the B4318... Choice of attractions on the B4318...