A Short Break in Tenby
Experience this world famous seaside resort for the perfect short break
Tenby is a popular seaside destination for people all over the world and it's no wonder. Known for long stretches of sandy shorelines and 13th-century medieval town walls, there really is nowhere better for a holiday. Take a short break in Tenby for relaxation, adventures and memories you'll treasure for a lifetime.
A beautiful family friendly destination, Tenby is located in southwest Wales making it within easy reach of the likes of Swansea, Cardiff, Bristol and London. Surrounded by the idyllic Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, it really is difficult to find a setting more picturesque. Think quaint cobbled streets, four beautiful beaches, an iconic picture-perfect harbour and so much more. There are a plethora of activities to try right on your doorstep when you stay in Tenby plus plenty of independent stores, pubs and restaurants where you can waste away the hours.
This attractive seaside resort is the location of many a fantastic memory so believe us when we say that a Tenby holiday is always a top choice. Whether you're on the search for a dog friendly holiday, planning a large family gathering by the seaside or are escaping the rat race with a spot of solo travelling, Tenby is the place for you.
So what can you get up to here? We've hand-picked a few of our favourite activities to try when you're in this coastal town, a little list of must-do's if you're in need of inspiration. Let us know how many you try during your next visit by using #sharepembrokeshire on Instagram.
Head to Tenby’s Beaches
It’s no secret that Tenby’s beaches are internationally renowned; Tenby Harbour Beach has even been awarded the title of Most Beautiful Beach in Europe in recent years.
In total, you'll find four beaches in Tenby and each one is as spectacular as the other. Tenby North Beach is most famous for being the home of the swim leg for two incredible annual sporting events; the Long Course Weekend in July and Ironman Wales in September. Next is the aforementioned Harbour Beach which is arguably one of the most photographed locations in the UK.
Around the headland, you'll find Castle Beach - easily missed at high tide when water envelopes the stretch of sand but at low tide, it merges into its neighbour Tenby South Beach. The latter is the longest bay in Tenby and is a favourite for dogs as it imposes no restrictions during the summer months.
Whether you're looking for a sheltered spot for sunbathing, a patch of sand for building sandcastles or some decent waves you can surf; Tenby has it all.
South & Castle Beaches lie to the left of the central headland, Harbour & North Beaches to the right
Visit Caldey Island
If you’re planning a visit in the summer months, a trip to Caldey Island is a must. Head to the harbour between Easter and October each year and you can buy tickets for a boat trip onto the island, which lies some twenty minutes offshore. Note, trips are weather permitting so make sure to check the forecast or give them a call before leaving home if you want.
Home to a community of Cistercian Monks who own and run the island, Caldey is a real favourite amongst locals and holidaymakers as the island is a paradise of peace and tranquillity. Try and get on board an early trip if you can as you can easily spend the whole day here with lots to see and do. Spend a few hours lounging on Priory Bay Beach where you'll depart the boat on your arrival, before venturing further inland to see the pretty village overlooked by the towering monastery.
Pick up lunch at the cafe or enjoy a picnic on the green before browsing the museum and gift shop, make sure to buy a postcard and pop it in the letterbox to send to your loved ones at home. Make sure to explore the island and see the bluebell-filled woods, the small chapels and the impressive lighthouse - the views from here across the island and the Tenby coastline are something special.
Continuing a tradition that began in Celtic times, the monks here live a simple life farming the island and producing their own homemade products such as chocolates, fudge and ice cream. All the products are available for visitors to purchase along with a range of perfumes and lotions.
The Abbey at Caldey Island
Sightsee Tenby’s Lifeboat Station
If you've ever seen photos of Tenby, you will likely have noticed the prominent lifeboat station situated on the north side of Castle Hill. This station is classed by the RNLI an 'Explore' station meaning it allows free access to the public through the summer months so anyone can call in and take a look around. (Tours can be booked in advance during winter months). If you have a bit of spare time, we would highly recommend a visit as you get to see the lifeboat up close from the public gallery and tour the shop. You might even get to watch a lifeboat launch.
The old lifeboat station (with the red roof) is situated next to the new building but is now privately owned. You might recognise this as it was once featured on Channel 4's 'Grand Designs' show. The station got a complete renovation and was turned into a beautiful seaside residential home. Unfortunately, you can't go inside the old station but it's still a great sight to see, even if only from the outside.
Visit Tudor Merchant's House
Located in the town centre down a narrow side street, you will find the Tudor Merchant's House. Within this three-storey building, you can explore the world of a successful merchant and his family as it would have been during the Tudor era. Once upon a time, Tenby Harbour was a hive of activity with the import/export industry operating in full swing just a short walk from this house.
Learn what the merchant's shop and working kitchen were like on the ground floor, then head upstairs to the first floor which has recently been refurbished with replica Tudor Furnishings and colourful wall hangings. Interactive workshops are available throughout making it great fun for the whole family. Delve into Tudor life with period costume if you want the full experience and make sure to see the best view of the harbour from the bed chamber window.
Tudor Merchant's House in Tenby
Explore The Streets
Having a wander around the quaint streets of Tenby is definitely a must. Known for colourful houses and interesting side streets, it's easy to spend a few hours strolling around and admiring this picturesque location. There is an abundance of quirky local shops that are worth taking a look around, from sweet shops to stores selling homemade fudge and ice cream. Pick up homeware, gifts and souvenirs such as a canvas of the area taken by a local photographer.
For something a little bit extra special, why not take a horse-drawn carriage? You'll find them parked up outside St Mary's Church in Tudor Square during the warmer months offering carriage tours of the town. The well-informed guides are a font of local knowledge so you can expect a real insight into the history of Tenby and find out what makes this town so special.
Tenby Side Street
A short break in Tenby is the perfect retreat for all, whether you're holidaying with friends and family or as a couple. A little bit of sea air and coastal life does good for the soul but how will you spend your days in Tenby?
Coastal Cottages Tenby Holiday Cottages
Tenby is the perfect location for your next cottage holiday in Pembrokeshire. With four beautiful beaches which can rival any in the world, it's a must-visit destination for seaside escapes especially if you want holidays in Tenby with a sea view. Check out our range of Tenby holiday cottages to find the perfect base for your self-catering getaway; we even have Tenby cottages with hot tubs and luxury cottages in Tenby to choose from.
