Written by Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Sarah kelly
26/08/2025
Miguel Arcanjo Saddi, Pexels
Tenby, a picturesque coastal town in Pembrokeshire, Wales, captivates visitors with its vibrant, pastel-coloured houses, well-preserved medieval walls, and four distinct sandy beaches. It offers a rich blend of natural beauty, historical exploration, and opportunities for outdoor pursuits, making it suitable for both relaxing getaways and active holidays.
The town features narrow, cobbled streets lined with numerous independent shops, inviting cafes, pubs, and restaurants, providing ample opportunities for socialising. The bustling harbour area is also a lively spot, offering diverse dining options and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Top 6 Things to do in Tenby
Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of activities, from exploring historical landmarks and relaxing on sandy beaches to embarking on boat trips and discovering local culture.
Tenby boasts four distinctive sandy beaches, each offering a unique charm. North Beach is iconic with its golden sands and Goskar Rock, while South Beach provides a longer stretch for walks. Castle Beach, smaller and often linked to St. Catherine's Island at low tide, offers a tranquil spot with views. The Harbour Beach, nestled within the bustling harbour, is picturesque. These beaches are ideal for relaxing, swimming, building sandcastles, or simply enjoying the coastal scenery. Always check local tide times for optimum beach access.
Cost: Free
Transport: All beaches are within walking distance of Tenby town centre.
2. Wander the Walled Town and Harbour
Step back in time by walking through Tenby's well-preserved medieval town walls and exploring its narrow, cobbled streets. Discover the historic Five Arches Gate, an original entrance to the old town. The bustling harbour is a focal point, lined with colourful houses and offering picturesque views, perfect for a leisurely stroll or enjoying a local ice cream. The town centre is full of independent shops, cafes, and pubs, providing opportunities to experience local culture and cuisine.
Cost: Free (shopping, food, and drinks are extra)
Transport: The walled town and harbour are the heart of Tenby and are easily explored on foot.
3. Visit Tenby Castle and Museum
Perched on a rocky headland between Castle Beach and Harbour Beach, the remains of Tenby Castle offer stunning panoramic views of the coastline and the town. While only a small tower and sections of walls remain from its 12th-century origins, it provides a glimpse into Tenby's fortified past. Adjacent to the castle ruins is the Tenby Museum and Art Gallery, built on a medieval domestic building. It is Wales's oldest independent museum, offering insights into the town's history, maritime heritage, and local art.
Cost: Exploring the castle ruins is free. Tenby Museum and Art Gallery has an admission fee (current pricing should be checked directly).
Transport: Both are centrally located and accessible on foot from anywhere in Tenby.
4. Take a Boat Trip to Caldey Island
Embark on a peaceful 20-minute boat journey from Tenby Harbour (or Castle Beach at low tide) to Caldey Island, a tranquil monastic island inhabited by Cistercian monks. Visitors can explore the historic abbey, churches, and lighthouse, enjoy serene walks across the island's unspoiled landscape, and relax on its pristine beaches. The monks also produce their own perfume and chocolate, available in the island's shops. Boat trips run Monday to Saturday from Easter to October, subject to weather.
Cost: Return boat trip: Adults £18-£20, Seniors £16-£18, Children £10 (under 15), Family Ticket (2 adults, 2-3 children) £48-£50. Children under 4 often travel free. Cash and card payments accepted at the Caldey Island Kiosk in Tenby Harbour.
Transport: Boats depart from Tenby Harbour (or Castle Beach at low tide), which is within walking distance of the town centre.
5. Go on a Seal Safari or Coastal Wildlife Trip
Experience Tenby from the sea by taking a boat trip to the nearby islands of Caldey and St. Margaret's. These trips offer the chance to observe the local grey seal population in their natural habitat and spot various seabirds, including puffins, razorbills, and cormorants, especially around St. Margaret's Island. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the marine and bird life. Options range from one-hour seal safaris to longer coastal explorer RIB trips, some even offering sunset cruises.
Cost: Seal Safari/Island Ranger (1hr-1hr 15m): Adults £20-£25, Children £10-£14 (under 15), Family Ticket (2 adults, 2 children) £50-£65. RIB Trip (1hr): £30 per person. Prices vary by operator; it's advisable to check Tenby Boat Trips or other local providers directly.
Transport: Boats depart from Tenby Harbour, which is centrally located and easily accessible on foot.
6. Visit the Tudor Merchant's House
Step inside the National Trust-owned Tudor Merchant's House, a meticulously preserved late 15th-century building in the heart of Tenby's old town. This historic house offers a vivid portrayal of what life was like for a prosperous merchant family during the Tudor period. Explore its narrow corridors, period-furnished rooms, and learn about the daily routines and trade that shaped Tenby centuries ago.
Cost: Entry fee applies (National Trust members enter for free).
Transport: Located within the walled town, it is easily reached on foot.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
