Pretty pastel houses surround Tenby Harbour
As you explore Tenby’s charming, cobbled streets and miles of unspoilt sandy beaches, it’s easy to see why it’s been one of the most popular resorts in Wales for decades.
Tenby is a pretty seaside town on the western side of Carmarthen Bay, on the Pembrokeshire Coast, West Wales With vast sweeps of golden beaches, magnificent 13th-century town walls and a bustling town centre, it’s a delightful place to visit. Tenby’s narrow, winding streets are lined with pastel-coloured buildings housing unique, independent shops and an excellent variety of cafes and restaurants - many of which serve fresh, locally caught seafood.
The town’s dramatic position on top of a hill led to its early settlement as a Welsh stronghold until a castle and walled town were built in medieval times. Sections of the wall still stand today, creating a striking first impression for visitors.
A seal basking on a cliff on Caldey Island
With beaches on the north, south and western sides of town, you’re never far from the sea in Tenby. All of the resort’s beaches are family friendly, with North Beach and South Beach hosting an array of facilities, and Castle Beach and Harbour Beach offering exceptional views.
During a holiday in Tenby, you can walk along the spectacular Pembrokeshire Coast Path, enjoy a spot of fishing or take a boat trip from Tenby Harbour to nearby Caldey Island. Or you can simply find a quiet stretch of sand to lay down a towel and catch some sun.
One of the town’s most iconic attractions is Tenby Museum and Art Gallery, the oldest independent museum in Wales. Here, you’ll find an intriguing collection of maritime artefacts and geology, archaeology exhibits, and regular displays of work by some of the country’s most extraordinary artists.
The Tenby RNLI Lifeboat Station is also a popular place to visit with a public viewing gallery where you can watch the thrilling lifeboat launches.
“As you explore Tenby’s charming, cobbled streets and miles of unspoilt sandy beaches, it’s easy to see why it’s been one of the most popular resorts in Wales for decades.”
Other exciting attractions in Tenby include Gift of Glass, where you can watch a glassblower demonstrating his craft and pick up a unique piece of glassware to take home, and the Tudor Merchant’s House which offers a fascinating insight into the life of a wealthy merchant and his family at the turn of the 16th century.
Or if you’d like to spot some local wildlife, Tenby Boat Trips is one of a number of companies who offer cruises to the hidden bays of Caldey Island, where you can observe seals, puffins and gannets.
Whether you’re a couple, family or a large group of friends, if you've been inspired to spend your next staycation in Tenby, take a look at our full collection of Tenby cottages for more holiday ideas.