Tenby

Situated on the western edge of Carmarthen Bay, the historic ‘walled town’ of Tenby is easily accessed by train and attracts visitors from around the world, all year round. One of Tenby’s four glorious beaches, the Sunday Times named Castle Beach as the best in the UK.

The 13th century Norman castle and walls give Tenby an old-world charm that encourages visitors to explore its twisting, narrow alleyways, medieval pubs and quaint boutique stores showcasing local crafts. It’s widely acknowledged as being ‘’The Jewel in Pembrokeshire's crown’’.

With its picture-perfect harbour and colourful cottages, Tenby is a must-visit destination in Wales. We’ve included some of the must-see attractions in Tenby for your next visit below.

 

 

Visit Tenby Museum and Art Gallery

The oldest independent museum in Wales, Tenby Museum and Art Gallery was opened in 1878. It’s home to a vast collection of biological, geological and maritime artefacts. This collection continues to grow and develop, telling the story of Tenby and its people.

The two art galleries, one featuring a permanent exhibition, has works by artists that include Meirion Jones, Gwen and Augustus John, John Uzzell Edwards and (for fans of the contemporary) Nicky Wire of the Welsh band, Manic Street Preachers.

Artefacts on display include items from the Precambrian period through to the Roman era, an exhibition relating to Welsh cinema and one focusing on the pirates of Tenby’s past. One of the most famous pirates was local man Bartholomew Roberts, later known as Black Bart. Also giving Hollywood’s Jack Sparrow a run for his money was the infamous Henry Morgan, who gave his name to a popular brand of rum.

While rum may have been a favourite with the Tenby pirates, a cup of tea and slice of cake from the on-site cafe goes down better on a rainy day.

 

Tudor Merchant’s House

Constructed from local stone in the 1500s, the Tudor Merchant’s House would have been one of the finest, most expensive buildings in Tenby. The owner traded in goods brought into the harbour from around the world.

The Grade I listed building is now owned and managed by the National Trust and offers a fascinating glimpse into life in Tudor times. The interior is furnished with replica Tudor pieces, the garden planted with traditional herbs for use in the kitchen, and the shop stocked with authentic products.

With numerous events throughout the year and knowledgeable guides depicting life in Tudor Tenby, this step back in time is a fantastic way to learn some history.

 

Tenby Lifeboat Station

There’s been a lifeboat station in Tenby since 1852. Currently, there’re two lifeboats stationed in the harbour.  Hayden Miller is a Tamar-class boat, named after the farmer who left money to the RNLI in his will - £3 million to be precise. The other lifeboat, the Georgina Taylor, is a D-class inshore lifeboat.

Housed in a high-tech slipway station, there’s a viewing gallery for watching the lifeboat launch. You’ll also hear from the crews about what it takes to brave the waves and save lives. You can have a good look at the boats, explore the lifeboat station and enjoy the RNLI’s best visitor experience.

 

The Lovespoon Workshop

Learn more about the romantic tradition of the wooden Lovespoon, which dates back hundreds of years in Welsh history. Explore the vast array of spoons on display and treat yourself or somebody special to a personalised spoon to treasure for years to come. 

 

How to spend the perfect weekend in Tenby

  • Heatherton World of Activities - You’ll find archery, escape rooms, a zipwire and more, with activities for both adults and children. 
  • Oakwood Theme Park - Is adrenaline your thing? Rollercoasters like Megaphobia and Speed will keep you occupied all day long.
  • St Catherine’s Island - One of the few islands off the Tenby coast that you can access by foot. St Catherine’s may be small, but it’s filled with history and home to a Palmerston fort and a Second World War anti-aircraft gun placement. The island is accessible from Castle Beach when the tide is out.