Tenby: The Complete Guide

Tenby, located in Pembrokeshire, is one of Wales’ most picturesque seaside towns, offering a mix of stunning beaches, historic charm, and vibrant local culture. The town is famous for its golden sandy beaches, including Castle Beach, North Beach, and South Beach, each providing breathtaking coastal views and opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and watersports. The pastel-colored buildings lining the waterfront add to Tenby’s postcard-perfect appeal, making it a favorite destination for photographers and visitors looking for a relaxing escape.

Beyond the beaches, Tenby boasts a bustling town center filled with independent shops, cafés, and restaurants, offering everything from fresh seafood to traditional Welsh delicacies. The Tudor Merchant’s House, a well-preserved 15th-century building, provides a fascinating glimpse into the town’s medieval past. Visitors can also take a boat trip to Caldey Island, home to a community of Cistercian monks and stunning coastal scenery. Whether exploring the town’s historic streets or enjoying a meal with sea views, Tenby offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Tenby is a gateway to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, with scenic walking trails along the Wales Coast Path. The town hosts seasonal events and festivals, including the Tenby Arts Festival and Ironman Wales, which bring a lively atmosphere to the area. Whether visiting for a peaceful beach retreat or an active holiday, Tenby’s combination of natural beauty and cultural attractions makes it a must-visit destination in Wales.

History of Tenby

Early Settlements in Tenby

Tenby has been inhabited since ancient times, with evidence of early human activity dating back to the Iron Age. The area was home to Celtic tribes, who built defensive settlements on the surrounding hills. The natural harbor made Tenby an attractive location for trade and fishing, laying the foundation for its future development.

Norman Influence in Tenby

Following the Norman Conquest, Tenby became a strategic stronghold. The Normans built Tenby Castle in the 12th century, establishing control over the town and its surrounding lands. The castle provided protection against Welsh uprisings and coastal raids, reinforcing Tenby’s importance as a defensive settlement.

Medieval Growth in Tenby

During the 13th century, Tenby expanded as a trading port, with merchants importing and exporting goods across Europe. The town’s medieval walls, built by the Earls of Pembroke, helped protect against invasions and piracy. The Five Arches Gate, a surviving part of the fortifications, remains a key historical landmark.

Tudor and Stuart Periods in Tenby

The 16th and 17th centuries saw Tenby continue to thrive, particularly in maritime trade. The town became known for its shipbuilding industry, with vessels constructed for fishing and commerce. However, Tenby faced challenges, including plague outbreaks and economic fluctuations, which impacted its prosperity.

Georgian and Victorian Tenby

By the 18th century, Tenby had developed into a fashionable seaside resort, attracting visitors seeking coastal relaxation. The Victorian era saw significant improvements, including the construction of hotels, promenades, and bathing facilities. The town’s picturesque scenery and clean air made it a popular destination for health-conscious travelers.

Modern Tenby

In the 20th and 21st centuries, Tenby evolved into a vibrant town with a mix of historic charm and modern tourism. The town continues to celebrate its rich heritage through festivals, museums, and preserved landmarks, making it a fascinating destination for visitors and residents alike. Today, Tenby remains one of Wales’ most beloved coastal towns, offering a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Visiting Tenby for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Tenby on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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1. The Dinosaur Park Tenby

The Dinosaur Park Tenby is a fantastic family-friendly attraction featuring life-sized dinosaur models, interactive exhibits, and adventure activities. Visitors can explore the dinosaur trail, where realistic animatronic dinosaurs bring prehistoric creatures to life. The park also offers mini-golf, trampolines, and off-road driving, making it a great destination for children and adults alike.

Beyond the dinosaurs, the park has picnic areas, a café, and indoor play zones, ensuring fun regardless of the weather. Whether you’re a dinosaur enthusiast or simply looking for a fun day out, The Dinosaur Park Tenby provides an exciting experience for all ages.

Opening times: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Entry cost: Adults £12.50, Children £10.50

2. Tenby Museum and Art Gallery

Tenby Museum and Art Gallery is the oldest independent museum in Wales, offering a fascinating insight into the town’s history and artistic heritage. The museum features exhibits on Tenby’s maritime past, geology, and archaeology, as well as a collection of paintings by renowned Welsh artists.

Visitors can explore interactive displays, historical artifacts, and contemporary art exhibitions, making it a great destination for culture lovers. The museum’s location on Castle Hill provides stunning views of the coastline, adding to the experience.

Opening times: Daily, 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM Entry cost: Adults £5.50, Children free

3. Heatherton World of Activities

Heatherton World of Activities is an action-packed adventure park offering a wide range of activities, from go-karting and archery to escape rooms and paintballing. The park caters to all ages, with both high-adrenaline experiences and family-friendly attractions.

Visitors can enjoy mini-golf, bumper boats, and laser clay shooting, as well as indoor and outdoor play areas. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling challenge or a fun day out with the family, Heatherton provides endless entertainment.

Opening times: Daily, 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM Entry cost: Pay-as-you-play pricing

4. Tenby Lifeboat Station

Tenby Lifeboat Station is a historic and operational lifeboat station, offering visitors a chance to learn about the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and its lifesaving missions. The station houses two lifeboats, including an all-weather lifeboat, and provides insights into the bravery of Tenby’s lifeboat crews.

Visitors can explore the interactive exhibits, watch lifeboat launches, and learn about maritime rescue operations. The station’s location on Castle Square offers stunning views of the coastline, making it a great stop for those interested in Tenby’s maritime heritage.

Opening times: Daily, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Entry cost: Free

5. Guy Manning’s Art Room

Guy Manning’s Art Room is a contemporary art gallery showcasing the works of local artist Guy Manning. The gallery features vibrant paintings, sculptures, and mixed-media pieces, inspired by the landscapes and culture of Wales.

Visitors can browse the collection, purchase unique artwork, and even meet the artist during special events. The gallery is a great place to experience modern Welsh art and take home a one-of-a-kind piece.

Opening times: Wednesday – Sunday, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Entry cost: Free

6. Manor Wildlife Park

Manor Wildlife Park is a conservation-focused zoo offering interactive animal encounters with species from around the world. Visitors can walk through lemur and wallaby enclosures, feed farm animals, and learn about endangered species.

The park is designed to be family-friendly, with play areas, picnic spots, and educational talks. Whether you’re interested in wildlife conservation or simply want to see exotic animals up close, Manor Wildlife Park is a fantastic day out.

Opening times: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Entry cost: Adults £14.50, Children £12.50

7. Folly Farm Adventure Park & Zoo

Folly Farm Adventure Park & Zoo is one of Wales’ top attractions, combining a traditional farm experience with a modern zoo. Visitors can see giraffes, lions, penguins, and meerkats, as well as interact with farm animals such as goats and ponies.

Beyond the animals, Folly Farm offers fairground rides, indoor play areas, and adventure zones, making it a great destination for families. The park’s commitment to wildlife conservation adds an educational element to the fun.

Opening times: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Entry cost: Adults £18.95, Children £16.95

8. Carew Castle & Tidal Mill

Carew Castle & Tidal Mill is a historic fortress with a unique blend of Norman and Tudor architecture. The castle overlooks a mill pond, creating a picturesque setting for exploration. Visitors can learn about the castle’s medieval history, its role in Welsh conflicts, and its transformation over the centuries.

The nearby tidal mill is one of the last remaining mills of its kind in Wales, offering insights into traditional milling techniques. The site also features walking trails, picnic areas, and seasonal events, making it a great destination for history lovers.

Opening times: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Entry cost: Adults £6.00, Children £4.00

9. St. Catherine’s Island

St. Catherine’s Island is a historic island fortress located just off Castle Beach, accessible at low tide. The island features a 19th-century fort, built to defend the coastline, and offers stunning views of Tenby’s beaches and cliffs.

Visitors can explore the fort’s tunnels, gun emplacements, and observation points, learning about its military history. The island is a great spot for photography and adventure, providing a unique perspective on Tenby’s coastal landscape.

Opening times: Varies by tide Entry cost: Adults £5.00, Children £3.50

10. Tenby Castle Beach

Tenby Castle Beach is one of the town’s most scenic beaches, offering golden sands, rock pools, and stunning coastal views. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring, with St. Catherine’s Island adding to its charm.

Visitors can enjoy beach cafés, watersports, and boat trips, making it a lively yet relaxing destination. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an active day by the sea, Tenby Castle Beach is a must-visit.

Opening times: Open all day Entry cost: Free