Tenby

Towns & Villages In Pembrokeshire

Postcode: SA70 7JD | WhatThreeWords: lodge.worlds.rooting

Tenby, Pembrokeshire – Colourful Streets, Golden Beaches & Award-Winning Charm.

Tenby is one of the most famous and picturesque towns in Wales – and with good reason. With its pastel-coloured buildings, sandy Blue Flag beaches, historic walls, and stunning coastal views, Tenby has long been a favourite holiday spot for families, couples, and travellers from all over the world. Sitting proudly on the edge of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, it’s the kind of place that feels like it was made for postcards – and memories.

This beautiful walled town is packed with character and charm. Tenby’s roots stretch back to the 12th century, when it became a Norman stronghold. Today, large sections of its original medieval town walls still stand, enclosing a maze of narrow cobbled streets, independent shops, traditional pubs, cosy cafés, and ice cream parlours. From spring through to early autumn, the town centre becomes pedestrianised during the day, with no cars allowed inside the walls – creating a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere that’s perfect for strolling, shopping, or just soaking up the seaside vibes.

One of Tenby’s biggest draws is its four award-winning beaches, all within easy walking distance of the town. Castle Beach, North Beach, South Beach, and Harbour Beach each offer their own charm – from long sandy stretches perfect for families to sheltered spots ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Several of these beaches have earned Blue Flag status for cleanliness, water quality, and safety, with lifeguard patrols during peak times and plenty of beachfront facilities. North Beach, with the iconic Goscar Rock, is one of the most photographed spots in Wales.

From Castle Beach, visitors can catch a boat across to Caldey Island, a peaceful holy island run by a community of Cistercian monks. The island is open to visitors in the summer months and is home to a working monastery, a small village, a beautiful beach, and a shop selling handmade perfumes and chocolate made by the monks. The short boat ride is a highlight for many and offers fantastic views of the town from the water.

Tenby also hosts some of Wales’ biggest and most exciting events. The town transforms into a hub of sporting energy during the Long Course Weekend in July and the world-famous Ironman Wales in September, attracting elite athletes and thousands of spectators. These events fill the streets with colour, cheering crowds, and an incredible sense of community spirit. And when winter rolls in, Tenby’s streets come alive once again with the legendary New Year’s Eve celebration – one of the most popular in the UK – where visitors and locals dress up in creative costumes and enjoy fireworks, live music, and a proper street party atmosphere throughout the town.

History lovers will find plenty to explore. The Tenby Museum and Art Gallery, perched above Castle Beach, is the oldest independent museum in Wales and tells the story of the town’s rich past – from fishing and shipwrecks to artists and wartime tales. The remains of Tenby Castle still overlook the town, offering fantastic views from the headland across to Caldey Island and beyond.

Despite its popularity, Tenby never loses its charm. It balances its bustling summer atmosphere with moments of quiet beauty – whether you’re wandering along the beach at sunrise, enjoying fish and chips by the harbour, or watching the tide roll in under the soft light of a Welsh sunset.

With a population of around 5,000, Tenby is a small town with a big reputation. It’s consistently featured in travel guides and holiday shortlists – and in 2024, it was officially named the Best Seaside Town in the UK by WalesOnline, and crowned the Best Entertainment Holiday Destination by Parkdean Resorts thanks to its vibrant mix of beaches, attractions, family appeal, and nightlife. These national accolades only confirm what locals and regular visitors already know: Tenby is truly one of the best places in the country for a coastal getaway.

Accommodation in Tenby ranges from boutique hotels and friendly guest houses to self-catering cottages and campsites just outside town. Trains and buses run regularly, and parking is available at various points on the edge of town – with shuttle buses in the summer to help keep the pedestrian centre calm and car-free.

Whether you’re coming for the golden sands, the rich heritage, a world-class event, or just a classic seaside escape, Tenby is everything you’d hope for in a Welsh coastal town – and more. It’s no wonder so many visitors return year after year.

Tenby, Sponsored By…