Regularly featured in top ten lists of resorts in Wales, Tenby is one of the most popular in the UK. And it’s easy to see why. It’s got pretty much everything you’d want from a seaside town.
We’ve visited at least once for every one of the past 40 years. And that’s not going to change any time soon. This great tourist location draws us back time and again.
There are so many things to do around Tenby that we won’t attempt to cover them all. But here are some of our favourites.
Relax on a beach
But which one? There are four beaches in Tenby! We’ve dedicated entire posts to them but they are:
And they’re all as good as they are individual. In fact they regularly win awards with, for example, The Sunday Times rating Tenby’s Castle Beach the best in the UK in 2019.
Visit a lifeboat station
Make sure it’s the right one though! The original (with the red roof) is privately owned and was converted into a home several years ago.
The new one stands proudly beside it and is home to the Tenby RNLI. It’s open for viewing although times vary and is, in our opinion, a pretty fascinating place to visit. tenby-lifeboat.co.uk
Conquer a Castle (hill)
Yes, on top of everything else, Tenby has it’s own castle! Well, what’s left of it anyway. Which is just one tower now. But it’s incredibly well preserved and maintained and those views……
Talking of castles, you could…..
Take a circular drive around 3 other castles
There are 3 other castles within short driving distances from Tenby and you can get around them all within an hour. If you don’t stop that is. But you will want to stop. So pencil in a half or even a full day and follow our Castles near Tenby circular drive route.
Explore the Castle Walls
While we’re on the subject of Castles, this fortified town was built by the Normans. And you can still see lots of evidence of the town’s early history today. If you stroll around you’ll see the old town walls as well as remnants of the original work pretty much everywhere. ‘Five arches’ gate is a must see.
Set sail from Harbour
Or just have a stroll around one. No trip to Tenby would be complete without visiting the harbour. Take in the sights and the smells and sample the delicious Seafood on offer.
Great for Instagrammers this is also where you can take a boat trip to Caldey Island.
Wander the streets
The maze of streets that is the centre of Tenby reminds us a bit of Venice. Well maintained private houses sitting alongside quirky shops and great places to eat. Some of the streets are cobbled and far too narrow for vehicles so this really is a great place to wander.
Shop till you drop
Shopping in Tenby is very much about boutiques and small independents but there are a few well known high street names here too. Most of the shops are located in the High Street and those running off it. Some are more accessible than others.
Eat, Drink and be Merry
There are so many places to eat and drink in Tenby that you’ll find it difficult to choose. Cafes, bistros, large fast food chains and fine dining restaurants. It’s got them all.
We can’t give recommendations because things change and everyone’s tastes differ. Suffice it to say that you will not have difficulty finding something to suit you. Possibly because of the competition here you will be spoilt for choice.
Where to find information on other things to do around Tenby
Tenby Tourist Information Centre is located next to the multi-storey car park. There is also a Visitor Centre run by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park by Five Arches, the main gateway into the old town.
Check out our destination guide to Tenby which contains useful information such as how to get there and when to visit.
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6 thoughts on “Things to do around Tenby”
Wander the streets = my favorite thing in every town, but your pictures here make for a new definition of quaint! I must go! Thank you!
Thanks so much Jen, that’s very kind of you. And yes, you must 😆
Tenby looks like a really nice place to hang out. With these views and castles, I could easily spend a few days there!
Thanks Kasia. It really is!
Loving your posts on Wales. You’re really showcasing the scenery and cultural sites! Your photos are awesome (very professional-looking). Definitely thinking about trying to make it down to Southwest Wales because of your blog and Instagram posts!
Thanks so much Andrew. You’d get a great welcome 👍