Tenby is one of the most charming seaside towns in Wales, with its pastel-colored houses, golden beaches, and medieval history. Whether you’re here to relax on the sand, explore historic sites, or take in the stunning coastal views, Tenby has something for everyone.
I first discovered Tenby when I moved to Wales as a teenager. At 17, I joined an exchange program with Education First (EF), expecting to end up somewhere in England – only to find out I’d been placed in Saundersfoot, just 10 minutes from Tenby.
A quick Google search later, I realized I’d landed somewhere pretty special.
Since that year, I’ve returned to Tenby many times. It’s one of my favorite places in Wales, and whether I’m revisiting old haunts or discovering new hidden gems, it never loses its charm.
This guide covers the best things to do in Tenby, from historic castles and scenic coastal walks to local shopping, ghost tours, and water adventures. If you’re planning a visit, check out my Where to Stay in Tenby guide for the best hotels and accommodations in town.
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How to Get to Tenby
Tenby might feel like a hidden gem, but getting here is easier than you’d think. If you’re traveling from outside the UK, the best way to reach Tenby is by flying into London or Cardiff, then making your way west by train or car.
- By Train: From London Paddington, the journey takes around 5 hours, with a transfer in Swansea before reaching Tenby. From Cardiff, it’s a shorter trip of 2–3 hours, with the same transfer in Swansea. The final stretch of the journey offers stunning coastal views, making it a scenic ride worth enjoying.
- By Car: Driving to Tenby gives you more flexibility, especially if you want to explore the surrounding Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. The drive from Cardiff takes about 2 hours, while from London, it’s around 4.5–5 hours.
Fun fact: The Welsh name for Tenby is Dinbych-y-Pysgod, which means “fortlet of the fish”. If you can pronounce it correctly, you’re officially an honorary local!
13 Great Things to do in Tenby
Surrounded by beaches, Tenby is a haven for fishermen and summer tourists. If you’re thinking of what to do in Tenby, the recipe is easy: spend a day lying on the beach, buy an ice cream form the cart and enjoy the sun.
The beaches in Pembrokeshire are amongst the best hidden gems in the UK!
For lunch (or dinner, whatever floats your boat) drop by one of the many local ‘chippies’ for some authentic fish and chips! There are several to choose from, but my favourite is on Upper Park Road.
1. Relax on Tenby’s Beautiful Beaches
Tenby is home to some of the best beaches in Wales, and no visit is complete without spending time on the sand. Whether you want to sunbathe, swim, or take a scenic seaside walk, you’ll have plenty of options.
- North Beach – Iconic for its golden sand and the massive Goscar Rock in the middle.
- South Beach – A quieter, more open stretch, perfect for long coastal walks.
- Castle Beach – A small but stunning cove, overlooked by the ruins of Tenby Castle.
Just watch out for the seagulls—they’re known for stealing chips and ice creams straight from your hands! For more stunning coastal spots in Wales, check out my Best Beaches in Wales guide.
2. Visit Caldey Island
A short boat ride from Tenby, Caldey Island is a peaceful retreat run by Cistercian monks. The island is home to a historic abbey, scenic walking trails, and quiet beaches, making it a perfect escape from the town’s livelier streets.
If you don’t have time to visit, you can still pick up handmade chocolates and perfumes from Caldey Island’s monastery at their shop in Tenby. Boats run seasonally from April to September, and it’s best to check ahead for weather conditions.
3. Explore the Colorful Harbour & Take a Coastal Walk
Tenby’s postcard-perfect harbour is one of its most photographed spots, with pastel-colored houses lining the water. Spend time wandering the charming narrow streets, watching boats bob in the harbour, or walking along the clifftop trails that offer breathtaking views.
For an easy but rewarding walk, follow the Pembrokeshire Coast Path from Tenby towards Saundersfoot, stopping at scenic viewpoints along the way.
4. Take a Tenby Walking Tour
Tenby is steeped in history, and a walking tour is the best way to uncover its secrets. You’ll learn about Jasper Tudor’s escape from the Yorkists, the town’s medieval fortifications, and the stories hidden within the centuries-old walls.
If you love history, this is an absolute must-do to truly appreciate Tenby’s past.
5. Explore the Ruins of Tenby Castle
Sitting high above Castle Beach, the ruins of Tenby Castle date back to the 12th century, offering stunning panoramic views over the coastline. While only parts of the original fortress remain, the site still feels historic, and the views alone make it worth the climb.
In the 1400s, Jasper Tudor – uncle to Henry VII – helped strengthen Tenby’s defenses, ensuring the town played a role in shaping British history.
6. Visit Pembroke Castle & Carew Castle
Just a short drive from Tenby, Pembroke Castle is one of Wales’ most historic landmarks – and the birthplace of Henry VII. If you’re a Tudor history fan, this is a must-visit. You can even explore the same halls where Margaret Beaufort gave birth to Henry VII at just 13 years old!
Nearby Carew Castle is equally fascinating, with its riverside location and eerie legends. A fun fact? It’s said to be haunted by the ghost of an ape, supposedly kept as a pet by a 17th-century castle owner. For the best photo spot, park just across the river, where I used to sit and chat with friends when I lived nearby.
For more castles in the area, check out my Best Things to Do in Pembrokeshire post.
7. Paddleboarding at North Beach
One unique way to experience Tenby’s coastline is from the water, and a guided paddleboarding tour from North Beach lets you do just that. This 2-hour adventure takes you past Goscar Rock, Waterwynch Bay, and Monkstone Point, offering a completely different perspective of Tenby’s iconic scenery.
The tour is beginner-friendly, with expert instructors providing a safety briefing and paddling technique guidance before you hit the water. Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced paddler, the fully qualified instructors will ensure you feel comfortable and confident throughout.
The tour includes premium wetsuits, high-quality paddleboards, and insurance, so all you need to bring is a sense of adventure.
One of the best parts of this experience is the tranquil setting – since the tour runs at high tide, you’ll enjoy the calmest waters and fewer crowds, making for a peaceful and immersive paddle. Plus, the guides even capture a photo of you on the water, so you’ll have a keepsake from your adventure.
8. Visit St. Catherine’s Island & Fort
At low tide, you can walk across the sand to St. Catherine’s Island, where a 19th-century fortress sits atop the rocky landscape. The fort was built in 1867 and is now open for guided tours, offering a unique glimpse into Tenby’s military history.
9. Go Shopping in Tenby’s Independent Stores
Tenby has plenty of independent shops, making it a great place to pick up souvenirs, home decor, and artwork. A few local favorites include:
- Equinox – Quirky home decor and gifts.
- Clarice Toy Shop – A fun stop for kids (or nostalgic adults!).
- Tenby Art Galleries – Browse local Welsh artists’ work.
10. Visit the Tudor Merchant’s House
Step back in time and see what life was like for a wealthy Tenby merchant in the 1500s. During the Tudor period, Tenby was a thriving trade hub, with ships arriving from across Europe, bringing in goods such as wine, salt, and spices. This well-preserved three-story house (and National Trust site) offers a glimpse into how a successful merchant and his family would have lived.
Run by the National Trust, the house has been carefully restored with faithful reproductions of Tudor-era furnishings, giving it an authentic atmosphere. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just curious about Tenby’s past, this is a fascinating stop that brings the town’s medieval heritage to life.
11. Go on a Ghost Walk
Tenby is known for its ghostly legends, and joining a ghost walk is a fun way to explore the town’s darker history. The Sunday Times even ranked the Tenby Ghost Walk as one of the best in Britain!
Expect chilling stories, eerie alleyways, and a touch of Pembrokeshire folklore.
12. Visit St. Mary’s Church
Right in the heart of Tenby, St. Mary’s Church dates back to the 13th century and holds centuries of local history. Inside, you’ll find the tomb of Thomas White, the mayor who helped Henry VII escape from Tenby during the Wars of the Roses.
If, like me, you love Tudor history, I highly recommend The Red Queen by Philippa Gregory, which tells the story of Margaret Beaufort’s relentless fight for her son’s throne.
13. Visit the Tenby Museum & Art Gallery
Tenby is home to Wales’ oldest independent museum, founded in 1878. Inside, you’ll find exhibits on local history, maritime legends, geology, and even piracy. It’s a great spot to visit – especially on a rainy day!
Events & What’s On in Tenby
Tenby hosts exciting events all year round, from the famous Boxing Day Swim to beer festivals and Halloween ghost tours. Check out these sites for the latest updates:
Final Thoughts
Tenby is one of my favorite places in Wales, and no matter how many times I visit, I always find something new to love. Whether it’s relaxing on the beaches, uncovering its fascinating history, or enjoying the vibrant town atmosphere, it’s a place that keeps calling me back.
Read next: The Best Luxury Hotels in Wales (for your bucket list)!