With a fishing culture and a lively harbor full of colorful boats, Tenby is an enchanting walled town overlooking Carmarthen Bay. Stretches of sandy beaches flank the coast, while historic churches, museums and galleries lie within the walls. Admire the jumbled array of colorful houses along the harbor.
Stroll leisurely through the town’s historic center and admire various vestiges of the ramparts. Gaze up at the Five Arches Gate tower, the only remaining gate after most were demolished in the 1700s. The walls were initially built in the 13th century by the Earls of Pembroke.
Walk to the headland on the northeastern part of town for the ruins of Tenby Castle, which was deemed obsolete following the construction of the walls. Follow in the footsteps of the 12th-century Normans as you walk past the remaining castle features.
A path atop Castle Hill connects the ruins to Tenby Harbour. Watch fishermen at work. Turn inland to gaze up at the hills, adorned with colorful houses. Lay down a blanket on the sandy beaches surrounding the promontory and the town. These beaches include South Beach, Castle Beach, Harbour Beach and North Beach.
Venture into the hilly, green countryside outside the town. To the southwest is Manorbier Castle, which offers panoramic views of the sea. Go through the postern gate to access Manorbier Beach. Photograph your favorites from the array of colorful boats. Sunbathe on the sand during warm summers and wrap up in thick layers for a stroll in the cold winters.
Tenby is located on the western part of Carmarthen Bay in Pembrokeshire County in West Wales. It is a little south of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and St. George’s Channel, which separates Wales from Ireland. Fly to Cardiff Airport and drive west for about 90 miles (145 kilometers) to get here.
Enjoy the sleepy fishing village of Tenby and the architectural treasures inside its walls.