A candy coloured Georgian seaside town

48 hours in...Tenby

You’re daydreaming at your desk again of those seaside holidays from long ago; reading that long-abandoned novel over brunch, a walk on the beach, maybe an ice-cream…

…so grab a weekend and head down to one of the favourite beach towns in Wales for some well deserved R&R.

Tenby harbour

Start off with something to sustain you – try Caffé Vista for friendly service and a view to die for. There are so many great places to eat including Fecci’s traditional fish and chips which offer a gluten and wheat free batter, and fry them in a separate fryer for you.

Newly opened eateries and cafes will make deciding where to eat and drink even harder. Try the Sand Bar off Upper Frog street, this great street food venue is also home to the Tenby Brewing Company’s craft beer.

In Lower Frog street try The Billy Can serving craft ales and lagers plus innovative bistro style meals. Near St Marys Church on High Street, you’ll find Umi offering a relaxed dining experience serving Japanese influenced dishes using the best fresh, free range & wherever possible, local ingredients.

Tudor Square, Tenby

After all that food you’ll need a walk on the beach! You have three to choose from within the town itself or venture a little outside to Manorbier with the ruins of a castle, or to nearby Saundersfoot and Coppet Hall beach. Whilst you’re here it would be rude not to drop into the infinity pool at St. Brides Hotel and Spa.

Visit one of the numerous art galleries to browse some of the excellent local artists, the Tenby Museum and Art Gallery is a popular choice, as is Llewellyn’s Fine Art gallery. There’s a National Trust Tudor merchants house tucked down Quay Hill between The Qube restaurant and the Lifeboat Tavern. The RNLI lifeboat station on Castle Hill is also a must.

Tenby Museum & Art Gallery overlooking Castle beach

A must visit on any trip to Tenby has to be Caldey Island, a 20-minute boat journey from either the harbour or Castle beach, depending on the tides. It’s a monastic island with an order of Cistercian monks living in the monastery. As well as the island buildings including shop, post office and a lighthouse,  the island has an interlinked network of paths that criss-cross the island with amazing views. Time must be made to visit Priory beach, it’s golden sands and crystal clears waters make it a perfect stop for a picnic or ice cream while watching the Caldey boats come and go.

Caldey Island

If you’re self-catering, head down to the harbour and heckle for some fresh fish and prawns, or if that’s not your thing, grab a takeaway from Barbucci, who cook fresh authentic Indian food right in front of you.

Or if you’re into fine dining try The Blue Ball Restaurant, Plantagenet House, or nearby Coast Restaurant for a real taste of gorgeous, local cuisine!

After a good nights sleep at any of the numerous hotels and guest houses, take a little trip to some of the hidden gems surrounding Tenby. Wander around towering redwoods or try pond dipping in the meadow at Colby Woodland Garden, or venture into the walled garden at Upton Castle Gardens.

Pond dipping at Colby Woodland Garden

Hunt down the remains of the Petrified Forest on Amroth beach with ice cream in hand, and before you head for home, watch one of our stunning sunsets swinging your legs over the harbour wall.

Take a deep breath full of fresh, salty air, and let some time go by.

See you soon…

Explore more of Pembrokeshire’s towns in our ’48 hours in…’ series. There’s Narberth, Pembroke, Newport, Fishguard and St Davids. Plenty of inspiration.

 

Tenby south beach from Giltar Point

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