The charming town of Tenby in south Wales is iconic for its brightly-coloured houses and the sheer number of beaches within a short walking distance from the centre of town
A coastal jewel has been hailed as the best seaside town in the UK and is said to rival the French Riviera.
The charming harbour town of Tenby in south Wales with its rows of bright and boldly-coloured houses has four stunning beaches just a short stroll from the cobble-lined streets of the town centre. The seaside town has always attracted Brits looking for a delightful summer getaway. Every year, queues of tourists are seen snaking out of the popular local hotspots during peak times.
Due to the rapid changes of the British seaside, the town has managed to reinvent itself to suit modern tastes. It boasts a perfect mix of breathtaking scenery, golden beaches, a variety of activities, and contemporary food options. Outside of the 13th-Century walls that surround the town, visitors can see all the beauty the Pembrokeshire Coast has to offer, with sun-drenched beaches and awesome cliffside vistas stretching out to Caldey Island. The town dates back to the Norman conquest and dotted along the streets are a number of medieval buildings. It has stood as a seaside resort since the Victorian times.
There is also a vibrant food and drink scene in Tenby, which has its own brewery. The town’s iconic colourful houses overlook the picturesque harbour. Beach lovers will not have to travel abroad to get their fix, with Tenby having three miles of sandy expanses in and around the town. One of them, Castle Beach, earned the UK’s best beach title in 2019.
Foodies are spoiled for choice, with boutique eateries lining the pleasant cobblestone streets. Independent bar, restaurant and hotel, The Billycan, has earned a 4.5 average rating on Tripadvisor, and is famed for its pub classics and its take on bistro-style dishes. One of the best days to visit is on a Sunday when the restaurant puts on its delicious Sunday roast.
Tap and Tan is another must-visit. As well as being an independent craft beer taproom, it’s renowned for its meat dishes and curating a delectable menu made from ingredients locally sourced. And once you’re full and ready to hit the hay, there are countless hotels and BandBs to get your head down. With so many on offer, there are rooms to suit every budget. The Broadmead Boutique BandB is the top-rated accommodation in town, with its perfect 5 star score.
Looking to splash out a bit for a spot of luxury? The Heywood Spa Hotel should be top of your list owing to the indulgent pampering services on offer. The Penally Abbey Hotel and Restaurant would also make a perfect place to stay, with its unmatched breathtaking views and complimentary tea and cake. One of Tenby’s main draws is the sheer number of beaches all within a short walk from the centre of town. In a single day, you could stop at North Beach, South Beach, the more secluded Castle Beach and Harbour Beach.
North Beach is famed for its “superb, sheltered, sandy beach with the pinnacle of Goskar rock sticking out of the sand in the middle”, reports the Manchester Evening News. Whether you opt for North Beach, South Beach or the more secluded Castle Beach and Harbour Beach, each offers a picturesque escape. North Beach is particularly famous for its “superb, sheltered, sandy beach with the pinnacle of Goskar rock sticking out of the sand in the middle”.
Harbour beach is a smaller beach with just as much charm. It’s nestled in the harbour and surrounded by the historic castle and gorgeous cottages. It’s a top pick for families who consider it a safe environment in which it’s easy to keep an eye on the kids. Nearby Castle Beach has easy access thanks to a ramp that takes you straight on to the sands. The beach is overlooked by St Catherine’s Island’s fort, which rises out of the ocean during high tide. Lastly, the massive South Beach has more than a mile of sands.
