Tenby Travel Guide

Despite its relatively remote location, Tenby is one of the most popular seaside resorts in Wales, filling with tourists from all over the UK during the summer months. Located about 92 miles (148km) west of Cardiff, this small city exudes medieval charm and offers cultural attractions beyond the lure of its two and a half miles (4km) of beach.

Tenby has a number of nicknames: 'Little England Beyond Wales'; 'The Jewel in Pembrokeshire's Crown'; and 'Little Town of Fishes', which comes from its Welsh name, Dinbych-Y-Pysgod. The town came to prominence in medieval times as a port city, and in the Georgian and Victorian eras as a health resort and centre of scientific study.

Tenby's sandy beaches are surrounded with excellent facilities, including wide promenades, children's play areas, and plenty of variety in food and drink. The city itself has more than 20 licensed pubs, and a number of good restaurants and shops.

Tenby has a number of historical sites, with buildings dating back hundreds of years. The Merchant's House showcases Tudor style, with beautifully painted walls and furniture. The city walls are another major attraction, showcasing impressive architecture and engineering from the 15th century.

The main historical sight of Tenby is the ruined castle, which was built by the Normans in the 13th century, and the museum and art gallery that have been installed there. Another fascinating site lies in the bay, roughly two miles (3km) from Tenby: Caldy Island is home to an ancient Benedictine monastic cell, and the current Cistercian abbey holds relics dating back to the 6th century.