Seaside town with beaches and cobbled alleys looks more like French Riviera
With four beautiful beaches a stone's throw away from the hustle and bustle of the town centre, it's little surprise this seaside gem is so highly rated
With four stunning beaches just a pebble's throw from the bustling town centre, enchanting cobbled streets echoing those found in Italy or the French Riviera, and an assortment of vibrant, eye-catching houses that are the talk of towns across Britain - it's hardly surprising that this coastal jewel has scored highly in a recent survey of the "best" seaside towns in the UK.
This idyllic harbour town has consistently drawn in tourists looking for a bona fide British beach holiday experience, with local businesses often witnessing queues during peak visiting times.
Savvy to the seaside allure, Tenby has smartly reinvented itself to cater to the changing demands of a traditional British seaside destination, serving up the perfect mix of spectacular scenery, golden beaches, abundance of leisure pursuits, and contemporary eateries, having once been stigmatised as a haven for rowdy stag and hen dos.
Stepping beyond its historical 13th-century walls, you'll find sun-drenched beaches and striking views of the cliffs plunging into the sea towards the mesmerising Caldey Island. Furthermore, Tenby boasts a lively food and drink scene, its very own brewery, and the most delightful cobbled alleyways where you can savour a pint or sample regional treats, as reported by the Express.
The town's colourful homes, which overlook the breath-taking harbour, are instantly recognisable. With a history that dates back to the Norman Conquest, Tenby has been a beloved seaside resort since the Victorian era. Today, it's as renowned for its narrow cobbled streets as it is for its quintessential British seaside charm.
Beach lovers will adore the three miles of sandy expanses surrounding the town. Castle Beach was crowned the UK's best beach in 2019 and currently holds a 4.7 out of 5 rating on TripAdvisor. Uniquely, unlike almost anywhere else in the UK, it's just a few steps from the town centre. Wondering why Tenby ranked so high? Here's what else this delightful Welsh seaside town offers.
What are Tenby's beaches like?
Tenby has four separate beaches, all open to the public. With two Blue Flag awards to its name, Tenby isn't just a looker - it also boasts some of the UK's cleanest beaches. Take your pick from North Beach, South Beach, or the more compact Castle Beach and Harbour Beach, both tucked between the harbour and the cliffs. Whichever you opt for, you're bound to be delighted.
According to the Visit Pembrokeshire website, North Beach is "a superb, sheltered, sandy beach with the pinnacle of Goskar rock sticking out of the sand in the middle". It's one of Wales' most photographed scenes, thanks to its picturesque harbour views at the western end. But be warned, it can get busy when the sun's shining. From May to September, there are also dog restrictions on the beaches.
Harbour Beach may be the smallest of Tenby's trio, but what it lacks in size, it compensates for in charm. Tucked in the harbour and framed by the town's iconic coloured cottages and castle, it's a hit with families who appreciate being able to keep a close eye on their little ones.
From Harbour Beach, you're spoilt for choice with boat outings. Fancy a day trip to Caldey Island, a Tenby sea safari, or getting wet on kayaks and paddleboards? It's all on offer here.
For a classic British seaside experience, head to South Beach. With a mile-and-a-half of golden sands and dunes, there's space aplenty even when the tide's in. And with shallow waters ideal for a splash about, it's a paddler's paradise.
The intriguing Castle Beach is just a short stroll down a man-made ramp to golden sands, with the imposing St Catherine's Island and its fort emerging from the water at high tide. Visitors who have taken the boat trip to Caldey Island, home to a medieval church, a well-maintained monastery and a unique chocolate factory, disembark at Castle beach.
There are also cafes offering refreshments and ice cream on the sand. Tenby is easily accessible via public transport, with Tenby Station being serviced by the Pembroke Dock branch railway.
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Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox Try stargazing Did you know that Rhyader and the Elan Valley boast some of the world's darkest, clearest, and least polluted skies? The Elan Valley, with its 45,000 acres of safeguarded land, has been at the forefront of this movement since it was awarded International Dark Sky Park status in 2015, becoming the first privately-owned yet publicly-accessible park globally to achieve this. This prestigious status now ensures that the Elan Valley is shielded from light pollution, providing a safe haven for the wealth of wildlife and nature found within the estate. Since receiving its dark sky designation, the Elan Valley is now acknowledged as one of the premier stargazing destinations worldwide and has been highlighted in numerous stargazing guides, talks, and books. But what does this mean in pactice? Simply put, it means minimal light pollution and such clear skies that you can see the Milky Way, meteor showers, and even the faint glow of neighbouring galaxies with the naked eye. The valley's secluded location and considerate conservation efforts make it an exceptional spot for those seeking a deeper connection with the cosmos. Here, you'll discover several prime locations for stargazing. Each offers a unique perspective on the night sky, whether you're a casual observer or a passionate astrophotographer. Craig Goch Dam car park: A popular spot with wide open views, it's ideal for seeing the Milky Way or setting up for long-exposure photography. Claerwen Dam: Known for its dramatic backdrop, this site combines the grandeur of Victorian engineering with the infinite beauty of the stars above. Teifi Pools: Remote and serene, these pools reflect the starlight, creating a mesmerising experience. 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They also offer coffee, cakes, light lunches, and a wide selection of vegan options. By evening, this trendy establishment transforms into a live music venue showcasing emerging acts and hosting popular pizza nights. The Old Swan Tea Rooms is a traditional family-run tea room and cake shop providing a lovely spot for homemade pasties, cakes, and lunches. Give their incredibly tasty chicken curry made from a family recipe a try. For a hearty Sunday lunch, make your way to The Crown for generous servings of meat and veg and a Yorkshire pudding. This is Sunday lunch as Mam would make it – no-nonsense, satisfying, and with plenty of gravy. You certainly won't leave hungry. The Historic Triangle, a beautiful 16th-century drover's inn located in Cwmdauddwr, is a short stroll away. Here you'll find a roaring fire, real cask ales on tap, and homemade food including several pub classics. Another good spot for ales, traditional bar meals, and Sunday carveries is The Lamb and Flag, while the bright green Elan Hotel also has a decent selection of drinks at their bar. Where to stay Mid Wales Holiday Lets These reasonably-priced holiday lets can sleep up to 44 people with Glandwr House, Afonwy House, The Old Drapers, The Bakehouse, and The Cwtch all available. The handsome red-brick converted townhouses are perfect for groups of friends or families travelling together in the Elan Valley area. They are also well-equipped for cyclists, offering secure bike storage to keep your gear safe. After a long day of hitting the trails you can unwind in the bubbly outdoor hot tub, which is perfect for soothing those aching muscles. Ty Morgans For a stay in the heart of Rhayader, Ty Morgans is a historic townhouse that blends traditional charm with a modern feel. This boutique and well-priced accommodation is situated at the crossroads of Rhayader, making it a perfect base for exploring the town and the Elan Valley area. It is thoughtfully designed, incorporating original features like oak beams and stone fireplaces while offering all the modern amenities you'd expect including en suite bathrooms. Ty Morgans is a delightful spot that boasts an on-site bar and restaurant, serving everything from hearty Welsh breakfasts to evening meals. Its central location means you're just a stone's throw away from local shops, pubs, and the Riverside Walk. Elan Valley Hotel Just a short drive from the Elan Valley, the Elan Valley Hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience in a boutique hotel setting. Here, guests can enjoy well-furnished rooms with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Each room is designed for comfort, featuring plush beds and modern amenities. The hotel's restaurant is famed for its exceptional menu, which uses locally-sourced ingredients to provide a truly authentic taste of Wales. It's the ideal location for easy access to the Elan Valley's numerous trails and reservoirs, all while enjoying a touch of luxury. Getting to Rhayader Rhayader, the gateway to the Elan Valley, is easily reachable from various parts of Wales and England. By car: If you're driving, Rhayader is well-connected via the A470 and A44, making it a scenic road trip from cities like Cardiff (around two and a half hours), Birmingham (just over two hours), or Shrewsbury (around 90 minutes). The roads into Mid Wales wind through picturesque countryside, so allow a little extra time for slower rural routes and photo stops. By public transport: Train and bus services are available, albeit limited due to the rural location. The closest train station is situated in Llandrindod Wells, approximately 12 miles away, with connections provided by Transport for Wales. From there, a local bus can be taken to reach Rhayader. For further details and timetables, consult Traveline Cymru or utilise transport apps to assist in planning your journey.
