Things to do in Tenby

Things to do in Tenby

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Tenby is a historic and picturesque Welsh seaside town. This popular holiday spot is known for its hospitality, interesting architecture, outstanding coastline, and superb Haven holiday parks.  

Originally called Dinbych y Pysgod or "little town of fishes," Tenby was once a fortified Norman town. Evidence of its past still remains, thanks to its surrounding Medieval stone wall. There are lots of things to do near Tenby, whether you’re looking for family days out, great food, arts and culture, or something more active. Best of all, you can stay at Kiln Park, Lydstep Beach or Penally Court holiday parks and be right round the corner.

Have a fun day out at Dinosaur Park

The Dinosaur Park is just a short drive away if you stay at Penally Court, Kiln Park or Lydstep Beach holiday parks. It’s an ideal day out for families with younger children.

There are many great activities available, like a Dino Safari, fun rides, footgolf, and more. Check it out and tick off one of the best things to do in Tenby!

Visit the incredible St. Catherine’s Island

Visit the incredible St. Catherine’s Island

You can reach St. Catherine’s Island on foot if the tides are low. Connected by Castle Beach, the island contains a Napoleonic fort, a must for history lovers. It’s a fantastic unspoiled spot for peaceful picnics, hikes, or collecting sea shells, thanks to its 11 kilometres of beautiful beaches.

Take a trip to Tenby Harbour

Take a trip to Tenby Harbour

Tenby Harbour is located right in the centre of the town. It’s a beautiful spot for fishing, boat trips, or even just looking around. Brightly coloured Georgian houses and bobbing moored boats give Tenby Harbour a picture postcard feel. On a sunny day, it’s absolute paradise.

See the tigers in Manor Wildlife Park

Manor Wildlife Park is close to our Penally Court and Kiln Parkholiday parks. It has a fantastic collection of wildlife, like zebras, emus, monkeys, camels, and, of course, tigers. The park also has a play area for kids. It’s an unforgettable day out!

Check out the lifeboat station

Check out the lifeboat station

Tenby Lifeboat Station was built in 1852. It’s steeped in history, and you might catch a practice launch if you're lucky enough. Otherwise, you can get close to the modern lifeboat, which is a treat. It’s free to visit and has a great gift shop where you can get some souvenirs.

Take in the historic Tudor Merchant’s House

If you’re a history buff, the 15th-century Tudor Merchant’s House is one the best things to do in Tenby. Take a trip back in time to Tenby’s past as a booming port town and explore the fascinating interiors of this house in all its ornate glory.

See the spire at St. Mary’s Church

See the spire at St. Mary’s Church

St. Mary’s Church is a fascinating 13th-century church that is well worth a visit. Some highlights are a beautiful chancel roof with a panelled ceiling containing over 70 ornate bosses depicting fishes, mermaids, and even sea monsters. It’s a vast, glorious building with so many enchanting features to enjoy.

Solve puzzles on the Mystery Treasure Trail

This self-guided mystery trail is a great way to get kids engaged and exploring the town. A great value activity, it takes you on a trip around Tenby as you uncover clues and take in some of the town's iconic sights. While the goal is to reveal the guilty party, the real prize is the enjoyable two-mile circular walk.

Discover breaks in South Wales

Quay West self catering holidays

Quay West, South Wales

4 nights from £49
Kiln Park self catering holidays

Kiln Park, South Wales

4 nights from £49
Penally Court self catering holidays

Penally Court, South Wales

4 nights from £75
Lydstep Beach self catering holidays

Lydstep Beach, South Wales

3 nights from £115

Heatherton World of Activities

Just three miles from the town centre, Heatherton World of Activities is one of the best things to do near Tenby. Heatherton is jam-packed with activities for kids and adults of any age, with paintballing, go-karting, golf, and even water zorbing just a taste of what's on offer.

Paddleboard in Tenby Bay

Paddleboard in Tenby Bay

Walking around Tenby is a real treat, but to fully understand its beauty, you must experience it from different angles. Taking a paddleboard out in North Beach is a beautiful way to spend some time. The protected cove means you can kayak or paddleboard in relative comfort, even if you’re a beginner.

Harbwr Brewery

Harbwr Brewery

Craft beers are all the rage these days. So why not visit the Tenby Harbwr Brewery to see how it’s done? This beautifully constructed family-run microbrewery is well worth a visit, even if you’re not a beer enthusiast. But if you are, they’ve also got a taproom on-site so that you can test the local produce.

Go-karting at Carew airstrip

If you like the thrill of the open road, thunderkarting at Carew airstrip is one of the best things to do near Tenby. At 390cc, these go-karts are the most powerful on the market. However, there is something for kids too, with junior karts available for over 8s. 

Carew airstrip is just over four miles drive from Tenby by car, but it’s well worth the trip.

Wander the streets of Tenby

Wander the streets of Tenby
Tenby: a terrific town that ticks every box

The streets of Tenby are full of charm. Pastel-coloured houses, shops, bars, and cafes line the maze-like streets, making Tenby an incredible place for a leisurely stroll. You can also explore the remains of the town walls and stumble across several other historical sites.

Green Bridge and the Elegug Stacks, near Stackpole

Green Bridge and the Elegug Stacks, near Stackpole

Address: Pembrokeshire Coast Path, Pembroke SA71 5EB

The cliffs, headlands and offshore islets of Pembrokeshire are susceptible to erosion and can form dramatic formations, including impressive arches.

As natural arches go, it’s hard to beat the Green Bridge. It’s without a doubt one of the best things to do near Tenby, and it’s reachable by car in about 30 minutes. This stunning arch is 80 ft tall and reaches right out into the sea. As a bonus, the nearby Elegug Stacks are the home to nesting guillemots during late Spring and early Summer.

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