Tenby Bay, Wales (Image: Tamasgabor via Getty Images)
With a perfect blend of stunning natural scenery, tanned sandy beaches, leisure activities and modern eateries, tourists are no surprises to flock to Tenby. It has been a favorite for those seeking a typical British seaside holiday.
It boasts four beautiful beaches within the central stone throw, charming cobblestone streets reminiscent of those found in the French Riviera and Italy, and picturesque arrangements of bright houses. During the summer rush, you will find a queue coming out through the doors of local haunts. And then it's not surprising. He claims high score bragging rights in a survey of the “best” seaside towns in the UK.
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A glorious day at North Beach in Tenby (Image: Getty Images)
The town's lively homes above the scenic harbor are instantly identifiable.
Tenby's history can be traced back to Norman's conquest, with medieval structures still hidden in alleys and hidden corners.
Visitors wandering past Tenby's historic 13th century walls will have views of the shining beaches and Clifffoottop across the body of water towards Hypnotic Caldey Island.
It has also been a precious seaside resort since the Victorian period.
Today it is famous for its four beaches, narrow cobblestone lanes, lively pubs, top-notch eateries and typical coastal charm. Beach enthusiasts delight in the three miles of sand surrounding the town.
Castle Beach was named the UK's Best Beach in 2019 and currently boasts a 4.8 out of five ratings on Google.
Beyond the scenery, Tenby takes pride in the lively cuisine and pub scene, including exclusive local breweries and enchanting lanes where visitors can drink beer and indulge in Welsh delicacies.
Tenby boasts numerous cafes along the sandy beach. The town is easily reached via public transport and is served by Tenby station, Pembroke Dock branch.
Castle Beach, Tenby, Wales (Image: Christina Reichl Photography by Getty Images)
Tenby Beach
Four beaches just throw stones from the heart of Tenby, and there's a patch of paradise for everyone.
Choose from North Beach, South Beach, the quiet Castle Beach and Harbour Beach. Each promises an idyllic coastal spot.
North Beach in particular boasts “a wonderful, evacuated, sandy beach with the pinnacle of Goscar Rock protruding from the sand in the middle.”
For those who prefer a more intimate setting, Harbour Beach is a fun choice. Hiding in the harbor, surrounded by charming cottages and ancient castles, it is a favorite among the family for its safe and careful environment.
Meanwhile, Castle Beach is easily accessible via specially constructed lamps, unveiling golden sand and offering impressive views of the tidal fort of St. Catherine Island.
Visitors returning from a trip to Caldey Island, famous for their medieval churches, will find a way back to Castle Beach shore, perfectly storing the monastery and unique chocolate factory.
Last but not least, there is over a mile of golden sand in South Beach.
BBQ platter with taps and tan sides (Image: Kathryn Williams)
Where to eat in Tenby?
When it comes to dietary options, from gastropubs and boutique restaurants to barbecue and craft beer specialists, they are spoiled for their choice.
With an overall score of 4.5 on TripAdvisor, Bilikan is a separate bar, restaurant and hotel located in the heart of Tenby.
Offering an appetizing selection of pub favourites and innovative bistro style dishes, this popular spot also offers fantastic Sunday roasts.
Whether you are visiting as a couple or as a family with children of all ages, it's perfect.
Another must-see for food lovers is taps and tans. This independent craft beer taproom and highly rated TripAdvisor, Live Fire Cookley is renowned for its meaty feast and carefully curated menus made from locally produced ingredients.
Other top spots to dine in Tenby include indie burgers, known for their gourmet burgers.
Coach and Horse are the oldest pubs in Tenby (Image: Getty)
Where to stay in Tenby
From the perfect B&BS to the luxurious hotels, Tenby is available on a variety of budgets.
TripAdvisor users guarantee BroadMead Boutique B&B as a creme de la claim for stays and will fully rate the 5 star approval rate.
For the ultimate dul, the Heywood Spa Hotel offers the perfect shelter.
Alternatively, Penally Abbey Hotel and Restaurant offers visitors a stunning view, with a sweet addition of complimentary tea and cakes for a truly memorable stay.
Those traveling in groups may be flashy to rent an impressive cliff foot top house.
Where to drink in Tenby?
Pushed into the quaint cobblestone lanes, Herb Waltenby appears as a hidden gem of the town, earning an impressive 4.5 on TripAdvisor.
The social atmosphere invites guests to snake through the on-site brewery, witnessing beer activations and tasting top-notch pub dishes at the adjacent bar.
Other favorite haunts will also please the crowd with hope and anchors, coaches and horses.
Tourists flock to the seaside Welsh town (Image: Andrea Pucci via Getty Images)
How Tenby concluded its “best” rating and what visitors think
Tenby won the top destination title for Holiday Fun and 7.71 out of 10 in OLBG study reported Manchester Evening News.
This study examined a variety of factors, including pubs, restaurants, museums, parks, zoos, aquariums, water and amusement parks, amusement parks, beach review scores, hotel prices, Google search, average temperature, average rainfall, and proximity to local train stations.
Tourists are fascinated by the charm of Tenby and have left passionate reviews of their visit.
A visitor who visited Castle Beach in May 2025 said:
“I stayed in Tenby for a break from the bustle of life,” another said in September 2024.
A family who took a holiday there in April 2023 described it as a “beautiful town,” saying, “it's a place of beauty, a sidewalk, a restaurant, a work environment with cobblestone streets and archways, smell and sounds.
“I loved it. It's so funny to roam from the lifeboat towards the shore and see the work heritage. A more modern aspect of sightseeing and restaurants, people lined up at boat tours and seafood kiosks. Cobblestone streets with shops and Curio arches. It's definitely worth a visit.”
