Tenby Vacation Rentals

Flying in to Tenby

The Cardiff Airport is the nearest main commercial airport to Tenby. The Bristol Airport, although 140 miles away, has more intercontinental flights.

You can also try the bus route to get here from London. Catch the National Express Bus from London Victoria Coach Station which will drop you right at Tenby. Alternately, you could hire a car from London and drive down for four hours to your Tenby vacation rental.

Tenby Cuisine

Experience ocean front dining culture in full swing at Tenby, where waterfront restaurants are the high point of any itinerary. A number of cafes are pet-friendly so don't be too surprised if Struppi is lounging by the next table! Blueberry's Restaurant has an excellent breakfast choice of scones, cakes, pies, and baguettes.

The Bay of Bengal offers soothing sea views and succulent Indian fare, while Barbucci entices with its Indian and Bangladeshi delicacies. The pet-friendly Buccaneer Pub houses a sunny beer garden where guests are served generous portions of pub grub and chilled beer. Complete the treat with a stop at Cadwaladers Ice Cream Shop.

A Good Time to Visit

The best time to visit Tenby is during summer when the famous Welsh blue sky makes its appearance. It does get crowded as holidaymakers arrive from Swansea, Cardiff and further afield. Book your Tenby vacation cottages well in advance. The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn will certainly fetch you discounted Tenby vacation rentals and some alone time.

Things to Do and See

Known as "Little England Beyond Wales", Tenby delights with its public houses, ice cream parlours and cafes that are perfect for people-watching. Popular among the town's attractions is the glassblower demonstrating his craft — you can even buy some handcrafted ornamental glassware here. The 15th century St Mary's church is hard to miss with its towering spire and carved ceiling bosses.

Walk down to the harbour and take a cruise to the monastic Caldey Island, a haven for bird watchers and an oasis of calm. Tenby’s Welsh name, Dinbych-y-Pysgod translates into 'Little Fortress of the Fish'. A fishing expedition will prove this name quite right. The sandy Freshwater East Beach meanwhile beguiles with its scenic coastal paths, sand dunes and wildlife.

Fancy riding through Welsh dramatic coasts and woodlands on a handsome horse? Look no further than Nolton Stables where even novices are welcome. For insider information on Tenby's resident pirates, aliens and witches, try the Tenby Ghost Walk that takes visitors through some of the town's eeriest hoods. And afterwards, come home and unwind at your Tenby vacation rentals.

Art and Culture

The Art Matters & White Lion St Gallery features a tidy selection of sculptures, ceramics, prints, and paintings. There's also Babi-Beau cafe that regularly hosts arts & crafts sessions, children's parties, sewing and mask-making workshops. Enjoy informative videos of the launching of the life boat and its recovery at the Tenby Lifeboat Station.

The oldest independent museum in Wales, the Tenby Museum and Art Gallery, sits beautifully atop Castle Hill. For some more art and history, go to Quay Hill right above the harbour where Tudor Merchants House recounts the life of a 16th century wealthy merchant .

Activities with the Kids

Kids and adults alike will enjoy Battlefield Live, an outdoor combat gaming experience. For some more physical action, the indoor Blue Lagoon Water Park has everything from rapids, slides and lazy waves. Dinosaur Park is another value-for-money attraction that'll keep the kids happy and occupied for at least half a day. Say hello to the animals at Anna's Welsh Zoo where wallabies and llamas eagerly await your arrival.

The medieval harbour town of Tenby is like few others. Book your Tenby vacation cottage to see what the fuss is all about.

Excursion Destinations

For sweeping views of Caldey Island, head to the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path. The rival village of Saunderfoot lies just three miles away from Tenby and has a nice harbour, a sandy beach and cafes. Those in the mood to venture further out can drive down the South West coast of Wales to discover its rugged landscapes and unique cultures.

Visiting family-friendly Tenby

Manor Wildlife Park

Also known as Anna's Welsh Zoo, after tv-presenter and owner Anna Ryder Richardson, this 52-acre park houses endangered species such as oryxes, Damara zebras, tapirs and Sumatran tigers.

Carew Castle

Wander around the castle's atmospheric ramparts and walls, and visit the onsite water mill. Kids love the grazing ponies, gargoyles and beautiful stained glass chapel window.

Tenby Lifeboat Station

Established in 1852, this historic lifeboat station enjoys its clifftop setting while providing comprehensive information on the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.

Heatherton World of Activities

Kids and adults alike can take their pick from zip-lining, rifle shooting, high-rope climbing, archery, paintball and water zorbing among other activities. Even your dog can have fun here, on the dog agility track.

Castle Beach

Visit Castle Beach for its dramatic cliff views, and soft golden sandy beaches, perfect for building sand castles, basking in the sun or enjoying a leisurely swim. Shore facilities include toilets, a cafe and a museum/art gallery.