Tenby

Tenby is one of Britain's most attractive holiday resorts. Surrounded by a 13th century wall, this unique Victorian town has escaped modernisation. The narrow cobbled streets with a variety of good restaurants, shops, pubs, the picturesque harbour with its fishing trips, and the nearby Caldey Island, all add to its popularity.

Tenby is without doubt one of the most popular resorts in Wales. Its name in Welsh, Dynbych-y-pysgod, means 'The little fort of the fishes'. Tenby used to be a fishing village but tourism is now its main industry. The South and North beach provide excellent bathing from beautiful sandy beaches and watersports are popular here. The coastal path is a scenic route showing South Pembrokeshire in all its glory and linking many of its beaches and coves.

The Tenby Museum and Gallery was founded in 1878 and is situated on the site of the old castle overlooking Castle Beach. The exhibits and information cover the geology and archaeology of Pembrokeshire, a history of the development of Tenby and an art gallery.

After the civil war, the plague of 1650-1651 killed off more than half of the population of Tenby. This had a devasting effect on the once prosperous and successful trading town and many of the buildings became empty, abandoned and destroyed. The town remained poor and in a state of decay for over a hundred years until the mid 18th century when seaside resorts became the destination of the wealthy and doctors recommended the sea air as a cure to all manner of ailments.

Caldey Island is certainly worth a visit. Advertised as an island of peace and tranquillity, with unspoiled beauty, it is just three miles away from Tenby and regular daily boat trips take tourists across the calm waters. The monastery which is owned by the Reformed Cistercian Order, supports a community of around 20 monks. The island has good sandy beaches and excellent walks, some shops selling the island produce and a post office.

If you are looking for a place to put your feet up for a week or so and want to avoid too much travel on your holiday then Tenby is the ideal location.

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