Fun Things to Do in and Around Tenby for Families
Located in Pembrokeshire, Tenby is a glorious Welsh seaside town with rugged coastlines, a cosy harbour, and medieval walls that will ignite the kids’ imaginations. For adventurous families, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path stretches either side of the town and is the perfect way to spend an energetic day.
There’s also ample opportunity for building sandcastles and people-watching at one of the area’s three stunning beaches. Whatever your preference, read on for our round-up of the top things to do in and around Tenby for families.
10 of the best things to do in Tenby
1. Tenby Harbour
Tenby Harbour has something for everyone. It’s also one of the best ways to take in the delights of a town that’s often described as the Jewel in Pembrokeshire’s crown. Pootle around the colourful houses and enjoy boat-watching as you consume some delicious fish and chips, followed by an ice cream (or two)!
2. Caldey Island
If you’re planning a few days in Tenby with the kids, this is one of the top attractions. Board a boat at the harbour and head out to nearby Caldey Island. Here you can watch various seabirds including puffins, and enjoy a dip in the sea off Priory Beach. Home to a community of Cistercian monks, Caldey Island has plenty of history and beautiful coastal walks to explore. This place is ideal for kids to burn off some energy whilst wildlife-watching. Be sure to book in advance in summer – it gets pretty busy!
3. Go fishing
One of the best things to do in Tenby for adventurous families is heading out onto the open sea. Book a slot with Mackerel Fishing Tenby, who depart regularly from Castle Beach. The kids will learn traditional methods of boat fishing over the hour and a half session, and you may even catch something for dinner!
4. Quad Bike Experience
Travelling to Tenby with older kids? This quad bike safari for the over 16s will have participants tackling various terrain on the back of a 250cc geared Suzuki. One-to-one tuition and a briefing is provided at the start, followed by 50 minutes of riding. Go full-throttle and get your teens’ adrenaline pumping at this hair-raising Tenby attraction.
5. Take in the history
If you prefer a slower pace, there’s also plenty of things to do in Tenby for history buffs. Try to find the Tudor Merchant’s House (hint – it’s located near the harbour). This fifteenth-century townhouse provides a glimpse back into a long-gone time. Whilst you’re wandering the town, be sure to catch Five Arches Gate on South Parade Street, an example of the medieval town walls that once encased the town. Visit St Catherine’s Island – which was once a zoo – and take in the panoramic views of Tenby offered by this Napoleonic fort.
On a clear day, be sure to head to Tenby Castle – you may even be able to see across the Bristol Channel if you’re lucky. If your family are keen to head further afield, Manorbier Castle is just 5 miles away. Dating back to the Norman era, this castle overlooks Manorbier Beach and is the perfect spot to take in some history and soak in the views.
6. Relax on the beach
There are so many beaches in and around Tenby that we just had to include a couple on this list. Castle Beach is the smallest, but is super central, so perfect for a midday splash before visiting some of the other Tenby attractions we’ve covered. North Beach and South Beach are larger sandy beaches that provide ample space for kids to play. Alternatively, book a stand-up paddleboard lesson with SUP sessions and take in the Blue Flag beach from an alternative perspective.
7. Folly Farm Adventure Park
Consistently ranking amongst the most fun things to do in Tenby for families, Folly Farm Adventure Park allows the kids to enjoy rides at the vintage fairground, go racing at Follystone, master a mini-digger, admire meerkats, squeal with the piglets – and more. You can even camp on-site or stay in a quirky Showman’s wagon!
8. Wander the Pembrokeshire Coast Path
Stretching 186 miles, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path offers steep limestone landscapes, sandy beaches, plentiful wildlife and evidence of Neolithic history.
If you’re an energetic bunch, heading out on this windswept path is one of the best things to do in Tenby for families. Be prepared for rough terrain and a range of ascents and descents, alongside stunning seaside views. Walking the 4.5 miles from Tenby to Saundersfoot is a manageable stretch for all ages. Once you’ve completed your wander, catch the bus back from one town to the other– you’ll have earned it.
Alternatively, head out to Stack Rocks and the Green Bridge of Wales – the Welsh version of Dorset’s Durdle Door. Just be sure that these sections of coastline are open on your planned visit, as they run through an army range.
9. Go rock-pooling
If your kids can’t get enough of marine critters, this should definitely be on your list of fun things to do for families in Tenby. Over the course of two hours, your guide from Black Rock Outdoor Company will show you around various rock pools. Get up close and personal with all sorts of creatures and learn all about their coastal habitats.
10. Take in the culture
Tenby Museum and Art Gallery consistently ranks amongst the top Tenby attractions for culture vultures. The oldest independent museum in Wales, you’ll learn all about the history of the town right through from the ninth century to the present day. There are hands-on activities for kids including becoming a history detective, taking pirate treasure trails, and participating in a CBBC Relic Trail. Plus, under 16s go free!
Find a holiday cottage in Tenby for the duration of your stay >>
