Delving into Tenby’s Lesser-Known Treasures

Unearth the Hidden Stories and Intriguing Facts About Tenby

While Tenby’s beauty is no secret, there are fascinating and lesser-known facts that add a distinctive layer to its rich tapestry. Explore beyond the scenic landscapes and historic charm to uncover these captivating nuggets of information.

A Riot of Colours Along the Harbour

1. The Vibrant History of Tenby’s Colourful Houses

Beyond its sun-kissed beaches, Tenby is renowned for its harbour’s vividly painted houses. Surprisingly, this burst of colours is a relatively recent addition. In the 19th century, the town council mandated homeowners to paint their properties in various hues, transforming the town into a visual spectacle.

Dinosaurs Roaming in the Past

2. Tenby’s Unexpected Link to Palaeontology

In 1854, Tenby witnessed a groundbreaking event in Welsh palaeontology. The town became the site of the first-known dinosaur discovery in Wales as the fossilised remains of a Megalosaurus were unearthed in a limestone quarry, contributing significantly to the early understanding of prehistoric reptiles.

Source: Amgueddfa Cymru – National Museum Wales

Little England Beyond Wales

3. Tenby’s Flemish Touch and Defensive Walls Saga!

Following the Norman invasion of South Pembrokeshire, the region underwent effective annexation from the rest of Wales, earning the moniker ‘Little England Beyond Wales.’ This transformation, marked by historical and linguistic distinctions, saw the arrival of Flemish settlers renowned for their construction skills, pivotal in erecting the protective walls enveloping Tenby.

Caldey Island’s Monastic Surprises

4. Monastic Self-Sufficiency on Caldey Island

Caldey Island, a stone’s throw from Tenby, holds not only a serene monastery but also monks leading a self-sufficient lifestyle. Beyond spiritual pursuits, the monks produce handmade chocolate, perfumes, and other goods, contributing to the island’s unique economy.

Source: Caldey Island

Oranges and Pirates

5. Tenby’s Time as a Mediaeval Spice Hub and Pirate Haven!

During the mediaeval and Tudor eras, Tenby flourished as a vital port, facilitating the exchange of goods such as cloth, wood, spices, and even oranges with Spain, Ireland, and the Mediterranean. This prosperity, however, attracted not only trade but also pirates, who were rumoured to conceal themselves on the opposite side of St. Catherine’s Island.

Plague Walls and Perseverance

6. The Harrowing Tale of Tenby’s 1650 Pandemic Ordeal!

In 1650, a devastating plague swept through Tenby, compelling the population to seek refuge within the town walls. Supplies were delivered to the outskirts due to the pervasive fear, resulting in an estimated loss of 300 lives from the town’s total population of 1000. This tragic event plunged Tenby into a period of decline and poverty.

Tunnels and Triumph

7. Henry Tudor’s Great Escape from Tenby’s Underground Secrets!

The town’s underground tunnels played a pivotal role in Henry Tudor’s escape, with the supposed exit near the present-day Boots site. Henry navigated these clandestine passages onto a waiting boat, eventually returning to Britain to overthrow King Richard and ascend to the throne, marking a remarkable chapter in Tenby’s historical narrative.

Records of Heroism at Tenby Lifeboat Station

8. Bravery and Rescues: Tenby Lifeboat Station’s Storied Past

The station was established in 1852 by the Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society and two years later was handed over by the Society to the Institution. Just one of their many heroic endeavours includes silver medals awarded to The Hon Lieut R F Boyle RN and Second-Service Clasp to Coxswain Robert Parrott for the service to the brig Policy of Sunderland, which was wrecked during a heavy gale on the Monkstone Rocks on 7 November 1859.

Source: RNLI – Tenby Lifeboat Station

With these fun facts you can uncover the secrets and stories that make Tenby a coastal gem, blending natural beauty with a tapestry of fascinating history.