A Guest Post, Reflecting on a Decade of Adventures

2024 marks ten years since I first visited Tenby and Pembrokeshire. (I don’t count my Mum taking me when I was 18 months old in 1973, so that’s my age given away). Let’s start with my initial memories, where I’ve been, what I’ve done, likes and loves.

A Home Away from Home: Trevayne Farm and Caravan Park

I always stay at Trevayne Farm and Caravan Park, which is located between Tenby and Saundersfoot (it does help that a good friend has a static caravan there overlooking the sea). As a walker/hiker, the stomp into Saundersfoot is all about timing. Tide out, and it’s down to Monkstone Beach, which is a flat walk to the town. Tide in, and it’s the coastal path. The walk into Tenby is usually taken by road as the coastal path isn’t all that (I’ll tell you about the best bits later) and takes about 45 mins; it’s downhill. Coming back from Saundersfoot, it’s the open-top bus all the way, and it’s a taxi from Tenby.

So my highlights over the last 10 years…

Walking Highlights

Manorbier to Tenby

If you only do one hike on your holiday to Tenby, do this one! Get the bus from opposite Sainsburys to Manorbier and then head back along the coast; it’s between 6.5 and 7 miles. I always put in a pitstop or two at Bubbleton Farm, Cross Inn Penally and finishing up at Salty’s (best for sunsets too). Check the walk HERE

The walk itself is stunning, and the coastline, cliffs, and views are amazing. Be on the lookout for Seals and a variety of birds. I’d rate it as moderate. There are a couple of steady climbs, and the steps to Lydstep total 125. But you don’t need to be a fitness freak, just in reasonable condition. If you suffer from a fear of heights or vertigo, it might not be for you, either!

Bosherston Lily Ponds

Firstly, June is the best time to visit for the lilies. This is an easy walk but an oasis of fresh water near the ocean, two worlds colliding. Be on the lookout for Heron, Kingfisher and other wildlife. There are various routes to take, so it’s up to you. And, of course, there’s a pub, St. Govan’s Inn. Give yourself 1-3 hours, depending on how far you want to go.

Trevayne to Amroth

A combination of beach, coastal path, tunnels from Saundersfoot to Wiseman’s Bridge and road. This is more of a day ‘mooching about’ more than a walk. If you’re staying in Tenby, jump on the bus to New Hedges, and then you can walk from there.

Depending on the tide, you can go on the coastal path or beach, heading into Saundersfoot. Grab a coffee and a spot of shopping as you explore Saundersfoot, then head for the tunnels (hopefully, they are open), which take you to Wiseman’s Bridge. You can either stop here for a beer, lunch, or both.

Walking to Amroth requires timing. You’ll need to check because the easiest and quickest route is on the beach. There may be a bit of rock scrambling, so decent footwear is essential. I wouldn’t advise it for the elderly or infirm, but don’t let that put you off.

Once in Amroth, there are a few pubs, eateries, ice cream shops and so on. Keep an eye on the tide so you don’t get stranded!

Food and Drink Favourites

Over the years restaurants and bars come and go, names change and so do the management. I’m just going to highlight a few and the reasons why.

Salty’s

The best sunset in Tenby. Located on South Beach. Sit on the terrace and watch the kite surfers and the sun go down. Wrap up if it’s cold!

Harbwr Brewery

You won’t miss this place as it’s in the middle of Tenby and now sprawls across several buildings, all with a unique atmosphere. Great real ales and food.

The Yacht Club

A hidden gem. It overlooks the picturesque harbour, and everyone is welcome. Never overly busy and stunning views.

Tenby House

I’m including this town centre pub based purely on the food portion sizes – massive!

Bubbleton Farm

Eat, drink, and feed the pigs, and get up close and personal with the animals on a working farm. It’s worth an hour or two if you’re passing.

Manorbier Castle

Step inside the castle grounds and enjoy a tea or coffee before you set off on the coastal path back to Tenby. You don’t have to pay admission if you are just using the café!

Wiseman’s Bridge Inn

Large outdoor seating area with views over the sea and Monkstone Point. Cracking pub, whatever the weather!

Activities and Adventures

I don’t have kids, so I only visit with friends or the missus, so my selection will be geared accordingly.

Hit the Road

If you are based in or around Tenby, spend at least one day driving around the smaller towns in the area. On my list to recommend are:

• Narberth is a nice little town with an excellent bakery and a new dining/drinking complex.
• Neyland Quayside is a large marina with plenty of boats plus, of course, a café/restaurant/bar.
• Pendine is the home of the land’s speed record and huge beach!

Boat Trips

There is a choice from Tenby. Caldey Island is nice enough, but I prefer the trip around the island as you see more wildlife. I’ve yet to see anyone catch a fish on a fishing trip, though!

Kayak Hire

Burn some of those holiday calories and get a different perspective of Tenby from the sea looking back.

Beach Day

You’ll be spoilt for choice in Tenby, and everyone has a favourite. I like Castle Beach, as there is a café close by.

Picnic

Go to Sainsbury or Tesco and load up with food and drink. Then, take a seat along the Esplanade and enjoy the view for an hour. The best view at the best price!

What’s Changed in 10 Years?

What have I seen change in the last 10 years? For me, the town seems to be on the up. There are more shops opening rather than closing, hotels getting a lick of paint, and the streets kept clean.

The same can also be said of Saundersfoot, with its new harbour, outdoor concerts, and the influx of new bars and restaurants.

The taxi drivers are still friendly, the buses unreliable, and the seagulls a pain in the ass. As holiday resorts go, I don’t feel like I’m being ripped off or taken for granted; it has more of a working town feel. I’ve never seen any trouble or anti-social behaviour, so it’s a safe place to visit also.

Tenby continues to be a hidden gem, often overlooked for Devon and Cornwall, much to the benefit of everyone who chooses to go to Tenby instead!