Where to Go - In and Around Tenby

• What's On in Tenby
• Overview
• Families with Young Children
• Families with Older Children
• All Ages
• Famous Residents

Tenby is a delightful little harbour town and seaside resort, and it would be difficult to find a setting more picturesque.

Its hilltop position led to its early settlement as a Welsh stronghold, which was replaced in medieval times by a Norman Castle and walled town. Part of the town walls survive to this day and are an attractive feature at the entrance to the old town.

Until quite recently Tenby was known as "Little England beyond Wales" and the town remains a rather anglicised part of Wales. From the early 19th century, Tenby became a fashionable holiday destination for both the Welsh and the English, and its attractions to the holidaymaker are just as obvious today, with the fantastic beaches stretching to the north, the west, and the south of the town.

Walk along Tenby’s South Beach toward Giltar Point and the start of the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path for fantastic views of Caldey Island. Stroll the narrow cobbled streets of Tenby itself or sit in one of the many cafes and people-watch other visitors to the gift shops, restaurants and public houses, or wander along the harbour, where you can board one of the cruises to nearby Caldey Island, or take a trip in search of the plentiful wildlife of this South West coast of Wales. Tenby can be a serene, attractive destination sure to charm you, and those in search of spending time by the beach are spoilt for choice here, but Tenby can also offer plenty to do for the more active holidaymakers.

If your children ever grow tired of Tenby's wonderful beaches why not head into town for more fun. At the end of the Esplanade, overlooking the South Beach is The Jubilee, a children's play area, complete with a wide variety of playground equipment, or if the weather is not so good, head for the children's indoor play area, Ocean Commotion on Lower Frog Street.

A short drive out of town, you will find Folly Farm Adventure Park containing familiar animals in the children's farmyard, exotic creatures in the spectacular zoo, and Europe's largest indoor vintage funfair.

If dinosaurs are your thing, the Dinosaur Park at Gumfreston will keep the whole family amused.

Adrenalin junkies must make time to visit Oakwood Theme Park containing over 30 rides and attractions, to keep everyone amused all day.

Heatherton Sports Park will appeal to sporty members of the family. The park boasts, archery, laser clay shooting, go-carts, horse-riding, 18 hole Pitch and Putt course and much, much more.

Fancy exploring 12km of countryside on a quad bike? You can with Ritec Valley Quad Bikes.

One of Pembrokeshire's newest attractions is Blue Lagoon Waterpark. Visitors to Bluestone Holiday Village have free access for the duration of their stay, but it's also possible to purchase a ticket for a session at this stunning indoor waterpark.

If you love animals and wildlife, a trip to Manor House Wildlife Park is essential. This zoo has recently been given a make-over by interior designer, Anna Ryder Richardson and her family, and re-opened in 2008. Manor House is situated in St Florence, only a few minutes drive from Tenby.

There are plenty of things to do and places to see in Tenby including the Tudor Merchant's House, a late 15th century town house remnant of Tenby's heyday as a busy port trading across the Bristol Channel and beyond to Ireland, France and Spain.

Tenby is well situated for the Pembrokeshire Coastal Park offering stunning scenery, a wealth of wildlife and fascinating history making it a very wonderful area to explore. Why not hire a bike from Tenby Cycles and explore the Pembrokeshire countryside at a different pace?

One of Tenby's newer attractions is the Serendipity Amusement Arcade found just off Tudor Square. The arcade contains a good selection of games ranging from traditional slot machines, to the latest video games, and rides for the younger children.

Bosherston Lily Ponds were created in the 18th and 19th centuries and were part of the Stackpole Estate and are now part of a protected nature reserve.

Caldy Island Monastery offers a chance to view the wildlife that inhabits Caldy Island. There are opportunities for bird and seal watching and you can also watch the monks as they continue with their traditional lifestyle dating back many centuries.

Tenby Museum and Art Gallery is housed in part of the remains of Tenby Castle and although looking deceptively small from the outside the museum has six spacious galleries, research facilities and a gift shop. Situated on Castle Hill, there are spectacular views of Castle Beach, South Beach and Caldey Island from the area surrounding the museum. A large number of exhibitions from local artists are also displayed at Art Matters Gallery and can be previewed on-line prior to your visit to the town.

Many golfers head to Tenby to play the oldest courses in Wales and to enjoy the stunning views alongside the championship links course. Visitors are always offered a warm welcome at Tenby Golf Club.

• Gwen John - 1876 to 1939 - Famous Painter
• Augustus John - 1878 to 1961 - Famous Painter and brother of Gwen John
• Kenneth Griffith - 1921 to 2006 - Actor and film-maker
• Charles Dale - born 1963 - Actor
• Tina Nail - born 1969 - Costume and Fashion Designer, now based in Hollywood

• Admiral Lord Nelson and Lady Hamilton
• Beatrix Potter
• Oliver Cromwell
• George Eliot