Top 6 Tenby walks

A pretty resort town in Pembrokeshire, Tenby is an absolute dream location for anyone who loves a good walk. Offering stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs and a town brimming with history; it's got it all.  

Nestled within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Tenby is known for its colourful Georgian houses, impressive medieval walls and breathtaking sea views. Choose to take it easy with a gentle stroll along one of Tenby's beaches (North, South, or Castle – take your pick) or challenge yourself with a more energetic hike. For those who like a bit of history with their walk, Tenby won't disappoint. A stroll around Castle Hill, with the remains of Tenby Castle, offers panoramic views out to sea, Caldey Island and even the Gower Peninsula.  

So, whether you're after invigorating coastal hikes, historical strolls through town, or a spooky ghost walk, Tenby is the perfect place to stretch your legs and soak up the Welsh coast. 

Skip to:

• Tenby to Saundersfoot 
• Ghost Walk Tenby
• Tenby to Monkstone Point
• Tenby to Waterwynch 
• Tenby Walking Tour
• Caldey Island Lighthouse Walk

Tenby to Saundersfoot

Explore the Pembrokeshire Coast Path by taking the Tenby to Saundersfoot route, offering a delightful mix of rugged cliffs, sandy coves and breathtaking sea views. This roughly 4-mile hike hugs the coastline, providing a front-row seat to the dramatic scenery that makes this part of Wales so special.   

As you set off from Tenby, with its colourful houses perched above the harbour, the path soon leads you along the cliffs, where you can enjoy panoramic vistas of Carmarthen Bay, with Caldey Island often visible in the distance. One of the highlights of this walk is the variety of landscapes you encounter.  

You'll wander across sections of exposed cliff tops, where the wind whips up and the views stretch for miles, then the path dips down into secluded coves and sandy beaches, offering opportunities for a refreshing paddle or a picnic break. As you approach this charming seaside resort, the scenery gradually changes with the path leading you towards Saundersfoot. Once you're here, you'll be spoilt for choice for places to eat and things to do; you can find out more in our Saundersfoot guide.  

Ghost Walk Tenby

If you're feeling brave, join the ghost walk of Tenby for a fascinating and spooky way to explore the town's rich history and folklore. Tenby Ghost Walks are guided walking tours that take you through the atmospheric streets and hidden corners of this ancient town.  

Led by a local expert, you'll hear chilling tales of ghostly apparitions, local legends and eerie historical events. It's a bewitching blend of storytelling and sightseeing, perfect for those who enjoy a touch of the supernatural. 

Tenby Ghost Walks are run by a local company of the same name. So popular, the walks are included within the Collin’s ‘Ghost Hunters Guide to Britain’ and they've been featured in the Sunday Times as one of the top five ghost walks in Britain; quite an accolade. Private tours for groups are available and children are welcome too. 

Tenby to Monkstone Point Walk

A popular route with seasoned walkers, the Tenby to Monkstone Point Walk offers a less crowded and more rugged alternative to the well-trodden Saundersfoot route, showcasing a different part of Pembrokeshire's coastal beauty. This walk takes you along the dramatic cliffs north of Tenby, leading to the secluded Monkstone Point, a rocky promontory with stunning views.  

The scenery here is wild and exposed, with towering cliffs, hidden coves and the vast expanse of Carmarthen Bay stretching out before you. You're not likely to encounter many others along this trail, making it a great option for those seeking a more tranquil experience.   

The pathway follows the clifftops, sometimes dipping down into small, sheltered bays. Keep an eye out for seabirds soaring overhead and seals basking on the rocks below. The dramatic rock formations and crashing waves create a wild and awe-inspiring spectacle and as you approach Monkstone Point itself, you’ll feel like you’re at the edge of the world. Drop down onto the beautiful beach via a permissive footpath; it’s steep but well maintained. 

Tenby to Waterwynch

The Tenby to Waterwynch route is a relatively short coastal stroll offering stunning views across Carmarthen Bay. This easy route is perfect for novices and those looking for a less strenuous walk with rewarding scenery; it’s a great option for families and those with varying age ranges in their party. 

Setting off from Tenby, you'll follow the Wales Coast Path, which gently winds its way along the clifftops, offering panoramic vistas of the bay, with Caldey Island often visible in the distance. The walk passes through a variety of landscapes, from open headlands to wooded areas, providing a pleasant mix of coastal and inland scenery.  

As you approach Waterwynch itself, you'll find it is a picturesque bay with a secluded beach – a lovely spot to relax and enjoy the views, or a picnic, before heading back. This simple, steady walk offers a great opportunity to take in the beauty of the Pembrokeshire coastline without tackling a more challenging hike. 

Tenby Walking Tour

Explore the rich history of Tenby on a 90-minute, guided walking tour led by local expert Marion Davies, one of the town's renowned ghost walk guides, who’ll reveal secrets and stories about this ancient town. Starting in Tudor Square, you'll be led along sections of the medieval town walls, including the fascinating story of a hidden cellar and tunnel that once sheltered the future King Henry VII.  

You'll also learn how the imposing Five Arches gateway played a crucial role in the town's defence, offering a clever strategic advantage and you’ll discover the origins of Tenby's early trade, including the surprising story of how the first oranges arrived in the town.   

The Story of Tenby guided walk also passes by significant landmarks, such as the Prince Albert Memorial, the Tudor Merchant's House and the ruins of Tenby Castle. You'll hear about the evolution of the Tenby Lifeboat Station, learn about the town's first bath house built for wealthy visitors, and even discover the intriguing story of the garderobe, a loo with a view! The Tenby walking tour concludes on Castle Hill, where you can soak up breathtaking views of the dramatic coastline. 

Caldey Island Lighthouse Walk

Caldey Island is a little haven of an island that is just a short boat trip from Tenby; it boasts a serene atmosphere, a fascinating history and stunning coastal scenery. A visit to the island is one of our top things to do in Tenby. This small island is also home to a Cistercian monastery and has a rich heritage that dates back centuries. Before you even set foot on land, the boat trip itself offers lovely views back towards Tenby and along the coastline.  

Once ashore, explore Caldey Island's peaceful woodland trails, secluded beaches and learn about the monastic community. The Caldey Island Lighthouse Walk is a must for visitors; a circular route, it takes you past the island's most prominent landmark, which is, of course, the lighthouse.  

The easy walk offers stunning views of the rugged coastline, with plenty of opportunities to spot seabirds, seals and simply soak up the beautiful scenery. The lighthouse itself is an impressive structure and the walk provides a great vantage point to appreciate the island's beauty. It’s the perfect day trip and a wonderful place to explore with the whole family. 

Plan your holiday with a stay at one of our Tenby holiday cottages

With its vibrant harbour, golden beaches and rich history, Tenby presents the perfect backdrop for a memorable walking holiday in Wales. Whether you're seeking challenging coastal hikes along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, leisurely strolls with serene sea views, or spooky ghost walks through the town's historic streets, Tenby has something for everyone.   

In need of somewhere to stay? We offer a vast selection of Tenby cottages, from dog-friendly cottages to romantic boltholes with sea views and luxury homes with space for the whole family can enjoy; have a browse of our collection and start planning your Tenby walking holiday today.