All that remains of Tenby Castle today is just one small tower overlooking the town and out to sea. It’s well looked after though so it’s definitely worth a visit especially if you’re in Tenby anyway. And even if you’re not it makes a great focal point (or excuse) for a trip.
If you stroll around you’ll see the old town walls that used to protect the town as well as remnants of the original building pretty much everywhere. ‘Five arches’ gate is a must see.
There’s some debate over whether this actually counts as a castle but there’s little doubt about whether the location is spectacular.
So, if you’re less bothered about the castle itself and more interested in a spectacular location where admission is free, this could be the one for you.
How to get to Tenby Castle
As a popular tourist destination in South Pembrokeshire, Tenby is well signposted.
From Carmarthen
- Take the A40 heading towards St. Clears.
- At the St. Clears roundabout take the first exit for the A477, sign posted Tenby.
- Keep on this road until you get to Kilgetty.
- At the Kilgetty roundabout take the first exit (A478) towards Tenby.
- At New Hedges go straight through the roundabout and and stay on this road until you reach Tenby.
- Tenby is approximately 18 miles from St. Clears (a drive of approximately 26 minutes).
From Haverfordwest
- Take the A40 towards Carmarthen.
- At Redstone Cross turn left on to the A478 through Narberth. You will need to follow the one way system through Narberth but stick to the A478.
- Once through Narberth you will pass through the village of Templeton and then Folly Farm Park before getting to Begelly/Kilgetty.
- Pass straight through two roundabouts (still staying on the A478).
- At New Hedges, again, go straight through the roundabout and you will reach Tenby.
- Tenby is approximately 6 miles from Kilgetty (a drive of approximately 12 minutes) and 20 miles from Haverfordwest (a drive of approximately 36 minutes).
Where to park for Tenby Castle
There are a number of large pay and display car parks in Tenby. The most convenient for the beaches and town centre are:-
- North Beach car park off Narberth Road (A478). Map reference SN 13265 01141
- South Beach car park (upper) off South Cliff Street. Map reference SN 13190 00228
- South Beach car park (lower) off Battery Road. Map reference SN 12993 00183
- Tenby Multi-Storey car park, Upper Park Road. The car park is next to the Tourist Information Centre and Sainsburys. Map reference SN 13192 00415
Charges apply at all of the above.
Thoughts on Tenby Castle
Whilst this is not the best example of a Castle, the views from Castle Hill are absolutely incredible.
In fact, we think this is the best location of any of the Castles in Pembrokeshire. When the sun is shining and the skies are blue it’s really hard to beat.
We find September and October great times to visit.
More Information
Tenby Castle was built by the Normans and dates back to the 12th Century and the path up from the harbour to Castle Hill takes you through the main gateway. Open all year round, admission is free.
Public conveniences are aplenty in Tenby including at North Beach car park, Tenby Multi-Storey car park, Upper Frog Street and South Beach car park at Battery Road. There are also public conveniences on North Beach, Castle beach and South Beach.
You should have no problem finding somewhere to eat and drink in Tenby town centre. Fecci’s on Lower Frog Street is highly recommended as well as Park Road Fish and Chip Shop near the Multi Storey car park. We have been frequenting both for years. There are also plenty of public houses and fine dining restaurants.
Tesco and Sainsburys both have stores in Tenby town centre and there are lots of other great Things to do around Tenby.
Other nearby Castles in Pembrokeshire include Manorbier (6 miles), Carew (7 miles), Pembroke (10 miles), and Llawhaden (15 miles).
If you are visiting Pembrokeshire now or in the near future please be aware that social distancing rules still apply in Wales. Please keep yourselves and others safe.
Where to stay near Tenby Castle
There are lots of places to stay near Tenby Castle. Tenby itself is home to an abundance of accommodation. More independents, B&Bs and guesthouses than large chain hotels. We always use Booking.com to check what’s available where.
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12 thoughts on “Tenby Castle”
Wait! Why is it not considered a castle? It looks pretty well preserved. And I’d agree – the views are phenomenal!!! It’s on my welsh list now! Along with every waterfall 🙂
😆 not really sure but maybe because not so much remains. Those views! Thanks for reading and commenting Lannie. Another one to add to your list!
Yes, the location is spectacular. I could sit with those views for a long while…
Thanks Steven. Yes, it’s hard not to.
What a lovely spot! I imagine it must have been a spectacular castle when it was whole.
Thanks for your comment Kasia. It must’ve been incredible
Wow those views are beautiful!
Thanks Sue. It’s a pretty special place
Let’s not mind the detractors. It’s a castle. Partly because castles are always built in the best places, and this is one of them. Great views.
Thanks John. We agree 👍
Beautiful post!!! Those views and those shots are incredible!
Thanks so much Kevin 👍