Tenby

Tenby is the jewel of the Pembrokeshire coast — a medieval walled town with pastel-coloured Georgian houses stacked above a harbour and some of the finest town beaches in Britain. Castle Beach, South Beach, and North Beach provide golden sand, clear water, and views to Caldey Island, where Cistercian monks still make chocolate and perfume. The medieval town walls are remarkably intact, and the streets within them are a charming tangle of independent shops, galleries, and restaurants. The Tudor Merchant's House (National Trust) gives a vivid picture of medieval life. The harbour is beautiful at low tide when the boats sit on the sand, and the lifeboat station on Castle Hill has dramatic views along the coast. Caldey Island is a short boat ride from the harbour and worth the trip — a working monastery, beautiful beaches, and a sense of peace that's hard to find elsewhere. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path passes through Tenby — both directions along the coast are spectacular. Come out of season if you can — in August the narrow streets are packed. In spring or autumn, with the light on the harbour, it's perfect.