Tenby has earned its place as the United Kingdom’s ultimate coastal paradise for 2025, thanks to its perfect blend of natural beauty, historical depth, and unforgettable travel experiences. Nestled along the stunning Pembrokeshire coastline in Wales, this vibrant seaside town captivates visitors with its four golden beaches, colorful harborside houses, medieval town walls, and cobbled streets steeped in history. With a high ranking in nationwide studies measuring beach quality, cultural attractions, food and drink venues, and traveler satisfaction, Tenby offers a rare combination of authentic charm and modern appeal. Whether you’re seeking tranquil coastal walks, family adventures, or gourmet dining by the sea, Tenby delivers a world-class seaside escape wrapped in timeless British character.

Tenby Crowned Britain’s Best Seaside Town for 2025 with Its Enchanting Beaches, Vibrant Streets, and Timeless Charm

Tucked away on the stunning Pembrokeshire coast, the charming Welsh town of Tenby has claimed the title of Britain’s leading seaside destination. Castle Beach gained nationwide recognition after being crowned the best beach in the UK in 2019. Renowned for its brightly painted houses, medieval town walls, charming cobbled streets, and four stunning beaches, Tenby blends historical richness with modern charm. A recent study has ranked this beloved coastal town highest among UK seaside getaways, thanks to its vibrant culture, spectacular natural beauty, and visitor-friendly atmosphere.

A Coastal Gem with Centuries of Appeal

Tenby’s coastal allure dates back to the Norman conquest and has drawn holidaymakers since Victorian times. Encircled by 13th-century walls, this idyllic town offers a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary appeal. Its harbor, dotted with colorful homes overlooking the bay, has become an iconic symbol of Welsh seaside beauty.

The four beaches surrounding the town—North Beach, South Beach, Castle Beach, and Harbour Beach—are within easy walking distance from the town center, a rarity among UK seaside destinations. Castle Beach, in particular, earned national acclaim when it was named the UK’s best beach in 2019. With a 4.8 rating on Google, it remains a standout attraction.

A Culinary Haven by the Sea

Tenby doesn’t just dazzle with scenic views—it also offers an outstanding culinary scene. From seafood eateries to modern gastropubs, there’s no shortage of places to enjoy a memorable meal.

One standout spot is The Billycan, a chic combination of bar, restaurant, and hotel located right in the center of town. This spot scores highly with locals and tourists alike for its mix of pub classics and inventive dishes, not to mention its popular Sunday roast.

Another standout is Tap and Tan, a craft beer taproom offering flame-cooked cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. With high TripAdvisor ratings, it’s a haven for foodies who enjoy hearty meals and expertly brewed pints.

For more casual bites, Indie Burger serves up gourmet burgers, Bramleys Tea Rooms delivers the perfect full English breakfast, and The Baytree Restaurant is a must for seafood enthusiasts.

Unwind with a Local Brew

No coastal getaway feels complete without a cold pint in hand, and Tenby offers no shortage of great spots to enjoy one. Harbwr Tenby, which features both a working brewery and pub, invites guests to watch the brewing process firsthand while enjoying local ales and pub fare. With a 4.5 rating on TripAdvisor, it’s a top spot for both drinks and atmosphere.

Other favored watering holes include Hope and Anchor and Coach and Horses, offering everything from cozy settings to lively entertainment.

Where to Stay in Tenby

Accommodation in Tenby is as diverse as its attractions, with options for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking a luxury stay, a cozy B&B, or group-friendly lodging, the town has it all.

Broadmead Boutique B&B, TripAdvisor’s top-rated option, scores a perfect 5 out of 5. Located in a quiet, leafy neighborhood, it offers elegant rooms just a short walk from the town center.

Those in search of a luxurious stay can choose the Heywood Spa Hotel, celebrated for its upscale comforts, or unwind at the Penally Abbey Hotel and Restaurant, a scenic clifftop hideaway offering panoramic views and complimentary tea and cake for guests.

Larger groups can rent one of Tenby’s iconic clifftop homes for a scenic and spacious stay.

Exploring Tenby’s Four Beaches

Few UK destinations can rival Tenby’s variety of beach experiences. Each of its four public beaches offers a unique atmosphere, earning the town two Blue Flag awards for cleanliness and quality.

North Beach and South Beach offer expansive stretches of golden sand and shallow waters ideal for swimming. South Beach, at a mile and a half long, provides space for relaxation even on the busiest days.

Castle Beach sits between cliffs and the historic St Catherine’s Island. At low tide, visitors can walk across to the island, home to a 19th-century fort and the landing point for boats heading to Caldey Island, a peaceful monastic retreat just offshore.

Harbour Beach, the smallest but perhaps most charming, is nestled beside the harbor and overlooked by Tenby’s signature rainbow-colored houses. Families love it for its calm waters and proximity to amenities, including boat tours, kayaking, and ice cream stands.

Why Tenby Tops the List

In a comprehensive study by OLBG, Tenby scored 7.71 out of 10, beating every other UK coastal town. Factors in the ranking included the number of eateries, pubs, arcades, museums, and attractions, as well as beach quality, cost of accommodation, climate, public transport, and online popularity.

Its ability to deliver both traditional seaside nostalgia and upscale modern experiences makes Tenby a standout. Unlike some over-commercialized destinations, Tenby has managed to maintain its authenticity while evolving to meet the expectations of today’s travelers.

Tenby has been crowned the UK’s ultimate coastal paradise for 2025, offering breathtaking beaches, rich heritage, and unforgettable travel experiences. Its unique charm, vibrant culture, and top-rated attractions make it a standout among Britain’s seaside destinations.

Easy Access and Endless Adventures

Getting to Tenby is simple, thanks to its well-connected train station on the Pembroke Dock branch line. Once there, visitors can walk almost everywhere, from beach to brewery, and from boutique to boat.

Whether you’re seeking a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo escape, Tenby offers the complete seaside experience. Its blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and modern comforts make it not just the best seaside town in Britain—but one of the best destinations in Europe for a relaxing, enriching break.