
Caldey Abbey
A serene holy island off Tenby, Wales, home to a Cistercian Abbey, stunning beaches, and unique monastic crafts.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm seas & fewer crowds

Caldey Abbey
Best Time
Calm seas & fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene holy island off Tenby, Wales, home to a Cistercian Abbey, stunning beaches, and unique monastic crafts.
"Unbeatable away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.. Beautiful place peaceful, walks great places to explore."

🚢 Book Boat Tickets Early
Purchase boat tickets on arrival at the Caldey Island Kiosk in Tenby.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The island involves uphill walks; sturdy footwear is recommended for exploring.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Caldey Abbey
Caldey Island
A serene Cistercian monastery with a rich history, offering a glimpse into monastic life.

Island Beaches
Caldey Island
Discover postcard-perfect sandy shores offering tranquility and stunning coastal views.

Monastic Products
Caldey Island Village
Sample or purchase unique perfumes, chocolates, and shortbread made by the resident monks.

Lighthouse Views
Caldey Island
Ascend to the lighthouse for panoramic vistas of the island and surrounding coastline.
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Planning Your Visit
Boat Trip Essentials
Island Pace & Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Book Boat Tickets Early
Purchase boat tickets on arrival at the Caldey Island Kiosk in Tenby.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The island involves uphill walks; sturdy footwear is recommended for exploring.
🍫 Taste Island Delicacies
Don't miss trying the monks' famous perfumes and delicious handmade chocolates.
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Village
Walk further to find quieter spots and enjoy the island's natural beauty.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Book Boat Tickets Early
Purchase boat tickets on arrival at the Caldey Island Kiosk in Tenby.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The island involves uphill walks; sturdy footwear is recommended for exploring.
🍫 Taste Island Delicacies
Don't miss trying the monks' famous perfumes and delicious handmade chocolates.
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Village
Walk further to find quieter spots and enjoy the island's natural beauty.
☁️ Check Weather Forecast
Boat trips are weather-dependent; have a backup plan for Tenby if cancelled.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Caldey Island is widely praised for its tranquility, natural beauty, and the unique experience of visiting a working monastery. Visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, stunning coastal walks, and the opportunity to purchase monastic products like perfumes and chocolates. Some find it less engaging for very young children due to the walking and quiet nature of the island.
"Lovely island, very tranquil and spotlessly clean. Would recommend but probably not with younger kids as our 4 year old was bored until he got to the beach. It's uphill too so mobility issues would make it difficult for some people"
Allyson Aston
"The boat fare is £20 for a return trip, with departures at 10 a.m. in summer. The boat is steady and feels safe — definitely worth the trip. The paths on the island are well-maintained and easy to follow, with clear signage. There’s a café and toilets, which are convenient. The whole place is peaceful and relaxing, perfect for enjoying a calm day. The coastal area near the lighthouse is especially pleasant, with plenty of space to walk around."
Wendy Chan
"Lovely place to visit, as its an island you have to take a 20 minute boat ride at £20 each which i think is really good value, lots of places to walk around the coast, there's a small independent chocolate factory where you can purchase a bar or three at £3.50 a bar, and fudge but honestly it didn't taste like fudge it was more like block of soft sugar. You can visit the Abbey the post office and small shop, there are also a few old churches as well and there is a small food and drink outlet where you can purchase lunch. And lets not forget the lighthouse. All in all a really nice day out."
Paul Santoro-Hall
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Regular boat trips depart from Tenby Harbour to Caldey Island. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes and offers scenic views. Tickets are typically purchased on the day from the Caldey Island Kiosk.
Boats usually run from Easter to October, Monday to Saturday, with departures often starting around 10 a.m. in summer. It's best to check the specific schedule on the day of your visit as times can vary.
No, Caldey Island is only accessible by boat from Tenby. There is no car access to the island.
Boat trips are subject to weather conditions. If cancelled, you can explore Tenby's attractions, such as its beaches, town walls, and castle ruins.
Tenby has several car parks available, though they can get busy, especially during peak season. It's advisable to arrive early if you are driving.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The primary cost is the return boat fare, which is approximately £20 per adult. There are no separate entry fees for the island itself, but you may wish to purchase items from the shops.
Tickets for the boat trip are generally available to purchase on the day from the Caldey Island Kiosk in Tenby Harbour. Booking in advance is usually not required unless specified for special events.
Information on discounts for children, seniors, or groups is not widely publicized, but it's always worth inquiring at the Caldey Island Kiosk when purchasing your tickets.
The island is accessible via boat trips during daylight hours, typically from Easter to October. The Abbey and shops have their own operating hours, which are generally aligned with the boat service.
While the Abbey is a working monastery, visitors are welcome to explore the grounds and the church. Donations are appreciated but not mandatory for entry.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the Abbey, visit St. David's and St. Illtyd's Churches, walk to the lighthouse, enjoy the beaches, and browse the monastic shops for perfumes and chocolates.
While the beaches are great for kids, younger children might find the extensive walking and quiet atmosphere less engaging. The island is more suited for those who enjoy nature and peaceful exploration.
Yes, there are public toilets and a cafe available on the island, providing essential amenities for visitors.
Yes, there are well-maintained paths that allow you to circumnavigate much of the island, offering diverse scenery and viewpoints. Some paths can be steep.
Visitors can spot black swans and potentially red squirrels on the island. The coastal areas are also rich in birdlife.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a cafe on Caldey Island that serves light meals, snacks, and drinks. You can also purchase fudge and chocolate from the monastic shops.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own picnics to enjoy on the island, especially on the beaches or designated picnic areas.
Prices at the cafe are generally considered reasonable for an island location, offering a convenient option for lunch or refreshments.
While samples are not always guaranteed, the chocolate factory allows visitors to purchase their handmade chocolates and fudge.
Caldey Island primarily offers a cafe for dining. For a wider selection of restaurants, you would need to return to Tenby.
📸 📸 Photography
The Abbey, the lighthouse, the beaches, and the coastal paths offer stunning photographic opportunities. The village itself also has charming scenes.
Photography is generally permitted in the public areas of the Abbey grounds, but it's respectful to avoid taking photos inside the monastic cells or during services.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful light for photography, with fewer crowds. Midday can be harsh but still offers good opportunities, especially on the beaches.
Drone usage is typically restricted on religious sites and islands to maintain peace and privacy. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
While respecting their privacy, you might capture glimpses of monastic life from a distance. The monastic products, like chocolate, also make for great flat-lay photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
🙏 Spiritual Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Monastic Community of Caldey Abbey
The monks are known for their artisanal products, which are a significant part of their self-sufficiency. They produce Caldey Island perfumes, renowned for their quality and unique scents, as well as handmade chocolates and shortbread. These items are available for purchase in the island's village shop, allowing visitors to take a piece of Caldey's tranquility home with them. The presence of the monastic community is central to the island's identity and appeal, drawing many visitors seeking peace and spiritual reflection.
Exploring the island, you'll encounter the Italianate Abbey, a beautiful architectural piece, and various chapels and churches, including St. David's and St. Illtyd's. The island's history is palpable, with remnants of earlier priories and a rich religious heritage. The monks' dedication to their faith and their craft is evident throughout the island, making it a truly special destination.
Exploring Caldey Island's Natural Beauty
The island's interior is a haven of wildflowers and diverse flora, contributing to its picturesque charm. Keep an eye out for the unique wildlife, including the striking black swans that grace the island's waters and grounds. For those interested in a bit more adventure, the lighthouse offers panoramic views, and the nature walks provide opportunities to spot local fauna. The island's relatively small size means you can cover a lot of ground, from the village to the lighthouse, in a single day trip.
Many visitors find that venturing a little further from the main village area leads to even more secluded and peaceful spots. The combination of serene beaches, rugged coastal paths, and tranquil inland areas makes Caldey Island a delightful escape for nature lovers and those seeking a break from the everyday hustle.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit