St Catherine's Island and Fort
Explore a historic Napoleonic fort, accessible only at low tide, offering spooky dungeons and stunning coastal views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Essential for access
St Catherine's Island and Fort
Best Time
Essential for access
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a historic Napoleonic fort, accessible only at low tide, offering spooky dungeons and stunning coastal views.
"A cool spooky place to visit with adventurous kids, offering a unique historical adventure."
Check Tide Times First! :ocean:
Access is strictly tide-dependent. Always check local tide times before you go to ensure you can reach the island.
Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
The causeway can be slippery. Comfortable, non-slip footwear is a must for exploring the fort and island safely.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic Fort
St. Catherine's Island
Explore a 19th-century Napoleonic fort with a rich history, once a prison and even a zoo.
Panoramic Coastal Views
Fort Rooftops
Enjoy breathtaking views of Tenby town, the harbor, and the Pembrokeshire coastline.
Spooky Prison Cells
Fort Dungeons
Venture into the atmospheric prison cells for a thrilling, historical experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tide Times are Crucial
Prepare for an Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tide Times First! :ocean:
Access is strictly tide-dependent. Always check local tide times before you go to ensure you can reach the island.
Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
The causeway can be slippery. Comfortable, non-slip footwear is a must for exploring the fort and island safely.
Bring a Flashlight :flashlight:
Some areas, like the prison cells, have no lighting. A flashlight enhances the spooky atmosphere and helps you see.
Low-Cost Adventure :money_with_wings:
The entrance fee is very reasonable, with all proceeds going towards fort improvements. Worth every penny!
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tide Times First! :ocean:
Access is strictly tide-dependent. Always check local tide times before you go to ensure you can reach the island.
Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
The causeway can be slippery. Comfortable, non-slip footwear is a must for exploring the fort and island safely.
Bring a Flashlight :flashlight:
Some areas, like the prison cells, have no lighting. A flashlight enhances the spooky atmosphere and helps you see.
Low-Cost Adventure :money_with_wings:
The entrance fee is very reasonable, with all proceeds going towards fort improvements. Worth every penny!
A Photographer's Dream :camera_with_flash:
Capture stunning coastal vistas and historical architecture. Early mornings offer beautiful light.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise St. Catherine's Island and Fort as a 'cool spooky place' and an 'amazing historical landmark.' The unique access during low tide, the atmospheric exploration of the fort's history (including prison cells), and the stunning coastal views are major highlights. Some note that certain areas might be inaccessible or lack lighting, and it's not suitable for those with walking difficulties, but these are often seen as part of the adventurous charm.
"Really cool spooky place to visit with adventurous kids, make sure you take a torch... Then turn it off when in the prison cell. Would love to go on the roof one day, looks pretty sealed off though. (Looks like previous visitors had power, there was none on our visit, found it more exciting like this, but there was supposed to be a 20 minute documentary in the theatre room we didn't get to see)."
Hollow Hat
"What an amazing historical landmark and very special place to visit. This is my 3rd visit over the last 8 years and it's absolutely fantastic to see the progress and results of the hard working volunteers. The roof and gun emplacements should be open soon. It's like stepping back in time and has a story so strange and mystical you could not write it. A brilliant presentation explains the history. The spirits of past occupants can be felt. Only accessible when the weather and tides permit. Not suitable for anyone with walking difficulties. But I'm sure this could be addressed with the correct funding. It's worth every penny and all fees are donated to improvements. You won't be disappointed. 10/10."
Mark Carey
"This place is accessible during low tide. There is a £5 entrance fee to go up. Not that big to explore, but gives you a nice view of Tenby town and the Beach line. There are sections of the fort that has no light (back and bottom) as the generator broke so you have to use your available light. We told the ticket guy it is better not to repair the generator as it gives you creepy, scary fun in the dark areas."
Arlef Suarez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Catherine's Island and Fort is located off the coast of Tenby, Pembrokeshire. Access is via a causeway that is only exposed during low tide. You'll need to walk from Tenby town to reach the island.
There are several car parks available in Tenby town, which is a short walk from the causeway leading to St. Catherine's Island.
While the primary access is via the low tide causeway, boat tours might occasionally offer views or access depending on conditions and availability. However, the official access is tide-dependent.
Tenby is accessible by car via the A478. The nearest train station is Tenby Railway Station, with services connecting to major lines.
Due to the uneven terrain and steps within the fort, it is not suitable for those with walking difficulties. The causeway can also be challenging.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a small entrance fee, typically around £5 per person, which goes towards the upkeep and improvement of the fort.
You generally do not need to book tickets in advance. Tickets are usually purchased on arrival, but it's always wise to check their official channels for any updates, especially during peak season.
Opening hours are entirely dependent on tide times. The fort is typically open for a few hours during low tide. Always check the tide schedule for the day of your visit.
Access is dependent on both tide and weather. High winds or rough seas can prevent safe access even during low tide.
Information on discounts is not widely publicized, but it's always worth inquiring on-site or checking their official website if available. The current fee is considered very affordable.
📸 📸 Photography
The ramparts offer stunning panoramic views of Tenby and the coastline. The interior of the fort, especially the prison cells, provides dramatic and atmospheric shots. 
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with the site management or local authorities before flying a drone to ensure compliance with any restrictions.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, dramatic scenes. The golden hour offers soft, warm light for capturing the fort and its surroundings.
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the fort, including the prison cells. Remember to bring a flashlight to capture the moody atmosphere.
Look for the small opening in the island that leads to a tiny beach and rock pool, as described by visitors. This offers a unique perspective.
🎫 🏰 Onsite Experience
Explore the historic fort, learn about its past as a prison and even a zoo, and enjoy the incredible coastal views. The dungeons offer a particularly atmospheric experience.
A brilliant presentation explains the history of the fort, and volunteers are often on hand to share insights. The spirits of past occupants can be felt.
Built for the Napoleonic Wars and completed in 1870, it served as a coastal defense. It later became a prison and even housed a zoo.
While much of the fort is accessible, some areas may be closed off for safety or ongoing restoration. Visitors have expressed interest in accessing the roof.
This refers to the darker, unlit sections of the fort, particularly the dungeons, which create an atmospheric and thrilling experience, especially when using your own light source.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Adventurous Kids
Key tips for families: Always check tide times to ensure you can access the island. Wear sturdy shoes for the walk across and for exploring the fort. Bringing a flashlight is a must for the darker areas. While the fort has a rich history, including its time as a zoo, the focus for kids will likely be on the more adventurous aspects like the dungeons and the climb to the ramparts for views.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1The interior of the fort provides a more moody and atmospheric subject matter. The dimly lit prison cells and the rugged stonework create compelling compositions. Remember to bring a flashlight to illuminate these areas effectively and capture the textures and shadows that tell the story of the fort's past.
🏰 History Buffs
The on-site presentations and the insights from volunteers provide a deep dive into its past. Explore the military architecture, understand its strategic importance, and imagine life within its walls during its various phases. The fort's story is rich with intrigue and transformation, making it a compelling site for anyone interested in military history, social history, or the evolution of coastal defenses.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Fort's Fascinating History
Beyond its military function, the fort has served various other roles. It was repurposed as a prison, holding inmates within its formidable walls. Later, in a surprising twist, it even housed a zoo, adding an unexpected chapter to its story. This diverse history contributes to the fort's unique and somewhat mystical atmosphere, making it a captivating site for visitors interested in uncovering its secrets.
Today, St. Catherine's Island and Fort is a testament to the dedication of volunteers working to preserve and improve this historical gem. Visitors can feel the echoes of its past occupants, creating an immersive experience that transports them back in time. The ongoing efforts ensure that this significant piece of history remains accessible for future generations to explore and appreciate.
Navigating the Tides and Terrain
Visitors are strongly advised to check the local tide tables meticulously before setting out. The walk across the causeway can be uneven and potentially slippery, especially after the tide has receded. Therefore, wearing sturdy, non-slip footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. The terrain within the fort itself can also be challenging, with steps and uneven surfaces, making it less suitable for those with mobility issues.
When the tides permit, the journey to the island offers a sense of adventure. The fort's location provides stunning panoramic views of Tenby's picturesque coastline and harbor, making the effort to reach it well worthwhile. The unique access method adds to the allure and makes a visit feel like a true exploration.
+1The Atmospheric Experience
The fort's history is palpable, with many visitors reporting a sense of stepping back in time. The stories of past occupants, combined with the fort's imposing structure and coastal setting, create a compelling narrative. The volunteers and presentations on-site help to bring this history to life, offering insights into the fort's varied past, from military defense to its time as a zoo.
This blend of history, atmosphere, and natural beauty makes St. Catherine's Island and Fort a memorable destination. It's an adventure that appeals to those seeking a bit of excitement and a deep dive into local history, all while enjoying spectacular views.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit