Author Archive:

Do something different in Tenby this April & May

March 29, 2019

Spring has sprung here in Pembrokeshire and if you’ve booked to stay with us this April and May you’re in for a treat.  You will be able to enjoy spectacular spring time flower displays, the arrival and awaking of wildlife and the opening of seasonal activities and events.

Outdoors

Make the most of the beginning of the boat tour season and head out from Tenby Harbour to spot newly returned migratory seabirds such as Razorbills, Guillemots and Manx Shearwaters along the coastline. The ferry to Skomer Island also starts again to coincide with the Puffins making their way back in the spring. A day trip here will certainly not disappoint as there is something for everyone, including the chance to spot seals on the way over. There are also lots of events held on the island such as guided walks hosted by the Wildlife Trust which are worth booking in for.

2019 is Wales’s Year of Discovery and foraging would be the perfect way to learn about what the countryside and coastline has to offer. There are several foragers in Pembrokeshire who will ensure you are safe and responsible in doing so. Additionally, the National Trust website lists plenty of outdoor events for you to get involved in from fun runs to educational and cookery talks. Take a look on their website and see what takes your fancy!

Sporting Events

There are two sporting events being held near Tenby this April and May. The first is the Easter monday Point to Point at Lydstep. This popular event brings locals and visitors together for a day of fun, picnics and a chance to enjoy a beer, no matter the weather. Alternatively, for a more action-packed stay, why not take part in the Carten cycle challenge? As the name suggests it’s a 100-mile ride from Cardiff to Tenby and takes place on 27th May.

Festivals and Live Music

The Big Retreat Wales is a “Feel Good” festival held in Lawrenny between 24-27th May. It focuses health and wellbeing but also hosts live music, craft courses and as well as talks. Day tickets are available online.

Good food is something the people of Pembrokeshire like to celebrate, and The Really Wild Food & Countryside Festival does just that. It’s being held at Oriel y Parc Gallery and Visitor Centre in St Davids on 25 & 26th May 2019. Head on over for a delicious tasting experience.

For something a bit different why not join in on the National Trust’s Festival of the Sea between 10-12 May at Gupton Farm near Freshwater West. There will be stalls, live music, food and drink, workshops and outdoor activities to enjoy.

Finally, for your live music fix, The Queens Hall is presenting Sounds of the 60s with The Zoots on 5th April, The Oasis Experience on 19th April, a local Muse tribute band, Hullabaloo, on 10th May and Never 42, a tribute to Level 42 on 18th May. Alternatively, the Fishguard Folk Festival 24-27th May is offering workshops, singalongs and ceilidhs alongside concerts.

 

A couple staying in Tenby

March 25, 2019

We think the Porthole is a perfect property for a romantic getaway and it is superbly situated for the two of you to explore the best bits of Pembrokeshire together.

Tenby itself is a great to explore on those days you don’t fancy driving out and there are fabulous places to visit and things to do which are just a short journey away. If you’re feeling more adventurous and have time, you can also make the most of how well-connected Tenby is to the rest of the county.

Within the town there are plenty of options for brunch dates before starting the day proper. Ideas such as a trip to Caldey (seasonal) or a day spent on the sea are possible without having to drive and are fantastic ways for you to make memories.

Celtic Haven in Lydstep, Dovecote Naturally at Trefloyne Manor and St Brides in Saundersfoot are nearby spas will help you achieve ultimate relaxation during your stay. They are all also home to restaurants which serve easy going, tasty lunches or afternoon teas.

In the evenings, Tenby’s beaches provide the opportunity for a romantic stroll before heading out to supper. Penally Abbey, The Salt Cellar and Coast just a few nearby restaurants which should tick the box if you are celebrating a special occasion. There are also plenty of options for more casual dining or a fish and chip treat enjoyed with a stunning sea view.

If you’re looking to spend a few days exploring further afield, there are a plenty of opportunities for you to combine a fantastic walk and delicious lunch. The award winning Stackpole Inn near Pembroke will help you round off a walk around Stackpole woods or along the cliffs from the quay. It is also close to Bosheston Lily Ponds, Barafundle and Broadhaven beaches. Crackling fires in the winter and garden seating in the summer await.

Narberth is an excellent town for a cosy day out, this fantastic place has shops stuffed with beautiful things and excellent eateries such as Ultracomida, which offers tapas dishes for the ultimate shared experience. A trip here can also be combined with a leisurely walk or cycle around Canaston or Minwear woods.

Alternatively, for a day spent exploring together, St Davids is definitely worth a visit and the peninsula on which the city is located offers fabulous coastal walking. For something more adventurous you can head out for a surf or go coasteering with one of the adventure companies near St Davids or another of the many within the county. A wildlife watching boat trip around one of Pembrokeshire’s islands is also a sure way to make the most of a getaway here, and again also creates long lasting memories.

Finally, Pembrokeshire Picnics provide a service whereby delicious treats are laid out on blankets and cushions for you and your other half to enjoy, at any spot of your choosing within the county. We think this would be an excellent idea if you’re looking to add an extra special twist to your stay with us here at the Porthole.

 

Start Planning Your Trip to Tenby!

March 7, 2019

Now you’ve chosen to stay at the Porthole, all that’s left to do is to do is some research on the finer details on what Tenby has to offer. We know this can take some time so we’ve jotted down ideas which we hope will help you get the most out of your stay.

Tenby offers an array of amenities which all play their part in creating a well catered for town. For essentials there is a butcher within the market, a fish shop on the harbour as well as supermarkets and corner stores. What more could you want than a fresh fish supper landed merely metres away? There is also plenty of choice for every taste and budget when it comes to eating out. The town is gaining a real foodie reputation and offers everything from pub and restaurant food, artisan burgers and pizzas, award-winning fish and chips, right through to a two AA rosette restaurant. There are plenty of independent cafes of varying styles as well as parlours serving great value homemade ice cream.

There are two breweries within the town and plenty of opportunity to sample the beers they create in the local pubs. For that ‘drink out’ there are cocktail bars to try as well as sports bars, so you don’t miss that all important game. Additionally, make sure you keep an eye out for adverts for live music, the De Valence has had some well-known names playing and some of the pubs and cafes host musicians in the evening. There is a yearly calendar of events which are held within the town, such as the Beer and Blues Festivals as well as sporting events for example Ironman and the Long Course weekend.

If you’re looking for an action-packed stay, Tenby will not disappoint. Of course, there are award winning beaches which are perfect for a dip or boogie board. There is a water sports equipment hire outlet, a climbing wall and a modern leisure centre. There are also fishing and wildlife watching boat trips available which can be booked at stalls on the harbour and all leave from the town’s shoreline, as do the boats to Caldey Island. The golf course, the birthplace of Welsh golf, is within walking distance. For those looking to expand their knowledge the Life Boat Station, Tenby Museum and Art Gallery and the Tudor Merchants House are firm favourites.

The thriving high street complete with clothing and charity shops in addition to stylish gift and speciality shops will satisfy both serious shoppers and those who just like to browse. Tenby has traditional sweet and fudge shops as well as a nostalgic arcade and a pet shop within the market should you need it. Galleries feature the work of local artists.

Many people have fond memories of their stay in Tenby and hope you will too. It has a real heart and soul and any conversation with local people will establish they are proud to share it with visitors.