Caldey Island
off Tenby, Pembrokeshire, SA70 7UJ
Category: Places to visit, Pembrokeshire
This peaceful island lies just off the coast from Tenby. It’s been the home of monks since the 6th century and today there’s a working monastery with a community of 14 monks of the Reformed Cistercian Order, who follow the austere Rule of St Benedict – the first prayers are at 3.15am! Boats leave Tenby every 20 minutes in season for the journey to the island. The first thing you’ll see when you land on Caldey Island is the magnificent expanse of sandy beach at Priory Bay. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, walking – and building sandcastles, of course! What’s really great is that, because it’s only accessible by boat, it never gets very crowded. Just outside the island’s main settlement, you can find the restored chapel of St David with its impressive round-arched Norman door. South of the village is the old priory which was abandoned in 1536 and restored at the beginning of the 20th century. For the best views, go up to the white island lighthouse which was built in 1828. Don’t forget to visit the perfume shop beside the post office. It sells the herbal fragrances that are made on the island.
Visit Caldey Island
Monday - Friday from Easter to October. Also Saturdays from May to September. Closed on Sundays. Crossings are every 20 minutes from 10am to 3pm, the last return time is 5pm. Opening hours may vary due to tides and weather conditions. Tickets can be obtained at the Caldey Island Ticket Office
calls charged at national rate
www.caldey-island.co.uk