Caldey Abbey: A Tranquil Monastic Retreat on Caldey Island
Discover Caldey Abbey, a serene monastic sanctuary on Caldey Island blending ancient Celtic heritage with tranquil island beauty.
Caldey Abbey, located on the serene Caldey Island off the coast of Tenby, Wales, is a historic monastery renowned for its contemplative atmosphere and Celtic monastic heritage. Visitors can explore the abbey grounds, attend monastic services, and experience the peaceful island environment rich with natural beauty and spiritual significance. Accommodation options include the monastic guesthouse and St Philomena's retreat house, offering full board and vegetarian meals.
A brief summary to Caldey Abbey
- 2 The Cottages, Tenby, Caldey Island, SA70 7UJ, GB
- +447879711040
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Book accommodation in advance, especially for St Philomena’s Retreat or the Monastic Guesthouse, as availability is limited and seasonal.
- Attend the daily monastic services to experience the spiritual atmosphere and community life of the abbey.
- Check weather and tide conditions before planning your boat trip from Tenby, as sailings are weather dependent.
- Respect the island’s quiet rules, especially silence after Compline at 7:30 PM in the monastic guesthouse.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Ferry from Tenby Harbour
Take the designated ferry from Tenby Harbour to Caldey Island, with sailings typically starting around 10am and lasting about 25 minutes. Boat trips are weather and tide dependent, with adult fares around £20. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to purchase tickets at the kiosk. No private boats are allowed to land.
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Train and Ferry Combination
Travel by train to Tenby station from Swansea or Pembroke Dock, then walk approximately 10 minutes to Tenby Harbour. From there, board the ferry to Caldey Island. Total travel time from Swansea is about 2 to 3 hours. The ferry fare is approximately £20 for adults.
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Car and Park & Ride
Drive to Tenby and use local pay-and-display car parks such as Salterns or North Beach Car Park. During summer pedestrianization, a Park and Ride bus operates from North Beach Car Park to the harbour. From the harbour, take the ferry to Caldey Island. Parking fees vary from £3 to £10 depending on duration.
Caldey Abbey location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Caldey Abbey
Ancient Roots and Spiritual Legacy
Caldey Abbey stands as a remarkable example of enduring monastic life, situated on Caldey Island, which has been inhabited since the Stone Age. The abbey itself traces its origins to the early Celtic monastic period of the 6th century, maintaining a tradition of austere contemplation and religious devotion. The island’s name, derived from the Viking term “Keld Eye” meaning cold island, hints at its long history shaped by both nature and faith.Monastic Life and Visitor Experience
The abbey is home to a community of monks who follow a disciplined daily routine of prayer, work, and reflection. Visitors can attend the daily monastic services held in the abbey chapel, immersing themselves in the spiritual rhythm that defines the place. Accommodation is available in two distinct settings: the Monastic Guesthouse, open exclusively to men wishing to live alongside the monks temporarily, and St Philomena’s Retreat House, welcoming individuals and groups seeking quiet reflection with full board vegetarian meals.Architectural and Natural Setting
The abbey complex features historic stone buildings that blend harmoniously with the island’s natural landscape. Visitors can enjoy peaceful gardens, scenic walking paths, and the nearby sandy beaches where seals often rest. The abbey’s architecture reflects its heritage, with simple, sturdy structures designed for contemplation and community living. The island’s woodlands and wildlife, including red squirrels, add to the tranquil ambiance.Island Life and Amenities
Caldey Island is a private and protected environment, accessible only by designated boats from Tenby. The island offers limited visitor facilities including a tea garden serving snacks and drinks, and a small shop selling handmade chocolates and lavender products unique to the island. While the island is largely car-free and tranquil, it provides essential amenities such as restrooms and seating areas near the abbey.Seasonal Access and Visitor Guidelines
The abbey and island accommodations operate primarily from Easter to October, with seasonal closures due to weather and conservation efforts. Visitors are advised to check sailing schedules carefully as boat trips depend on tides and weather conditions. The island’s private ownership and monastic community require respectful behavior, maintaining silence after evening prayers and preserving the peaceful atmosphere.Cultural and Historical Significance
Caldey Abbey is not only a place of worship but also a cultural heritage site reflecting centuries of monastic tradition in Wales. It offers a rare glimpse into early Christian monasticism, preserved in a living community that continues to practice its faith and hospitality. The abbey’s presence enriches the island’s identity as a sanctuary of spirituality, history, and natural beauty.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Imperial Hotel, Tenby
3.7 km
Historic hotel on Tenby’s ancient walls with stunning sea views, modern comforts, and a vibrant seaside dining experience.
Tenby Town walls
4.0 km
Explore Tenby’s medieval town walls, a stunning coastal fortress that tells the story of centuries-old Welsh defense and heritage.
William Marshal Statue
16.7 km
Medieval England's greatest knight, immortalized in bronze below his castle stronghold.
St Clears Castle
23.4 km
Explore the earthwork remains of St Clears Castle, a Norman motte-and-bailey fortress steeped in medieval Welsh history at the rivers’ confluence.
Tŷ Milford Waterfront
25.8 km
Modern nautical charm meets stunning marina views at Tŷ Milford Waterfront, a stylish family-friendly hotel in scenic Milford Haven.
Pembrey Country Park
26.4 km
Explore the vast beauty of Pembrey Country Park with its stunning beaches, rich history, and endless outdoor activities for all ages.
Hubberston Fort
26.6 km
Discover the captivating Hubberston Fort in Milford Haven, a historical landmark showcasing military architecture and stunning coastal views.
Welsh Spitfire Museum
26.8 km
Explore the legendary Spitfire aircraft up close in a unique charity-run museum nestled in the heart of Haverfordwest.
Gorsedd Of Bards Circle
27.0 km
Historic stone circle celebrating Welsh bardic traditions and cultural heritage in serene Haverfordwest surroundings.
Rhossili Bay
27.5 km
Discover the stunning Rhossili Bay, a coastal paradise in Wales known for its breathtaking landscapes, sandy beaches, and rich biodiversity, perfect for adventure seekers.
Pembrokeshire Llama Sanctuary
28.0 km
Experience the charm of gentle llamas in the heart of Pembrokeshire, where nature, education, and fun come together for an unforgettable adventure.
Unmissable attractions to see
Caldey Island Lighthouse
0.7 km
Historic lighthouse guiding ships through Pembrokeshire’s rugged seas with timeless maritime heritage and stunning island views.
St. Catherine's Island
3.7 km
Explore the historic Napoleonic fort and tidal island charm of St Catherine's Island, where history meets stunning coastal views.
St. Catherines Island and fort
3.7 km
A historic tidal island fortress with panoramic views, rich wildlife, and a captivating blend of nature and Victorian heritage.
Hazewell Club
3.8 km
A cozy sports club in Tenby offering fresh beers, warm atmosphere, and a friendly community spirit near scenic coastal gardens.
Equinox
3.8 km
Discover Tenby’s vibrant gift shop blending global artistry with unique treasures on St Julian’s Street.
National Trust - Tudor Merchant's House
3.9 km
Explore the rich history of a prosperous Tudor merchant’s home in the heart of historic Tenby, Wales.
Tenby Castle
3.9 km
Experience the grandeur of Tenby Castle, a historic landmark offering breathtaking coastal views and a glimpse into medieval history.
The Dinosaur Park Tenby
6.8 km
Explore prehistoric adventures and family fun at The Dinosaur Park Tenby, where dinosaurs come alive amidst thrilling rides and interactive trails.
Great Wedlock Farm & Deer Park
6.9 km
Discover Pembrokeshire’s eco-friendly deer sanctuary with immersive buggy safaris, family fun, and tranquil countryside walks.
Manor Wildlife Park
7.7 km
Discover Wales's only walking safari with immersive animal encounters and family-friendly fun in the scenic surroundings of St Florence.
Heatherton World of Activities
7.7 km
A vibrant adventure park near Tenby offering over 25 activities from go-karting to escape rooms for all ages in scenic Pembrokeshire.
Manorbier Castle
7.8 km
Discover Manorbier Castle, a stunning 11th-century Norman fortress perched on cliffs with breathtaking sea views and rich Welsh history.
Boho Beach House
8.2 km
Eclectic bohemian gift shop by Saundersfoot beach offering unique handcrafted treasures in a vibrant seaside setting.
Christkindl
8.3 km
Discover unique gifts and festive treasures at Christkindl, Saundersfoot’s charming High Street boutique.
National Trust - Colby Woodland Garden
11.5 km
Explore Colby Woodland Garden’s tranquil woodlands, vibrant meadows, and charming walled garden near Narberth in Pembrokeshire.
Essential places to dine
Rhosyn Restaurant at Penally Abbey
3.6 km
Experience refined modern British tapas in the historic elegance of Penally Abbey’s charming Rhosyn Restaurant.
Penally Abbey
3.6 km
Historic country house hotel and restaurant with stunning Carmarthen Bay views, blending rich heritage and boutique luxury near Tenby.
Billycan
3.8 km
A stylish restaurant and boutique hotel in Tenby offering generous portions, fresh flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere near the beach.
Stables Restaurant
3.9 km
Historic charm meets vibrant British seafood cuisine in Tenby’s beloved Stables Restaurant, where simple food is beautifully prepared.
Heywood Marigold
4.7 km
Experience exquisite Pan-Asian and British cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting at Heywood Marigold, Tenby’s premier hotel restaurant.
The Mulberry Restaurant
8.1 km
A refined coastal dining experience in Saundersfoot, serving seasonal British cuisine in a warm, intimate setting near the harbour.
The Stone Crab
8.1 km
Renowned seafood excellence with stunning harbour views in Saundersfoot, offering award-winning dishes and warm Welsh hospitality.
The BoatHouse
8.2 km
Family-run British restaurant in Saundersfoot serving fresh local produce and hearty coastal dishes in a welcoming seaside setting.
Lan y Môr Restaurant Saundersfoot
8.8 km
Welsh coastal dining with panoramic bay views and locally sourced culinary excellence
The Smugglers
10.6 km
Seaside dining with fresh grilled flavors, family fun, and stunning views on Amroth’s scenic sea front.
The Freshwater Inn
12.2 km
A relaxed coastal pub near Freshwater East beach, serving hearty local food, sea views, and a warm welcome to dogs and families alike.
Best Western Lamphey Court Hotel & Spa
13.2 km
Elegant Georgian country house hotel with spa, pool, and tennis courts set in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park’s stunning natural surroundings.
The Stackpole Inn
15.7 km
Historic coastal inn offering cozy rooms and acclaimed local cuisine amid Pembrokeshire’s stunning natural beauty.
Cafe ROSE
16.4 km
Experience authentic Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine in the heart of historic Pembroke at the family-run Cafe ROSE.
Old Kings Arms Hotel & Bar
16.5 km
Historic charm meets hearty Welsh hospitality in the heart of Pembroke, steps from the castle and coast.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Nook
3.8 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and unique gifts in Tenby’s charming boutique, The Nook, where local artistry meets coastal inspiration.
Joys Of Tenby
3.8 km
Explore Joys Of Tenby, a charming gift shop offering unique souvenirs that capture the essence of this beautiful coastal town.
The Welsh Gift Shop
3.9 km
Discover authentic Welsh crafts and heritage treasures in the heart of Tenby at The Welsh Gift Shop.
Harbour Gifts
8.2 km
Discover unique local crafts and coastal treasures at Harbour Gifts, Saundersfoot’s charming boutique for memorable souvenirs.
Mermaid Gift Shop
8.2 km
Discover unique local crafts and charming gifts at Mermaid Gift Shop, a cozy seaside treasure in Saundersfoot’s vibrant coastal village.
Elements of Pembrokeshire
8.3 km
Discover unique local crafts and heartfelt souvenirs at Elements of Pembrokeshire, nestled in the charming seaside village of Saundersfoot.
The Outlet
8.3 km
Discover stylish bargains and coastal charm at The Outlet, Saundersfoot’s premier clothing shop on The Strand.
The Room
16.0 km
Discover unique local crafts and heartfelt stories at The Room, Pembroke’s charming boutique gift shop on Main Street.
The Chapel Emporium
16.1 km
Explore Pembroke’s charming Chapel Emporium, a vintage lover’s paradise filled with antiques, retro fashion, and artisanal crafts in a historic setting.
The Secret Garden Home & Gift Boutique
16.5 km
Discover unique gifts and homewares in a charming boutique nestled in the historic heart of Pembroke, Wales.
Pembroke Castle Shop Ltd
16.6 km
Discover unique local gifts and enjoy refreshments within the historic Pembroke Castle grounds at Pembroke Castle Shop Ltd.
Pembrokeshire Retail Park
18.0 km
A convenient and well-equipped retail hub in Pembroke Dock offering diverse shops and ample parking for locals and visitors alike.
Useful & Beautiful Things
18.3 km
Explore the charming antique shop, Useful & Beautiful Things, in Narberth for unique vintage treasures and rich history.
The Welsh Farmhouse Company
18.3 km
Authentic Welsh outerwear and timeless farmhouse-inspired fashion in the heart of Narberth’s historic High Street.
Something Different
18.6 km
Discover unique gifts and collectibles at Something Different, a charming boutique in the heart of Pembroke Dock.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cross Inn
3.5 km
Cozy Welsh pub in Penally offering hearty meals, friendly service, dog-friendly spaces, and scenic outdoor views near Tenby.
The Bush Inn
3.8 km
A cozy, historic pub nestled in Tenby’s medieval walls, offering friendly vibes, local ales, and a genuine Welsh drinking experience.
The Lifeboat Tavern Tenby
3.8 km
Experience Tenby’s maritime charm at The Lifeboat Tavern, a quirky pub with a lifeboat bar and welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the seaside town.
The Five Arches Tavern
3.8 km
Traditional Welsh pub with a roaring fire, hearty fare, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of historic Tenby.
Bar 10
3.8 km
Lively coastal bar in Tenby offering wood-fired pizzas, vibrant atmosphere, and a welcoming spot near historic beaches and harbor.
The Cove
3.9 km
A vibrant gastropub in Tenby offering quality food, lively events, and a welcoming atmosphere on the historic High Street.
Twisted Shamrock
4.0 km
A lively Irish pub in Tenby’s Town Wall Arcade, offering karaoke, cocktails, and a fun night out in a cozy, spirited setting.
Stage Door Bar
4.1 km
A quirky, movie-themed bar in Tenby offering friendly service, great music, and a cozy atmosphere filled with cinematic memorabilia.
HARBWR Bar & Kitchen
8.3 km
Relaxed coastal dining with award-winning local ales and stunning harbour views in the heart of Saundersfoot.
The Old Chemist Inn
8.3 km
Seaside charm meets hearty pub fare at The Old Chemist Inn, a friendly Saundersfoot spot with beach views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Wisemans Bridge Inn
9.6 km
Traditional Welsh coastal inn with a unique sitting room bar, beachside charm, and warm hospitality in the heart of Wisemans Bridge.
Templebar Inn
10.6 km
Charming seaside gastropub in Amroth offering hearty meals, stunning sea views, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Amroth Arms
10.7 km
Charming seaside pub in Amroth with stunning coastal views, hearty local fare, and warm Welsh hospitality.
Cresselly Arms
13.6 km
A charming waterside pub in Cresswell Quay offering hearty fare and scenic estuary views in a relaxed, rustic setting.
OUT VIP Cocktail Lounge and Night Venue
16.4 km
Experience Pembroke’s premier cocktail lounge and night venue with sophisticated drinks and an upscale atmosphere on Main Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Prince Of Wales
4.0 km
Tenby’s iconic late-night nightclub blending lively music, classic charm, and a spirited atmosphere in the heart of Town Wall Arcade.
Comlongon
7.3 km
Experience vibrant nightlife in the charming village of St Florence with Comlongon, Tenby’s energetic nightclub gem.
Sands Nightclub
8.2 km
Saundersfoot’s lively nightclub with dance, drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere near the beach.
Paddles
16.4 km
Experience Pembroke’s vibrant nightlife at Paddles, the go-to nightclub for late-night music, drinks, and social energy in the town center.
Boulevard Show Bar
25.6 km
Experience vibrant cabaret, live shows, and lively nightlife at Boulevard Show Bar, Milford Haven’s premier entertainment venue.
The Basement
25.7 km
Discover the energetic nightlife of Milford Haven at The Basement, where music, dancing, and vibrant gatherings create unforgettable experiences.
Eddie Rocks
26.6 km
A vibrant multi-floor nightclub in Haverfordwest offering energetic nights, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere by the waterfront.
Savannah's Night Club
35.5 km
Experience Carmarthen’s vibrant nightlife at Savannah's Night Club—where music, dance, and stylish vibes create unforgettable Saturday nights.
Lucifer's Nightlife
35.8 km
Experience Carmarthen's vibrant nightlife and fast food fusion at Lucifer's Nightlife, where music, dancing, and late-night bites come alive on Queen Street.
The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club
45.1 km
Experience lively nights and vibrant music at The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club, Gorseinon’s premier destination for unforgettable nightlife.
Albion Aberteifi
49.2 km
Discover the charm of Albion Aberteifi, where historic ambiance meets modern hospitality along the beautiful River Teifi.
The Grosvenor
49.4 km
Traditional Welsh pub with riverside views, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Cardigan town centre.
The Cellar
49.4 km
Discover the heart of Cardigan's music scene at The Cellar – where live performances and local culture collide.
Bar 45
49.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Bar 45 in Cardigan, where local ales, cocktails, and live music create unforgettable experiences.
Sin City
50.9 km
Energetic Swansea nightclub with live music, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere on Dillwyn Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Car-Free Access
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Seasonal Only
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
