About Islandeering
Hi and welcome to Islandeering Islandeering is for people who want adventure in Britain’s wild blue spaces – our rivers, coast, lakes, canals and islands. You will find amazing walks, paddles and swims in the UK’s most special places, those recognised for outstanding natural beauty, incredible geology or special and abundant wildlife.
More About UsWe continuously find new islands, rivers, lochs, canals and coast to walk, SUP and swim in and meet plenty of great folks along the way. Join our community to get new routes and adventures, latest blogs and news by using the email box below. Tune in also to our Facebook and Instagram pages to see where we are going next.
Key Facts
- Location: Tenby, Pembrokeshire
- Size: 217ha
- Highpoint 60m
- Access: Caldey Island boat trip
- Map: OS Explorer OL36
- Departure Point: Tenby Harbour, SA70 7BS; What3Words dynamics.climbing.frail; Grid ref. SN 136 005
Less than 4km south of Tenby this holy island owned by the Cistercian monks of Caldey Abbey is a haven of peace and tranquillity with sandy beaches and hidden coves, woodland, wildlife and fabulous views. Caldey has a fascinating history stretching back to when the first Celtic monastery was built here in the sixth century. Today it is home to 40 or so Trappist monks who farm and sell their produce, including delicious chocolate and fudge. Three caves, Nanna’s Cave, Potter’s Cave and Ogof-yr-Ychen, have been discovered on the island and excavated to unearth human bones, tools and shells, dating back to the neolithic, Bronze Age and Romano-British periods. The island has its own postage stamps and its own monetary unit named after the local fish, the dab. There is a colonial-style tea shop on the green.
Highlights of Caldey Island are:
- Experience the monks going about their daily rituals
- Beautiful coastal scenery
- Unique buildings to explore
- Tranquil walks on marked paths
- Uncrowded beaches
Check out our Caldey Island Activities tab above
How to get to Caldey Island
The Caldey Island Ferry leaves from Tenby Harbour from Easter until October, every day except Sunday. At high tide boats leave from the Harbour and at low water from the landing stage on Castle Beach (in front of St Catherine’s Island). You can buy tickets from the Caldey Island Kiosk at the top of Tenby Harbour. Sailings every twenty to thirty minutes, with final boat time announced on the outgoing journey and posted on a noticeboard on Caldey Island quay. Always check sailing times on the day on 01834 844453. Crossing time is about 20 minutes.
Accommodation on Caldey Island
St Philomena’s is a retreat house for organised groups and individuals wishing to spend a few days of quiet and reflection, particularly those who would like to attend some of the monastic services and experience more fully the spiritual life of the island. Guests live and eat communally and take part in some household chores. There are also a few rooms in the Monastic Guesthouse for men interested in making a retreat for a few days, worshipping with the monks, eating with them in their Refectory and assisting with various daily tasks. www.caldeyislandwales.com/philomenas-retreat-house.
Food on Caldey Island
An outdoor tea garden café is located in the village offering the usual hot and cold snacks and drinks.
What to do on Caldey
Best things to do on Caldey Island
One of the best things to do in Tenby, Caldey Island is a serene retreat [...]
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