The new Cistercian Monastery
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Caldey Abbey

4.7
·558 reviews·Caldey Island, United Kingdom

A serene holy island off Tenby, Wales, home to a Cistercian Abbey, stunning beaches, and unique monastic crafts.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Calm seas & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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The new Cistercian Monastery

Caldey Abbey

Best Time

Summer mornings

Calm seas & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene holy island off Tenby, Wales, home to a Cistercian Abbey, stunning beaches, and unique monastic crafts.

4.7
(558 reviews)

"Unbeatable away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.. Beautiful place peaceful, walks great places to explore."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚢 Book Boat Tickets Early

Purchase boat tickets on arrival at the Caldey Island Kiosk in Tenby.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The island involves uphill walks; sturdy footwear is recommended for exploring.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Caldey Abbey

Caldey Abbey

Caldey Island

A serene Cistercian monastery with a rich history, offering a glimpse into monastic life.

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Island Beaches

Island Beaches

Caldey Island

Discover postcard-perfect sandy shores offering tranquility and stunning coastal views.

InstagramReddit
Monastic Products

Monastic Products

Caldey Island Village

Sample or purchase unique perfumes, chocolates, and shortbread made by the resident monks.

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Lighthouse Views

Lighthouse Views

Caldey Island

Ascend to the lighthouse for panoramic vistas of the island and surrounding coastline.

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Planning Your Visit

Boat Trip Essentials

Boats to Caldey Island run from Tenby, typically from Easter to October, Monday to Saturday. Tickets are usually purchased on the day at the Caldey Island Kiosk. Be aware that trips can be cancelled due to weather, so check conditions beforehand. TikTok

Island Pace & Activities

Caldey Island is a tranquil retreat, perfect for peaceful walks and exploring. While beautiful, it might not hold the attention of very young children for an entire day. Consider the uphill terrain for those with mobility concerns. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Calm seas & fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays (Mon-Fri)
Why
Avoid weekend rush
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

If you visit tenby, take a boat trip over to caldey island 🏝️ #caldeyisland #tenby #boat #fyp
@amalietav
1.2K likes • 14.2K views

🚢 Book Boat Tickets Early

Purchase boat tickets on arrival at the Caldey Island Kiosk in Tenby. TikTok

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The island involves uphill walks; sturdy footwear is recommended for exploring. InstagramReddit

A 20-30 minute boat trip from Tenby takes you to Ynys Bŷr / Caldey Island which is a beautiful and fascinating home to monks of the Cistercian Order. In the village you can buy perfumes, chocolate and shortbread made on the island. 🛳️ Boats run from Easter to October, Monday to Saturday. 🎟️ Tickets are available on the day from the Caldey Island Kiosk, Tenby Harbour. 🐕‍🦺 The island welcomes we...
@visitwales
630 likes • 16K views
Caldey Abbey's close links to Belgium were celebrated today as part of this weekend's commemorations of Belgian Armed Forces being based in Tenby after Dunkirk in 1940. The present day Cistercian Abbey was founded by monks from Scourmont Abbey in Belgium in 1929 and some of these monks joined the Belgian Armed Forces to help liberate Brussels from the Nazis in 1944. The video below shows Fr. Jan R...
caldeyislandwales
28 likes • 447 views

🍫 Taste Island Delicacies

Don't miss trying the monks' famous perfumes and delicious handmade chocolates. TikTokInstagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore Beyond the Village

Walk further to find quieter spots and enjoy the island's natural beauty. Reddit

Another one for your UK bucket list 💫 Posted by @drifterkait Caldey Island - a small island less than 1 mile off the coast of Tenby, Wales - is home to a medieval priory, an Abbey, a lighthouse, beaches, cliff walks, wildflowers, and black swans. For some, the island is a religious destination, and there is a group of Cistercian monks living there who make chocolate and perfume. You can catch a ...
aroundtenby
689 likes • 13.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚢 Book Boat Tickets Early

Purchase boat tickets on arrival at the Caldey Island Kiosk in Tenby. TikTok

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The island involves uphill walks; sturdy footwear is recommended for exploring. InstagramReddit

🍫 Taste Island Delicacies

Don't miss trying the monks' famous perfumes and delicious handmade chocolates. TikTokInstagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore Beyond the Village

Walk further to find quieter spots and enjoy the island's natural beauty. Reddit

☁️ Check Weather Forecast

Boat trips are weather-dependent; have a backup plan for Tenby if cancelled. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(558 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Caldey Island is widely praised for its tranquility, natural beauty, and the unique experience of visiting a working monastery. Visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, stunning coastal walks, and the opportunity to purchase monastic products like perfumes and chocolates. Some find it less engaging for very young children due to the walking and quiet nature of the island.

"Lovely island, very tranquil and spotlessly clean. Would recommend but probably not with younger kids as our 4 year old was bored until he got to the beach. It's uphill too so mobility issues would make it difficult for some people"

Allyson Aston

"The boat fare is £20 for a return trip, with departures at 10 a.m. in summer. The boat is steady and feels safe — definitely worth the trip. The paths on the island are well-maintained and easy to follow, with clear signage. There’s a café and toilets, which are convenient. The whole place is peaceful and relaxing, perfect for enjoying a calm day. The coastal area near the lighthouse is especially pleasant, with plenty of space to walk around."

Wendy Chan

"Lovely place to visit, as its an island you have to take a 20 minute boat ride at £20 each which i think is really good value, lots of places to walk around the coast, there's a small independent chocolate factory where you can purchase a bar or three at £3.50 a bar, and fudge but honestly it didn't taste like fudge it was more like block of soft sugar. You can visit the Abbey the post office and small shop, there are also a few old churches as well and there is a small food and drink outlet where you can purchase lunch. And lets not forget the lighthouse. All in all a really nice day out."

Paul Santoro-Hall

What People Like

Tranquil atmosphere
Beautiful coastal walks
Monastic products

What People Dislike

Less engaging for young kids

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Regular boat trips depart from Tenby Harbour to Caldey Island. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes and offers scenic views. Tickets are typically purchased on the day from the Caldey Island Kiosk. TikTokInstagram+1

Boats usually run from Easter to October, Monday to Saturday, with departures often starting around 10 a.m. in summer. It's best to check the specific schedule on the day of your visit as times can vary. TikTok

No, Caldey Island is only accessible by boat from Tenby. There is no car access to the island. TikTok

Boat trips are subject to weather conditions. If cancelled, you can explore Tenby's attractions, such as its beaches, town walls, and castle ruins. Instagram

Tenby has several car parks available, though they can get busy, especially during peak season. It's advisable to arrive early if you are driving. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The primary cost is the return boat fare, which is approximately £20 per adult. There are no separate entry fees for the island itself, but you may wish to purchase items from the shops. Reddit

Tickets for the boat trip are generally available to purchase on the day from the Caldey Island Kiosk in Tenby Harbour. Booking in advance is usually not required unless specified for special events. TikTok

Information on discounts for children, seniors, or groups is not widely publicized, but it's always worth inquiring at the Caldey Island Kiosk when purchasing your tickets. Reddit

The island is accessible via boat trips during daylight hours, typically from Easter to October. The Abbey and shops have their own operating hours, which are generally aligned with the boat service. TikTok

While the Abbey is a working monastery, visitors are welcome to explore the grounds and the church. Donations are appreciated but not mandatory for entry. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the Abbey, visit St. David's and St. Illtyd's Churches, walk to the lighthouse, enjoy the beaches, and browse the monastic shops for perfumes and chocolates. Instagram+2

While the beaches are great for kids, younger children might find the extensive walking and quiet atmosphere less engaging. The island is more suited for those who enjoy nature and peaceful exploration. Reddit

Yes, there are public toilets and a cafe available on the island, providing essential amenities for visitors. Reddit

Yes, there are well-maintained paths that allow you to circumnavigate much of the island, offering diverse scenery and viewpoints. Some paths can be steep. InstagramReddit

Visitors can spot black swans and potentially red squirrels on the island. The coastal areas are also rich in birdlife. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There is a cafe on Caldey Island that serves light meals, snacks, and drinks. You can also purchase fudge and chocolate from the monastic shops. Reddit

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own picnics to enjoy on the island, especially on the beaches or designated picnic areas. Reddit

Prices at the cafe are generally considered reasonable for an island location, offering a convenient option for lunch or refreshments. Reddit

While samples are not always guaranteed, the chocolate factory allows visitors to purchase their handmade chocolates and fudge. Reddit

Caldey Island primarily offers a cafe for dining. For a wider selection of restaurants, you would need to return to Tenby. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Abbey, the lighthouse, the beaches, and the coastal paths offer stunning photographic opportunities. The village itself also has charming scenes. Instagram+1

Photography is generally permitted in the public areas of the Abbey grounds, but it's respectful to avoid taking photos inside the monastic cells or during services. Instagram

Early mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful light for photography, with fewer crowds. Midday can be harsh but still offers good opportunities, especially on the beaches. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted on religious sites and islands to maintain peace and privacy. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone. Instagram

While respecting their privacy, you might capture glimpses of monastic life from a distance. The monastic products, like chocolate, also make for great flat-lay photos. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Caldey Island offers a unique day out for families, though it's best suited for children who enjoy exploring and nature. The beaches are a definite highlight for younger visitors, providing space for play and sandcastle building. Reddit The boat trip itself is often an exciting part of the adventure. TikTok However, be prepared for uphill walks and a generally tranquil atmosphere, which might lead to boredom for very young children who prefer more active entertainment. Reddit Consider packing plenty of snacks and drinks, as options on the island are limited to a cafe and monastic shops. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples

For solo travelers and couples seeking a peaceful retreat, Caldey Island is an ideal destination. The island's tranquil atmosphere, coupled with its stunning natural beauty and spiritual significance, provides a perfect setting for reflection and relaxation. Instagram+1 You can spend your day exploring the Abbey, wandering along the coastal paths, or simply enjoying the serenity of the beaches. Reddit The opportunity to purchase Caldey Island perfumes and chocolates also adds a touch of indulgence to the experience. TikTok

🙏 Spiritual Seekers

Caldey Island is a holy island with a deep spiritual heritage, making it a pilgrimage site for many. The presence of the Cistercian monastic community offers a unique opportunity to experience a contemplative lifestyle. Instagram Visitors can attend services at the Abbey church, explore the sacred sites, and soak in the profound sense of peace that pervades the island. Instagram The island's history as a place of prayer and devotion is evident, offering a chance for spiritual renewal and quiet contemplation. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Monastic Community of Caldey Abbey

Caldey Island is a holy island with a history of monastic settlement dating back centuries. The present-day Cistercian monks are a contemplative branch of the Benedictine Order, having re-established themselves on the island in 1929, originating from Scourmont Abbey in Belgium. Instagram+1 Their life is dedicated to prayer, work, and community, maintaining a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere that permeates the island. Visitors can visit the Abbey church and grounds, offering a unique opportunity to experience a different pace of life. Instagram

The monks are known for their artisanal products, which are a significant part of their self-sufficiency. They produce Caldey Island perfumes, renowned for their quality and unique scents, as well as handmade chocolates and shortbread. These items are available for purchase in the island's village shop, allowing visitors to take a piece of Caldey's tranquility home with them. TikTokInstagram The presence of the monastic community is central to the island's identity and appeal, drawing many visitors seeking peace and spiritual reflection. Instagram

Exploring the island, you'll encounter the Italianate Abbey, a beautiful architectural piece, and various chapels and churches, including St. David's and St. Illtyd's. The island's history is palpable, with remnants of earlier priories and a rich religious heritage. The monks' dedication to their faith and their craft is evident throughout the island, making it a truly special destination. Instagram+1

Exploring Caldey Island's Natural Beauty

Beyond its spiritual significance, Caldey Island boasts stunning natural landscapes that captivate visitors. The island is less than a mile off the coast of Tenby, offering a compact yet diverse environment to explore. Its coastline features beautiful beaches and dramatic cliffs, perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying the sea air. Instagram+1 The well-maintained paths make it accessible for most visitors, though some sections can be steep, offering rewarding views at every turn. Reddit

The island's interior is a haven of wildflowers and diverse flora, contributing to its picturesque charm. Keep an eye out for the unique wildlife, including the striking black swans that grace the island's waters and grounds. Instagram For those interested in a bit more adventure, the lighthouse offers panoramic views, and the nature walks provide opportunities to spot local fauna. Instagram+1 The island's relatively small size means you can cover a lot of ground, from the village to the lighthouse, in a single day trip. Instagram

Many visitors find that venturing a little further from the main village area leads to even more secluded and peaceful spots. Reddit The combination of serene beaches, rugged coastal paths, and tranquil inland areas makes Caldey Island a delightful escape for nature lovers and those seeking a break from the everyday hustle. Instagram+1

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