There’s no need to go far the next time you feel like having a break by the beach – instead, simply make your way to Tenby. While the charming Welsh seaside town is hugely popular with tourists during the summer, visitors who come during the off-season are rewarded by having the sandy, unspoilt beaches to themselves.   The candy-coloured buildings on the Esplanade are guaranteed to brighten up your day, and also provide a contrast to the well-preserved – but monochromatic – city walls.

Stay
Myrtle House Hotel – This charming little bed and breakfast style hotel is located in St. Mary’s Street, and is only a couple of minutes walk from both the town centre and the seafront. With only eights rooms in the hotel, the owners Rob and Jan manage to make every single guest feel right at home. Wake up to a generous, home-cooked breakfast and endless pots of coffee or tea, before making your way up to the Esplanade to explore the town. Room rates start from around £30.

Play
Folly Farm – For a fun-filled day out with the family, pay a visit to Folly Farm. Combining a funfair, a farmyard, a zoo and a park, there’s bound to be something for everyone. Jolly Barn lets the young ones get up close to domesticated animals, and offers visitors a hand-on experience of farm life. For more animal antics, visit the zoo or Folly Wood, home to several Shetland ponies, goats, shire horses and llamas. The undercover funfair lets the big kids revisit their childhood, with a giant helter skelter, a big wheel, dodgems and lots of other rides. Tickets are £7.50 (adults) and £6.50 (children and concessions).

Eat
The Blue Ball – The homely, wood and brick interior of this restaurant provides a cosy spot for a relaxed meal with loved ones. As expected of a restaurant in a seaside town, the Blue Ball specialises in astoundingly fresh seafood, but there are also many other types of dishes. The homemade faggots, served with creamed potatoes and onion gravy, help warm you up after a chilly day by the sea. For fans of fish, the locally farmed gurnard has silky translucent flesh that marries well with a side of saffron-infused creamed potatoes.

Check here for flights to Tenby.

(Photo: bbc.co.uk)