Highlight • Beach
Hiking
4.8
(50)
St Catherine's Island and Fort is a distinctive tidal island located just off Castle Beach in the charming coastal town of Tenby, Pembrokeshire, Wales. Rising to an elevation of 73 meters, this limestone outcrop is home to a historic 19th-century Palmerston Fort, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and military history. Often referred to as St Catherine's Rock or St Catherine's Fort, it stands as a prominent landmark along the Pembrokeshire coastline.
What truly captivates visitors to St Catherine's…
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
September 18, 2019
Hiking
December 12, 2019
Hiking
April 21, 2021
Hiking
Sign up for a free komoot account to get 2 more insider tips and takes.
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near St Catherine's Island and Fort
4.6
(14)
249
hikers
11.1km
02:50
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.7
(6)
297
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(10)
112
hikers
22.0km
05:48
190m
190m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 70 m
Entry costs £3.50 for adults, £2 for children, and under threes are free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Tuesday 31 March
13°C
7°C
24 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 25.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Access to St Catherine's Island is only possible by foot from Castle Beach at low tide via a causeway. Visitors must check tide times carefully, as the island is typically accessible for approximately three hours either side of low tide. The journey involves walking across a sandy beach, then ascending 75 steps, crossing a 10-meter bridge over a ditch, and more steps to reach the fort's upper levels. This makes it unsuitable for wheelchairs or prams, and a moderate level of fitness is recommended.
While dogs are generally welcome on Castle Beach, which provides access to St Catherine's Island, specific rules for dogs on the island and within the fort itself can vary. It's advisable to check the latest regulations on-site or with local tourism information before your visit, especially concerning access inside the fort buildings.
Parking is available in Tenby town centre, with several car parks within walking distance of Castle Beach. Popular options include the multi-storey car park or the South Beach car park. During peak season, these can fill up quickly, so arriving early is recommended. Be aware that some car parks may have time limits or charges.
St Catherine's Island itself has limited facilities. There are no permanent cafes or public restrooms directly on the island. Visitors should plan to use facilities in Tenby town before or after their visit. It's a good idea to bring your own water and snacks.
While the intro mentions low tide as the best time to visit, to avoid crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) rather than the peak summer months. Weekdays, particularly outside of school holidays, will also generally be less busy than weekends. Always check tide times regardless of the season.
St Catherine's Island boasts a rich and varied history. It was initially home to a 13th-century chapel, later replaced by the 19th-century Victorian Palmerston Fort. Beyond its military past, the island also served as a palatial home, a World War I garrison, and, notably, a zoo from 1968 to 1979. It even gained recognition as a filming location for the BBC series Sherlock.
As a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), St Catherine's Island is home to diverse wildlife. Visitors might spot rare plants, various seabirds such as choughs and peregrine falcons, and even an island fox. The tidal caves also host marine life when exposed at low tide.
Yes, when the fort is open to the public, guided tours are often available. These tours, frequently led by knowledgeable volunteers, offer fascinating insights into the fort's history, its various rooms, and even its dungeons. Checking the official website or local information for current opening times and tour availability is recommended.
Given the tidal access and steps, sturdy, comfortable footwear suitable for walking on sand and potentially uneven surfaces is essential. Dress in layers, as coastal weather can change quickly. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and waterproofs are advisable depending on the forecast. Don't forget water, snacks, and a camera to capture the stunning views.
Tenby is well-served by public transport. You can reach Tenby by train, with the station located within walking distance of the town centre and Castle Beach. Local bus services also operate in and around Tenby. From the town, it's a short walk to Castle Beach, where you can access the island at low tide.
For spectacular views of St Catherine's Island, consider walking up to Tenby Castle, which offers a fantastic vantage point. The coastal path around Tenby also provides numerous opportunities for scenic overlooks, particularly from the areas overlooking Castle Beach and South Beach.