Tenby

Medieval walls still ring this clifftop town like a protective embrace, their honey-coloured stone glowing against Carmarthen Bay's brilliant blues. Tenby feels properly old-fashioned in the best way - pastel Georgian houses tumble down to a harbour where fishing boats bob alongside pleasure craft, and the beaches are some of the finest in Wales.

North Beach stretches for miles when the tide's out, perfect for proper seaside walks. The town itself is compact enough to explore in an afternoon, with independent shops tucked into narrow streets and decent pubs serving local ales. Don't miss the view from St Mary's Church - the tower offers cracking panoramas across to Caldey Island.

Venture beyond the town walls and you'll find Carew Castle, a proper medieval fortress complete with tidal mill that's well worth the short drive. Manorbier Castle sits dramatically on coastal cliffs to the south, while the mysterious Kings Quoit Burial Chamber offers a glimpse into Pembrokeshire's ancient past.

The surrounding Pembrokeshire Coast Path provides endless walking opportunities. Rook's Cave makes for an interesting scramble at low tide, though it's a bit of a trek from the main beaches.

Tenby's roughly 140 miles from Cardiff, accessible via the A40 and A477. The nearest train station at Manorbier connects to the main Wales rail network. Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks gives you the best of both worlds - easy access to this lovely seaside town plus the freedom to explore Pembrokeshire's wild coastline and ancient sites without the premium of staying right in the centre.