Caldey Island , South Wales.

Caldey Island is situated just south of Tenby. The name, Caldey, comes from the Viking name Keld-Eye meaning "cold island".

The island is home to a small village, but is best known for its monastery. It is one of Britain's holy islands. A Celtic monastery was founded on the island in the sixth century, and a Benedictine foundation existed from 1136 until the dissolution of the monasteries in 1536. An Anglican Benedictine community came in 1906 and built the current abbey. They were received into the Roman Catholic Church in 1913, but left Caldey in 1925 due to financial difficulties. The Cistercians, who now occupy the abbey, came in 1929 from Scourmont Abbey in Belgium.

The cliffs on the south side and on neighbouring St Margaret's island are teeming with nesting seabird colonies from May to July but are best viewed from a round island boat trip. The nature of Caldey is very different to the other islands as much of the cliff area is out of bounds making it a perfect haven for birds. Caldey is an enchanting, historic and tranquil oasis. One of Pembrokeshire's best beaches, Priory Beach, is on the island.

The principal income for the island is tourism, with perfume and chocolate production providing winter incomes. The island also provides a spiritual retreat throughout the year. There is a private guesthouse on the island as well as a fire engine, ambulance and a Coastguard team.

A ferry service from Tenby crosses the sound during spring and summer.

Opening Times

Monday to Saturday from 16th April to the end of September.

Monday to Friday in October

The Island is closed on Sundays.

Boats leave Tenby approximately every thirty minutes, (more frequently at peak times), from approximately 10am to 3pm .
Last return boat is usually 5pm.

Crossing time is about 20 minutes.

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