SN1300 : St Catherine's Island, Tenby

St Catherine's Island

30m Elevation
29m Prominence
Wales Country
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SN1300 : St Catherine's Island, Tenby

Bill Jarvie Photo source

Overview

St Catherine's Island

Overview

St Catherine's Island, situated just off the picturesque coast of Tenby in Pembrokeshire, is a unique destination for hikers and history enthusiasts alike. While it's not towering in elevation, its historical significance and stunning coastal views are beyond compare.

Geology

This charming island is primarily composed of limestone and sandstone. The striking geology has created a rugged coastline, perfect for exploring and understanding coastal erosion. Perfect for geology buffs wanting to sink their teeth into some local history!

How to Get There

Access: The nearest parking can be found in Tenby, where spaces can be limited, especially in the height of summer, so arrive bright and early!

Public Transport

Tenby boasts a well-connected train station with regular services, alongside local buses. It’s well worth checking schedules to coordinate your day of adventure.

Hiking Routes

Circular Coastal Trail
  • Distance: 2.5 km
  • Estimated Time: 1.5 hours
  • Difficulty: Easy

This circular route will guide you around the island, allowing you to take in the sights and sounds of the sparkling sea and dramatic cliffs. Perfect for a leisurely walk or as a family outing.

Summit Features

At the summit, adventurers will find a Victorian gun battery and a quaint chapel, remnants of the island's storied past. A perfect backdrop for your holiday snaps!

Terrain

Expect rocky outcrops and grassy patches. A great spot for a casual explore, just mind the path if the tide is high.

Views

From the summit, one can take in breathtaking views of Tenby's coastline, with Caldey Island peeking through the waves. Best Seasons: Spring and autumn offer lovely views thanks to clearer air and beautiful colours—all the better for your Instagram feed!

Hazards

Be aware of strong tides and slippery rocks—one moment you're grinning like a Cheshire cat, the next you're drenched! Always check tide times and avoid venturing too close to the water’s edge.

Nearby Facilities

The vibrant town of Tenby is just a stone's throw away, offering endless cafes and restaurants. Don't miss out on a slice of Welsh cake!

History

The name 'St Catherine' hails from the medieval era, reflecting the area's Christian heritage. Historically, the island has stood guard over the coastline, a silent witness to the passage of time.

Enjoy your walk on St Catherine's Island, where history and nature join hands to create a delightful experience!

Last Updated

2023-10-01

Explore routes near St Catherine's Island

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Neyland to Johnston: Brunel and Westfield Railway Trail

13.8 km ~3h 45m Easy

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Stackpole Estate: Bosherston Lily Ponds and Lodge Park Woodland Circuit

7.8 km ~2h 30m Moderate

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Gower winter wildlife and birdwatching walk

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Llanelli North Dock to Machynys Point and Wetland Centre

12.2 km ~3h 30m Easy

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Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Circular Coastal Trail

This scenic route takes you around the island, offering stunning views of the surrounding sea and coastline.

2.5 km ~1.5 hours Easy
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Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.

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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Unclassified

Elevation

30m

99 ft

Prominence

29m

Coordinates

51.6706, -4.6916

SN139002

OS Map

158

Explorer: OL36E

At the Summit

The island features a Victorian gun battery and a small chapel, both of which add historical significance to the summit experience.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky coastal terrain with grassy patches.

St Catherine's Island is primarily composed of limestone and sandstone, which shape the rugged coastlines and cliffs. The geological features provide a fascinating study of coastal erosion.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can see the beautiful coastline of Tenby, Caldey Island, and the crashing waves of the Bristol Channel.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

St Catherine's Island is named after St Catherine, a popular saints' name in medieval times, reflecting the Christian influence in the region.

Historical Significance

Historically, the island served as a defensive structure, playing a role in coastal protection during various conflicts.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is limited parking available near Tenby, with Pay & Display options available.

Public Transport

Tenby is served by regular bus services and has a train station close by.

Nearby Facilities

Nearby Tenby offers numerous cafes, restaurants, and public toilets for your convenience.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Strong tides and slippery rocks can pose risks; caution is advised near the water.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up St Catherine's Island?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around St Catherine's Island through the maps

Are there other walkers around St Catherine's Island?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for St Catherine's Island search or of course create your own walk for St Catherine's Island

Can I organise a walk to St Catherine's Island?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to St Catherine's Island.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up St Catherine's Island?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to St Catherine's Island here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

St Catherine's Island location map

Grid reference: SN139002

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

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