- Caldey Lighthouse is in Pembrokeshire, Wales.
- Check access, weather and local guidance before travelling.
About Caldey Lighthouse
Caldey Lighthouse stands on Caldey Island off the resort of Tenby, the oldest lighthouse in Wales still in original operation. It guides vessels through the busy shipping lanes of the Bristol Channel and Carmarthen Bay.
The story of Caldey Lighthouse
The lighthouse was built in 1829 by Joseph Nelson for Trinity House, making it the oldest surviving operational lighthouse in Wales. It was constructed to improve safety on the approach to Carmarthen Bay and the ports of South Wales, and was one of the first lighthouses in Britain to be automated, converted in 1927 — far earlier than most. The light is maintained by Trinity House while the island itself is owned by the Cistercian monks of Caldey Abbey, who produce perfumes, chocolate and shortbread for visitors.
Visiting with care
Caldey Island is open to day visitors from Easter to September, weather permitting, with regular boat trips from Tenby harbour taking about 20 minutes. The lighthouse stands at the island's southern tip and can be viewed on a walk that also takes in the abbey, chapel and beaches.
Interesting facts
- Built in 1829 by Joseph Nelson — the oldest operational lighthouse in Wales.
- One of the first British lighthouses to be automated, in 1927.
- Stands on Caldey Island, home to a community of Cistercian monks.
- The monks produce chocolate, perfumes and shortbread for visitors.
Getting there
Parking and access details — check locally for the latest information.