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Perched on a cliff above Tenby’s colourful harbour, the exterior of The Imperial Hotel is white, prestigious and surrounded medieval town walls. It's got massive sea views, old town charm and is steps away from sandy beaches. In short, its exterior is small-beach-town perfection. The property was built in 1832, and originally served as a terrace of houses before it went through multiple owners, fires and rebuilds.
When Crest Hotels took over the property in 2024, they poured £3 million pounds into the interior.Now, post-glow-up and with its first summer season under its belt, The Imperial has entered a new chapter – one with a revamped dining space, refreshed bathrooms and a kitchy-meets-modern edge. But luckily for us (and for locals who enjoyed The Imperial’s previous chapters), the hotel hasn’t lost its historic character. If anything, another layer has been added to it, making for an incredibly fun and comfortable stay.
What are the rooms like?
Rooms are light, bright and airy, with subtle seaside themes and comfortable matresses that can dangerously dose you off – especially if you've got a room with a window that opens to the sea. The junior suite with the sea view boasts sky-high ceilings and ample space to get ready, but the smaller double rooms are just as lovely and some even offer better views. There are SMEG mini-fridges and tea kettles, spotless bathrooms (though I don't know why hotels persist on using faux-marble patterns) and air con to keep your stay cool.
What is the food and drink like?
The hotel’s bar and restaurant, Essence, is a new addition of the renovation and divided into three separate rooms. I’m not personally keen on the first space and its fake-grass-walls-with-neon-lights combo, but the other side of the restaurant is quieter, a little smarter, and has windows that look onto the sea. The best section, no doubt, is the bar terrace. It’s where to go to relax, order a marg and small plate, and stretch out in the sun.
Dinner here is a lovely feast. The menu has lots of local specialties, from Welsh lamb to Pembrokeshire Broth, where monkfish, mussels, prawns and cockles swim together with a side of bread and seaweed butter. But for whatever reason, I craved the corn-fed chicken, which was served with leekie porridge, potato terrine and crisp chicken crackling – rich, creamy, salty and perfect. Desserts range from a fruity eton mess to a Welsh cheese selection, but the crempog (Welsh pancakes similar to crepes) with a rhubarb compote, macerated strawberries and Welsh whisky cream was calling my name.
Breakfast has all the classics. The eggs benedict pairs nicely with a morning mimosa, and while the experience was pleasant, it’s nothing we haven't seen before. I’d opt for taking mornings to explore Tenby’s local coffee shops or brunch spots like Fuchsia for proper plates, or Motely for coffee and a local pie.
What are the facilities like?
Unless you count the outdoor bar terrace – which truly is a perk, or the small hotel elevator – that could be a perk if it worked a little more efficiently (especially after £3 million pounds), there are no additional facilities at The Imperial. However, a spa is in the works – and you’ve got the beach right outside anyway.
What is the service like?
Extremely kind, helpful and knowledgable. Whether you need Tenby recommendations, extra towels or help navigating the multi-level, maze-like hotel corridors, staff are on site to ensure you get everything you need. Even the restaurant servers politely suggest their favourite dishes to try, even though that might mean taking their word for it and opting for that corn-fed chicken.
What is the area like?
As for location, it doesn’t get better than this. The Imperial stands at The Paragon, a small road at the edge of Tenby’s tall cliffs. Just below, Tenby Beach sprawls into the distance, and is less than a 10-minute walk down. If you don’t feel like getting sandy, you’ve got all of tiny Tenby at your feet. Most restaurants, shops and local galleries fall along Frog (Lower & Upper), St Julians, and Crackwell Streets – all steps away from the hotel – but wander the small corners and alleyways like Sergeants Lane, and you’ll find yourself sandwiched between Harbwr Tenby Brewery. One side of the alley serves small bites, the other pours chilled pints.
If you’re a Tenby first timer, take The Paragon to Tenby Museum and Art Gallery at the top of Castle Hill (8-min walk). Learn about the area, explore the Tenby Castle ruins and take in some sea views of St. Catherine’s Island and Fort, with the Welsh flag ferociously proud in distance. For a closer look, Tenby Harbour has plenty of boat excursions to St. Catherine’s and Caldey Island – home of the Caldey lighthouse and some velvet, rich chocolate.
Why stay at The Imperial Hotel in Tenby?
While the interior design team and I might not see eye-to-eye on decor, that doesn't take away from the fact that every corner of the hotel was spotless, every member of staff showed kindness and every night spent at The Imperial was one well-spent. If you’re looking for lavish, over-the-top pampering and Michelin-star meals, maybe this isn’t your place. But if location, thoughtfulness, comfort and value are on the top of your hotel checklist, it doesn't get much better in Tenby than The Imperial. And I say this sincerely – the views, beach access, friendly staff, tranquil bedrooms and excellent food make it more than worth it.
DETAILS
Address: The Imperial Hotel, The Paragon, SA70 7HR Tenby
Price: Rooms from £81 per night
Closest transport: Tenby train station is a 10-minute walk.