Carmarthenshire Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip to Carmarthenshire with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover cultural and natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, local food and drink, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Carmarthenshire

Located in South Wales, Carmarthenshire is a charming county known for its medieval castles, rolling hills, and stunning coastline. Known as the “garden of Wales,” it is home to some of the country’s most beautiful gardens, parks, and forests. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, Carmarthenshire has plenty of attractions and activities to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Carmarthenshire

Here are some of the must-visit destinations in Carmarthenshire:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kidwelly Castle: A well-preserved medieval castle set in a picturesque location overlooking the River Gwendraeth.
  • Laugharne Castle: A ruined castle that was once home to the Welsh poet Dylan Thomas.
  • National Botanic Garden of Wales: A 560-acre garden that celebrates the natural beauty and diversity of the Welsh landscape.
  • Carmarthenshire County Museum: A museum that showcases the rich history and culture of the county, from the Iron Age to the present day.
  • Dylan Thomas Boathouse: The former home of Dylan Thomas, turned into a museum to celebrate the life and work of the Welsh poet.
  • Aberglasney Gardens: A stunning botanical garden that has been featured in many TV shows and films.

Natural Attractions of Carmarthenshire: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Brecon Beacons National Park: A national park that spans across four counties, including Carmarthenshire. It is home to stunning mountain ranges, valleys, and grazing lands.
  • Gower Peninsula: A beautiful coastal area that is known for its stunning beaches and scenic walks.
  • Pembrey Country Park: A 202-hectare park that offers various outdoor activities such as cycling, horse riding, and skiing.
  • Llyn Llech Owain Country Park: A park set around a beautiful lake that offers scenic walks and wildlife spotting opportunities.
  • Botanical Garden of Wales: A stunning botanical garden that showcases the natural beauty of the Welsh landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Carmarthenshire

Carmarthenshire has plenty of great hiking and biking routes for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the best include:

  • Brechfa Forest: A popular mountain biking destination that offers trails to suit all abilities.
  • Black Mountains: A range of hills that overlooks the Usk Valley, with plenty of hiking trails offering stunning views.
  • Carmarthen Bay: A scenic coastal trail that offers stunning views of the sea and countryside.
  • Llanelli Coast: A walking and cycling trail that stretches for 22 miles along the coast, offering stunning views of the Gower Peninsula.
  • Brecon Beacons: A national park that offers countless hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging climbs.

Best Things to Do in Carmarthenshire: Activities and Tours

Carmarthenshire has a lot to offer in terms of activities and tours. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Visit a vineyard: Carmarthenshire has a growing wine industry, with several vineyards offering tours and tastings.
  • Take a ride on a steam train: The Gwili Railway is a heritage railway that offers scenic rides through the beautiful Carmarthenshire countryside.
  • Try some local food: Carmarthenshire is known for its delicious food, including Welsh lamb and black beef. Be sure to try some of the local dishes at one of the county’s many restaurants.
  • Visit a castle: Carmarthenshire is home to several historic castles that offer guided tours.
  • Go birdwatching: Carmarthenshire is home to a rich variety of birdlife, including buzzards, peregrine falcons, and red kites.
  • Explore the coast: Carmarthenshire has a stunning coastline, with plenty of beaches and coastal walks to explore.

Week-Long Itinerary for Carmarthenshire

Day 1: Explore the county town of Carmarthen, including a visit to the Carmarthenshire County Museum and St. Peter’s Church.

Day 2: Visit Kidwelly Castle and explore the town of Kidwelly.

Day 3: Take a scenic drive through the Brecon Beacons National Park and stop at some of the viewpoints.

Day 4: Visit the National Botanic Garden of Wales and Aberglasney Gardens.

Day 5: Explore the Gower Peninsula, including a visit to Swansea Bay.

Day 6: Take a steam train ride on the Gwili Railway and have lunch at a local vineyard.

Day 7: Visit Laugharne Castle and the Dylan Thomas Boathouse, followed by a walk along the Llanelli Coast.

Food and Drink Scene of Carmarthenshire

Carmarthenshire is known for its delicious local food and drink. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Welsh lamb: A staple of Welsh cuisine, it is usually served with vegetables and potatoes.
  • Laverbread: A traditional Welsh dish made from seaweed that is often served with bacon and eggs.
  • Welsh cakes: A traditional Welsh baked treat that is similar to a scone or a biscuit.

Local Beverages

  • Welsh whisky: Penderyn Distillery is the only whisky distillery in Wales and produces several award-winning whiskies.
  • Cwrw Gorslas beer: A local beer brewed using the purest Welsh water and locally sourced ingredients.

Where to Stay in Carmarthenshire: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There is a wide range of accommodation options in Carmarthenshire, ranging from luxury hotels to affordable hostels. Here are some popular options:

  • Fairyhill: A luxurious country house hotel set in beautiful grounds.
  • The Cawdor: A historic hotel located in the heart of Llandeilo.
  • The Plough Inn: A cozy guesthouse located in the picturesque village of Rhosmaen.
  • Ty Mawr Country Hotel: A charming hotel set in the Brecon Beacons National Park.
  • YHA Llandovery: A budget-friendly hostel located in the town of Llandovery.

What to Buy in Carmarthenshire: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Carmarthenshire is known for its unique local products, including:

  • Carmarthen ham: A specialty ham that has been made in the area for centuries.
  • Welsh slate products: Slate is a popular building material in Wales, and you can find slate products such as coasters and placemats in many gift shops.
  • Welsh woolen products: Wales has a long tradition of producing high-quality woolen products such as blankets, scarves, and hats.

Local Culture and Customs of Carmarthenshire

The people of Carmarthenshire are proud of their Welsh heritage and culture. The Welsh language is still spoken in many parts of the county, and traditional music and dance are still popular. It is common to see Welsh flags and symbols throughout the county.

Best Time to Visit Carmarthenshire

The best time to visit Carmarthenshire is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is mild and the countryside is in full bloom. However, the county is also beautiful in the autumn and winter, with plenty of cozy pubs and restaurants to warm up in.

Do’s and Don’ts of Carmarthenshire

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try some of the local food and drink.
  • Take the time to explore the countryside.

Don’t:

  • Assume everyone speaks English.
  • Leave litter in the countryside.
  • Ignore warning signs on coastal paths and hiking trails.

Safety and Health

Safety in Carmarthenshire

Carmarthenshire is generally a safe place to visit, but as with any location, it is important to take precautions. Here are some tips:

  • Be mindful of your surroundings, especially at night.
  • Always lock your car and accommodation.
  • Be careful when hiking or cycling in remote areas, and let someone know your route.

Health in Carmarthenshire

There are no major health risks when visiting Carmarthenshire, but it is always a good idea to have travel insurance. If you require any medical attention, there are several hospitals and clinics in the county.

Getting to Carmarthenshire: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Carmarthenshire

The closest airports to Carmarthenshire are Cardiff Airport and Bristol Airport, both of which are around 2 hours’ drive away.

Bus Stations Near Carmarthenshire

There are several bus stations in the county, including in Carmarthen, Llanelli, and Ammanford. National Express and local buses operate services to and from the county.

Other Options

Driving is the most convenient way to get around Carmarthenshire, as it gives you more freedom to explore. Car rental companies operate from several locations in the county.

How to Get Around in Carmarthenshire

The public transport system in Carmarthenshire is limited, so driving is often the easiest way to get around. However, there are also several taxi companies and local buses that operate services to and from the main towns and attractions.

Where to Go Next from Carmarthenshire: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Carmarthenshire is well-connected to other parts of Wales and England, making it a great base for exploring the wider area. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Swansea: A vibrant coastal city that is known for its nightlife, museums, and parks.
  • Cardiff: The capital of Wales, Cardiff is a bustling city with plenty of attractions and cultural sites.
  • Brecon: A charming market town located in the Brecon Beacons National Park.
  • Pembrokeshire Coast National Park: A national park located south of Carmarthenshire, known for its stunning coastline and wildlife.

Conclusion

Carmarthenshire is a beautiful county that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or adventure, there are plenty of attractions and activities to keep you entertained. With delicious local food and drink, cozy accommodation options, and stunning countryside views, Carmarthenshire is the perfect destination for your next holiday.



    Ammanford
    Burry Port
    Ferryside
    Laugharne
    Llandeilo
    Llandovery
    Llansteffan