Ferryside Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gem of Ferryside with our comprehensive guide. Explore the natural and cultural attractions, food scene, accommodation options, and more.


Introduction to Ferryside

Located in Carmarthenshire, South Wales, Ferryside is a picturesque village situated on the eastern coast of the Towy Estuary. The village is steeped in history and boasts a rich cultural heritage, evident in its many museums and historical landmarks.

Ferryside is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with its wide range of natural attractions and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking and biking along trails that offer breathtaking views of the estuary, fishing, and water sports such as sailing and kayaking.

In this guide, we will take you through the best places to visit, eat, drink and stay in the village, as well as provide some useful travel tips and advice.

List of Places to Visit in Ferryside

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kidwelly Industrial Museum: This museum showcases the industrial heritage of the area and gives visitors an insight into the life of the people who worked in the local tinplate works. The museum is housed in the former Kidwelly Workmen’s Institute, a stunning Grade II listed building.

  • Laugharne Castle: Situated in the town of Laugharne, just a short distance from Ferryside, this castle dates back to the 12th century and has been the subject of much literary inspiration, including the work of Dylan Thomas.

  • Ferryside Lifeboat Station: The village’s lifeboat services play a vital role in keeping the waters around Ferryside safe. Visitors can take a tour of the station and learn about the history and operations of the RNLI.

Natural Attractions of Ferryside: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Llansteffan Beach: Located a few miles south of Ferryside, Llansteffan beach is a hidden gem, famous for its vast stretch of golden sand and clear blue waters. The beach is perfect for long walks, sunbathing, and swimming.

  • Carmarthen Bay: A stunning stretch of coastline that runs all the way from the Gower Peninsula to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Carmarthen Bay is a favorite spot among visitors. With its sandy beaches and rocky outcrops, the bay is perfect for surfing, kiteboarding, and other water sports.

  • Pembrey Country Park: This 500-acre park features woodlands, a beach, and a variety of outdoor activities, including horse riding, cycling, and skiing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ferryside

  • Dylan Thomas Trail: This 36 mile route follows in the footsteps of the famous Welsh poet. The trail begins in Swansea and takes visitors through some of the most scenic spots in South Wales, including Laugharne.

  • Millennium Coastal Path: This 12 mile path is perfect for cycling or walking, offering stunning views of the Gower Peninsula and Carmarthen Bay.

  • Towy Estuary Walking Trail: This walking trail takes visitors along the banks of the Towy Estuary, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Ferryside: Activities and Tours

  • Explore the Towy Estuary: Join a local boat tour from Ferryside and see some of the diverse wildlife that lives in the estuary, including seals, dolphins, and seabirds.

  • Visit Wales’ Oldest Town: Just a few miles from Ferryside is the historic town of Carmarthen, which is considered to be the oldest town in Wales. Visitors can explore the town’s many attractions, including the Guildhall Square, Carmarthen Castle, and St. Peter’s Church.

  • Enjoy a Pint at the Three Rivers Brewery: Located in nearby Llandeilo, the Three Rivers Brewery is a microbrewery that produces a range of local beers. Visitors can enjoy a pint in the taproom or take a tour of the brewery.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ferryside

Day Activity
1 Visit the Kidwelly Industrial Museum
2 Hike along the Dylan Thomas Trail
3 Enjoy a day at Llansteffan Beach
4 Explore the Towy Estuary on a boat tour
5 Visit Carmarthen, Wales’ oldest town
6 Take a cycling tour along the Millennium Coastal Path
7 Relax at Pembrey Country Park

Food and Drink Scene of Ferryside

Must-Try Dishes

  • Welsh Cakes: A traditional Welsh treat, these sweet, fluffy cakes are perfect for breakfast or a mid-day snack.

  • Cawl: A hearty Welsh stew, Cawl is made with lamb or beef and a variety of vegetables.

  • Bara Brith: A Welsh tea cake, Bara Brith is made with dried fruit and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Penderyn Whisky: Distilled in the Brecon Beacons National Park, Penderyn Whisky is the only whisky produced in Wales.

  • Wales Ales: The Three Rivers Brewery produces a range of beers, including the award-winning Black Stag.

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

  • The Three Rivers Hotel: This Victorian hotel is situated in the heart of Ferryside and boasts stunning views of the Towy Estuary.

  • YHA Llanddeusant: Located just a few miles from Ferryside, the YHA Llanddeusant is a perfect spot for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

  • The Plough Inn: This traditional Welsh pub offers cozy accommodation and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

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

  • Handcrafted Pottery: Ferryside is home to a number of ceramicists who produce beautiful handmade pottery.

  • Penderyn Whisky: Bring home a bottle of Penderyn Whisky as a unique souvenir of your trip.

Local Culture and Customs of Ferryside

Ferryside has a strong connection to the sea, and many locals make their living from fishing or working on the waters of the Towy Estuary. The village also has a rich cultural heritage, with many festivals and events celebrating Welsh traditions and customs.

Best Time to Visit Ferryside

The best time to visit Ferryside is from May to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the village’s many outdoor attractions are at their best. However, visitors should be prepared for crowds during this time. For a quieter experience, consider visiting in the spring or autumn.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ferryside

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions, including the Welsh language.

  • Try some of the local food and drink.

  • Take the time to explore the natural attractions of the area.

Don’t:

  • Ignore warnings about dangerous tides or weather conditions.

  • Litter on the beaches or in the countryside.

  • Wear shoes or boots indoors.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ferryside

Overall, Ferryside is a safe place, but visitors should always take care when walking or hiking along rugged coastal paths or near the water’s edge. It’s also important to be aware of the dangers of changing weather conditions, especially during the winter months.

Health in Ferryside

Visitors to Ferryside should ensure that they have an up-to-date tetanus shot, as cuts and scratches can easily become infected. The village has a local doctor, but visitors should bring any necessary medication with them.

Getting to Ferryside: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ferryside

The nearest international airport to Ferryside is Cardiff International Airport, which is approximately 70 miles away. From here, visitors can take a train or bus to Ferryside.

Bus Stations Near Ferryside

Buses leave regularly from Carmarthen, which has a good range of services to other local destinations.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Ferryside by train, with regular services from Swansea, Cardiff, and London. The village also has good road links, with the M4 motorway just a few miles away.

How to Get Around in Ferryside

The best way to explore Ferryside and the surrounding area is on foot or by bicycle. Bicycles can be hired in the village, and there are many great trails to explore. There is also a local bus service that runs to nearby towns and villages.

Where to Go Next from Ferryside: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Tenby: One of the most popular destinations in South Wales, Tenby is a charming seaside town with narrow streets, picturesque cottages, and a beautiful beach.

  • Brecon Beacons National Park: This stunning national park is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in Wales, including waterfalls, rolling hills, and ancient woodlands.

Conclusion

Ferryside is a hidden gem, offering visitors a taste of traditional Welsh culture, stunning natural beauty, and a range of outdoor activities. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or adventurer, there’s something here for everyone. So come and explore the best of South Wales with a visit to Ferryside.