Laugharne Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do in Laugharne, Wales. Find top attractions to visit, outdoor adventures to enjoy, food and drink to sample, and places to stay.


Introduction to Laugharne

Located in the beautiful region of Carmarthenshire, South Wales, Laugharne is a charming old town that is known for its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and literary heritage. This town has long been a source of inspiration for writers, poets, and artists, including the famous Welsh writer Dylan Thomas.

List of Places to Visit in Laugharne

If you’re planning to visit Laugharne anytime soon, here’s a list of places that you shouldn’t miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Dylan Thomas Boathouse: This iconic boathouse was once the home of the famous Welsh poet, Dylan Thomas. It’s now a museum that showcases Thomas’ life and works.
  • Laugharne Castle: This stunning ruin of a 12th-century castle is a must-visit attraction. It offers a fascinating insight into Welsh history.

Natural Attractions of Laugharne: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Dylan Thomas Trail: This 2.3-mile long trail follows the path that Dylan Thomas took on his many walks around the town. It offers stunning views of the estuary and countryside.
  • The Welsh Coastal Path: This 870-mile long path runs along the coast of Wales and passes through Laugharne. It’s a great place to explore the rugged and unspoiled beauty of the Welsh coastline.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Laugharne

Laugharne is a great destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are a few of the best routes:

  • Laugharne Heritage Trail: This 6-mile loop trail takes you through the historic town and offers stunning views of the estuary and landscape.
  • Brechfa Forest: Located just a short drive from Laugharne, this forest is a great place for mountain biking and hiking. It offers a network of trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels.

Best Things to Do in Laugharne: Activities and Tours

  • Boat Trips: Take a boat trip along the River Taf and admire the stunning scenery and wildlife of the estuary.
  • Fishing: The River Taf is home to several species of fish, including salmon and sea trout. Bring your fishing gear and try your luck.

Week-Long Itinerary for Laugharne

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay in Laugharne:

Day 1 Arrive in Laugharne, check in to your accommodation, and explore the town center
Day 2 Visit the Dylan Thomas Boathouse and Laugharne Castle
Day 3 Take a boat trip along the River Taf, and go fishing
Day 4 Hike the Laugharne Heritage Trail
Day 5 Explore the Welsh Coastal Path
Day 6 Visit the Brechfa Forest for mountain biking and hiking
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the town’s pubs and restaurants

Food and Drink Scene of Laugharne

When it comes to food and drink, Laugharne offers something for everyone. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cawl: This traditional Welsh stew is hearty and flavorful, made with lamb or beef, leeks, and potatoes.
  • Welsh Rarebit: This is a classic dish of toasted bread with a melted cheese sauce, usually made with Welsh cheddar.

Local Beverages

  • Welsh Beer: Try the local Welsh beer, such as the Purple Moose Brewery, which is brewed in Porthmadog.
  • Welsh Whisky: The Penderyn Distillery in the Brecon Beacons produces award-winning Welsh whisky.

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

Laugharne has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes. Here are some of the best options:

  • The Three Mariners Inn: This charming 18th-century inn is located in the heart of the town and offers comfortable rooms and traditional Welsh hospitality.
  • Tafarn-y-Deri Guesthouse: This guesthouse is just outside of Laugharne and offers stunning views of the countryside. It’s a great place for a relaxing getaway.

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

If you want to bring back some souvenirs and local products from Laugharne, here are some options:

  • Dylan Thomas souvenirs: The Dylan Thomas Boathouse offers a range of souvenirs, including books, postcards, and mugs.
  • Welsh textiles: The Siop y Pentan shop on King Street offers a range of Welsh textiles, such as blankets and scarves.

Local Culture and Customs of Laugharne

In Laugharne, you’ll find a strong sense of Welsh culture and tradition. Music, poetry, and storytelling are integral to the town’s cultural identity.

Best Time to Visit Laugharne

The best time to visit Laugharne is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is mild and the countryside is in full bloom. But if you’re a fan of Dylan Thomas, you might want to visit in October, when the town holds a festival in his honor.

Do’s and Don’ts of Laugharne

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Take care of the environment and leave no trace.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Make too much noise in public places.
  • Damage or remove any cultural or natural resources.
  • Ignore safety guidelines and warnings.

Safety and Health

Safety in Laugharne

Laugharne is generally a safe place to visit, but as with any destination, it’s important to take precautions, such as locking your doors and windows at night, and being aware of your surroundings.

Health in Laugharne

Laugharne has a health center and pharmacy for minor medical needs. For emergency medical situations, the nearest hospital is in Carmarthen, about 9 miles away.

Getting to Laugharne: Transportation Options and Logistics

Laugharne is easily accessible by car, bus, and train.

Airports Near Laugharne

  • Cardiff International Airport (70 miles)
  • Bristol Airport (105 miles)

Bus Stations Near Laugharne

  • Laugharne has a small bus stop that connects to larger towns and cities in the area.

Other Options

  • Train: The nearest train station is in Carmarthen, about 9 miles away.
  • Car rental: Several car rental companies operate in the area, including Hertz and Europcar.

How to Get Around in Laugharne

Laugharne is a small town, and most of the attractions are within walking distance. You can also rent a bike from the town center to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Laugharne: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking for more things to do in the area, here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Carmarthen: This historic town is just 9 miles away and offers a range of attractions, such as the Carmarthen Castle and the Merlin’s Hill Centre.
  • Pembrokeshire Coast National Park: This stunning national park is less than an hour’s drive from Laugharne and offers some of the most beautiful coastal hikes in the UK.

Conclusion

Laugharne is a charming town that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, literature, outdoor adventures, or just want to relax and enjoy the countryside, Laugharne is a great destination. With its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality, it’s sure to be a trip you won’t forget.

Laugharne Castle Laugharne Castle Dylan Thomas Writing Shed Dylan Thomas Writing Shed