Carmarthen, the county town of Carmarthenshire, is thought to be the oldest town in Wales. Located on the River Tywi, the area has an intriguing Roman past as well as connections to the legendary magician Merlin, imbuing it with a rich heritage and plenty to explore.
Along with its historical and cultural significance, the town offers a vibrant atmosphere with modern conveniences and attractions. It’s a lovely base for all your West Wales adventures. Thinking of staying in one of our holiday cottages in Carmarthen? Here are some things you can get up to when visiting the area.
What to Do in Carmarthen
- Carmarthen Castle
- Carmarthen Market
- Bishop’s Park
- Carmarthenshire Museum
- Ystrad Wood
- Cycling in Carmarthen
- Overhang Climbing Centre
- Gwili Steam Railway
- National Botanic Garden of Wales
- The British Bird of Prey Centre
1. Carmarthen Castle
Head into the town centre to get a feel for the local vibe and visit one of the central historical features: the castle. The castle’s origins lie in the 12th century – it was an important seat over the following centuries, playing host to various notable figures and being captured on various occasions.
The castle now lies in ruin as Oliver Cromwell ordered it to be dismantled in the 17th century. However, there are still plenty of remains to explore along with the town’s Tourist Information Centre.
To see some more extensive castle ruins, pop down to the town of Kidwelly (about a 20-minute drive from Carmarthen) and marvel at the imposing Kidwelly Castle.
2. Carmarthen Market
After your stroll around the castle walls, explore the town’s historic streets and browse the wares at the Carmarthen Market. The Market dates back over 800 years, making it another Carmarthen institution.
These days, the market is housed in an airy hall with a great range of stalls selling local produce, handmade crafts, clothing, antiques and more. If you’re in town for a bit of retail therapy, it’s certainly worth popping in.
3. Bishop’s Park
On the outskirts of the town, you’ll find Bishop’s Park, a wonderful parkland space with gardens, meadows and ancient woodland trails to explore. You could easily spend a whole afternoon here, just wandering around and taking in the tranquil natural beauty and rich history spanning hundreds of years. There is also a small lake known as Bishop’s Pond, which is home to a range of wildlife and wetland plants.
The on-site cafe offers some tasty treats, ideal for when you’re ready for refreshments. Or, pack a picnic and hunt for the perfect spot to settle in for a lunchtime lounge.
4. Carmarthenshire Museum
Also situated at the Bishop’s Park site is the Carmarthenshire Museum – a veritable treasure trove of local history that tells Carmarthenshire’s story. Set in the former Palace for the Bishop of St David’s, the site has long been linked with the foundation of modern Welsh language and prose.
The museum and galleries provide some fascinating displays and exhibitions showing artefacts like fossils, Roman coins, gravestones from mythic King Arthur’s time and other items that give a window into the area’s past and local legends.
5. Ystrad Wood
If you’re keen to get out and about in the fresh air, a walk through Ystrad Wood is a great way to spend a few hours. Explore winding paths that take you through an ancient woodland of beech, sweet chestnut and oak trees, with flora and fauna to spot along the way.
The woods have an extensive network of easily accessed paths and trails so are popular with local walkers. Although it’s a well-trodden spot, you likely won’t encounter many other people as there’s plenty of room to roam.
6. Cycling in Carmarthen
Carmarthenshire is renowned for its cycling opportunities, with a fantastic array of bike trails and quiet, low-traffic roads to embrace. Not only is Carmarthen home to Wales’ oldest velodrome but there are plenty of nearby routes that’ll get you out appreciating the countryside and the beautiful Carmarthenshire scenery.
About 30 minutes south from the town you’ll find Pembrey Country Park which offers several cycling routes throughout the glorious parkland as well as a closed road circuit. The cycling around Laugharne and the Dylan Thomas Boathouse is also lovely. For some seaside views, head down to the Millennium Coastal Path.
7. Overhang Climbing Centre
If you’re after a bit of action and adrenaline, the Overhang Climbing Centre might just prove to be your ideal activity. The indoor climbing and bouldering walls offer something for everyone, with challenges for experienced climbers and beginner sessions where newbies can learn the ropes.
The 11-metre-long bouldering wall will provide plenty of fun and give you a head for heights in no time. If you’ve never climbed before and just want to have a go, the centre holds taster sessions (mixed ages or adults only) where an instructor will show you how to safely make your way up and down the 12-metre climbing wall.
8. Gwili Steam Railway
The Gwili Steam Railway is another iconic local attraction. As a preserved standard gauge railway line, you’re invited to travel back in time and enjoy the whimsy of a steam locomotive, all while taking in the beautiful surroundings of the Carmarthenshire countryside. The four-mile Gwili Line runs between Abergwili Junction in Carmarthen and Danycoed Halt before making the return journey. The line passes through wooded hills, valleys and farmland, allowing for a delightfully picturesque ride.
There are several themed train rides to choose from, with the vintage train trip being the standard and other journeys where you can enjoy a cream tea, high tea or fish and chips on board. The Extinct Express ride where the train gets a few dinosaur visitors and the Christmas-themed trip are big hits with families.
The attraction is also dog friendly, so your pup can join in on the fun too. While they’re allowed to travel with you, please be mindful that dogs are not permitted on the seats or tables.
9. National Botanic Garden of Wales
Just a 15-minute drive outside of Carmarthen, the National Botanic Garden of Wales makes a fantastic day trip. The garden, a hub of horticulture, conservation and education, is set across 568 of historical regency landscape and countryside. Delve into themed gardens and the world’s biggest single-span glasshouse to discover some of the most endangered plants of the planet.
Other areas to explore include the Walled Gardens, Fairy Wood, Gruffalo Trail, Apothecary’s Garden, Arboretum, Waun Las National Nature Reserve and much more. There’s lots to uncover here and among the many gardens and zones, you’ll find various resources where you can learn more about the plants and conservation efforts of the National Garden.
10. The British Bird of Prey Centre
Also housed on the National Botanic Garden site is the British Bird of Prey Centre – another fun day out for all ages. The centre focuses on species native to the UK, giving you the chance to get up close and personal with some of our most magnificent wildlife.
Visit the birds in their aviaries or watch them do what they do best and take flight in one of the impressive flying displays. There are also hands-on experiences available where you can step into the shoes of the falconers and fly the birds yourself. With various owls, falcons, hawks, buzzards and eagles, there are loads of memorable birds to learn about.
Where to Stay in Carmarthen
Still seeking your ideal accommodation? We have a fantastic range of holiday cottages in Carmarthenshire, including in and around Carmarthen, to ensure you can set the perfect scene for all your Welsh adventures.
From cosy cottages with your own private hot tub to secluded, luxury farmhouses, Carmarthen is home to some lovely stays.
Photo Credits:
- Taken from the A40 Lesneven Bridge by Rhyshuw1~enwiki / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Carmarthen Castle Entrance by Darren Haddock / CC BY-SA 2.0
- Carmarthen Market by Hywel72 / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Carmarthenshire Museum by Nilfanion / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Coed yr Ystrad / Ystrad Wood by Alan Richards / CC BY-SA 2.0
- National Cycle Network Route 4, Millennium Coastal Park by Simon Mortimer / CC BY-SA 2.0
- Waiting time at Dan y Coed Halt by Robert Davies / CC BY-SA 2.0
- The Great Glasshouse, National Botanic Garden of Wales (Interior) by Stefan Oemisch / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Eagle Owl by Charlie Marshall / CC BY 2.0