Carmarthen

A community and county town in Carmarthenshire, Wales, Carmarthen is a beautiful area located on the River Towy. Laying claim to being the oldest town in Wales, Carmarthen has a vast number of surviving heritage attractions to visit, including a Roman Amphitheatre, a Medieval Castle and a heritage railway.

Perhaps one of the more famous legends of Carmarthen would be the town’s link with Arthurian Legend, as it is widely believed that Merlin was born in a cave outside of the town and many attractions both in and around the town feature Arthurian links, such as the interesting Merlin’s Hill, a perfect spot for walks.

Pieces of the legendary tree “Merlin’s Oak” can be found in the museum, as can many other artefacts of local importance. Carmarthen features a number of great spots for leisure activities such as walking, bird watching and cycling and also houses a number of both independent and high street shops.

Dylan Thomas Boathouse, Dylan’s Walk, Laugharne SA33 4SD (01994) 427420
One of the world’s greatest 20th Century writers, Dylan Thomas lived at the Boathouse for the last four years of his life.

Here he wrote ‘Under Milk Wood’ and spent much of his time in The Writing Shed; a wooden building erected on a cliff-ledge 100 metres from the Boathouse.
Open all year round, the Boathouse is located 15 miles from Carmarthen and contains original furnishings and memorabilia.

National Botanic Garden of Wales, Llanarthne, Carmarthenshire SA32 8HG (0871) 200 22 33
The first botanic garden to open in the new millennium, the National Botanic Garden has become the most visited garden in Wales.

Set in 568 acres of parkland dating back 400 years, the garden also contains a double walled garden, stables and lakes.

Gwili Railway Co. Ltd, Bronwydd Arms Station, Carmarthen SA33 6HT (01267) 238213
Opened in 1860, the volunteer-run Gwili Railway operates steam services on a standard gauge railway.
Running between Bronwydd Arms Station and Danycoed Halt; a round trip of around one hour; the railway meanders through some of the most beautiful countryside in Wales.