Places to Visit

The Welsh poet, Dylan Thomas lived in the Boathouse in Laugharne (28 miles) between 1949-53. It was here that he wrote 'Under Milk Wood' and the boathouse is now a museum dedicated to his life and works. The house now contains audio visual presentations, original furnishings and memorabilia, a themed bookshop, tea room, viewing platform and terrace. Further details can be obtained from Dylan Thomas Boathouse, Laugharne.

Pembrey Country Park (22 miles), attractions include a ski slope, toboggan run, miniature railway, ‘Go Ape’ centre, two children’s play areas catering for different ages, a visitor centre, restaurant and cafe plus an 8 mile stretch of stunning beach (Cefn Sidn). There are nature trails, forest walks, and cycle routes. To access the Park and beach, there is an entrance fee for vehicles.

Merlin, King Arthur's guardian was believed to have been born in Carmarthen and lived in a cave on Merlin's Hill. At the Merlin’s Hill Centre (13 miles) you can walk the nature trails to the Iron Age Hillfort site and experience the breathtaking views that Merlin would have enjoyed. According to legend, Merlin is still imprisoned there. You can also wander around the farmyard heritage centre, watch the cows being milked, enjoy a picnic and visit the shop where you will find items woven locally from the wool from Merlin’s hill’s own Jacob sheep.

Gwili Steam Railway (13 miles) is a living reminder of a Great Western Railway branch line set in the breath-taking Carmarthenshire hills. The trip down memory lane starts at Bronwydd Arms Station, and the steam train follows the route originally taken by the Carmarthen to Aberystwyth line to a delightful halt at Danycoed. Why not treat yourself and travel First Class!

If you like castles then Kidwelly, Carmarthen, Laughrne, Carreg Cennan and Dinefwr are all nearby. Dinefwr Park and Castle offers a great family day out. The interactive Newton House gives visitors an atmospheric circa 1912 experience. The exhibitions tell the Dinefwr story and inspire visitors to explore the castle and park. There are amazing views from the top of the Castle and five waymarked walks around the grounds. Dogs on leads are permitted in the outer park and there is a play area to occupy the children.

Owned by the National Trust, Dolaucothi Gold Mines (9 miles) set amid wooded hillsides overlooking the beautiful Cothi Valley offer a glimpse of gold-mining methods used by the Romans 2,000 years ago. The harsh mining environment continued in the 19th and 20th centuries, ending in 1938. Guided tours take you back to experience the conditions of the Roman, Victorian and 1930s underground workings. See and hear the 1930s mine and mine machinery. Have a go at gold panning and take the opportunity to experience the frustrations of searching for real gold.

The National Wetlands Centre stretching over 450 acres, is a magnificent mosaic of lakes, pools and lagoons and home to countless wild species as diverse as dragonflies and little egrets. There are also over 600 of some of the world’s most spectacular ducks, geese, swans and flamingos. There is a Visitor Centre, Cafe or for the more energetic, why not try a canoe safari or the bike trail. Bikes and canoes are provided at no extra charge.

In order to help you plan your stay, there are brochures and information about local attractions in The Barn.