Carmarthen tourist information
Historic Carmarthen is the largest town in the region, with ancient origins and links to the legend of Merlin the Wizard in Arthurian folktales.
A Roman Fort was built here in around 75AD, and its strategic position on the River Towy (Tywi in Welsh) made it an important settlement for centuries. The picturesque ruin of Carmarthen Castle dates from the 12th century, when it became a medieval walled town. You can learn more about this rich history in Carmarthen Town Museum, and the County museum set in the 17th century former Bishops' Palace in nearby Abergwili.
The town is a pleasant place to visit, with bridges over the river and plenty of shops, cafes, restaurants and other amenities. The new St Catherine's Walk shopping centre opened in 2010, a modern retail zone which enhances the historic indoor market area.
Further down the Towy estuary you reach some wonderful wide expanses of sandy beach with great views, such Ferryside and Llansteffan, with its fantastic 12th century castle overlooking the sea.
St Catherines Walk 4 St Catherine Street, Carmarthen SA31 1QU
New shopping centre, restaurants and cinema, built around the historic market. St Catherines Walk information
Llansteffan Castle Llansteffan, Carmarthen
Ruined 12th century stronghold in a stunning coastal setting. Llansteffan Castle information
National Botanic Garden of Wales Llanarthne, Carmarthen SA32 8HG
World-class garden with a huged domed glasshouse as its centrepiece. National Botanic Garden of Wales information
Aberglasney Gardens Llangathen, Llandeilo SA32 8QH
Beautiful gradens in the grounds of a fine 18th century mansion. Aberglasney Gardens information
Norwood Gardens Llanllwni, Pencader, Newcastle Emlyn SA39 9DU
Pretty gardens in the peaceful Teifi Valley. Norwood Gardens information
Carmarthenshire County Museum Abergwili, Carmarthen SA31 2JG
Interesting local museum in a historic 16th century buiding. Carmarthenshire County Museum information
Carmarthen Town Museum and Gallery Carmarthen Library, King Street, Carmarthen SA31 1LN
Historic Carmarthen through the ages. Carmarthen Town Museum and Gallery information
Brechfa Forest Brechfa, Carmarthen
Woodland scenery great for walking and mountain biking. Brechfa Forest information
Gwili Steam Railway Bronwydd Arms Station, Carmarthen SA33 6HT
Full-size heritage steam railway. Gwili Steam Railway information
The Lyric Theatre King Street, Carmarthen SA31 1BD
Large venue for a wide variety of performances. The Lyric Theatre information
Hotels
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Bronwydd Carmarthen SA33 6BE MAP In the heart of the beautiful Gwili Valley, this traditional family-run inn has a bar and a new extension housing a restaurant offering home-cooked food and 7 en suite rooms. In a quiet peaceful location, in beautiful West Wales, the Hollybrook Country I... More Information and Book ... |
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Spilman Street Carmarthen SA31 1LG MAP The Ivy Bush Royal commands a spectacular position at the gateway to West Wales. Welcomes business and leisure travellers to this beautiful part of the country in considerable style and comfort. The hotel has been fully refurbished and sympathetically m... More Information and Book ... |
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Laugharne Carmarthen SA33 4NU MAP This sensitively restored Victorian hotel is set in 7 acres of beautiful landscaped gardens, with stunning views over Carmarthen Bay and beyond to North Devon. This charming country retreat is situated on the outskirts of the historic town of Laugharne,... More Information and Book ... |
Guest Houses, Bed and Breakfasts, Inns and other Hotels
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120 Lammas Street Carmarthen SA31 3AE MAP The Boar's Head Hotel is a famous Coaching Inn, steeped in history and dating back to the early 17th Century. Today with the Wales Tourist Board 3*, it offers en-suite facilities in all bedrooms. With its enviable location, the hotel is suited to busine... More Information and Book ... |
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Brechfa Carmarthen SA32 7RA MAP Set in a 16th-century farmhouse, Ty Mawr Country Hotel boasts cosy log fires, original features and scenic views. On the edge of Brecha Forest, the hotel offers free parking and free Wi-Fi. The individually designed bedrooms at Ty Mawr each have a privat... More Information and Book ... |
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Llanllawddog Carmarthen SA32 7JE MAP On the edge of the Brechfa Forest, in the beautiful yet largely undiscovered Gwili Valley, this 5-star boutique bed and breakfast offers individually designed suites just a few miles north of bustling Carmarthen. With rich leather sofas, vibrant original... More Information and Book ... |
Holiday Cottages
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Innisfree Llansteffan near Carmarthen SA33 5LW MAP In a quiet private development sharing a beautiful heated outdoor pool and just 20 yards from a vast sandy beach on the Towy estuary overlooked by a dramatic castle this is a perfect family holiday location. There is a bistro and shop in the village ( Sleeps 4... More Information and Book ... |
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Ffynnonddrain near Carmarthen SA33 6EG MAP Enjoying panoramic views over hills and glorious countryside this attractive spacious and very comfortable farmhouse is ideal for large family gatherings. Set on an organic farm – the owners are happy to show visitors around – it is within easy Sleeps 12... More Information and Book ... |
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Tycanol Llanarthne Carmarthen SA32 8JP MAP Situated in the beautiful Towy Valley, Tycanol Lodge is a stylish 2-bedroom cottage with a private garden and free parking. The cottage has wonderful views over the Carmarthenshire countryside. Tycanol Lodge features traditional, exposed stone walls. The... More Information and Book ... |
Well worth while spending some time in the town, then off to the Towy estuary for the beaches and Llansteffan castle.
Towns Near Carmarthen To Visit - straight line distance:
Kidwelly Tourist Information (8.27 miles) St Clears Tourist Information (8.42 miles) Laugharne Tourist Information (8.75 miles) Llandysul Tourist Information (12.89 miles)
Carmarthen Tourist Information Centre
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113 Lammas Street
Carmarthen
SA31 3AQ
Tel: 01267 231557
Email: carmarthentic@carmarthenshire.gov.uk
- 01267
