Coast & Countryside

Culture in Carmarthenshire

What are you interested in? Medieval history? Contemporary culture? ...Magic?

Luckily for you, Carmarthenshire has it all.

Ancient Castles

Carmarthenshire has some of the oldest, most complete castles in the whole of the UK. With their turrets, towers and secret passages, these Castles will capture your imagination and take you back to a fascinating point in Wales’ past.

From the coastal outposts of Laugharne and Kidwelly to the romantic mountain stronghold of Cerreg Cennen Castle, Carmarthenshire’s castles are well worth a visit.

Arthurian Legend

Various legends strongly link the mythical magician 'Merlin' to Carmarthen. The strongest link is 'Merlin’s Oak'. Legend holds that:

'When Myrddin's tree shall tumble down, Then shall fall Carmarthen Town'.

Though the tree has now fallen, one of its limbs is now held in Carmarthen Museum.

Contemporary Culture

Carmarthen was the creative home of Dylan Thomas, one of the most important writers of the last 100 years. He completed the majority of his work, including Under Milk Wood, and much of his poetry in the boathouse at Laugharne. This boathouse is now open to visitors.

Laugharne is also thought to be the inspiration for the town of 'Llareggub', the fictional town in which Under Milk Wood is set.