Carmarthenshire Gardens
Glorious gardens are Carmarthenshire’s pride and joy, no wonder the county is known as the Garden of Wales. Nestled on a hillside in the spectacular Towy Valley countryside is Aberglasney Gardens, a hidden gem and one of the most remarkable garden restoration projects in the UK.
Enchanting Aberglasney had been buried under centuries of decay and neglect but its dramatic rescue led to the discovery of some of the most important historical features belonging to a bygone age of gardens. At the heart of this 'garden lost in time' is a unique Elizabethan/Jacobean Cloister and rare parapet walk. The magnificent mansion house has also been lovingly restored to reveal its 400 year old secrets. This year marks the 10th anniversary of this outstanding restoration.
Just a short drive away is the amazing National Botanic Garden of Wales. Set on an 18th century estate, this is a garden that looks to the future as well as reflecting the past. Overlooking the historic double walled garden is the futuristic Great Glasshouse, a teardrop shaped computer-controlled wonder that maintains a year-round Mediterranean climate, perfect for growing coconuts, pineapples and palms.
The work of the 18th century garden genius Capability Brown is on display at the National Trust’s Dinefwr Park near Llandeilo. Here acres of open parkland are dominated by majestic trees and teeming with wildlife. The magnificent Newton House tells a fascinating story of the local families who have lived there over the centuries.
© 2011 Carmarthenshire County Council.