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Check AvailabilityThe Smithy is a 1 bedroom self catering holiday accommodation that sleeps 2 and is located in Carmarthen, Wales. This property is pet friendly allowing for 2 pets. Local to Brechfa, Capel Isaac, Llanegwad, Dryslwyn, Llanarthney
Sitting peacefully in the rural countryside, these four adjoining, traditional Welsh barns (refs OP3, OP4, OP5 and OP6) make great holiday homes for guests looking to explore the dramatic coastline of Pembrokeshire and the mountains of mid-Wales. The properties have been converted from traditional farm buildings and are situated adjacent to the owner’s home. Outside, guests can sit, relax and unwind after spending days out, whilst watching the red kites and buzzards soar over the magnificent scenery. Conveniently located on the Pembrokshire and Carmarthenshire border, the area abounds with fantastic walks around the Presili Hills and National Botanic Gardens of Wales. Nearby, explore the historic castles of Kidwelly, Dynevor and Carew, and learn the rich history of the medieval times. Spend days visiting the market towns of Carmarthen and Laugharne, which was home to the famous Welsh poet, Dylan Thomas, and is renowned for its iconic boat house, historic castle and traditional Welsh pubs where fresh fish is always on the menu. Less than a 30-minute drive away are the coastal resorts of Tenby and Saundersfoot, offering sandy beaches, boutique-style shops and thrilling leisure parks, including Oakwood Theme Park, Bluestone Waterpark and Folly Farm. Horse riding nearby. Ideal for golf. Shop 300 yards, pub 1 mile.
Open-plan living/dining room with kitchen area and laminate floor. Twin bedroom with TV, en-suite bathroom with shower attachment and toilet.
Rock and Fountain Inn is located in the charming and quaint village of Penhow, it is a family run traditional village inn and restaurant. The Inn has a warm and welcoming atmosphere and enjoys a traditional decor that is cosy and relaxing. The philosophy here is to provide quality honest food that is affordable to all especially families. The menu is varied and offers a good selection of meals and you can choose two courses for ₤10. Their speciality is steak on a stone as well as fresh seafood together with their well known Sunday roast. The food is cooked to perfection and the presentation is very good. They are open daily and food is served daily from lunch time through to the evening. The staff are friendly and attentive and the customer service was very good. Rock and Fountain Inn offers excellent food, value and atmosphere, the perfect venue for a meal out.
Wet your whistle with a glass of the finest Welsh wine from Cwn Deri vineyard. After a spot of wine tasting, take a stroll around the vineyard, or take in the picturesque surroundings of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. There is a restaurant on-site if you get peckish and there is the opportunity to watch the wine-making progress up close.
Browse the farmers market at Haverfordwest and Fishguard and taste some real Welsh food. You could even take some home for later - how about some delicious Welsh cakes or famous laverbread?
Avondale Glass is a fascinating attraction for travellers of all ages. The business was founded in 1976 by a craftsman who spent time in some of the greatest glass houses in Italy, Germany, France, Switzerland, Malta and Sweden. Today visitors can watch live demonstrations and browse a stunning collection of fine glass pieces.
Folly Farm invites families to enjoy fun, sun and a number of unique activities. Romp around along an outdoor pirate ship or go inside for kid-safe playgrounds in any weather. A giant sandpit complete with functional diggers is available as well as the Follystone Racetrack, Carousel Woods and the new Destruction Playground!
A chance to see how a traditional farm was run before the introduction of tractors. Facilities include a museum, pony and wagon rides, demonstrations, bottle feeding young animals, play areas, a shop and cafe.
There's lots of fun to be had on the wacky rides at Oakwood, from 'The Bounce' (similar to a human catapult) to 'Snake river falls' (a series of fast moving water rapids).
Watch out for the 22 life size dinosaurs in the woods - you might get a scare. There is a mini theatre with daily programmes including puppet shows and facilities including an adventure playground, indoor activities centre, tiny tots play area, restaurant, takeaway and shop in a unique building in the form of a dinosaur.
Makin Tracks are located in Tenby and are a new and exciting attraction to the area. They offer customers three very different experiences with motor vehicles, you can choose to drive one of their replica model tanks, experience the fun of a segway or bounce around on one of their quads, there is a activity to suit all ages and preferences. They also offer paintball target shooting. The important thing is everyone will have fun whilst they are here. Before embarking on an activity you are given a full safety briefing, you will find the staff to be fantastic, friendly, professional and encouraging. The equipment is well maintained and they provide all gear so you don't have to take anything along. They are open daily from 10.00am to 5.00pm. The tanks are easy to control and soon you will be scaling obstacles, testing your driving skills and reaction times as you try to hit the targets around the course, the Segways are great, the most fun you can have on two wheels, just get your balance and you will be off, lean in the direction you want to go, so simple to operate and the quads are great for smaller visitors, they can zoom around the safe environment of the course. There prices are really reasonable and they offer combination packs that are even better value. Makin tracks is the only place to go if you are seeking an adventure to get your adrenalin going and loads of fun too for all ages, fantastic time guaranteed, highly recommended.
Heatherton World of Activities is great for big and small kids alike! Lots of indoor and outdoor attractions including golf, paintballing, indoor bowls and so much more. Admission is free — just pay for the activities you choose. Come rain or shine, Heatherton is the ideal destination for a memorable family day out!
Pump up the excitement with a session or two at Top Gun Paintball and Clay Shooting! This exciting local attraction provides a wooded area to prove your skills in battle. Hone your hand-eye coordination with clay shooting or hide away in a massive 30 acre green space while dodging paintballs.
Located in the lovely Brecon Beacons National Park area of South Wales. The Park has been officially designated as a Geopark because of its unique geological formations.
An 8 mile stretch of sandy beach backed by sand dunes - designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. There are nature trails throughout Pembrey Country Park. Visitors can enjoy clear views across Carmarthen Bay to Tenby and the Gower.(Dogs not allowed onto the beach between May and September)
This long sandy beach, situated at the mouth of the Teifi Estuary is backed with sand dunes and is popular for power kiting. Lifeguards patrol this beach in the summer making it safe for summertime bathing.
This sheltered sandy cove located off the beaten track, is owned by the National Trust. Make your way down the steep steps leading to the beach from the car park or wander one of the short cliff top walks.
Abercastle beach sits on the Pembrokeshire coast path and would make an excellent picnic stop. A picturesque cove and village with a beach of sand and shingle.
This pristine little beach is accessible only via a half mile walk over the cliffs. It has been voted many times as one of the best beaches in Britain - and even accoladed as among the world's finest.
A remote rural beach with a pebble bank, backed by earthed cliffs. Low tide exposes tree stumps buried in the sand - the remains of a forest drowned by a sudden flood 8000 years ago. The stumps have been perfectly preserved by salt. Soak up the fabulous views from the beach head overlooking the Pembrokeshire coast path. This beach is also popular for swimming, surfing and fishing.
Spend a few hours walking around the beautiful Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, ideal for observing ancient trees, lush riverbanks and a wealth of different species of wildlife. You could choose to walk the entire 5.6 miles of this walk or just some of it. Look out for the ancient ruins of Selbech Church along the way.
The cycle trail around Llys Y Fran reservoir is 7 1/2 miles of off-road riding that is easy to follow and very well maintained. There is a diverse range of scenery to observe as this trail takes you to the water's edge, into the woods and up and down the little wooded valleys that feed the reservoir. Bikes can be hired at the cafe at the entrance to the park, or you can bring your own bike and ride around for as long as you like.
Located in a National Nature Reserve, this walk will take you between half an hour to an hour to complete. The reserve has one of the richest varieties of coastal habitats in Britain, and is a favourite location for bird watchers.
Begin your journey at Brunel Quay in Neyland along quiet lanes, bridleways and along what was once part of the Great Western Railway. The fourteen mile route is well signed and easy to follow so you won't get lost. This route is perfect for a family as the off road sections are not difficult to ride. Along the way, make sure to take in the views from Houghton Moor. (For bike hire see website link)
The 14 mile route visits the sites of the last invasion of Britain which took place in 1797. With 3 steep hills, this cycle trail is not for the faint hearted. The leg out to Strumble Head lighthouse is well worth taking, with both the bird life and the views along the coast making it an ideal picnic spot. The cafe at Tregwynt Woollen Mill is ideally situated two thirds of the way round, just what you need for the steady ascent back up to the top of Stop and Call hill overlooking Goodwick and Fishguard Harbour.
Great if you fancy a swim or a game of squash, this leisure centre offers a wide range of activities for all ages.
Spend a half day or full day trying your hand at a range of sports including canoeing, archery, rock climbing and kayaking. Transport to and from the centre can be arranged for you and the centre is specially designed to cater for groups with the option to have meals included.
New in 2008, Blue Lagoon is one of Wales' largest indoor water parks. Kids and adults will love it, it?s 'fluming fantastic'. Have some fast-paced fun on the water slides, crash amongst the waves or laze in the lazy river.
Temby Golf Club has a long history being established in 1888, it is recognised as the birthplace of golf in Wales. It is a one of the best Championship links courses around and is conveniently positioned near to the town centre. This superb 18 hole, par 72, classic links course is best known for its natural rolling contours and the amazing sea views. The course is beautifully maintained and well laid out, whatever time of the year you will find it to be in great condition, with superb fast, true greens, tight fairways and thick rough. Its location along the coast exposes you to the elemenys and in particular coastal breezes making it a testing course for golfers of all standards. Other facilities include a covered driving range and fully equipped modern teaching studio. The clubhouse has recently undergone a renovation and enjoys fantastic views, it now features superb facilities, and offers a comfortabe and relaxing place after a round of golf, the menu has lots of choice and the food was very good, resh and home cooked and the service was very good too. The club extends a warm and hospitable welcome to all vistors and you will finfd the staff to be friendinly, helpful and professional throughout. Tenby Golf Club is definitely at the top of one of the must play clubs in Wales and offers excellent value for money.
Saddle up and get ready to explore Pembrokeshire on horse! This riding school offers lessons from a half hour to half a day. The 28 horses and ponies will be glad to give you a piggy back through the glorious countryside. Beginners and experienced welcome.
RockUp-Climbing is on of the best climbing establishments in the region, it offers specialist training through a wide choice of climbing courses and experiences. The staff are highly trained and professional as well as being really friendly, patient and encouraging enhancing the overall experience. The courses cover all abilities from complete novices, refresher courses or progression courses, as well as Navigation and Mountain skills courses. They supply all the climbing equipment which, is in excellent condition, and you are fully briefed on safety and the jargon associated with climbing. The courses are open to all and will suit families, individuals and groups. If you are seeking a new and thrilling experience amongst some simply stunning landscapes where you will see the Pembrokshire coastline up close then this is the place to go. At RockUp-Climbing you will receive excellent tuition and guidance throughout, be challenged, but will leave with a new confidence and skills.
Pembrey Nature Reserve is part of Pembrey Forest. It covers 1000 hectares and contains 35 species of butterfly and birds of prey such as sparrowhawks and goshawks. Pembrey forest also forms part of a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Located within the Teifi Marshes Nature Reserve, this eye-catching visitor centre has many informative and interactive displays. There's also an adventure playground, café and gift shop. Canoe trips on the river are available.
RSPB Cwm Clydach Reserve is an ancient woodland retreat that is located on the outskirts of the city. It is a place of peace and tranquillity that allows you to escape the stresses of everyday life. There are two main trails, both start at the car park, one being suitable for pushchairs, this is the Nixon trail and extends to about 2.2 km. The other trail is more rugged in areas and longer at 4.7 km and is known as the Trussler trail. As you take a lazy walk through the reserve you can look out for the many species of bird who have made their home here, including, spotted flycatchers, redstarts and buzzards as well as many animals, insects and butterflies. The Lower Clydach River passes through the heart of the reserve. The reserve is open throughout the year and each season brings its own delights from the colourful spring woodland flowers to the beautiful autumnal colours of the leaves in Autumn. There is no charge for entry although the society does rely on donations to keep up the excellent work they do. It is the perfect location for a pleasant stroll through the lovely natural surroundings, whilst listening to the glorious sounds of the birds, totally relaxing.
These beautiful lily ponds were formed by the Stackpole Estate in the 18th-19th centuries by blocking three local limestone valleys. They are home to otters, waterfowl and course fish, including plentiful pike and tench.
The National Botanic Garden is one of the most visited gardens in Wales and is home to some of the rarest plants in world. Voted 'number 1 wonder of Wales', it has become one of the most popular gardens in the UK.
Located in the stunning Tywi valley of Carmarthenshire, this fine house has a garden that has been described as one of the finest in Wales. Often cited as inspiration for poetry for over 500 years, this beautiful site is as magical as it is mysterious.
Pembrey County Park offers a spacious 202 hectares of lush parkland for visitors to explore. Enjoy some of the cleanest beaches in Wales and admire the view of the Gower Peninsula and Carmarthenshire Bay. The area boasts a wide range of exciting outdoor activities, including cycling, horseback riding, skiing, hiking and much more!
Colby woodland garden belongs to the National Trust. It is home to the one of the best collections of rhododendrons and azaleas in Wales. Walk your way up and around the secluded valley on the well-maintained, wooded pathways.
The Brecon Beacons look fantastic when they're experienced from the saddle of your bike - whether you want the more energetic experience of charging up the mountains or casually cruising from pub to pub, there's something here for everyone. The national park authority organise guided walks and events for all the family.
Newcastle Emlyn is a lively town nestling on the meandering Teifi River. It has the ruins of the only Welsh stone castle in the area, but other attractions include antique, craft and numerous book shops, a covered market and a theatre.
Battlefield Live Pembrokshire offers the most exciting outdoor combat game. They are located in the centre of the Wales Coastal Path amongst the woodland, they have created a jungle environment offering the perfect conditions for a realistic combat experience, with plenty of places to hide and take cover as well as realistic props. The equipment is state of the art and the guns are very realistic in look, weight and feel and they use the newest technology to record your game and this is fed back to your weapon. The staff are superb, they explain everything in detail and offer advice and guidance throughout. Once you have donned your camouflage overalls, got your gun and face paint you are all fired up and ready to go on your mission, it doesn't take long to get immersed in the game. It is a game everyone from age seven upwards can get involved in and makes for a great family or group activity. It is a thrilling and tiring day out with lots of laughs. It is not the cheapest form of entertainment but is fantastic fun and they do have a range of offers so it is worth checking the website for these. Battlefield Live Pembrokshire is well run and organised and they are continually changing the game scenarios to keep them fresh and exciting, assuring you have a fantastic experience, so much so that you will leave wanting to return again and again.
Tenby is a pretty seaside resort loved by locals and tourists alike. Beautiful sandy beaches, boat trips to Caldey Island from the picturesque harbour, individual shops, cafes, pubs and award winning restaurants, Tenby has everything required for a fun-filled family day out!
The Giant Knitted Cardigan is a local celebrity here in Cardigan. The cardigan came from a simple idea a cardigan for Cardigan, it was to celebrate the towns nine hundred year history and heritage. Then came the hard work from around three hundred members of the local community including children to create the end product, they extends to five metres, and took nine months to create. It comprises of a number of different squares depicting various scenes from Cardigan's history all stitched together. A great level of care and detail has gone into this wonderful piece, that has been beautifully made. A mixture of knitting and embroidery was used in creating the cardigan, an unusual and magnificent piece. It is proving so popular that it now travels around the country on show, check the website to see where it will be next.
Small World Theatre is located in an individual artistic space in Cardigan. It is an international artist-led arts and culture association, that produces and performs a range of original shows and events, in addition to organising projects and workshops. The venue is welcoming and cosy and well laid out, the seating is almost circular giving the best views of the stage, and the seats are comfortable and spacious. The facilities are modern and the lighting and sound are state of the art. The staff are friendly and approachable. They also organise a range of events and exhibits during the year. They are not afraid to show cutting edge theatre productions. Small World Theatre serves as an important park of the towns cultural influence and is an integral part of the community.
Enjoy the latest blockbuster, watch a show, view an exhibition or chat over coffee at Theatre Mwldan, Cardigan's recently redeveloped arts and entertainment complex. It's situated in the centre of Cardigan, an oldmarket town on the beautiful coast of west Wales.
This cinema has a structure unchanged since the 1930's but boasts all comforts and modern facilities inside. It regularly plays host to live performances and the latest films.
Black Mountain Centre is a community initiative and is found in Brynaman, a charming village positioned at the foot of the Black Mountain of Carmarthenshire. It is housed in an an old school but has all the amenities needed to benefit visitors and business customers. You will find tourist information on the local area, free Internet access, a Gallery that shows local artists works that can be bought, intriguing heritage displays of local history and culture, that are continually changing. In addition there is the Black Mountain cafe area where you can get tasty home cooked food, that is excellently priced throughout the day, they also serve cakes and beverages. If you want to meet members of the community and get to know the locals then this is the place to come.
Gower Herbal Walks will take you through the Gower woodlands or along the costal paths or perhaps both where you will collect wild herbs and then turn them into medicines, under the guidance of a professional herbalist. Your walk will last approximately two hours and covers about 3 miles, you veer off the beaten track in search of plants and herbs in season, you will see breathtaking scenery, and will be taught to recognise local plants, how to harvest them and change them into a healing medicine that you take home with you. During your time you gain substantial knowledge about the plants you see and are given a booklet to take home, to further explain the plants and herbs that are safe to use and how to yield them. You also learn about the healing properties of the plants, correct dosages and the intriguing myths and traditions behind them. Depending on your route you might stop to enjoy some tasty homemade herbal teas and scrumptious brownies, or delicious fish and chips. You should ensure to wear suitable foot wear and comfortable clothes as well as taking drinking water, suncream/waterproofs depending on the time of year. Gower Herbal Walks are thoroughly enjoyable and interesting, you get so much from them as well as having the satisfaction of having made your own medicine, that you take home. Gower Herbal Walks are a different and fun alternative and suitable to all those who are mobile, a great activity, with family or friends or as part of a group or party.
New Quay is the perfect destination for sightseeing, beach lounging, walking and dolphin spotting. Enjoy a walk along the front to the end of the Quay and watch the boats sail by. Or sit in one of the cafes overlooking the harbour and see the dolphins.
Myddfai Community Hall and Visitor Centre has become an important addition to the community here in Myddfai, an area that is enveloped by the glorious scenery of the Brecon Beacons National Park. The centre is newly constructed using the latest energy efficient tools and has become one of the nicest and best equipped venues in the area. The purpose of the centre was to serve as a focal point in the community and a place where locals could gather. Since its opening the centre has hosted many events and these are aimed at families and getting people together so keep an eye on the website for upcoming events. The centre is open daily and you will find a shop that sells a nice selection of locally produced and crafted foods, gifts, cards, books and artwork. Many of the items on sale are only found here and there is a nice range of quality and unique items as well as a delicious selection of chutneys, jams chocolates and much more. There is also a cafe that is warm and welcoming and on its walls are information boards detailing the history of Myddfai. They serve a good selection of beverages, snacks and light lunches as well as heavenly home-made cakes. The centre is run by volunteers who are really welcoming and friendly and happy to stop and have a chat. Myddfai is a superb community project that every village should have a great place to stop and meet with the locals and enjoy a coffee, do some shopping and learn about the local area.
This impressively sited castle overlooking the Tywi estuary has been in the hands of both the Normans and Welsh. Admission is free. Pass a couple of hours in the castle before visiting Llansteffan village for a coffee or a wander around the shops.
Situated in the picturesque village of Dre-fach Felindre, once the centre of a thriving woollen industry, this flagship museum has a fascinating story to tell. Follow the process from fleece to fabric, watch textiles in production and see historic machinery that changed the face of the industry.
Tudor Merchant's House is a beautiful 15th century house that is representative of how it would of been in 1500 when it would have been lived in by a wealthy merchant and his family. During your visit you can see the working kitchen, with all the cooking utensils and the table is filled with herbs and fruits they would have used which, only add to the overall atmosphere, you will also see the merchants shop and see how he earned his money. The house is furnished with replica period furniture and a selection of old toys that you can try out. The house covers three floors and there are sheets found around giving you information, facts and traditions about the house and this era in history. Children can dress up in authentic costumes and there are games for them to play. There are also friendly and knowledgeable guides dressed in period costumes there who can answer any questions you might have. The views from the upper floors out over the North Beach Harbour are lovely. Tudor Merchants House is beautifully preserved in time and gives an accurate view of life in this era for the wealthy, very interesting and informative and a great way to learn about the Tudor times especially as you can touch most of the items.
Experience the panoramic views of the black mountain and the colourful Welsh countryside from the craggy hilltop where this fantastic castle lies.
Tenby Museum and Art Gallery is located on Castle Hill with with lovely views across the beach and beyond. It is the oldest independent museum in Wales. A trip to the museum will take you through the rich history of the town from its early beginnings in the 9th century through to current day. This is done through a variety of exhibits, interpretive panels, photographs and artefacts, and you will learn all about the culture and heritage of Tenby, its residents, its geology and archaeology, involvement in WWII and much more. Children will enjoy a visit to the museum with activities arranged for them to complete and clothes to dress up in, as well as a relic trail. There are many hands on exhibits where you are free to hold and examine the items on display. There is a free audio tour which, is informative and well organised and takes you round the museum in an orderly fashion. There is also a ten minute film chronicling the development of Tenby as a tourist resort. The Art Gallery has many fine exhibits both permanent and temporary and include a 19th century Minton Monk's Rock meat plate, 19th century Penny Farthing high-wheeled bicycle, Cap-a-Pie suit of armour, Tenby Gun and Lydstep Pig. The staff throughout are very friendly and knowledgeable and will be happy to answer any questions you might have. Tenby Museum and Art Gallery is open throughout the year Tuesdays through to Saturdays, except for the Christmas period when it closes for couple of weeks, opening hours are from 10.00 to 5.00pm. There is a small charge to enter the museum but once you have purchased a ticket it is valid for a year and you can make unlimited visits in this time. There is a small cafe area where you can buy a beverage. In addition there is a small gift shop that has a nice selection of gifts and souvenirs. Tenby Museum and Art Gallery is delightful, interesting and informative but done in a fun way that all ages can enjoy, a visit is highly recommended.
Upton Castle is a magnificent Norman Castle that is enclosed by 356 acres of listed historic gardens, it still remains a private family home. It is a modest castle and one of the original remaining structures is thought to date to the 12th/13th century. Three of the towers still remain and there are indications of a drawbridge and port cullies, the area of the castle that is lived in dates to the 17th and 18th centuries with the further addition of two towers in the 19th century. The gardens comprise of ancient woodlands but over the years they have being lovingly planted and nurtured to produce the wonderful gardens we see today, complete with formal gardens, a variety of unusual and uncommon shrubs and trees, rose garden and a traditional 19th century walled garden. You will also find a delightful medieval chapel within the grounds, it is ornate and decorated with carved stone effigies of knights that can be dated to the 12th century, in its grounds are a stone preaching cross that has been classified as a historic monument. The gardens are delightful during the spring/summer months and offer a place of peace and tranquillity and a number of lovely walks. The gardens are open daily from April through to October from 10.00am to 4.30pm, the castle is not open for viewing. You can purchase some of the fruit and vegetables that are grown here and leave the money in a trust box. Upton Castle Gardens is a uniquely charming estate, so pretty, peaceful and tranquil and definitely worth visiting.
Manorbier Castle and Garden enjoy a fantastic position that overlooks a beautiful unspoilt beach. This magnificent castle has a long history dating back to the 12th century and is best known for being the birthplace of Gerald of Wales, the 12th century scholar. Much of the castle still remains today and is as impressive now as it was when it was originally constructed. Places to visit here include the impressive Great Hall, Chapel and Turrets, here you will find life size figures wearing period costume in various places throughout the castle, as well as interesting sound effects. There is a guide book to buy that tells you all about the history of the castle. The view from the towers are fantastic and worth the climb up the steep and sometimes precarious stairs. Children will love the corridors and all the nooks and crannies there are to explore, as well as dressing up as knights and princesses. The walled gardens are beautiful, the lawns are immaculate and beautifully maintained, a lovely place to sit and soak up the peaceful and beautiful surroundings. There is a lovely welcoming cafe where you can enjoy a choice of beverages and light refreshments, as well as locally made cakes and icecreams. Throughout the year a number of events are run at the castle, such as theatre productions, folk music in the gardens, Christmas markets and much more, so keep an eye out for these. There is also a small gift shop that has a nice selection of souvenirs for sale. The castle and gardens are open from March through to September and there is a small entry charge. Although not a large castle Manorbier Castle has its own charm and appeal and is worth a visit for the amazing views and lovely tea rooms.
Situated within Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Castell Henylls recently shot to fame in the BBC series 'Surviving the Iron Age'. This ancient monument is one of many prehistoric promontory forts in the National Park dating from around 600BC. Traditional craft making and ancient breeds of animal can also be found on site.
Carew Castle has a long and impressive history that dates back 2,000 years, starting its life as a Norman fortification and eventually becoming an Elizabethan country house. The castle enjoys an envious location where it overlooks a 23 acre millpond. There is lots to see and do in addition to the castle, the site is also home to an extraordinary 11th century Celtic cross, the sole revived tidal mill in Wales and a medieval bridge. Although not a complete castle it still has an immense charm and imposing feel about it that allows you to visual how it would have been in its full splendour, with its Great and Lesser Halls and Church. Children will love all the winding stairs and passageways there are to explore. There are a number of events that take place here throughout the year so it is worth checking the website to see what is on and when. The castle is open throughout the year and there is a small entry charge and they also do a family ticket, please note the guided tours are only operated during the summer months. There is a guide book that is very informative and interesting, as well as interpretation cards. The staff are really friendly, knowledgeable and passionate about the castle and will happily answer any questions you have. There is a small gift shop that sells a nice selection of local goods and related souvenirs and gifts. Carew Castle is charming and delightful and offers picturesque views and walks around it, it is ideal for all the family and should not be missed if you are in the area.
Dolaucothi Gold Mines are located in the heart of a 2,500 acre estate and positioned on a wooded hillside that oversees the stunning Cothi Valley. Mining here dates back more than 2000 years to the Romans and some of their methods are still evident. But it is the Roman, Victorian and 1930's and the harsh conditions that the miners endured that are focused on here. The mines here continued to be mined until 1938 when they eventually closed. The tour takes you into the actual working mines, and suitable foot wear is recommended owing to the uneven surface and steep slopes, and you must have a certain degree of mobility to be able to do the tour, children in push chairs can do the Victorian tour. You get to wear a miners lamp and when you enter these dark caverns, you will get to see first hand the dark, dank and cramped conditions the miners worked in, with so much effort for little reward, see and hear the mine in operation as well as seeing the actual mine machinery. There is the choice of a free guided tour which, you book on arrival or you can take a self-guided tour, there is the Roman tour and Victorian tour to choose from. The guides are friendly, engaging and very knowledgeable and impart the history in a lively and interesting way with lots of anecdotes You can try your own hand at panning for gold and see how successful you will be, or take one of the many walks around the area, that vary in length and difficulty. There is also an exhibition that you can look around. The mine is open is open from April through to October and there is a charge for entry. There is a nice little gift shop where you can buy some pretty Welsh gold jewellery and other souvenirs and gifts. The tea shop is pleasant and cosy and serves a nice selection of beverages and hot and cold food at reasonable prices. Dolaucothi Mines offers an intriguing insight into a working mine and will interest all ages, the tour is pitched to cater to everyone and with activity sheets and trails the children can get involved, highly recommended if you are in the area.
The remains of a lavish country retreat used by the bishops of St Davids, with buildings dating from the 13th to 16th centuries. Rumour has it they built the country retreat to get away from the worries of church and state and it ended up being their favourite residence. Lamphey Bishops Palace has a fascinating long history behind it which is well worth exploring.
