Carmarthen Tourist Attractions
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Carmarthen/Caerfyrddin (pop. 14,000), according to legend the birthplace of the Celtic magician Merlin, lies on the River Towy, 9mi/14.4km inland from the bay of the same name. It is the county town of Dyfed, which consists of the counties of Carmarthen, Pembroke and Cardigan. The market town was formerly an important seaport, and is now the administrative and cultural center of this agricultural region. The parish church of St Peter dates mainly from the 14th century; of the 14th century town wall and gatehouse only ruins remain. The Guildhall (1766) and the County Museum are worth visiting.
Ferryside (Kidwelly Castle)
A number of small resorts lie around the wide curve of Carmarthen Bay. Sailors like to meet at Ferryside, while at neighboring Kidwelly a 13th C Norman castle, extended in the reign of Edward I, dominates the Gwendreath Fach estuary.The Kidwelly Castle features a 'walls within walls' defensive system. The location allowed for the supply of food and ammunition by sea when land access was cut off by hostile forces. The majority of the walls and defenses have been particularly well preserved, giving an excellent example of the powerful fortresses that were built to withstand the conflicts between the English and the Welsh.
Surroundings
Garden of Wales
The Garden of Wales is set in the former 18th C regency park of Middleton Hall. The Middleton Estate had once been meticulously maintained but was left to almost obliteration until restoration began.
