Carmarthen, County of Carmarthenshire

This ancient County Town has been an important centre for trade since the 2nd Century.

Guildhall Square


The Market Gate

The Romans established a fortress at Carmarthen (Maridunum), on the banks of the River Teifi, followed by the Normans some 600 years later.

The town is famous for its association with Merlin and King Arthur, so much so that its name was given, way back, by the people of the locality; the Welsh name for Carmarthen is Caerffryddin - Merlin's town.

In the 14th century, Carmarthen was the centre in Wales for processing and selling wool and sheepskins.

Today, it is an important market place for the farming community, especially for those involved in the dairy industry. There are many independent and chain stores so don’t miss the fresh produce: Welsh lamb in season, Welsh Black Beef, salted butter, cheese and Bara Brith - fruit bread; Carmarthenshire is known as the 'Garden of Wales'.

Visitors will hear the Welsh language spoken here more so than anywhere else in the Principality.

Nearby Aberglasney Gardens is a ‘must’ for lovers of flowers and trees. To appreciate the scenic countryside from a different point of view, take a ride and steam down the beautiful Gwili Vallley on the Gwili Steam Railway.

Directions

Nearest towns: Llanelli, Llandeilo, Lampeter, Newcastle Emlyn, Haverfordwest, St. Clears.