Llandeilo Tourist Information

Llandeilo, Dinefwr Castle & Newton House

Medieval history particularly abounds in Llandeilo (althought the Romans were in the area as evidence of two Roman forts have been discovered under a section of field within Dinefwr Park). Llandeilo's wealth and acclaim, however, really took off in the medieval period. Situated within the richly fertile Tywi Valley, the town (or it's English landowners to be more specific) grew fat off the back of local agriculture. This Carmarthenshire town bordering the Brecons takes it's name from St Telio (cousin of Wales' patron saint St David) who resided here around 550AD when Llandeilo became a centre for Christianity. The 13th century tower of St Eilo's church in Llandeilo (still completely intact) is a distinct feature of Llandeilo's medieval history.

Once you've exhausted yourself perusing the delightful specialist shops along Llandelo's high street, push just outside the centre to the picturesque Dinefwr Castle and Country Park. Newton House is also on-site. Take a stroll around the National Trust run Newton House, nearby Dinefwr Castle and the pretty parklands that surround both. The views from the top of Dinefwr Castle give you a real sense of just how green and rural Carmarthenshire is. Newton House within Dinefwr Park dates from 1660, although it was reshaped somewhat during the Victorian period with suitably gothic 18th century features added. A medieval deer park surrounds the property (plus a fair few sheep - take care in lambing season not to disturb). See the National Trust weblink right for more details.

Pretty woodland trails lead up to the elevated site of Dinefwr Castle. Once at the top glorious panoramic views greet you across the surrounding Carmarthenshire countryside, and beyond the Breacon Beacons. Dinefwr Castle is an important site within Welsh history. It was once the central seat of power to the Welsh rulers of Deheubarth (the medieval principality of South West Wales). See the Llandeilo Town Guide weblink right for a complete history and guide.

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Pushing into the Brecons - Carreg Cennen Castle & Llandovery

To the north of Llandeilo sits Llandovery - also a pretty market town with a bohemian appeal. If you're wanting to explore the Tywi valley then Llandovery makes a great base. You're on the borders of the Brecon Beacons here too, so either Llandeilo or Llandovery make superb bases for pushing into the Brecons.

Llandovery Tourist Information Centre, Heritage Centre, Kings Road, Llandovery. SA20 0AW. Tel:(01558) 824226.

Visit Carreg Cennen Castle to the south east of Llandeilo on a clear day particularly and you're in for a treat. Elevated on a limestone crag, Carreg Cennen can be seen from all around and the walk up to the castle summit offers spectacular views of the Carmarthenshire countryside around it. There was a Welsh stronghold here in the 12th century before the Normans errected what you see today, and prehistoric remains which include 5 skeletons have been found on the site. Such an elevated site would have been prized through the ages!

Check the Carreg Cennen Castles of Wales weblink right for full details. Parking, refreshments, toilets and a shop offering a comprehensive guidebook are all on-site. Spring Opening Times 9.30 to 18.30. Summer Opening Times 9.30am to 18.30. Autumn Opening Times 9.30am to 18.30. Winter Opening Times: 9.30am to 16.00.

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