Itinerary 3

Carmarthen

10am
Gwili Railway : Take a trip on the Gwili Steam Railway at Bronwydd and delve into the past on a full size steam railway. Enjoy the beautiful Gwili Valley and relax alongside the river for a picnic, walk the woodland walk and absorb the nostalgia of the bygone days. Refreshments and toilets are available on board the train. (Attractions Map »)

12pm
Visit the surprising town of Carmarthen. Quaint old narrow streets and castle remains that date back to Henry I are placed harmoniously with a modern first class shopping centre occupied by a number of familiar High Street names. Carmarthen is famous for its market which sells a wide variety of fresh Welsh produce and are bursting with character and lively banter and must be visited, especially on market day - Wednesday.

Then make you way to the Oriel Myrddyn Gallery, a contemporary craft and regional art gallery or discover some of Carmarthen’s rich history at the newly restored Carmarthen Castle. Before making your way to the National Botanic Garden of Wales have lunch in the Boars Head Inn Carmarthen, one of Dylan Thomas’ favourite pubs.

3pm

The National Botanic Garden of Wales : officially the nation's favourite Lottery funded environment project is set among 568 acres of Parkland in the beautiful Tywi Valley in West Wales, just 7 miles from Carmarthen. The garden’s centrepiece is the Great Glasshouse, the largest single span glasshouse in the world : an amazing tilted glass dome with a six:metre ravine. The Mediterranean landscape enables the visitor to experience the aftermath of an Australian bush fire, pause in an olive grove or wander through Fuchsia collections from Chile.

A spectacular 220m herbaceous Broad Walk forms the spine of the garden and leads to the doubled walled garden, here you can admire traditional and contemporary planting themes in separate quarters and the new Tropical House which was designed by Welsh born New York based architect John Belle and boasts a fascinating collection of coconuts and cardamom, pineapples, palms, lilies and hundreds of orchids.

Then experience the drama of a special commissioned film in the 360° surround screen cinema, and enjoy the fascinating Physicians of Myddfai exhibition. At the Stables courtyard you can view art exhibitions, wander in the gift shop or enjoy a meal or afternoon tea in the restaurant. (Attractions Map »)