Summer is the perfect time to get the family out and explore what Carmarthenshire has to offer. From outdoor activities to indoor attractions, there are plenty of options for all ages. Take a ride on the Gwili Railway, visit WWT Llanelli, spend time at the beach in Pendine, or explore Dolaucothi Goldmines. With parks, trails, castles, and more, Carmarthenshire has something for every family to enjoy during the holidays.
WWT Llanelli Wetland Centre
For those who love nature and wildlife, the WWT Llanelli Wetland Centre is an inspiring and peaceful setting. Located on the north shore of the Burry Inlet, the centre covers over 450 acres of lakes, reedbeds, pools, and woodlands. It's a haven for wildlife, especially migratory birds, and home to species like otters, water voles, and dragonflies. Families can explore well-maintained trails, watch birds from hides, and take part in regular guided walks and seasonal activities. Children will enjoy spotting colourful species up close—including a flock of Caribbean flamingos—and learning more about wetlands and conservation in a hands-on, family-friendly environment.
Gwili Railway
A visit to the Gwili Railway is a chance to step back in time and experience the golden age of steam. This heritage railway runs through the scenic Gwili Valley, once part of the main line between Carmarthen and Aberystwyth. Restored carriages, traditional station buildings, and a dedicated team of volunteers bring history to life in a way that’s both engaging and educational. The train passes through picturesque farmland and woodlands, with opportunities to picnic by the river, enjoy a woodland walk, or take a ride on the miniature railway. It's an ideal experience for families who appreciate a slower pace and the charm of vintage travel.
Marros Horse Riding
For a more active outdoor experience, Marros Horse Riding Centre offers horse riding in beautiful countryside just inland from Pendine. This family-run centre welcomes riders of all abilities, from complete beginners to those with more experience. Set on 140 acres near the Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire border, Marros provides safe off-road riding through ancient woodland and, for experienced riders, exhilarating beach rides along Morfa Bychan and Pendine Sands. It’s a great opportunity for families to try something new together, surrounded by peaceful natural scenery and supported by knowledgeable instructors.
Beaches
With miles of golden sands, dramatic estuary views, and safe, family-friendly shores, Carmarthenshire’s coastline is one of Wales’ hidden treasures. Whether you're building sandcastles with the kids, walking the dog along peaceful shores, or trying out coastal activities like paddleboarding, there’s a beach for every kind of day. From the vast golden stretch of Cefn Sidan with its Blue Flag status and family-friendly facilities, to the historic harbour at Burry Port and the wild, unspoilt feel of Morfa Bychan or Telpyn Point, the variety is impressive. Pendine Sands offers seven miles of dramatic coastline, famously used for land-speed records, and now a hub for adventure sports and coastal walks. Llansteffan and Ferryside offer traditional seaside charm, complete with rock pools, castles, and even a scenic river ferry crossing. Meanwhile, Llanelli Beach and the Millennium Coastal Park provide accessible paths and wide-open spaces ideal for walking, cycling, or simply relaxing by the sea.
Dolaucothi Goldmines
Set amid the wooded hillsides of the Cambrian Mountains, the Dolaucothi Gold Mines offer a fascinating glimpse into one of the most unusual corners of Welsh history. These are the only known Roman gold mines in Britain, with mining activity dating back over 2,000 years. Visitors can explore the landscape once shaped by Roman engineers, as well as the remnants of more modern mining operations from the 19th and 20th centuries. The mines closed in 1938, but the story remains very much alive. Guided tours take you into the tunnels to uncover how gold was extracted in different eras, while the surrounding Dolaucothi Estate offers over 25 km of walking trails through a wildlife-rich environment. Families can even try gold panning on-site—a hands-on activity that’s as fun as it is educational.
Newton House
In the heart of the Dinefwr Estate, Newton House stands as a testament to centuries of Welsh history and heritage. Once the ancestral home of the descendants of The Lord Rhys, a powerful prince of the ancient Welsh kingdom of Deheubarth, this Grade II* listed building reveals layers of family life through the centuries. Inside, you’ll find rooms that reflect changing architectural styles and social customs, alongside rotating exhibitions and art installations that explore themes from the estate’s rich past. The Victorian garden has been carefully restored and is a peaceful space for reflection, offering views of the surrounding parkland from a charming summer house. Keep an eye out for the resident deer, often spotted roaming the estate grounds.
Glansteffan Ferry
For a unique experience along the coast, families can take a ride on the Glansteffan Ferry, which crosses the River Tywi between Ferryside and Llansteffan. This ferry—specially designed to cope with the estuary’s shifting tides—offers not just a means of transport, but a memorable journey in itself. It was even named one of the “World’s Most Spectacular Ferry Crossings” by The Independent. Friendly local crew members provide informative commentary along the way, sharing stories about the area’s maritime history, wildlife, and coastal communities. The trip offers beautiful views of the estuary and is an engaging way for families to experience the beauty of Carmarthenshire’s shoreline from the water.
Pembrey Country Park
Spanning 500 acres, Pembrey Country Park is one of Wales’s leading family attractions, offering an impressive mix of coast and countryside. Overlooking the Gower Peninsula and Carmarthen Bay, the park is home to the award-winning Cefn Sidan Beach, an eight-mile stretch of golden sand with Blue Flag status. The park also features a wide range of family-friendly facilities, including a dry ski slope, toboggan run, adventure playground, miniature railway, and crazy golf. Nature trails wind through the park’s woodlands, and cycle hire is available for families wanting to explore further. Whether you’re interested in outdoor sports, beach days, or simply spending time together in a beautiful setting, Pembrey Country Park offers something for everyone. With several cafés and a family campsite on site, it’s an ideal base for a longer stay or a full day out.
Teifi Valley Railway
Set in the heart of rural West Wales near Newcastle Emlyn, the Teifi Valley Railway brings history to life in a fun and relaxed setting. Originally a branch line of the Great Western Railway, it now operates as a narrow-gauge railway offering scenic rides behind vintage 1950s diesel locomotives like "John Henry" and "Sammy." The railway is especially popular with families, offering more than just a train journey. Children can ride the miniature railway to Pixie Halt on “Toot Toot Tallulah,” while the café provides a welcoming place for refreshments with indoor and outdoor seating. With play areas, crazy golf, and quoits, the railway is a charming spot to spend a few relaxed hours immersed in nostalgia and play.
Overhang
For families with a sense of adventure, Overhang Climbing Centre near Carmarthen provides a dynamic indoor climbing experience in a beautifully converted church. Whether you’re brand new to climbing or already confident on the wall, the centre caters to all abilities and age groups. With 12-metre top rope and lead climbing routes, two dedicated bouldering zones, and friendly instructors on hand to guide and support, it’s a fantastic opportunity for children and parents to challenge themselves in a safe, fun environment. The repurposed setting of St David’s Church adds an atmospheric and memorable backdrop to the experience.
Xcel Bowl
Indoor entertainment is well covered at Xcel Bowl, a lively, family-oriented venue in Carmarthen. With modern bowling lanes, arcade games, and a soft play area for younger children, Xcel Bowl has something for everyone under one roof. It’s ideal for rainy days, birthday parties, or just an afternoon of relaxed fun. Friendly staff, a family-friendly menu, and an upbeat atmosphere make it a welcoming space for visitors of all ages, whether you’re striking out on the lanes or letting little ones burn off some energy in the soft play zone.
Leisure Centres
Carmarthenshire’s Actif Leisure Centres offers families easy access to a wide variety of sport and fitness activities across the county. From swimming and soft play for the youngest family members to fitness classes, sports clubs, and indoor courts for teens and adults, these centres are welcoming spaces that promote healthy, active lifestyles. Each facility offers clean, modern equipment and is staffed by trained professionals who support people of all ages and abilities. Whether you're looking for a fun family swim session or a new weekly activity to enjoy together, Actif Leisure Centres are a great resource for staying active and connected as a family.
Castles
Few regions can match Carmarthenshire when it comes to castles—and each one tells a different chapter of Wales’s story. Dryslwyn Castle sits proudly above the Tywi Valley, a powerful symbol of the native Welsh princes of Deheubarth. Carreg Cennen Castle, perched dramatically atop a 325-foot cliff, is as much about adventure as it is about history, with a walkable passageway that leads deep into the rock to a natural cave. Dinefwr Castle, also tied to the princes of Deheubarth, is nestled within 800 acres of National Trust parkland. Kidwelly Castle is one of the most complete medieval castles in the UK—its enormous stone walls and towers still imposing today. Meanwhile, Laugharne Castle, once transformed into a Tudor mansion, offers a blend of Norman fortifications and Renaissance elegance. On the coast, Llansteffan Castle overlooks the Tywi estuary from the site of an ancient Iron Age promontory fort. Further west, the ruins of Newcastle Emlyn Castle evoke the struggles between Norman lords and Welsh princes, and Carmarthen Castle, once a major Norman stronghold, still stands as a reminder of the area’s strategic importance through the centuries.
Indoor Play Centres
When the weather turns or you’re simply looking for somewhere for the kids to burn off energy, Carmarthenshire’s indoor play areas offer safe, stimulating environments for young children to explore, play, and learn. Tiny Tots Town in Llanelli invite children to step into a miniature world of imaginative play. With themed zones such as supermarkets, cafés, clinics, and construction sites, children can immerse themselves in role-playing games that help develop confidence, communication, and problem-solving skills. For more active play, Sgiliau Soft Play provides vibrant, multi-zone indoor playgrounds where babies, toddlers, and young children can climb, crawl, bounce, and slide in a safe and supervised environment.
Hafod Trails
For families who love a bit of adventure and time outdoors, Hafod Trails, located on the edge of Brechfa Forest, offers a purpose-built mountain biking experience suitable for all levels. With five graded trails ranging from beginner to expert, it’s an accessible yet exciting place to introduce children to trail riding or challenge more experienced riders. The trails are serviced by an efficient uplift system that means more time on the bike and less climbing—ideal for family groups. The natural setting and variety of terrain make Hafod a top choice for active families looking to get outside together.
British Bird of Prey Centre
Wildlife lovers shouldn’t miss the British Bird of Prey Centre, based at the National Botanic Garden of Wales. It’s the only centre in the UK dedicated exclusively to native British birds of prey and offers daily flying displays that showcase their extraordinary abilities. From hovering kestrels to red kites feeding in mid-air, these demonstrations are both educational and breathtaking. Families can also take part in hands-on experiences, including the chance to fly owls, hawks, or even the magnificent golden and white-tailed sea eagles. With knowledgeable staff and immersive programming, the centre provides a powerful way for children to learn about conservation and the natural world.