Looking for the pawfect day out with your dog? You’ve come to the right place. Carmarthenshire is packed with tail-wagging adventures — from steam trains and castle climbs to beach zoomies and scenic pub stops. Wander through wild woodlands, stroll along riverbanks, explore centuries-old castles, or stretch your legs on an endless sandy beach. We’ve mapped out some of the best spots for dogs and their humans to explore, unwind, and enjoy a proper day out. No kennels, no guilt — just great adventures with your four-legged friend.
Abergwili
For a relaxed and nostalgic day out with your dog, Abergwili offers a charming mix of riverside strolls and vintage transport. Start your day aboard the Gwili Railway, where dogs on leads are welcome for a small fee. This scenic steam train journey winds its way through lush countryside and along the River Gwili, with vintage carriages and a beautifully restored station at Abergwili Junction adding to the experience. After your ride, head to nearby Bishop’s Park, a quiet green space beside the River Tywi that’s perfect for a gentle walk. Dogs are welcome on leads, and there’s plenty of space to stretch your legs or enjoy a picnic under the trees. If you're in the mood for something more filling, pop into Stacey’s Kitchen, a friendly café right by the park serving light lunches, cakes, and drinks, with outdoor seating where dogs are welcome. Whether you’re watching the world go by from a bench or enjoying coffee with your pup at your feet, Abergwili is ideal for a slow-paced, dog-friendly outing.
Llanarthney
If you’re after a day filled with peaceful gardens, countryside drives and a bit of local flavour, Llanarthney is a great option. Start with a visit to the National Botanic Garden of Wales, where dogs are welcome on Mondays, Fridays, and the first full weekend of each month. There’s plenty of space for lead-only walks through grassy meadows, themed gardens, and lakeside paths — just keep in mind that dogs aren’t allowed in the Great Glasshouse, Tropical House, Bird of Prey Centre, or play areas. For lunch, head to Wright’s Food Emporium, just a short drive away. With its rustic charm, quality local ingredients, and dog-friendly outdoor seating, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxed refuel. If your pup still has energy to burn, finish the day with a walk up to Paxton’s Tower, a striking hilltop folly offering panoramic views over the Tywi Valley. Dogs are welcome in the open areas around the tower, making it a scenic end to your Carmarthenshire adventure.
Llandeilo
For a dog-friendly day in and around Llandeilo, you’re spoiled for choice with scenic spots, historic landmarks, and great places to grab a bite. If you’re after a peaceful countryside walk with plenty of space to roam, head to Dinefwr Park. Dogs on leads are welcome throughout the gardens, woodland trails, and open parkland – just not inside the mansion or the deer park. The woodland paths are perfect for a relaxed ramble, and the climb up to the ruins of Dinefwr Castle rewards you with sweeping views that are well worth the effort. For a more rugged and dramatic walk, visit Carreg Cennen Castle near the village of Trapp, where dogs are welcome in all outdoor areas. The towering ruins and surrounding landscape make for an atmospheric outing, especially if your pup loves sniffing around castle walls and open fields. When it’s time to refuel, pop into Diod, a stylish coffee shop and bar serving speciality coffee, Welsh wine, craft beer, and light bites — dogs are welcome, and the atmosphere is laid-back and friendly. Just around the corner, Lolfa offers a similarly relaxed vibe, with tasty breakfasts, lunches, and cakes in a bright, modern space where pups are greeted with a warm welcome.
Pembrey
If your dog loves open space, sea air, and sandy paws, a day out in Pembrey is sure to be a hit. Start at Pembrey Country Park, a vast coastal park packed with woodland trails, dunes, and large open spaces perfect for lead walks or off-lead fun in designated areas. The park has a variety of walking routes and even a dog exercise field, making it ideal for energetic pups who need room to roam. For a truly epic beach adventure, follow the signs for Cefn Sidan, one of Wales' longest beaches. Stretching an incredible eight miles, it welcomes dogs along most of its length all year round — with only a one-mile dog-free zone in place from May to September. Just look out for the signs to know where you’re allowed. After all that running and exploring, you’ve earned a break. For a quick and casual stop, Yr Orsaf café in the park offers light meals, drinks, and ice cream, with outdoor seating available for you and your pup. Or, if you’re venturing slightly further into the village, Daisy’s Little Coffee Shop is a cosy, dog-welcoming spot known for its warm service, homemade cakes, and laid-back feel.
Cenarth & Newcastle Emlyn
For a day that blends riverside charm, historic landmarks, and cosy pitstops, Cenarth and Newcastle Emlyn are perfect for dog-friendly exploring. Start in Newcastle Emlyn, once a busy stop on the drovers’ route in the 18th and 19th centuries. Stroll with your pup around the castle ruins, perched on a loop of the River Teifi, and enjoy a gentle on-lead walk through the surrounding green space. Afterwards, head to the Bunch of Grapes on Bridge Street — a 17th-century inn where dogs are warmly welcomed with free treats, while you sample local ales, ciders, or a dram of whisky. Just a short drive away, the picturesque village of Cenarth is home to the dramatic Cenarth Falls. Take a leisurely riverside walk, keeping an eye out for traditional coracles bobbing on the water. For a relaxing break, stop at Tŷ Te Cenarth, a dog-friendly tearoom with a riverside garden, homemade cakes, and a laid-back vibe. Your dog can unwind by your side while you enjoy an afternoon tea treat.
Kidwelly
With its impressive medieval castle, riverside walks, and welcoming cafés, Kidwelly is a great choice for a dog-friendly day out. Start your adventure at Kidwelly Castle, one of the best-preserved Norman castles in Wales. Dogs on leads are welcome in the grounds, where you and your pup can explore the grassy outer walls and enjoy views over the River Gwendraeth. While dogs aren’t allowed in the towers or upper levels, there’s still plenty of space to soak up the history and scenery together. Next, head to Parc y Bocs Farm Shop & Café, just a short drive away. With homemade food, local produce, and a lovely garden, it’s a perfect pitstop. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating area and even in part of the café — and they might get a treat from the friendly staff too! If you fancy a post-lunch stroll, the Glan yr Afon Walk offers a peaceful riverside path through the town. This short, scenic route is ideal for a relaxed wander on the lead, with plenty of fresh air and open views.
Llandovery
For a day out filled with wild beauty, local legends, and dog-friendly hospitality, head into the hills north of Llandovery. Start your adventure at RSPB Gwenffrwd-Dinas, a peaceful nature reserve where dogs on leads are welcome. This circular riverside route follows the banks of the River Tywi and winds through ancient oak woodland filled with birdsong and rich wildlife. Along the way, you’ll discover Twm Sion Cati’s Cave, the legendary hideout of Wales’ own Robin Hood, who evaded capture in these remote hills. The trail can be a little steep and uneven in places, so sturdy shoes are a good idea — but the views and atmosphere make it well worth the effort. After your walk, make your way to the nearby village of Rhandirmwyn, a hidden gem nestled in the upper Tywi Valley. It’s the perfect place to unwind. Stop by The Royal Oak, a charming, dog-friendly inn with a welcoming bar, traditional pub food, and roaring fires on colder days. Alternatively, The Bear Inn in Llandovery offers another cosy spot to grab a bite or a drink with your pup in tow.
Cross Hands
For a day filled with woodland walks and tasty dog-friendly pitstops, Cross Hands and the surrounding area offer a peaceful escape. Begin at Llyn Llech Owain Country Park, where scenic trails loop through woodland and heathland, circling a peaceful lake. Dogs on leads are welcome, and there’s plenty of wildlife to spot along the way. Just a short drive away, explore Mynydd Mawr Woodland Park in Tumble — a former mining site now filled with leafy trails, open grassland, and a striking miner’s lamp sculpture marking the entrance. Lead-only walks here might reward you with sightings of kingfishers, woodpeckers, or even an otter if you're lucky. When it’s time to refuel, head to Cwmcerrig Farm Shop & Grill for a hearty meal, or pop into Yr Oriel – The Gallery Restaurant at Leekes, where pups are welcome in designated areas and the cake is worth sticking around for.
Laugharne
Laugharne is a laid-back, dog-friendly gem where you and your pup can enjoy a mix of history, coastal views, and cosy pitstops. Start at Laugharne Castle, where dogs on short leads are welcome to explore the grounds and peaceful gardens with sweeping estuary views. From there, follow Dylan Thomas’s Birthday Walk — a scenic, two-mile circular route taking in the poet’s writing shed, Boathouse, and favourite viewpoints along the River Taf. After your walk, stop off at Stone Range Café, where dogs are welcome at outdoor tables and you can refuel with coffee, cake, or a light lunch. For something more substantial, Tŷ Glo is another dog-friendly favourite in the village, offering wood-fired pizzas, sweet treats, and a relaxed vibe, with outdoor seating perfect for you and your pup. With its literary charm, historic views, and welcoming cafés, Laugharne is a brilliant spot for a peaceful, dog-friendly day out.
Llanelli
Llanelli is a brilliant spot for dog-walking thanks to its wide, mostly flat, traffic free Millennium Coastal Path - a scenic roughly 13 mile stretch between Bynea and Pembrey Country Park that's perfect for leashed dogs to stretch their legs while enjoying estuary views, dunes, wetlands, and sandy beaches. Along the route you’ll pass St Elli’s Bay, a stylish beachfront café and gelateria at North Dock that welcomes dogs in its ground floor bistro and outdoor seating—ideal for coffee, light lunch or ice cream with your pup by your side. If you follow the path west to Burry Port, make sure to visit Crazie Crepes Café, a fun and dog-friendly spot known for sweet treats, outdoor seating, and free Puppuchinos for four-legged visitors — the perfect reward after a coastal stroll.
Brechfa
If your idea of a great day out with your dog involves peaceful forest trails, riverside rambles, and a welcoming pub at the end of it, Brechfa ticks all the boxes. Tucked away in the wooded hills of central Carmarthenshire, Brechfa is a quiet village on the edge of one of the region’s largest and most dog-friendly forests. Brechfa Forest offers miles of scenic walking routes for all abilities, from gentle riverside strolls to longer woodland hikes, many of which are ideal for on-lead or even off-lead exploring depending on the area. After a good walk, head to The Forest Arms in Brechfa village – a traditional, dog-welcoming pub where you and your pup can rest and refuel. Alternatively, for something a little more refined, the Tŷ Mawr Country Hotel just outside the village offers a truly dog-friendly dining experience. With indoor and outdoor seating where dogs are warmly welcomed, fresh water on tap, and even the occasional treat, it’s a lovely place to enjoy a relaxed meal after a day in the woods.