Carreg Cennen Castle and Garn Goch Iron Age hill-fort
Visit spectacular Carreg Cennen Castle near Llandeilo. Perched atop a 100m high sheer limestone crag overlooking the Afon Cennen, this mediaeval fortress with a long and chequered history is now in the care of Cadw. Enjoy the tearooms and craft shop at the farm before making the short walk to the castle ruins.
Down the road (or along the Beacons Way) is Y Gaer Fawr, largest hill-fort in South Wales and one of two at Garn Goch overlooking the hamlet of Bethlehem. Once a stronghold of the Silures tribe who chose it perhaps for its commanding views over the Towy valley, it now rewards an hour or two of your time spent in exploration. Pick up the Garn Goch Geotrail (£1) at Llandovery Museum & Visitor Gateway (seasonal opening). The Red Kite feeding station and the National Trust’s Dinefwr Park, Newton House and Castle are nearby attractions.
If you’ve got an hour or less:
- Tea and cake at the Castle tearooms.
- Explore Garn Goch – follow the whole Geotrail if you’ve got time, or download the Geotour.
- Trap Village Hall and cafe
If you’ve got half a day (2-4 hours):
- A visit to Carreg Cennen Castle and woods.
- Explore historic Llandeilo.
- Spend time in the historic Dinefwr Park near Llandeilo including Newton House (National Trust) and Dinefwr Castle (Cadw).
If you’ve got a full day (5-8 hours):
- Walk the last (or first!) section of the Beacons Way from Llangadog to Carreg Cennen via Bethlehem.
- Walk the next section of the Beacons Way from Carreg Cennen to the historic Black Mountain quarries or even to Llanddeusant.
Did you know . . ?
. . . that Carreg Cennen Castle has been described as the most romantic ruin in all of Wales!
