Local Area Information

With stunning scenery and a lifestyle that’s hard to beat, South West Wales offers its residents a wealth of opportunity.

From breathtaking landscapes to action-packed activities, the region boasts first-rate attractions, and none more so than the counties of Swansea & Carmarthenshire. Below you will find a round-up of the region's principal towns, detailing just a few of their many highlights and what they have to offer in the way of essential transport links and facilities.

LLANELLI

Coastal town with a bright future

Out & About in Llanelli As Carmarthenshire's largest town, the key to Llanelli's appeal lies in the warmth of its local life. This traditional market town has experienced exciting growth in recent times and yet still retains an old-fashioned Welsh charm with friendly locals and a neighbourly atmosphere.

Popular retail parks and leisure facilities border the town whilst the new ‘Eastern Gateway’ development scheduled for 2012 will place Llanelli centre firmly on the map as a hub of culture and entertainment. A brand new theatre and cinema complex are planned as well as hotels, restaurants and bars, all just a few minutes walk from the convenience of the town’s pedestrianised shopping area.

Llanelli is recognised the world over for its legendary Rugby Union history and this is celebrated at the town’s major arena, the Parc Y Scarlets stadium. Other sporting venues include the Nicklaus designed Machynys Peninsula Golf Course, and northwest of Llanelli, Ffos Las is home to the UK's latest National Hunt Race Course and equestrian centre of excellence.

If you have some time to spare, discover the town’s Millennium Coastal Park or take the opportunity to ride along this 22 km cycle path to the beautiful surrounds of Burry Port Harbour, Pembrey Country Park and Cefn Sidan Sands.

Llanelli guarantees a warm welcome to all who visit. Situated just 10 minutes off Junction 48 of the M4, the town is within 1 hour's travelling distance of Cardiff. Local bus and train services link Llanelli to Carmarthen and outlying areas and to mainline transport services in Swansea. Check out the local council website at www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk for more information.

SWANSEA

Vibrant City by the Sea

Out & About in Swansea Wales ' second city is a lively regional shopping centre and bustling university town, all set against the picturesque backdrop of Swansea Bay. The energy of this city emerges from its cultural and scenic contrasts, boasting museums and theatres as well as the largest indoor market in Wales.

The 19 mile long Gower peninsula is famed for its sensational scenery and stretches along some of Wales ' most spectacular award-winning beaches. An ideal location for some well deserved rest and relaxation.

If sports are your thing, Swansea is the home of Wales ' National Pool. The area is also an excellent spot for surfing, climbing and horse-riding activities amongst others.

And by night? From the elegant backdrop of the city's maritime quarter, to the bright lights of Swansea's Wind Street, choose from any number of restaurants, bars and clubs open until the early hours. Travel a few minutes along the bay and you'll find the picturesque seaside village of Mumbles boasts a bohemian chic; its streets lined with sophisticated eateries.

On a practical note, Swansea is easily accessible by car with NCP parking available in various locations around the city centre. The M4 provides the main arterial route to South Wales. Swansea's mainline train services provide regular daily links to London Paddington and to cities across the UK.

CARMARTHEN

Where history & local life converge

Out & About in Carmarthen Located on the banks of the River Towy, Carmarthen is an intriguing mix of old and new, boasting a richness of landscape and local culture.

Local life is rooted in the area's countryside traditions with the 'Farmers Market' appearing as a regular feature on Carmarthen 's calendar. The River Towy is famously an excellent spot for game-fishing attracting followers from far and wide.

Against this idyllic rural backdrop, history abounds with an impressive line-up of castles such as the nearby Dryslwyn Castle ruins or the 'folly' of Paxton's Tower. For those with a penchant for folklore, legend has it that the mythical magician Merlin once resided in the town...

In the centre of Carmarthen, splendid rows of boutique shops line the route to the town's modern shopping centre. Local facilities are excellent including a University college and the county's primary Hospital - West Wales General.

Within easy travelling distance are attractions such as the National Botanic Garden of Wales and the coastal village of Laugharne, home of Dylan Thomas' famous boathouse.

Carmarthen has excellent road links, joining the M4 via the A48 dual carriageway at Pont Abraham. More information on public transport can be found at www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk.