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Llanarthne
The area is located in the Towy valley about 8 miles to the east of the county town of Carmarthen and encompasses the communities of Llanarthne, Capel Dewi and the hamlet of Penrhiwgoch. There is a small community school catering for the 4 to 11 year-olds.
Llanarthne is on cycle route 47 of the Sustrans cycle network.
Historic elements of the village consist of the Medieval church of St David (which is Grade B listed) and two public houses dating to the 19th century.
The western half of the area was once owned by the Golden Grove estate and it is believed that the pattern of large regular fields is of 18th century origin.
The LNWR main West Wales railway once passed through the area and there was a station at Llanarthne. The railway was opened by the Llanelly Railway and Dock Company in 1858 as the Vale of Towy Line and it provided links to Llandeilo in the east and Carmarthen in the west. The line was finally closed during the “Beeching” cuts and eventually the track was removed. A few remnants still can be seen along the trackway.
During the 20th century some small-scale development took place, mainly private housing.
Distinctive buildings, include a Grade II listed smithy; Bremenda-ucha, Bremenda-ganol and Bremenda-issa, large farmhouses altered in the mid 19th century.
Golden Grove (Gelli Aur)
The mansion of Golden Grove (Gelli Aur), once owned by Vaughan family was used as a College at one stage, but was sold and since then has fallen into disrepair. The buildings are fenced off and no longer accessible to the public (November 2006).
The grounds are maintained by Carmarthenshire Council and are open to the public. Much of the original formal landscaping has disappeared and what remains is an arboretum and pleasant woodland walks. There is a small café overlooking the deer park and an activity area for younger children.
Throughout the year Craft Fairs and the like are held and are quite popular.
The Golden Grove Arms
This public house was established under the patronage of the Golden Grove estate and is a popular venue.
National Botanic Garden of Wales
The National Botanic Garden of Wales at Middleton Hall is worth a visit.
This “folly” stands high on a hill overlooking the Towy valley and is accessible by road, but the final access is across a style and a field. The views make the climb worthwhile. Plans are in hand to provide a footpath from the National Botanic Garden to the monument.
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© ARTdesigns 2002 Page revised Sunday November 26, 2006