Dryslwyn Castle
Today we visited Dryslwyn Castle near Llandeilo. It was our first time there, and it was an impromptu visit on our way home from a day at nearby Dinefwr.
It's not like me to go somewhere I've never been and know nothing about without first doing at least a little bit of online research, but I had seen the signs for the castle so many times before that curiosity finally got the better of me and I wanted to see this castle for myself. The kids were reluctant at first, but I genuinely get so excited when we are exploring somewhere brand new, (I think it's the traveller in me getting a little fix without having to part with any money,) that I managed to ignore their protests and convince them to come adventure with me.
When you first see the castle atop it's little hill it almost looks like the ruins are growing out of the ground, they have become such a part of their landscape. There is a free car park opposite the castle right next to the river, with lots of picnic tables if you fancy making a day of it. There is a short walk up the hill to the castle, but unlike a lot of castles with a very steep climb up, this path wrapped around the hillside lessening the incline and making it much more manageable for little legs. The castle is free to visit, and it's just a small ruin, but the views are simply stunning and in my opinion it was well worth the visit.
When we visit castles I often get a little panicky that the kids will fall or do something silly, and tend to have several mini heart attacks, but either my kids are getting better at navigating castle ruins or this one wasn't as hazardous as some others we have been to. It made the whole experience much more enjoyable for me though.
We probably only spent about an hour here, if that. But it's in a great location to combine it with a visit to some of the other local attractions, or with a picnic or walk along the river.
Some places nearby I can recommend;
Dinefwr park and Castle; a national trust property with an old manor house, a castle and beautiful woodland walks.
Llandeilo; a very quaint little town with colourful houses and lovely little shops to wander round. I can highly recommend "Heavenly Chocolate" - I'm sure the name is enough to convince most of you it's a must visit right?
Wright's Food Emporium; a lovely little shop and restaurant in nearby Llanarthne. I don't know how best to do this place justice, but I know you won't regret eating here, it's a really special place.
The National Botanic Garden of Wales; Just a short drive away and lots to do and see for both adults and children. You can read our blog post about the gardens here.
Carregg Cennen Castle; Yes another castle, just one of 3 within about 20 minutes of each other. This one has a bit of a walk up to it, but is probably the biggest ruin of the 3 in the area, and is a really fun one to explore. There is also a cafe and shop on the grounds which are lovely too.
Dryslwyn Castle is located between Llandeilo and Carmarthen...
