Welcome to LlansteffanLlansteffan is one of those rare but fast disappearing Welsh villages that remain in your memory for ever. Once you’ve experienced the magical beauty of a sunset over the castle above the River Tywi, and embraced the cameraderie of it’s vibrant community, it becomes very difficult to imagine how on earth, in your long life, you’d ever managed to miss such a priceless gem. But then Llansteffan has been described as Wales’ best kept secret, a sort of Never Never land known only to locals, and the lucky descendants of those generations of Rhondda miners who trekked down west on the train to catch the ferry from Ferryside to Llansteffan for Miners Fortnight during the 19th and early 20th Century.
Well, the ferry and the miners might have disappeared but the magic of Llansteffan remains. And if anything, over the years the community has become even more vibrant. Llansteffan, whilst still very Welsh in essence and character, is also very cosmopolitan in outlook, and a hub of social activities of varying intellectual natures!! Summer and winter the local community and various clubs and associations are always plotting some wondrous social event or another!
Whether for a weekend or longer, why don’t you make the effort to find that magic and spend some time here. It might be for quiet walks taking in the breathtaking beauty of our headlands and the variety of our wildlife, for a never to be forgotten BBQ on the pristine sands beneath the castle perhaps, or maybe just a general “chilling out” in the convivial village atmosphere. Whatever it may be Llansteffan has something to offer visitors of all ages and all outlooks.
There's always something to do in Llansteffan!
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There's plenty of choice on offer in Llansteffan.
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Holiday lets, Caravan parks, B&B's... and more!
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Saturday’s Telegraph (23/02/2013) featured a full page advert of Llansteffan Castle for Visit Wales. Hopefully we will be able to access this fantastic photo of the castle for use on our Website.
After the recent meeting of the Llansteffan Community Council which voted 8-1 to register an astonishing vote of no confidence in Community Councillor Chairman Daff Davies who is also our local County Councillor, Vice Chair of the Planning Committee, and Chairman of Carmarthen County Council. The storm is still raging over the contentious decision by […]
Discover Carmarthenshire has recently been making a series of short films featuring interesting walks within the county. Chris Dafis (S4C Weatherman and keen walker) came to the village to meet a couple of the residents and take a walk (in English and Welsh!) around the vicinity.
Here are the Winners of the Fiesta Sandcastle Competition 2015 with Thunderbirds’ Tracy Island by Owen and Oliver Smith – Llongyfarchiadau mawr – Many Congratulations For a full gallery of pictures courtesy of The Carmarthen Journal please go to:- http://www.carmarthenjournal.co.uk/pictures/Llansteffan-Fiesta-sandcastle-building/pictures-27486719-detail/pictures.html
Once again Janine and her merry (and I mean “Merry”!!) band succeeded in pulling off yet another magnificent fundraiser for the Memorial Hall funds, and the population of the village and surrounding areas turned out in their in their hundreds to taste the fantastic treats on offer. Once again there was ken competition in all […]
Yes, yet another Mock Mayor’s Election has been and and gone, and …..surprise, surprise….Roger Pen-y-coed has been elected Mayor for a second term. He was confident throughout the evening that he was sure to lose, but we the voters had every confidence in his staying power. Never mind Roger! Watcyn Jones nearly had a heart […]
People visit Llansteffan nowadays for its tranquil beauty, but for centuries it was a hive of activity. It lies between the estuaries of the Tywi and the Tâf, facing the expanse of Carmarthen Bay. Over the years, its inhabitants would have watched a variety of ships waiting for the tide to take them up the […]
Great food and a warm welcome according to Michelin Star chef Raymond Blanc on twitter after his most recent stay in May 2012. Chef Anwen Morris prides herself in using the highest quality locally produced ingredients, whether you call in for a lunch-time snack or an a la carte meal in the evening.
Once again Llansteffan has caught the media’s eye with an article online at WalesOnline and a press article in the South Wales echo about 16 of Wales’ hidden gems. Unfortunately the copywriter has mixed up Laugharne with Ferryside (which misses out altogether……..aww shame!!…) ….but all on all a great bit of publicity! Copy and paste […]
Innisfree Cottages is a beachside retreat with the added benefit of a swimming pool in summer. This superb property, totally refurbished for the 2016 season, offers a perfect getaway for all holidaymakers. Whether you are seeking an active break walking the Wales Coastal Path and enjoying the beautiful surroundings, a peaceful escape in a comfortable environment, or a traditional […]
Llansteffan and the surrounding villages have long been a favourite haunt of Welsh literary greats, some of whom have gone on to world wide acclaim. From yesteryear’s Dylan Thomas, Glyn Jones and Lynette Roberts to modern writers and poets like Jon Dressel and Raymond Garlick, the villages of the Llansteffan peninsular have proved an […]
One of the most unexpected runaway successes of 2010 was last years Brewers’ Fayre which not only resulted probably in the biggest mass hangover in the history of Llansteffan village but also revealed some very unexpected faces as budding Jamie Olivers or Nigella Lawsons of the future. We have always known there were many budding […]
In the wake of all the publicity surrounding Dylan Thomas’ Centenary, Llansteffan gets a very good write up in the Telegraph……..and a nice picture with my house right in the foreground!!! Offers anyone ????? http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sponsored/travel/wales-dylan-thomas/10819012/llansteffan-peninsula-wales.html?fb
Ger y Berllan is gloriously located overlooking one the most attractive villages in Carmarthenshire, a designated area of outstanding natural beauty. Llansteffan is situated on the mouth of Carmarthen bay. The coastline is a magical area to explore with breathtaking panoramic views, where Llansteffan Castle and Hills fall gracefully to meet the sea. As a […]
After appearing in the Guardian Top Ten of Seaside Fish and Chip outlets, Florries is once again in the headlines along with Etta’s Bakery on High St and in her stall in Carmarthen market. Both have been included in Wales Online’s list of the top ten of the best foods to try in Carmarthenshire whilst […]
At the start of the month the ladies (and gentlemen!!!) of the W.I. held a hugely successful night to raise money for Prostate Cancer UK. A packed hall was enthralled by a thoroughly professional Fashion Show complete with catwalk built earlier in the day By Mr Roger Davies (Penycoed) and his ready team of stalwarts. […]
Six members of Tywi Boat Club’s Rowing section have been selected in the GB squad for the World Coastal Rowing Championship to be held in Monaco this October. Bryony Jones, Swyn Williams Jac Davies, Charlie Heath, Aron Altman, and Tom Miles have all been included in the 30 member squad for the championship. Considering that this […]
Winners :- 1. Richard Marsh 2) The Sainty Family 3) Cameron Parish Many congratulations to you all, and thanks to all who took part(over 200!!) and to all those who organised it! Action Replay of all the action thanks to Matt Rosser:-
After extensive works and no little expense, the new look Florries has just opened and is already doing a roaring trade. After the welcome refurbishment of the old shelter last year, Helen and Steff have now gone the whole hog and refurbished their two vans in the same “beach hut” style to great effect. The […]
Dylan Thomas one of the best-known poets of the twentieth century, was born in 1914 in Swansea, and over the years most people tend to associate him with that city, and of course with the township of Laugharne in West Wales. Indeed such an industry has grown up around Dylan’s relationship with Laugharne that one […]
Come and support your local Celtic Rowing Club as Llansteffan launches it’s inaugural home Celtic Rowing race which will be run under Welsh Sea Rowing Association rules on September 6th starting on Llansteffan’s main beach. The Tywi Boat Club Celtic Rowing section have made a huge impact on the Celtic Rowing scene over the past […]
A spacious, well-equipped, comfortable cottage minutes from Llansteffan’s large, unspoiled, sandy beach. Sleeps 6 in three bedrooms – one king-size double, one queen double and one with twin beds. Two bathrooms Large kitchen – dish washer, washing machine, tumble dryer. Sittting Room, TV, free Wifi For further information and make a booking Phone Carolyn and […]
Welsh is enjoyed as a living language every day. Historians and linguists agree that our language owes its survival largely to the Bible. The acclaimed 16th century scholar, William Morgan, diligently and painstakingly translated the entire Bible, from original Hebrew and Greek manuscripts, into Welsh. New translations emerged, based on the pioneering labours of Morgan, […]
Here’s a collection of photos from around Llansteffan, Llanybri, and Llangynog to remind us of a few magical days in January when we had no rain!!! Click on the thumbnails to see the whole picture, or scroll through by using the arrows on right of picture.
Fiesta 2015 got off to a glorious start on one of the hottest days of the year. It was a perfect day for building sandcastles with an impressive turn out of competitors and castles. Here are some of the best. Many thanks to Nikki for the pics. Also the Duck Race proved a surprising success […]
Yes! Once again Janine Bowen and her very able team of brewers and bakers pulled off another memorable Harvest Fayre in the village hall. Over £500 was raised on the night and many a sore head suffered on the following morning. Apart from the wondrous creations in the Brewery section there were some stunning wines […]
Hill View Glamping offer an alternative to the traditional holiday B&B or hotel – why not stay in a Yurt? It’s is a magical experience. The roundness of the structure, the window to the starry sky through the crown, the wood burning stove to keep you warm and snug and the Luxurious furnishings cannot fail […]
Volkfest Wales will be again visiting the Morfa football field on Carnival Day with up to 200 classic Volkswagen and Porsche cars paying a visit to the village. The cars will proceed from the Show ground in Carmarthen at 12 midday and will arrive along the Green and onto the Football pitch before the Carnival […]
The Village Stores and Post Office is now under the new ownership of Max and Mary who have made a lively opening to the new look Village Stores with a Delicatessant, and the newly refurbished Croft Restaurant & Bar serving anything from full Welsh breakfast to delicious evening meals!!! The Delicatessant is specialising in fresh local […]
As you are all probably aware by now the Sticks has been open since Christmas 2015 and has blossomed into a thriving pub, restaurant, music venue and hotel! Teej and Ruth and their wonderful staff have worked incredibly hard to make the Sticks the venue that many people dreamed it could be with their vision, […]
Trehyddion Barns is an 18th century converted stone and slate barn with many original features set in an idyllic peaceful rural location on a smallholding, with views towards the Gower Pennisular and 2 miles from a sandy beach. Recently converted into a holiday let with a courtyard patio and garden, this barn sleeps six in two […]
Back in April some of our brave inhabitants and their friends got a new perspective on the village when they took a balloon flight from the football pitch on the most perfect of days. The sky was clear from horizon to horizon, visibilty perfect, and our beautiful village looked at it’s best!! Thanks to whoever […]
This is a copy of a letter received by Ms Eiluned Rees following the passing away of Mr Charles Marshall earlier this year. Please read. Thank you to all who made this gentleman feel so welcome in our midst. Diolch.
With acres of rolling hills and a panoramic uninterrupted view of Laugharne and Caldey Island, Fferm Heol Down Farm is set in peaceful surroundings where you can get back to nature and enjoy slow paced village life. As a working smallholding, there is much to do and see and you can even get involved in […]
Geoff Gilbert and his little brother Rhod from Carmarthen are great fans of Llansteffan and try to come down the beach whenever the rare opportunity arises. Geoff is a language teacher who now lives in Northern Spain. His brother Rhod has yet to decide a career path, and has in the past tried his hand […]
Llansteffan may have been one of Wales’ best kept secrets for the majority of visitors to Wales, but one group of regular wanderers have known of it’s charms for generations – the keen walkers and ramblers in our midst. Nestled in this gorgeous corner of south west Wales is a walkers’ paradise. In Llansteffan you […]
Every year the Election of Llansteffan’s Mock Mayor is the first colourful event in what has now become known as Fiesta week. Held on the Friday night of that week of festivities, this huge and important event is an extension of a tradition which has it’s roots way back in the 19th Century and possibly […]
Llansteffan Castle is an impressive, dramatically sited stronghold crowning a hilltop overlooking the estuary of the River Tywi. Long before its construction an Iron Age hill fort of the 6th century B.C. occupied the site, its double ditch can still be seen on the west of the castle. The first Norman castle was created between the […]
Yep, summers over! Forget Beach BBQs, Bikinis, and Bathing and focus on the other Big B – Booze!!! It’s time again for you budding Brewers to fill your barrels, prime your stills and start collecting empty bottles. Who’s going to challenge Tony Bo, Roger Penycoed, or Roger Parish in the alcoholic competition? Is there a […]
The Dylan Thomas Memorial Wind Turbine (published by Y Cneifiwr) A decision by Carmarthenshire County Council’s planning committee earlier this year (see previous posts here and here) to grant permission for a wind turbine at Mwche Farm in Llansteffan is to be challenged in court in a judicial review which will be heard in the New Year.The turbine will […]
Enjoy the luxury of owning your very own Caravan Holiday Home on this small friendly, exclusive private owner park. Sunrise Bay is set in the unique unspoilt picturesque village of Llansteffan at the mouth of the river Towy under the shelter of it’s very own Norman castle. The Park is situated only yards from the […]
Massive Congratulations to Morgan Rennie who has reached the Finals of Welsh Stylist of the Year Awards 2017 to be held at Cardiff Stadium on May 21st. Since recently starting her own business based at Sunrise Bay Holiday Park, Morgan has developed a huge client list whick keeps her constantly busy, and her satisfied client list […]
Number 16 Glan Y Mor is a spacious semi detached holiday home situated on a quiet road opposite a small stream, just 2 minutes level walk from the beach in the picturesque village of Llansteffan.
Llansteffan has earned itself a well deserved reputation over the years for being a hot spot for bass and flounder fishing. Every year bass to 12lb and flounder to 2-3 lb are caught at marks around the village at all states of the tide. Many fishermen have their own reasons for picking a particular location […]
Gill a Elgan welcome you to Awel Y Môr. A small Friendly B & B – Home from Home. We are one minute walk from all amenities. A view of Llansteffan Castle and Beach can be seen from the-Driveway. No-need to worry about Car Parking. A game of Cricket can be seen on a warm Summer’s Evening.
Visit the Castle Inn – smack bang in the centre of the village near the church and also smack bang in the middle of village life. This year sees Jamie and Sarah taking over the pub a new landlord and landlady to make visitors and locals welcome in the Castle’s cozy Bar and adjoining lounge. The […]
to :- Max and Mary at Llansteffan P.O., Stores & Restaurant for winning No. 1 spot in the Carmarthen Journal Business Awards – Retail A very well deserved award for all the work and committment they have shown in making the Post Office the best in the County. Also the same hearty congratulations to David and […]
When you visit Llansteffan You can enjoy the long sandy beach, Where you can walk, play and paddle, Then visit the castle, the views are just superb,
The West Wales coastline offers a fantastic backdrop to get away from it all for the weekend or to enjoy a family holiday. Our three bedroomed chalet is located on the quiet relaxing site of Elmrise Park, five miles from Carmarthen and two minutes drive from Llansteffan beach.
As you may have noticed the Castle lights have not been working for the last few weeks. On examination, it appears that the whole system has taken a direct hit from a lightning bolt which has destroyed all the lights.
Although Dylan Thomas himself turned out to be a bit of a legend after his death, on his frequent visits to Llansteffan he would regularly call in Occy Owen’s Emporium to listen to the locals gossip, and perhaps even occasionally to get his hair cut by the legendary Octavius Owen. To the uninitiated Occy used […]
The Hostel and Country Inn is located in the beautiful countryside 2 miles from the beach at Llansteffan and is six miles form the bustling market town of Carmarthen birthplace of the wizard Merlin who appeared in Arthurian Legend. The accommodation consists of 50 bunk beds and 1 double room with a shared kitchen and […]
Come along to an Antiques Evening with Felix Aubel (from Heno and Prynhawn Da on S4C). He has fascinating stories to tell about many of the things that are lurking in our attics! You can also bring an antique with you on the evening (at your own risk entirely) and Felix may be able to […]
Florries on the Green has just been included in the Guardian newspaper’s list of Britain’s best coastal Fish’n’Chip locations. Well done to Karen, Rob and all the team. And I have to agree – Florries has the tastiest chips around!! https://witness.theguardian.com/assignment/5201ec79e4b0cffa9ca1a693/473604
Alistair Chambers and Beth Ryder are finally on their way to join Rhod Gilbert, Martyn Williams, Shan Cothi, Iolo Williams and many others who will be ascending Mt Kilimanjaro in Kenya to raise money for Felindre Cancer Centre. Da iawn chi a phob lwc i chi gyd!! As you can see they are wearing Llansteffan.com […]
Visit Wales are spearheading their tourism drive in Germany with a beautiful aerial picture of Llansteffan castle. The 4 metre high displays can be seen all over Dusseldorf airport and city, so perhaps all you B&B-ers should start brushing up on your German!!
Since I do not have the time to chase every single person in these photos, if for any reason you do want your picture on these pages (e.g. you are wanted by Interpol; his/her wife/husband might not understand me being on holiday with her/him (delete as appropriate); I’m just too cool to be on anyone’s […]
Saturday July 26th – Memorial Hall Big Breakfast 9.00 a.m – 12 noon and Book Sale 10.00 a.m. – 1.00p.m. Calendar Photographic Exhibition – Ben Harries Institute 10.30 a.m. – 3.30p.m. Sandcastle Competition – The Beach – 2 p.m. Then at 7.00 p.m. it’s time once again to elect Llansteffan’s new Mayor! There are rumours […]
Llansteffan featured in a 4 page spread in the UKs biggest selling sea angling magazine – Sea Angler. Photographed on a perfect day in December the anglers were also in luck with the fishing as flounders were being landed in two’s and threes. Most who braved the winter cold were local Carmarthen area anglers, and among […]
Relax and unwind at Orllwyn cottage in Llansteffan, a village widely regarded as Wales’ best kept secret. Seemingly suspended in time this picturesque hideaway is the ideal place to escape busy city life and unwind. Take time to enjoy the rolling hills, sandy beaches and woodland walks. Succumb to its charms, embrace its beauty, bask […]
Accomodation Comprises 4 bedrooms sleeping a maximum of 7 plus 1 child. Master bedroom with ensuite shower room, sea views TV, 1 Double bedrooms, sea views and 1 Twin bedroom, TV,1 Single bedroom all on first floor. Travel Cot Available. Bathroom with bath and shower over, basin, toilet and towel rail. Towels provided. Entrance hall with console […]
Two house on the Green have had approximately 500 litres of oil stolen from their tanks in the back garden between the start of October and the end of December. In both cases the thefts took place almost immediately AFTER a recent delivery to fill up the tanks. This suggests that we have thieves who […]
Yes – it’s time to dust off that scarecrow you’ve been hiding in the cupboard, search outl those dodgy clothes you used to wear in th 70s/80s/90s for the Carnival parade, and of course rehearse all your complex dance moves and hidden talents ready for stardom in Llansteffan’s Got Talent!!! Kick off your Fiesta Week with a […]
The Tywi Boat Club, also known as Clwb Cychod y Tywi, is an RYA Affiliated sailing and watersports centre situated seven miles south of the historical market town Carmarthen on the west bank of the river Tywi on the way to Llansteffan. It is approximately 2 miles from the village centre and welcomes visitors and holiday […]
Within walking distance of the beautiful sandy beaches in Llansteffan, this comfortable Grade II listed terraced holiday cottage is situated in the centre of Llansteffan’s quaint village. 100 yards from the local shop/cafe and 2 village pubs. The well equipped cottage provides a warm welcome all year round with a log fire in the spacious […]
Just 10 minutes from the beach at Llansteffan on Carmarthen Bay and peacefully set amidst 6 acres with landscaped gardens, this welcoming easy access cottage offers space and tranquillity.
When you are walking around the pathways of Llansteffan, do you ever wonder about the people who walked there years and years ago? Are you curious about the people who built the houses you see in the streets? Would you like to know something about those who lived and worked in them? Are you interested […]
Mayoral Madness proved a huge success on this beautiful Boxing Day with near on 100 brave souls in all kinds of fancy dress and bathers plunging into the icy waters on Llansteffan beach. These hardy people were fantastically supported by hundreds of others who came to support the Mayor’s charities. So many people came to […]
Your Opinion Counts! Your opinion really counts…… please take some time to complete this form Please return your completed form to The Stores, The Castle, The Sticks, Calendar Exhibition on 9th/10th June, or any of the Fiesta Committee. Or come to the next meeting – date to be announced.
“Ty Bach Twt” is a small but high quality (4 star) self-catering holiday cottage, ideal for a couple on their own, or maybe a couple with one or two children. It is situated right in the centre of the village, just 10 minutes walk from the beach and the castle. Saturday change-over. No smoking, no dogs.
For generations of South and West Walian Welsh school children and chapel-goers the name Llansteffan will always conjure up golden memories of Sunday School Trips to the Seaside, and fun and games on the beach. Llansteffan (together with Porthcawl and Tenby) was one of the few special locations that chapel elders pencilled into their diaries […]
Pentowyn is situated on the Taf estuary with wonderful views directly across to the historic castle at Laurgharne and Dylan Thomas’s boathouse. There are strong connections with Dylan Thomas as he spent time at Pentowyn as a child where his aunt and uncle were farming. In later life when he lived at the Boathouse in […]
As most of you will know – we have managed to buy new lights for the castle at a very good price (a Big Thank you to City Electricals) – and install them all (Thank you to Mr Darren Sainty who found time amongst his Xmas shopping to do all the work required) in time […]
Eureka Cottage is a contemporary beach cottage, only 30 metres from the beach at Ferry Point, with spectacular views from the cottage windows over to Llansteffan Castle, the Gower Peninsula and Ferryside. “A really nice place next to the beach” The cottage is situated on the outskirts of the picturesque village of Llansteffan at the […]
Many many congratulations to Morgan Rennie who has just won Welsh Stylist of the Year at a glittering awards ceremony at Cardiff City Stadium.
As you can see by the small selection of Beth’s photos below both Alistair and Bethan returned from that “once in a lifetime” trip to scale Mt Kilimanjaro in Kenya. Still awaiting the final figures for money raised but it looks like it’s going to break the £300,000 barrier – a fantastic achievement for all […]
On Saturday 15th September The Tywi Boat Club entered 2 teams in the above event. The Great River Race, London’s River Marathon, is a spectacular boat race up the River Thames that attracts over 300 crews from all over the globe and appeals to every level of competitor from those who enjoy fun, fancy dress and […]
As usual Llansteffan produced another brilliant Carnival, the weather played ball, and everyone had a ball. By all accounts this was the best carnival for many years and the quality of all the floats and characters on display was outstanding. Well done all!!
We have available for hire a privately owned two bedroomed holiday chalet set on the secluded Elmrise Park. The park is situated two miles by car from Llansteffan and six miles from the county town of Carmarthen. Fully equipped for a quiet rural retreat, visitors can enjoy peace and tranquility with beautiful rural views across […]
Dylan Thomas – A view from the other side Dylan Thomas – Golwg o’r Ochr Draw
