18 Things to Do In and Around Llanelli
Set on the Bristol Channel and fringed by sandy beaches, Llanelli combines bucket-and-spade fun with history, culture and a passion for tackling. Yes, tackling. This coastal town upholds a long love affair with rugby. Every year, legions of fans flock to the local stadium to cheer on the Scarlets, one of the country’s four professional rugby union teams. No surprises here, attending a rugby game is one of the best things to do in Llanelli.
Beyond sports, Llanelli is a great place to enjoy a seaside getaway. Local Llanelli attractions like museums, castles and a performing arts theatre will keep you entertained when you’ve had your fix of sun and sand. Want to know more? Read on for our complete guide to unmissable things to do during a break in Llanelli. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, a family or a group of friends, we’ve included activities, experiences and Llanelli attractions for every age and interest.
Things to do outdoors in Llanelli
1. Cruise along the Millennium Coastal Path
The Millennium Coastal Path wraps around Carmarthen Bay and treats you to fantastic views of the Gower Peninsula. Cycling along the path is one of the top things to do in Llanelli. It’s easy. Just rent a set of wheels from the Discovery Centre and get pedalling! Most of the path is paved and flat, making it an easy activity for families. Start in the riverside village of Bynea and cycle 13 miles west to Pembrey Country Park. There’s plenty to see along the way, including several scenic viewpoints. Stop for a coffee at St. Elli’s Bay Bistro & Brasserie at North Dock in Llanelli before continuing on to Burry Port.
Love exploring a destination on two wheels? The Swiss Valley Cycle Route is another top-rated ride. It follows a former railway line and climbs into the hillsides surrounding Llanelli. You’ll eventually reach the Swiss Valley Reservoir — a great picnic spot.
2. Relax by the sea in Millennium Coastal Park
While Llanelli was once an industrial powerhouse, today all eyes are on the sea. Millennium Coastal Park is the town’s crown jewel and features emerald-green lawns that stretch down to the sandy beach. It’s a great place to sip your morning coffee or watch the sunset with a serving of fish and chips.
3. Tee off at Machynys Peninsula
Designed by iconic golfer Gary Nicklaus, this course is one of the best in Wales. The 7121-yard links-style course overlooks Carmarthen Bay and will challenge even the most experienced players. Feeling a little rusty? Sign up for lessons at the pro academy and practice your swing on the 380-yard driving range.
Not keen on golf? There’s plenty to keep non-golfers entertained at the resort, including a luxe day spa and a stylish fine-dining brasserie. Locally sourced ingredients, a curated wine list and beautiful views make it the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion.
4. Cheer on the boys at Parc y Scarlets
Llanelli has a proud rugby legacy and is home to one of the strongest teams in Wales. On game days, fans flock to Parc y Scarlets. The enormous stadium has serious “wow” factor and is home to the legendary Llanelli Rugby Football Club. The team has been scoring tries since 1872 and has built a fiercely loyal fanbase.
Looking for fun things to do in Llanelli? Score tickets to a Scarlets game. Don your finest scarlet and white apparel or stock up on merch at the team store. We highly recommend learning the words to Welsh anthems like Yma O Hyd and Sospan Fach so you can sing along with the crowd. Don’t be surprised if you get goosebumps — the atmosphere is infectious!
5. Follow the Blue Plaque Trail
There’s plenty of history to uncover in Llanelli. Follow the Blue Plaque Trail around town and learn more about the town’s local narrative. Discover the legacy of women’s rights activist Emily Pankhurst and learn about the town’s connection to Methodist preacher, John Wesley. Llanelli also has a star-spangled link to beloved Welsh actress, Rachel Roberts. She was born in Llanelli in the 1920s and went on to dazzle Hollywood in the 1950s and 60s. After a day of sightseeing, streaming a Rachel Roberts film at your Llanelli hotel or rental property is a great way to unwind.
6. Spot flamingos at the Llanelli Wetland Centre
Love nature? The Llanelli Wetland Centre is one of our favourite places to visit in Llanelli. It stretches along the shores of the Burry Inlet and is a critical habitat for waterfowl, widgeons, wading birds and more. Bird watching is best in winter when tens of thousands of birds descend on the mudflats and salt marshes. Bring your own binoculars or rent a pair from the visitor centre. Stroll along the trails and boardwalks and tick off species like oystercatchers, gadwalls, teals, greylag geese and black-tailed godwits. Of course, the flock of hot pink Caribbean flamingos steal the show.
Serious birders arrive for the little egrets. Around 400 of these slender white herons live in the park. It’s an impressive feat, considering there were only two in the 1990s! Visit in late spring to see dozens of adorable ducklings waddling around the park. In the summer, you can rent bicycles and explore the park on two wheels. Canoes are also a great way to bird-watch and enjoy the park.
7. Tip your hat to Amelia Earhart
Back in 1928, American aviator Amelia Earhart became the first woman to fly across the Atlantic Ocean. She landed in the neighbouring town of Burry Port, a 15-minute drive west of Llanelli. A commemorative plaque marks the spot where she touched down. It’s a not-to-be-missed attraction if you’re looking for unique places to visit near Llanelli.
8. Family fun at Pembrey Country Park
Discover 500 acres of protected wilderness at Pembrey Country Park. The park is a stone’s throw from Llanelli and offers a long list of family-friendly activities. Practice your putting on the crazy golf course, explore woodland nature trails and let the kids burn off steam in the adventure play area. Strap on a helmet and speed down one of the only dry ski slopes in Wales or zoom along the summer toboggan run. It’s one of the best Llanelli attractions if you’re travelling with kids.
Cefn Sidan Beach, an eight-mile long stretch of sand, was one of the first in Wales to receive Blue Flag status. Sunbathe on the golden sand and cool off in the water. At the northern end of the beach, you can see the remains of a shipwreck peeking up from the waves. Hitting the beach is one of the top things to do near Llanelli so don’t forget to pack your swimming costume.
9. Explore the ruins of Loughor Castle
You’re never too far from a castle in Wales and Llanelli is no exception. Just down the road is Loughor Castle, a Norman stronghold built in the 13th century. It once watched over the Loughor Estuary but has fallen into disrepair. Nonetheless, it’s worth a visit. You’ll be amazed by the soaring stone tower and the enormous foundations of the curtain walls. If you’re looking for history, Loughor Castle is one of the best places to visit in Llanelli.
