Carmarthenshire Museum

About

Housed within the magnificent Old Bishop’s Palace at Abergwili, Carmarthenshire Museum is one of Wales’ most fascinating county museums. The building itself is a major attraction, with a history stretching back to the medieval era when it served as the residence of the Bishops of St Davids. Set in the beautiful Tywi Valley, the museum offers a journey through more than 50,000 years of local history. One of the most interesting facts about the site is its association with the Welsh Renaissance and the development of Welsh language and literature. The palace has been in continuous use since the late 13th century, making it one of the county’s most significant historic buildings. Inside, visitors will discover an impressive variety of exhibits. Highlights include Ice Age animal bones, ancient fossils, Roman gold and intriguing artefacts linked to local myths and legends. Displays explore everyday life in Carmarthenshire across the centuries, offering a vivid picture of how people once lived and worked. Among the most memorable exhibits are the recreated traditional Welsh cottage, the historic palace kitchen and the beautifully preserved palace chapel.

Abergwili Wales
Carmarthenshire Museum
Location

Carmarthenshire Museum is a fascinating cultural venue housed in the historic former Bishop's Palace of St Davids, set within beautiful parkland in the Tywi Valley. The museum offers visitors a captivating journey through the region's rich history, featuring diverse collections that range from Roman artifacts, traditional Welsh costume, and pottery to local art, agricultural tools, and historic domestic items. Surrounded by serene pleasure grounds, a picturesque lake, and peaceful woodland walks, it provides a perfect blend of culture, heritage, and nature for visitors of all ages. The museum is located at The Old Palace, Abergwili, Carmarthen, SA31 2JG, Carmarthenshire, Wales, United Kingdom. It sits in the historic village of Abergwili, just a short distance east of Carmarthen town centre. Because of its setting in the heart of Carmarthenshire, visiting the museum places you close to many of the region's most iconic historic castles and cultural sites. Just a short drive away in Carmarthen town centre stand the imposing ruins of Carmarthen Castle. Heading east along the Tywi Valley opens up visits to the spectacular hilltop fortress of Dryslwyn Castle, the grand ruins of Paxton's Tower with its sweeping valley views, and the magnificent Dinefwr Castle and Park estate in Llandeilo.