There are few castles in Wales which can boast a more spectacular location than Carreg Cennen (SN 668193). Its stout, weatherbeaten ruins crown a sheer limestone crag overlooking the remote Black Mountain (Mynydd Du) in the western corner of the National Park, just 4 miles southeast of Llandeilo.

An attack on the castle must have been a daunting prospect - ingeniously adapted to its rocky hilltop, its core is a high walled, strongly towered enclosure, protected by a succession of pits, drawbridges and gatehouses. Approach from the other direction is impossible, for the castle tiptoes on the edge of a sheer 100 meter (325 foot) cliff.

The castle, although damaged over the centuries by warring forces and the elements, is charged with a sense of the past. The first castle at Carreg Cennen would probably have been built by the Welsh Prince Rhys Ap Gryffydd in the 12th and 13th Centuries, though there is some evidence of prehistoric and Roman occupation on the site. One legend suggests that the original fortress dates back to the Dark Ages and the Welsh Knight Urien Rheged and his son Owain. Legend suggests they were knights during the reign of King Arthur.

There is an admission charge and tickets to visit the castle should be purchased at this point before undertaking the steep ascent to the castle entrance. 

Disabled toilets are available in the car park during castle opening hours. Wheelchair access from the car park to the nearby shop and cafe located in a converted barn is possible but requires assistance across the rough farm yard surface.

Visitor Information Summary:

• Guidebook and audio tour available.
• Easy access details.
• Torch hire available for the cave.
• On-site collection of agricultural artifacts, rare and unusual farm animals, and Victorian plants.
• Welsh craft shop and gallery on site.
• Guided tours can be arranged in advance.
• Overlooks the Black Mountain, Carmarthen Fans and ancient woodlands, and offers exhilarating views.
• Marvellous walking and picnic opportunities surround the castle.
• Refreshments are available on site.
• Free parking, cycle stands, toilets.
• Telephone: 01558 822291.

Directions:

By car:

From the A40 from Llandovery take first exit off roundabout onto A483 to Llandeilo. Go through Llandeilo and over the bridge over the Tywi River. Carreg Cennen Castle should be signposted from this junction. Approximately 400 yards after the bridge turn left then right for the village of Trap (3 miles). In Trap turn left up a steep hill, and after 1 mile bear right to Carreg Cennen Castle.

By rail:

5 kilometers (3 miles) Llandeilo, on the Swansea - Shrewsbury line.

By bus:

5 kilometers (3 miles) from Llandeilo. Route number 280/281. Carmarthen to Llandeilo/Llandovery.

National Cycle Network:

Route number 47. 15 kilometers (9 miles).

For more travel information contact Traveline Cymru or National Rail Enquiries.