We’re incredibly lucky to have so many beautiful gardens to explore here in Wales. One of the most impressive is set within the scenic River Tywi Valley in Carmarthenshire. The National Botanic Garden of Wales offers something for guests of all ages.
Built on the estate of the Middleton Family and later owned by Sir William Paxton, the garden and estate now cover some 570 acres and include features such as the world’s largest single-span glasshouse, a huge double-walled garden, lakes and Paxton’s Tower amongst many more. The estate is about 400 years old, but the current layout was opened to the public in May 2000. The garden attracts visitors from all over the world and many events are held throughout the year.
Planning a visit to the gardens? Here’s our guide to the ultimate day out in the National Botanic Garden of Wales…
Popular events at the National Botanic Garden of Wales
The garden is host to a number of events and workshops throughout the year, from beekeeping classes to wildlife walks for the family. Here are just a few of our favourite events!
Welly Wednesdays
Perfect for families with young children, Welly Wednesdays offer an hour-long session of outdoor activities, storytelling and exploration. Designed for pre-schoolers, they’ll get to learn all about the plants and local wildlife in the gardens in small groups of 12.
Doggy Days
Guaranteed to get tails wagging, the Doggy Days events allow dogs to enjoy the whopping 568 acres of rolling countryside within the gardens. Taking place every Monday and Friday and on certain weekends, it’s the perfect day out for those bringing their dogs along on holiday with them.
Beekeeping Courses
Ever considered keeping bees? The Practical Beekeeping Course in the gardens is excellent for both beginners and intermediate beekeepers alike. These weekly sessions teach you all about hive assessment, opening hives properly, and the importance of honeybee colonies.
The best attractions in the gardens
There’s so many fantastic attractions to see in the National Botanic Garden of Wales – here are just three of the most popular.
The Great Glasshouse
The Great Glasshouse is an impressive glass dome, home to the biggest collection of Mediterranean plants in the whole of the Northern Hemisphere.
The British Bird of Prey Centre
Watch amazing shows from the resident birds of prey in The British Bird of Prey Centre, set within the grounds of the gardens.
The Garden Centre
Bring back a souvenir from The Garden Centre – packed full of gorgeous flowers, you’ll find plenty of inspiration for your own garden after a wander around here.
Stay at a Carmarthenshire cottage
Planning a stay in Carmarthenshire? Take a look at these charming cottages.
A charming cottage in the peaceful surroundings of Kidwelly, Maes yr Awel is great for family holidays. Sleeping up to eight guests, there’s plenty of room for everyone to unwind and make the most of their surroundings. We absolutely love the Japanese Cedarwood soaking tub in the bathroom, just what you need after a busy day exploring the botanical gardens!
An impressive two-bedroom home near Llandeilo, Gwennol Cottage is ideal for a couples weekend away. This beautifully converted barn has all you need to unwind, including picturesque views of the rolling countryside!
A spacious two-bedroom cottage in Carmarthen, Barcud Cottage is great for families and couples. Just a short walk from the quaint village of Golden Grove, you’ll find plenty to explore in the local area.
Why not make the most of your visit with a break at one of our delightful cottages near the Botanic Garden of Wales? Choose from friendly-friendly retreats to cosy apartments for two.
