Laugharne: Dylan Thomas and Estuary Walks

Laugharne lies on the coast, on the estuary of the River Taf, which flows into Carmarthen Bay here. Two distinct interests are central to choosing this destination: its literary connections to Dylan Thomas and its walks through the landscape. You can consider whether you are mainly interested in the poet’s story or would like to plan walks and hikes. Specific differences in locations, route lengths and terrain can help you decide.

Dylan Thomas and Laugharne’s History

Dylan Thomas wrote Portrait of the Artist as a Young Dog in the summerhouse at Laugharne Castle. The Dylan Thomas Boathouse was his last home; he lived there with his family from 1949 to 1953. The two places therefore represent different connections to his life and work.

St Martin’s Church is also part of this story: the church in Laugharne dates back to the 13th century. Dylan Thomas is buried in its new graveyard; his grave is marked with a simple white crucifix. The summerhouse, Boathouse and church thus point to his work, the poet’s last home and his burial place—three different aspects of his connection to Laugharne.

Walks and Hiking Trails

Laugharne lies directly on the Wales Coast Path. Short walks are possible in both directions from the town. Sections of the walking routes in Laugharne follow the Wales Coast Path, and there are information boards at viewpoints. This lets you combine walks along the coastal path with information at individual viewpoints.

Dylan’s Walk is 4.6 kilometres long, or about three miles. The northeastern section runs mostly over relatively level terrain and is paved as far as Dylan Thomas’s writing shed and the Boathouse. The stated length of the St John’s Hill Walk is 2.6 kilometres, a little over 1.5 miles. Features of this route include a short flight of steps, grassy paths, fields to cross and a short stretch along a country road.

The two walks therefore differ not only in length but also in their described features: the northeastern section of Dylan’s Walk is described in more detail, while the St John’s Hill Walk is characterized by its sequence of steps, grassy paths, fields and country road. This is a specific point of comparison when considering which route best suits your plans.

Laugharne’s Common Walk is a ceremony in which the community boundaries are walked. It takes place every three years on Whit Monday and covers more than 20 miles—making it considerably longer than the two walks mentioned above. If you would like to factor this ceremony into your travel plans, check the specific date for your travel period.

Getting Around the Town

There are public toilets and a car park in the centre of Laugharne, close to several pubs, shops and cafés. The Dylan Thomas Boathouse is also home to the Y Gegin Gartref tea room. It serves light lunches, drinks, snacks, scones and Welsh cakes; as the offering may change, check before your trip. For your planning, it is a good idea to check the current route and trail conditions, as well as the tea room’s offering and the facilities in the town centre, before travelling.

Discover more destinations: Brechfa, Llansadwrn, Llandeilo, Nantgaredig, Felindre, Llanegwad, Garnant, Carmarthen.

For the wider travel overview: Carmarthenshire.