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Tours > Wales > Laugharne
Laugharne (Larn)
 The little town of Laugharne, with its most un-Welsh name (named after Civil War General Laugharne) is the town most closely connected with Dylan Thomas, for it was here that he lived and fought with his wife Caitlin (Pr. Kathleen) during the latter part of his life, during which he wrote much of his memorable works. The town existed long before Dylan's tempestuous arrival, however, for its crumbling, vine-covered romantic castle was begun in the 12th century, destroyed in the rebellion under Llywelyn the Great, and converted into a country mansion during the Tudor era. Held for Parliament and later the King, the castle was slighted after the Civil Wars.
In the quiet little town, with its neat row of Georgian houses, are found the Town Hall, with its tiny prison, 14th century St. Martin's Church, with its restored 10th century Celtic Cross and wood carving of St Martin and Dylan Thomas' famous Boathouse and writing shed, now preserved as a museum and monument to the poet, who died in New York City in 1953. Visitors flock to Brown's Hotel, scene of many of the poet's notorious drinking bouts. A simple cross in the churchyard marks the grave of Wales' most famous poet. The play for voices "Under Milk Wood" is performed every few years by the townsfolk.
Just south of town, the A4066 takes the visitor to Pendine, where the great expanse of flat, smooth sands was the site of many attempts at the world speed record during the early part of this century. In 1927, Sir Malcolm Campbell broke the land-speed record in Bluebird, with 174.88 mph. Welsh driver J.G. Parry Thomas was killed here the same year, and his vehicle, Babs, remained buried in the sand dunes until 1969. It has now been lovingly restored to its racing condition, though it is now housed in a museum in England.
Laugharne is reached from Swansea on the M4 West, then to Carmarthen on the A48, the A40 to St. Clears (San Klair's) and the A4066 along the Taf Estuary.
Next Stop: Llanelli
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