National Botanical Garden of Wales, Carmarthen

Carmarthen in west Wales is the home of one of the largest single span greenhouses in the world.

There is always something to see, always something in bloom no matter what time of year you visit. Built on two levels there are walkways which enable you to explore plants from above and below. 

The windows are controlled by small motors in the struts to open and close automatically, keeping the temperature at the required level for Mediterranean plants. Within a few yards you can move plantwise from one continent to another; from South Africa to South America; no flight tickets required, and a cup of coffee and a snack just a few more steps away.

Outside there are grasslands, lakes and bog plants as well as a double-walled garden with vegetables. Acres of garden for both children and adults to enjoy.

The rill flows down into a cobbled water feature.

Gazing around as you walk up the entrance pathway, make sure you watch your footing. Otherwise you could end up with a wet foot from the small water-filled rill that runs quaintly down to a low cobbled water feature.

From a distance you may look twice and think of running from this magical metal and wool sculpture which looks quite real.

The ice house, although a little off the beaten track has now been refurbished. This would have originally been used to store ice formed over winter on the surface of the lake further down the site. This ice would then have been stored to use in the summertime for example, for making ice cream.

Inside the ice house.

Why not add variety to your visit and combine it with one of the events held there. There’s so much to see and do. I’m sure you’ll want to visit more than once.

http://www.gardenofwales.org.uk/whats-on/events/