Llyn Llech Owain Country Park
Explore 180 acres of woodland, lake, and adventure playgrounds at Llyn Llech Owain Country Park, a family-friendly natural gem in Carmarthenshire.
Llyn Llech Owain Country Park is a scenic 180-acre natural reserve near Llanelli, Wales, featuring a tranquil lake, peat bog, woodland trails, and adventure playgrounds. It offers accessible paths, picnic areas, a visitor centre with interactive exhibits, and a welcoming café, making it ideal for family outings, nature walks, and wildlife spotting.
A brief summary to Llyn Llech Owain Country Park
- Church Rd Gorslas, Llanelli, Gorslas, SA14 7NF, GB
- +441269832229
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light and quieter trails.
- Use the accessible boardwalk to explore the unique peat bog safely.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy at the designated picnic areas with scenic views.
- Check café opening times in advance as they vary seasonally.
- Parking is charged by duration; consider purchasing an annual permit if visiting frequently.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Llanelli takes approximately 20-25 minutes via the A48 and A476. Parking is available on-site with charges ranging from £1.50 for 1 hour to £5.00 for all-day parking. Note that overnight parking is not permitted.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Llanelli to Cross Hands, with stops near Church Road. The journey takes around 30-40 minutes. Check current timetables as service frequency varies, especially on weekends.
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Walking
For active visitors staying nearby, walking to the park from Cross Hands village is feasible with a 30-40 minute walk along country roads and footpaths. Terrain is mostly flat but may be uneven in places.
Llyn Llech Owain Country Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Llyn Llech Owain Country Park
A Natural Sanctuary with Rich Heritage
Llyn Llech Owain Country Park spans approximately 180 acres of diverse landscapes near Llanelli, Carmarthenshire. At its heart lies the serene lake named after a local legend involving Owain Lawgoch, a historic Welsh soldier known as Owain The Red Hand. The lake is surrounded by a rare peat bog habitat, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The park also includes heathland and broadleaved woodland, with ongoing efforts to restore and enhance these native environments by clearing coniferous woodland.Trails and Accessibility for All Visitors
A network of well-maintained footpaths winds through the park, offering varied walking experiences from gentle lakeside strolls to longer forest hikes. Many paths are surfaced to accommodate wheelchair users and prams, including a specially constructed boardwalk over the peat bog, allowing safe exploration of this fragile ecosystem. For more adventurous visitors, a forest track and a rough mountain bike trail provide options for cycling enthusiasts.Family-Friendly Amenities and Activities
The park is designed with families in mind, featuring two playgrounds: a large wooden adventure playground and a separate toddler area with accessible equipment. Dogs are welcome in most areas but are restricted from the adventure playgrounds. Picnic areas with benches and sheltered spots invite visitors to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. The onsite café serves homemade produce and refreshments, providing a cozy spot to unwind after exploring.Educational and Interactive Experiences
The Visitor Centre overlooks the lake and offers splendid views alongside educational exhibits. The Discovery Tower, recently redeveloped, includes a wellbeing work hub and interactive displays about the park's natural heritage. Visitors can engage with virtual reality experiences and augmented reality trails, enhancing their understanding of the unique ecology and history of Llyn Llech Owain.Conservation and Community Engagement
Managed by Carmarthenshire County Council and supported by Welsh Government funding through Valleys Regional Park, Llyn Llech Owain benefits from ongoing conservation projects. These include habitat restoration, improved visitor facilities, and community programs that encourage wildlife observation and environmental stewardship. The park hosts regular events such as Parkrun, fostering a sense of community and active outdoor lifestyles.Practical Information for Visitors
The park is open daily from 6am to 10pm, with the visitor centre and café operating on more limited schedules. Parking is available with a charge based on duration, and facilities include accessible toilets and picnic areas. While the lake loop walk takes about 30-40 minutes, visitors often spend several hours exploring the multiple trails and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Dyfed Menswear
1.3 km
Explore Llanelli with ease at Dyfed Menswear, a central bus stop connecting you to the town’s vibrant culture and attractions.
Kilns of Mynyddcerrig
6.9 km
Explore the historic limekilns of Mynyddcerrig, a window into Carmarthenshire’s rural industrial heritage and traditional limeburning craft.
The Baltic Inn & Restaurant
10.4 km
A welcoming countryside inn in Pontyates offering cozy rooms, hearty dining, and a peaceful Welsh village atmosphere.
Gorsedd Circle
16.1 km
A modern stone circle in Llanelli celebrating Welsh culture, poetry, and the spirit of the National Eisteddfod.
South African War Memorial
16.1 km
A dignified tribute in Carmarthen’s Guildhall Square commemorating local heroes of the Anglo-Boer War with a striking marble soldier statue.
Carmarthen Work House
16.4 km
Explore the historic Carmarthen Work House, a powerful testament to Wales’ social welfare past and resilience through times of hardship.
Dyfed Powys Police Federation
17.8 km
Discover the Dyfed Powys Police Federation in Carmarthen for a unique perspective on local law enforcement and community safety initiatives.
Whiteford Lighthouse
21.3 km
A rare cast-iron lighthouse standing in the tidal estuary of the Gower Peninsula, reachable only at low tide across vast sands and saltmarsh.
Cathedral Church of Saint Joseph (Eglwys Gadeirlan Siôseff Sant)
22.3 km
A majestic Gothic Revival cathedral in Swansea, symbolizing faith, history, and community since 1888.
Glamorgan History Society
22.9 km
Explore Glamorgan’s rich history through dedicated research, publications, and community events at the heart of Swansea’s heritage.
Cwtsh Hostel
23.5 km
Modern, friendly, and centrally located hostel offering comfortable stays and social spaces in the vibrant heart of Swansea.
Premier Inn Swansea City Centre hotel
23.8 km
Comfortable city-centre hotel on vibrant Wind Street, with spacious rooms, tasty dining, and easy access to Swansea’s cultural and coastal highlights.
Premier Inn Swansea Waterfront hotel
24.0 km
Modern comfort and scenic marina views combine at Premier Inn Swansea Waterfront, your gateway to Swansea’s vibrant coastal charm.
Delta Hotels Swansea
24.2 km
Stylish waterfront hotel in Swansea’s Maritime Quarter with modern comforts, stunning bay views, and versatile event spaces.
Tours of Wales
24.2 km
Discover Wales’ rich history and stunning landscapes on small-group, expertly guided day tours with Tours of Wales.
Unmissable attractions to see
Maes yr Eithin Retail Park
1.7 km
A lively retail hub in Cross Hands offering diverse shops, dining options, and family-friendly convenience with ample parking.
National Trust - Paxton's Tower
5.0 km
A Neo-Gothic folly atop Llanarthney hill offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Regency history in the heart of Wales.
National Botanic Garden of Wales
5.6 km
Explore Wales’ premier botanical sanctuary featuring the world’s largest glasshouse, themed gardens, wildlife displays, and serene natural landscapes.
Castell Dryslwyn
5.6 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Castell Dryslwyn, a 13th-century Welsh stronghold with panoramic Tywi Valley views and rich medieval heritage.
Gelli Aur Country Park
6.0 km
Explore the serene 100-acre wooded parkland of Gelli Aur Country Park, where history and nature blend with stunning Towy Valley views.
Aberglasney Gardens
7.5 km
Explore Aberglasney Gardens, a historic Welsh estate with unique Elizabethan cloisters, diverse botanical treasures, and serene seasonal beauty.
Castell Dinefwr
8.3 km
Historic hilltop castle overlooking the Tywi Valley, a symbol of Welsh heritage and medieval power.
National Trust - Dinefwr
9.0 km
Explore centuries of Welsh history, nature, and culture across Dinefwr’s grand manor, medieval castle, and expansive deer park.
Newton House (National Trust), Dinefwr Park
9.1 km
Explore centuries of Welsh heritage, art, and nature at Newton House, a historic manor set in the stunning Dinefwr Park and National Nature Reserve.
The Dyfed Archaeological Trust
9.9 km
Explore the heart of Welsh archaeology and heritage preservation at The Dyfed Archaeological Trust in historic Llandeilo.
The Works Antiques Centre
10.5 km
Discover rare antiques and timeless treasures across multiple floors in Llandeilo’s premier antiques centre, complete with a welcoming café.
Carreg Cennen Castle
11.1 km
Explore the dramatic ruins of Carreg Cennen Castle, perched atop a limestone crag with stunning views and rich medieval history in Wales.
Amgueddfa Sir Gâr - Carmarthenshire Museum
13.8 km
Discover Carmarthenshire’s rich heritage in a 700-year-old bishop’s palace with themed galleries, historic charm, and family-friendly exhibits.
Amgueddfa Parc Howard - Parc Howard Museum
14.8 km
Discover Llanelli’s industrial heritage and famed pottery collections in the historic and welcoming Parc Howard Museum.
Gwili Steam Railway
14.9 km
Step aboard the Gwili Steam Railway for a scenic, nostalgic steam train journey through the tranquil Carmarthenshire countryside.
Essential places to dine
Abadam Arms
4.7 km
Traditional Welsh pub and cozy B&B in Carmarthen offering hearty home-cooked meals and warm local hospitality in a tranquil rural setting.
The Butchers Arms
6.5 km
A welcoming Welsh country pub in Llanddarog offering traditional oak-beamed charm, local cuisine, and a cozy fireplace.
Y Polyn
8.5 km
A rustic yet refined country pub in Carmarthenshire serving hearty Provençal-inspired dishes with local Welsh ingredients and warm hospitality.
Hollol Gymraeg
8.9 km
Discover authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality at Hollol Gymraeg, a family-run culinary gem near Carmarthen.
Cresselly Arms
9.1 km
A charming riverside grill and pub near Carmarthen, offering warm Welsh hospitality, well-kept ales, and a dog-friendly beer garden.
The Bird In Hand
10.2 km
A welcoming country pub in Swansea offering hearty British fare, friendly service, and a lively bar in a family-friendly setting.
The Plough Hotel & Restaurant
11.7 km
A refined 4-star rural retreat with valley views, fine dining, and Welsh hospitality in Carmarthenshire.
Garden Room Restaurant
13.3 km
A bright, plant-filled restaurant inside Pontarddulais Garden Centre, serving generous British classics and Sunday roasts in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
The Black Ox
14.0 km
A welcoming gastropub in Abergwili serving hearty British fare with a friendly village atmosphere and inclusive amenities.
The New Curiosity
16.0 km
Experience contemporary Welsh cuisine in a warm, stylish setting with outstanding food and attentive service in Carmarthen’s heart.
Florentino's
16.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with homemade gluten-free pasta and wood-fired pizzas in a charming Welsh Longhouse setting in Carmarthen.
Sloppy Joe's Streetfood
16.1 km
Family-friendly grill and streetfood spot in Carmarthen with lively vibes, local brews, and a menu full of hearty favorites.
Cofio Lounge
16.1 km
Historic Guildhall café in Carmarthen serving diverse, fresh dishes with vegan and gluten-free options in a welcoming atmosphere.
Dexters
16.1 km
Savor premium locally sourced steaks and scenic estuary views at Dexters Steakhouse & Grill in Carmarthen’s inviting riverside setting.
Pantri Blakeman Restaurant
16.2 km
Cozy, home-cooked Welsh and English fare served with generous portions and genuine hospitality in the heart of Carmarthen.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Welsh Slate & Gift Boutique
1.7 km
Explore the charm of Wales at the Welsh Slate & Gift Boutique, where unique handcrafted slate treasures and local gifts await your discovery.
Little Shop of Wishes
2.6 km
Bespoke personalised keepsakes and decorations crafted in South Wales for every celebration.
Treasures Of Munro
3.7 km
Discover unique Welsh gifts, beauty products, and charming souvenirs at Treasures Of Munro, a cozy boutique in the heart of Tumble, Llanelli.
Seren Gifts
6.2 km
Explore the whimsical world of Seren Gifts, a charming novelty shop in Llanarthney filled with unique treasures and delightful souvenirs.
Retro Bears - Memory Bears Wales
6.7 km
Handmade memory bears and keepsakes crafted from cherished garments, blending vintage textiles with heartfelt stories in Ammanford, Wales.
Gwdihw Gifts
6.8 km
Discover unique Welsh souvenirs, handcrafted toys, and personalized embroidery at Gwdihw Gifts in the heart of Ammanford.
The Crystal Jar
6.9 km
Explore The Crystal Jar in Ammanford for unique gifts and local crafts that embody the spirit of the region.
Black Rose gift & haberdashery
7.0 km
A charming independent gift and haberdashery shop in Ammanford, perfect for unique souvenirs, jewellery, and crafting supplies.
The Village Shop
9.2 km
Discover authentic Welsh crafts and local flavors in the warm, community-focused setting of The Village Shop in Ffairfach.
Ducky and Monkey
9.4 km
Discover unique Welsh-inspired clothing and accessories in a charming boutique nestled in the heart of Llandeilo’s cultural scene.
Scorpio
9.8 km
Discover three floors of unique gifts and quality home furnishings in the heart of historic Llandeilo at Scorpio.
Cuckoo's Nest
9.8 km
Handcrafted gifts and quirky treasures in the heart of Llandeilo's historic market town.
The Lighthouse
9.8 km
A stylish boutique in Llandeilo offering expert fashion advice and quality ladies' clothing in a welcoming, community-focused setting.
Copper Foxes
9.9 km
Welsh artistry and local craftsmanship in the heart of Llandeilo's historic High Street
The Little Welsh Dresser
9.9 km
Discover authentic Welsh charm and craftsmanship in a cosy boutique filled with unique gifts, homewares, and local artistry in Llandeilo.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Mansel Arms
4.1 km
A traditional Welsh pub offering hearty meals, real ales, and a warm, lively atmosphere in the heart of Carmarthenshire countryside.
The Prince Of Wales
4.7 km
A traditional Welsh village pub offering hearty food, friendly service, and a warm community atmosphere near Carmarthen.
The Tregeyb
9.2 km
A cosy, welcoming pub in Ffairfach offering inventive food, a log burner’s warmth, and a friendly atmosphere near Llandeilo.
The Salutation Inn
9.9 km
A charming traditional pub in Llandeilo with a friendly atmosphere, quality beers, and a delightful beer garden.
The Plough Inn
11.3 km
A rustic Carmarthenshire pub offering wood-fired delights and warm Welsh hospitality in a tranquil countryside setting.
Pen Y Bont Inn Llanfynydd
12.8 km
A charming Welsh village inn blending riverside tranquility with creative cuisine and warm hospitality in Llanfynydd.
Wheaten Sheaf
14.1 km
A friendly, traditional Carmarthen pub offering great beers, darts, pool, and sports TV in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Brains S A
15.5 km
Traditional Welsh pub with scenic river views, classic ales, and a family-friendly atmosphere in Carmarthen’s charming Tanerdy village.
Tafarn Tanerdy
15.5 km
Traditional Welsh pub with scenic river views, family-friendly amenities, and hearty pub classics in Carmarthen’s countryside.
Stag & Pheasant
15.9 km
A lively, dog-friendly pub in Carmarthen offering great beers, hearty meals, and a welcoming local atmosphere.
The Forest Arms Pub, Restaurant & Rooms
16.0 km
A charming Welsh pub and inn in historic Brechfa, perfect for outdoor lovers seeking cozy comfort and local hospitality.
CWRW
16.0 km
CWRW blends craft beers, creative arts, and live music in a vibrant Carmarthen venue full of character and community spirit.
Club Mambo
16.0 km
Experience Carmarthen’s vibrant nightlife at Club Mambo, a lively bar and dance venue known for its energetic atmosphere and welcoming crowd.
The Vaults
16.1 km
Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife in Carmarthen’s oldest cocktail bar with stunning castle views and live music weekends.
Plume of Feathers Inn
16.1 km
Discover Wales’ smallest pub, The Plume of Feathers Inn in Carmarthen—where cozy charm meets warm welcomes and great food.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Lucifer's Nightlife
16.0 km
Experience Carmarthen's vibrant nightlife and fast food fusion at Lucifer's Nightlife, where music, dancing, and late-night bites come alive on Queen Street.
Savannah's Night Club
16.5 km
Experience Carmarthen’s vibrant nightlife at Savannah's Night Club—where music, dance, and stylish vibes create unforgettable Saturday nights.
The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club
16.5 km
Experience lively nights and vibrant music at The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club, Gorseinon’s premier destination for unforgettable nightlife.
Cuba Escape
23.4 km
Experience Swansea’s vibrant nightlife at Cuba Escape, where live music, energetic crowds, and a colorful atmosphere come together for unforgettable nights.
PlanB
23.4 km
Swansea’s energetic two-floor nightclub with a focus on dance music, lively DJs, and great drink deals for a night to remember.
Sin City
23.5 km
Energetic Swansea nightclub with live music, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere on Dillwyn Street.
Popworld - Swansea
23.7 km
Experience Swansea’s energetic retro nightclub with affordable cocktails, themed events, and a lively dance floor in the heart of the city.
The Arch Bar & Nightclub
25.3 km
A lively Neath hotspot blending nightclub energy, live music, pub charm, and Thai cuisine in one vibrant venue.
Jimmy's Bar
32.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and live music scene at Jimmy's Bar, Port Talbot’s lively local hotspot with a welcoming atmosphere.
The Top Club
39.8 km
Experience Blaengarw’s vibrant nightlife at The Top Club, where electrifying entertainment meets community spirit in the heart of South Wales.
Sands Nightclub
44.0 km
Saundersfoot’s lively nightclub with dance, drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere near the beach.
Prince Of Wales
45.4 km
Tenby’s iconic late-night nightclub blending lively music, classic charm, and a spirited atmosphere in the heart of Town Wall Arcade.
Hazewell Club
45.4 km
Discover the Hazewell Club in Tenby: a cozy sports club offering a warm atmosphere and local drinks amidst stunning coastal views.
The Kirkhouse Nightclub (Koolers)
48.6 km
Experience the vibrant and friendly nightlife of Merthyr Tydfil at The Kirkhouse Nightclub, known locally as Koolers.
Pure Bar & Nightclub Ltd
49.0 km
A lively nightclub and cocktail bar in Merthyr Tydfil offering vibrant music, crafted drinks, and late-night entertainment in South Wales.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Natural
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
