Museum of Land Speed, Pendine: Gateway to a Century of Speed Records
Explore the thrilling history of land speed records at Pendine Sands’ interactive Museum of Land Speed, where heritage meets adrenaline.
The Museum of Land Speed in Pendine, Carmarthenshire, is a dynamic, interactive museum dedicated to the thrilling history of land speed records made on the iconic Pendine Sands. Showcasing over 100 years of racing heritage, the museum features immersive exhibits including the legendary Babs car, audiovisual displays, and artifacts from renowned racers. Located beside the vast sands where record-breaking feats took place, it offers a family-friendly experience blending education and excitement.
A brief summary to Museum of speed
- Carmarthen, Pendine, SA33 4NY, GB
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Check the museum’s schedule before visiting, as some key exhibits like the Babs car are displayed only seasonally.
- Allow 1 to 2 hours to fully enjoy the interactive exhibits and audiovisual experiences.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the nearby Wales Coast Path for spectacular coastal views.
- Take advantage of family or group discounts on tickets for better value.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Bus
Local bus services connect Carmarthen town to Pendine village, with a journey time of approximately 40 to 50 minutes. Buses run several times daily but check schedules in advance as frequency may be limited on weekends and holidays. Tickets cost around £3 to £5 one way.
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Car
Driving from Carmarthen to the Museum of Land Speed takes about 25 to 30 minutes via the A484 and B4312 roads. Parking is available near the museum but can be limited during peak season. There is no charge for parking.
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Taxi
Taxis from Carmarthen to Pendine take approximately 25 minutes. This option offers convenience but can cost between £25 and £35 depending on time of day and provider.
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Walking and Cycling
For the adventurous, cycling from nearby villages along the Wales Coast Path is possible, offering scenic views and a moderate physical challenge. Walking is feasible only for short distances within Pendine village due to the rural setting.
Museum of speed location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Museum of speed
A Legacy Carved in Sand and Speed
Nestled on the edge of the expansive Pendine Sands in Carmarthenshire, the Museum of Land Speed celebrates the extraordinary history of land speed racing that has defined this stretch of Welsh coastline for over a century. The sands themselves have been a proving ground for daring drivers and record-breaking machines, making the museum a tribute to human ambition and engineering prowess. The museum’s centerpiece is the legendary Babs, the world land speed record-breaking car driven by Parry-Thomas, symbolizing the spirit of innovation and courage that characterizes the site.Immersive Exhibits and Interactive Storytelling
The museum offers a rich, interactive experience designed to engage visitors of all ages. Through audiovisual displays, visitors journey through the dramatic stories of land speed trials, racing legends, and technological advancements. Exhibits include original objects loaned from prestigious institutions such as Amgueddfa Cymru and the National Motor Museum, including parts of Sir Malcolm Campbell’s Bluebird. The Babs video experience uniquely simulates the forces felt while racing along the sands, providing a visceral connection to the history on display.Architectural Design Aligned with History
The museum’s modern building is thoughtfully designed so that the Babs car aligns perfectly with the racing line of Pendine Sands, creating a powerful visual and symbolic link between the exhibits and their historic setting. This architectural choice enhances the storytelling, allowing visitors to appreciate the scale and significance of the land speed records within the natural landscape where they were set.Beyond the Museum: Pendine’s Coastal Charm and Activities
Pendine itself is a charming coastal village that has undergone significant development, featuring a traffic-free promenade and a vibrant seafront commercial area with cafes, eateries, and rental shops for surfboards and kayaks. The region offers a variety of adventurous activities such as abseiling, archery, mountain biking, and water sports, making it a lively destination for families and thrill-seekers alike. The nearby Wales Coast Path provides scenic cliff-top walks with panoramic views extending towards the Gower Peninsula and Tenby.Visitor Experience and Practical Information
Open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm (with some seasonal variations), the museum typically requires 1 to 2 hours for a thorough visit. Tickets are reasonably priced, with discounts for families and groups, and carers admitted free. The museum is part of the CofGâr family of museums, which emphasizes sustainable travel and educational outreach. Visitors are encouraged to check in advance for the availability of specific exhibits, as some, including Babs, may be on temporary display.A Destination for Enthusiasts and Families Alike
Whether you are a motorsport enthusiast eager to delve into the technical and historic aspects of land speed racing, or a family seeking an engaging and educational day out, the Museum of Land Speed offers a unique blend of excitement, heritage, and coastal beauty. Its location, exhibits, and interactive elements create a memorable experience that connects the past with the present in a setting steeped in natural grandeur.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Clears Castle
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Tenby Town walls
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Imperial Hotel, Tenby
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Dyfed Chimneys
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Gwal y Filiast
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Dyfed Powys Police Federation
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Discover the Dyfed Powys Police Federation in Carmarthen for a unique perspective on local law enforcement and community safety initiatives.
South African War Memorial
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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
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Explore the historic Carmarthen Work House, a powerful testament to Wales’ social welfare past and resilience through times of hardship.
Whiteford Lighthouse
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A rare cast-iron lighthouse standing in the tidal estuary of the Gower Peninsula, reachable only at low tide across vast sands and saltmarsh.
The Baltic Inn & Restaurant
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William Marshal Statue
26.3 km
Medieval England's greatest knight, immortalized in bronze below his castle stronghold.
Rhossili Downs
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Experience breathtaking coastal panoramas and ancient heritage atop the highest point of Wales' Gower Peninsula.
Kilns of Mynyddcerrig
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Explore the historic limekilns of Mynyddcerrig, a window into Carmarthenshire’s rural industrial heritage and traditional limeburning craft.
The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
26.7 km
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Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority
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Unmissable attractions to see
Castell Talacharn / Laugharne Castle
7.1 km
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National Trust - Colby Woodland Garden
7.9 km
Explore Colby Woodland Garden’s tranquil woodlands, vibrant meadows, and charming walled garden near Narberth in Pembrokeshire.
Boho Beach House
10.5 km
Eclectic bohemian gift shop by Saundersfoot beach offering unique handcrafted treasures in a vibrant seaside setting.
Christkindl
10.5 km
Discover unique gifts and festive treasures at Christkindl, Saundersfoot’s charming High Street boutique.
Llansteffan Castle
11.7 km
Explore Llansteffan Castle’s dramatic Norman ruins perched above Carmarthen Bay, where ancient history meets breathtaking coastal views.
Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo
12.2 km
Explore 120 acres of award-winning family fun with exotic animals, vintage rides, and adventure playgrounds in the heart of Pembrokeshire.
St. Catherine's Island
12.3 km
Explore the historic Napoleonic fort and tidal island charm of St Catherine's Island, where history meets stunning coastal views.
St. Catherines Island and fort
12.3 km
A historic tidal island fortress with panoramic views, rich wildlife, and a captivating blend of nature and Victorian heritage.
Tenby Castle
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Experience the grandeur of Tenby Castle, a historic landmark offering breathtaking coastal views and a glimpse into medieval history.
National Trust - Tudor Merchant's House
12.6 km
Explore the rich history of a prosperous Tudor merchant’s home in the heart of historic Tenby, Wales.
Equinox
12.6 km
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Hazewell Club
12.8 km
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The Boars Head
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The Golden Sheaf Gallery
14.3 km
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Caldey Abbey
14.8 km
Discover Caldey Abbey, a serene monastic sanctuary on Caldey Island blending ancient Celtic heritage with tranquil island beauty.
Essential places to dine
The Smugglers
7.5 km
Seaside dining with fresh grilled flavors, family fun, and stunning views on Amroth’s scenic sea front.
Lan y Môr Restaurant Saundersfoot
9.9 km
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The BoatHouse
10.5 km
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The Stone Crab
10.5 km
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The Mulberry Restaurant
10.5 km
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Firehouse Restaurant & Forge Motel
10.8 km
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The Penny Bar & Restaurant
10.9 km
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The Farmers Arms
11.1 km
A cozy Welsh country pub in Llanybri offering hearty traditional dishes, warm hospitality, and a charming rural atmosphere.
Inn At The Sticks
11.7 km
A historic Welsh inn blending innovative local cuisine, warm hospitality, and cozy accommodation in the scenic village of Llansteffan.
Billycan
12.7 km
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Stables Restaurant
12.7 km
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The Fox & Hounds
13.4 km
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Heywood Marigold
13.5 km
Experience exquisite Pan-Asian and British cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting at Heywood Marigold, Tenby’s premier hotel restaurant.
Annwn
14.3 km
Discover Annwn, a Michelin Guide restaurant in Narberth offering an intimate, sustainable dining experience with locally foraged Welsh flavors.
Madtom Land & Sea
14.3 km
Savor fresh seafood and local flavors in a cozy, rustic setting at Madtom Land & Sea, Narberth’s beloved coastal dining spot.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Choices
7.0 km
Choices is a charming gift shop in Laugharne offering unique local crafts and souvenirs in a welcoming atmosphere, open daily from 9am to 5pm.
The Original Factory Shop (St Clears)
9.5 km
Discover unbeatable discounts on beauty, fashion, and footwear at The Original Factory Shop in St Clears, your local bargain destination.
Elements of Pembrokeshire
10.4 km
Discover unique local crafts and heartfelt souvenirs at Elements of Pembrokeshire, nestled in the charming seaside village of Saundersfoot.
Mermaid Gift Shop
10.4 km
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The Outlet
10.4 km
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Harbour Gifts
10.5 km
Discover unique local crafts and coastal treasures at Harbour Gifts, Saundersfoot’s charming boutique for memorable souvenirs.
The Nook
12.6 km
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Joys Of Tenby
12.7 km
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The Welsh Gift Shop
12.7 km
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Useful & Beautiful Things
14.3 km
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The Welsh Farmhouse Company
14.3 km
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Bazaar
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Dunelm
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Muddlebox
21.1 km
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Poundland
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Amroth Arms
7.3 km
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Templebar Inn
7.5 km
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Wisemans Bridge Inn
9.1 km
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The Old Chemist Inn
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HARBWR Bar & Kitchen
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The Lifeboat Tavern Tenby
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The Cove
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Stage Door Bar
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Bar 10
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Twisted Shamrock
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The Five Arches Tavern
12.7 km
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The Bush Inn
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Hwb
14.5 km
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Cross Inn
14.8 km
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Friends Arms Public House
20.1 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Sands Nightclub
10.5 km
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Prince Of Wales
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Comlongon
17.1 km
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Savannah's Night Club
21.0 km
Experience Carmarthen’s vibrant nightlife at Savannah's Night Club—where music, dance, and stylish vibes create unforgettable Saturday nights.
Lucifer's Nightlife
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Paddles
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Eddie Rocks
29.1 km
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Boulevard Show Bar
33.4 km
Experience vibrant cabaret, live shows, and lively nightlife at Boulevard Show Bar, Milford Haven’s premier entertainment venue.
The Basement
33.5 km
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The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club
36.8 km
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Albion Aberteifi
38.3 km
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The Grosvenor
38.4 km
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The Cellar
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Bar 45
38.5 km
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The Cliff Hotel & Spa
42.8 km
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Family Friendly
- Educational
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Sustainable
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
