The Vaults: Historic Cocktail Bar in Carmarthen

4.1 (63)

Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife in Carmarthen’s oldest cocktail bar with stunning castle views and live music weekends.

Home
United Kingdom
Dyfed
The Vaults

The Vaults, located in Carmarthen’s Nott Square, is a stylish cocktail bar steeped in history dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Known also as Angel Vaults, it features a medieval window from the lost church of St Mary and overlooks Carmarthen Castle. Offering an extensive drinks menu including over 60 gins, fine wines, and live music on weekends, it blends heritage with a vibrant nightlife atmosphere.

A brief summary to The Vaults

10 Nott Sq, Carmarthen, SA31 1PQ, GB
Click to display
Click to display
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Mid ranged
Indoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Friday 4 pm-2 am
Saturday 5 pm-2 am
Sunday 5 pm-2 am

Local tips

Visit on Friday or Saturday evenings to enjoy live acoustic music performances starting at 8:30 pm.
Try the extensive gin menu featuring over 60 varieties paired with premium mixers from Fevertree.
Take a moment in the castle room for unique views of Carmarthen Castle’s exterior.
Arrive after 5 pm on Sundays or 4 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, as the bar opens late in the afternoon.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Plume of Feathers Inn

The Plume of Feathers Inn, Carmarthen’s Smallest and Friendliest Pub

The Gremlin Club

Experience the Vibrant Nightlife at The Gremlin Club

Club Mambo

Club Mambo: Carmarthen’s Vibrant Nightlife Hub

Getting There

Train and Walk

From Carmarthen railway station, a 15-20 minute walk through the town center leads you to The Vaults, passing historic streets and local shops. The walk is mostly flat and accessible, with no transport costs involved.
Bus Service

Local buses run regularly from Carmarthen bus station to stops near Nott Square, with a journey time of about 10-15 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £2-£3. Services may be less frequent on Sundays and evenings.
Taxi

Taxis from anywhere in Carmarthen to The Vaults typically take 5-10 minutes depending on traffic and cost around £5-£8. This option offers door-to-door convenience, especially late at night.

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Restrooms
Drink Options
Food Options
Seating Areas
Information Boards

The Vaults location weather suitability

Any Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about The Vaults

Historic Roots in Wales’ Oldest Town

Nestled in Carmarthen, the oldest town in Wales, The Vaults occupies a building with a rich history stretching back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Formerly known as Angel Vaults, it is believed to be the town’s oldest known public house. A remarkable medieval window discovered inside dates from the late 15th to early 16th century and is thought to have originated from the lost church of St Mary, adding a tangible link to the area's ecclesiastical past.

Architectural and Cultural Significance

The Vaults overlooks Nott Square, the medieval marketplace named after Major-General Sir William Nott, and offers views of the nearby Carmarthen Castle, a key landmark during the War of the Roses. The castle room within the bar provides an atmospheric vantage point to appreciate this historic fortress’s exterior. The building’s heritage is palpable, blending medieval elements with a modern bar ambiance.

A Refined Drink Experience

The Vaults boasts an extensive and sophisticated drinks menu catering to diverse tastes. Highlights include a Fevertree-designed gin menu featuring over 60 of the world’s finest gins, alongside Cuban classics like the Mojito and elegant options such as the Espresso Martini. Complementing these are fine wines, champagnes, and a wide selection of spirits and whiskies, all served within a soothing, ambient décor.

Vibrant Live Music and Social Scene

Adding to its charm, The Vaults hosts live music every Friday and Saturday at 8:30 pm, showcasing top South Wales talent performing acoustic sets that blend classic and modern tunes. This lively entertainment ensures a dynamic atmosphere that invites repeat visits from locals and visitors alike.

Atmosphere and Ambience

The Vaults balances its historic character with a stylish, contemporary vibe. Its interior design creates a relaxing yet lively environment, perfect for evening socializing or intimate gatherings. The bar’s location in a historic square and proximity to notable landmarks enrich the visitor experience with a sense of place and tradition.

Community and Legacy

As a longstanding fixture in Carmarthen, The Vaults is more than a bar—it is a cultural hub that celebrates local heritage and talent. Its commitment to quality drinks and live music makes it a cornerstone of the town’s nightlife, preserving its legacy while embracing modern hospitality trends.