Carmarthen, SA32 7BE

Carmarthen, the county town of Carmarthenshire in Wales, is a community that boasts a rich historical background, claiming to be the oldest town in Wales. It lies on the River Towy, about 8 miles north of its estuary in Carmarthen Bay. As of the 2021 census, the community had a population of 14,636, with the built-up area housing 16,455 residents. Historically, Carmarthen developed from two medieval settlements: Old Carmarthen near Carmarthen Priory and New Carmarthen around Carmarthen Castle, which were merged in 1546. During the 16th to 18th centuries, it was the most populous borough in Wales and was once described as the 'chief citie of the country' by William Camden. However, its prominence waned by the mid-19th century as other settlements in the South Wales Coalfield grew. Today, Carmarthen retains its historical charm and offers a blend of the old and new, providing a setting that is both culturally rich and tranquil, making it a noteworthy option for those looking to reside in a place steeped in history and surrounded by the natural beauty of the Welsh landscape.