|
The community lies on the western edge of Carmarthenshire, along the River Taf in southwestern Wales. In 930 AD, the place was ruled by and called Hywel Dda. An accomplished leader, the kingdom under Dda’s reign minted coins and he was responsible for adopting Welsh laws. His name, meaning “Hywel the good,” exemplified a ruler who obtained what he wanted through diplomatic measures.
Cistercian monks, wearing white woollen robes, constructed an Abbey here in 1140. The community adopted its name from the monk’s frocks and means “white land.” The Abbey became particularly prosperous as Welsh princes supplied the land and financed the monk’s order.
The sons of Welsh royalty obtained educations from the Abbey and the structure offered the royalty a safe haven when necessary during times of war. After the dissolution of the nation’s monasteries, local communities scavenged the stones for building materials. Whitland became known as the gathering place for church officials and lawyers. The regularity of these conferences equated Whitland with being the first Welsh Parliament.
For centuries, the community supported itself through agriculture and a large dairy operation. The arrival of the railways put Whitland at the junction of four lines, influencing the need for inns and pubs for weary travellers. Though a relatively small town, Whitland has a secondary school. The community is also known for a particular species of trout having oily scales. The fish is prized for its eggs.
Activities and Attractions
Whitland is a combination of old and new. Visitors see medieval stone structures that include bridges and churches with courtyards having large unusual gravestones. Historic inns and pubs continue serving customers daily. Standing amid the memories of yesteryear are modern structures whose architecture evolved with the times. Leisure centres and sports complexes contain the most up to date equipment.
Guests find a blend of old history housed in a modern building at the Hywel Dda Centre. The complex honours the 10th century king, who with council members, devised the original laws of the land. The Peniarth 28, compiled in the 1200s, consists of an illustrated Latin translation of these laws. Visitors may view the unusual text and learn the history of the famous ruler. The interpretive centre also contains original Welsh artwork displayed in brick, ceramic, glass and steel.
The exterior property of the centre features different gardens. Each environment created around a specific species of tree. Each garden also contains plaques reiterating various laws from the manuscript. Explore the beautiful rolling green hills of the countryside and visit the Glyn-Coch Craft Centre. The facility lies on a family operated farm and houses hundreds of unique Welsh crafts. The site also has a working pottery workshop and guests view the processes involved in making the ceramics.
The location also offers a pleasant woodland walk through the property, where guests might have the opportunity of encountering local wildlife while enjoying the tranquillity of the setting.
Places to Stay and Dining
Unique country accommodations include the chance to stay at an authentic Welsh vineyard/winery. Learn about the wine making process and enjoy a taste of this year’s vintage crop. Facilities also serve as prime locations for fishing, golfing or horseback riding.
Have an elegantly prepared meal when visiting the Jabajak Restaurant. Traditional surf ’n turf includes a tender 5 oz. filet served with red wine sauce and scallops in a specially seasoned prawn sauce. Try slow roasted lamb, served with citrus and cranberry sauce. Meals include a choice of season fresh vegetables.
Accommodation in Whitland
Show Bed & Breakfasts in Whitland
Show Hotels in Whitland
Show Cottages in Whitland
Show Caravan Parks & Camping Sites in Whitland
| 
