A series of prestigious national and international awards won by Carmarthenshire tourism businesses and attractions is showcasing the county as one of Wales’ leading visitor destinations and highlighting the important role tourism plays in the local economy.
The latest successes come as the most recent STEAM Economic Impact Assessment figures show that tourism contributes an estimated £764 million to the Carmarthenshire economy annually, supporting businesses, jobs and communities across the county.
Among the businesses receiving international recognition are Llwynifan Farm in Llangennech, Llanelli, and Craig Evans Coastal Foraging. Both businesses have received a Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award, placing them among travellers’ favourite destinations and experiences worldwide, based on consistently outstanding visitor reviews.
Llanerchindda Farm Guest House near Cynghordy in the Cambrian Mountains has been named AA Bed & Breakfast of the Year Wales 2026. The prestigious award recognises the highest standards of hospitality, accommodation and guest experience across Wales.
At the recent Carmarthenshire Business Awards, several tourism and hospitality businesses were recognised for their outstanding achievements:
- Emma Hill of The British Bird of Prey Centre – Entrepreneur of the Year
- HolidayNests – Green Business of the Year
- Albert Rees, Carmarthen Deli – Retail Business of the Year
- LiveFree Adventures – Tourism and Hospitality Business of the Year
The recognition comes at an exciting time for tourism in Carmarthenshire. Carmarthenshire County Council’s Tourism team has secured an additional £50,000 in funding to support destination development activity, while work continues on projects delivered through a £1 million tourism investment programme across the county.
Carmarthenshire has also welcomed journalists from The Sun newspaper, helping to raise the county’s profile among a national audience. Meanwhile, the recent spell of warm weather has contributed to strong visitor numbers at the Council’s attractions and country parks.
The county has also celebrated environmental excellence, with both Pembrey Country Park and Llyn Llech Owain Country Park once again achieving the internationally recognised Green Flag Award, recognising the high quality of these treasured green spaces and the visitor experiences they provide.
Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Leisure, Culture & Tourism Services, Cllr Hazel Evans, said:
These awards are a testament to the quality and commitment across Carmarthenshire’s tourism sector. With tourism contributing £764 million to the local economy and supporting thousands of jobs, it is fantastic to see local businesses, attractions and parks receiving well-deserved recognition. Congratulations to everyone involved and thank you for the valuable contribution you make to our communities and economy.”
Carmarthenshire offers visitors a diverse range of experiences, from award-winning accommodation and local food and drink to outdoor adventures, spectacular countryside, stunning coastline and internationally recognised visitor attractions. For more information visit the Discover Carmarthenshire website.
The growing number of awards being achieved across the county further reinforces Carmarthenshire’s reputation as a high-quality visitor destination and highlights the strength and resilience of the tourism sector.
