Castell Dinefwr

The castle sits on a steep hill overlooking the Towy Valley, and the walk up is genuinely knackering - proper lung work if you're not used to it. Castell Dinefwr is a Norman stronghold that's seen better days, but that's rather the point. Stone walls and tumbled masonry scattered across the hilltop tell you this place has been through the mill, yet it commands views across Carmarthenshire that justify the huffing and puffing on the way up.

You're looking at ruins rather than a complete structure - there's no fancy visitor centre or tea room. It's raw history, which means it works brilliantly for walkers and anyone who actually enjoys the physicality of exploring somewhere rather than dawdling around gift shops. The approach from Llandeilo takes you through farmland and woodland, and the castle itself is a straightforward scramble once you've got your breath back. Allow a good two hours if you're the sort who stops to read plaques and take photos from every angle.

Historically-minded visitors will appreciate that this was a seat of Welsh power in the medieval period - proper significant stuff if you're into that era. Families with young children might find it bit of a slog for limited payoff, though determined kids often love clambering over ruins. The nearby camping and glamping options around Llandyfan and Towy Valley mean you can base yourself comfortably close by and make this a half-day expedition. Best visited when the weather's decent - muddy paths and misty hilltops lose their charm quickly.