Pen Y Bont

Stone bridges don't usually stop you in your tracks, but Pen Y Bont does. This medieval crossing spans the River Towy near Llangadog and carries the kind of quiet authority that comes from standing since the 13th century. The arch is solid, functional, built by people who knew what they were doing - no fuss, no decoration, just proper stonework that's lasted longer than most of us will manage.

It's not a destination that'll eat up your afternoon. You'll park nearby, walk down to the bridge, take some photos from the banks of the Towy, and be back in your car within twenty minutes if you're being efficient. But that's rather the point. This is where you stop during a longer ramble through the Tywi Valley, or on the way between somewhere else and somewhere else. History buffs and walkers get the most from it - there's something about standing on medieval stonework that makes you think properly about time passing.

The setting is proper lovely, with the river running clear underneath and the Carmarthenshire countryside rolling around you. Early morning or late afternoon light catches the stone nicely if you're after photographs.

If you're staying at one of the nearby caravan parks - Barons Court is practically on the doorstep - this fits naturally into exploring the wider Tywi Valley. The bridge itself is free to cross and see. Don't expect facilities or explanatory plaques; this is uncomplicated Wales at its best.