Tywi Valley Path

The shared use path is mainly 3 metres wide and has been constructed using a variety of surfaces suitable for its use and the surroundings. The path has the classification of Cycle Track and only permits cyclists and pedestrians (including those using mobility aids and motorised wheelchairs/mobility scooted).

Parking areas are available adjacent to the museum grounds in Abergwili and at Tafarn Y Railway, Nantgaredig, where refreshments can be purchased, along with Dryslwyn Castle. There is also parking available at the old Ysgol Tregib Site which requires a short, on-road cycle through a signalised junction to reach the path.

You can access the path at the following locations: 

• Bishop’s Palace, Abergwili (Carmarthenshire Museum)
  
• Nantgaredig
  
• Llanarthne
  
• Dryslwyn
  
• Between Cilsan Bridge and Gelli Aur College Farm
  
• Adjacent to Ysgol Bro Dinefwr, Ffairfach

We welcome commercial ventures and ideas along the path and any parties interested are encouraged to email Tourism@Carmarthenshire.gov.uk

There is no public access to the rivers at any point along the route.

Good initial design with appropriate specification and features can minimise the need for maintenance. Initial vegetation maintenance during the construction phase, along with the chosen surfacing will ensure a long maintenance-free period and minimal input thereafter, contributing to a low whole-life costing.

We have committed to providing a small team of Rangers, dedicated to the maintenance and inspection of the route. This team will be supported by an enthusiastic group of volunteers who will be coordinated by CCC. 

Ancillary features 

Signage – we are in the process of installing both directional signage and interpretation panels which will help to tell the story of the path and draw attention to the natural and historical features of the valley. 

Seating – a number of benches have been installed on the Western section of the path. These have a backless design due to the route running through a flood plan and the need to minimise debris capture in the event of a flood. Benches with backs are on order for sections of the route less prone to flooding. These will be installed by May.  

Picnic Areas – locations for small, picnic areas have been identified at at Nantgaredig, Dryslwyn and at the boardwalk near Castell Dinefwr. These are due to installed soon.. Due to the linear nature of the route there are limited options to provide larger picnic areas, but we hope this encourages users to explore the communities along the route which have ample opportunity for seating and hospitality venues. 

Bins – bins are planned for installation by May. There will be a litter bin and a recycling bin at each road intersection, totalling 16 bins along the route. 

A scoping report assessed a number of potential on and off road options, and concluded to utilise wherever possible the route of the old railway line.

It is noted that former railway lines make excellent routes for walking and cycling paths, already being direct established continuous transport routes connecting communities. They are reasonably level with gentle gradients, and also have a good base for construction. The links into the community/urban centres at each end and along the route are subject to further feasibility work and options are being investigated.

Environmental and ecological reports and surveys were undertaken at an early stage so designs could not only minimise and eliminate the impact on sensitive locations but also provide environmental enhancement where possible. Ongoing commitment has been made to operate and maintain the path and surrounding area in a way which protects and enhances local biodiversity.

No, whilst the path may cross over a land holding, the land to each side will not be severed. Access for landowners can be maintained to suit the particular needs, by agreement.

The Compulsory purchase process was successfully completed, with all lands necessary to deliver the scheme now vested, and in the control of the Local Authority.

We have received £16.7million from the UK Government, supported by additional Carmarthenshire County Council funds. Further money has been secured through Welsh Government Rural Communities - Rural Development Programme 2014-2020, which is funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development. These grants have contributed towards scheme development and works completed to date. 

A Code of Conduct for the path has been developed to encourage all users to act responsibly and to ensure everyone can enjoy the path.

You can submit feedback by emailing the team. 

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