Put your feet up at a 16th century pub at the end of an enchanted bluebell walk with deer and an ancient castle

Imagine a dreamy walk through sun-dappled woodland, surrounded by the vibrant bloom of bluebells. If this sounds like your idea of heaven, then you need to explore the walking route through Dinefwr Castle Woods in Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire, this spring.

After your stroll, you can reward yourself with a pint in a charming 16th-century pub located just a stone's throw from the stunning ancient area in the town. These enchanting woods, reminiscent of a scene from a fairytale, comprise two areas of ancient semi-natural woodland that overlook the River Tywi. The river is shadowed by the ruins of the 12th-century Dinefwr Castle, which fell into disrepair by 1523 but was lovingly restored by Cadw.

The woods are home not only to oaks, beeches and sycamores that have witnessed the rise and fall of kings and rulers, but also to beautiful flora. Bluebells, along with other stunning flowers such as wild garlic, dog's mercury, lesser celandine, wood sorrel and wood anemone, illuminate the forest known as Castle Wood. Find out about the latest events in Wales by signing up to our What's On newsletter here

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While birds and other wildlife inhabit this part of town, there is also an 18th-century deer park nearby where fawns roam freely. So don't be surprised if you spot doe-eyed creatures peering at you through the wooded ridges.

As you traverse the woodland, which also houses the quaint Llandyfeisant church with a stream running alongside it, you'll eventually reach the summit where the majestic Dinefwr Castle and its restored limestone ruins await. The panoramic views of the valley below are simply stunning and well worth the climb. It's often said that this is one of the finest "truly Welsh castles" still standing today - if that doesn't entice you to visit, we're not sure what will.

For those with a penchant for history, we suggest extending your walk to Newton House, a Grade II listed building that was the ancestral home of The Lord Rhys - Rhys ap Gruffydd - Prince of the Welsh Kingdom of the Deheubarth (and his descendants) for over three centuries.

Constructed in 1660 by Edward Rice, the property's name is derived from the 'New Town' built for English settlers during the medieval era. It was erected on a site that dates back 2000 years in the 17th century - making it an impressive stop on this beautiful journey - and is enveloped by a National Nature Reserve.

Take in the exhibitions and displays before exploring the gardens and surrounding flora, then meander downhill to the town of Llandeilo - voted the best place to live in Wales in 2022 - where you can cap off your trek with a well-deserved drink at the 400 year old pub, The White Horse.

This pub, one of the oldest buildings in town, was once a 16th-century coaching inn. Inside, you'll find historical pictures of the surrounding area, including one of George Barnes, who was the head games keeper on the Dinefwr estate over a century ago. It's the perfect spot to quench your thirst after a long walk on a warm day.