West Wales facts for kids
West Wales (called Gorllewin Cymru in Welsh) is an important part of Wales. It's a beautiful area with a rich history and stunning landscapes.
People sometimes define West Wales in different ways. Usually, it includes the areas of Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion, and Carmarthenshire. These three areas were once part of an old Welsh kingdom called Deheubarth. Sometimes, the definition also includes places like Swansea and Neath Port Talbot.
From 1974 to 1996, a larger area called Dyfed was considered West Wales. Dyfed was a county with its own local government.
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What is West Wales?
The exact borders of West Wales can change depending on who you ask! Here are some common ways people describe it:
- Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion, and Carmarthenshire: This is the most common definition. These areas were historically part of the Welsh kingdom of Deheubarth. Today, local councils and health services often work together across these three areas.
- Carmarthenshire, Neath Port Talbot, Pembrokeshire, and Swansea: The official tourism group, Visit Wales, uses this definition. It covers a similar area to what is known as South West Wales. This definition usually does not include Ceredigion.
- Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, and Bridgend: The Welsh Development Agency, which helped with business and jobs, used this definition for a while.
There are also special statistical areas, like "West Wales and the Valleys," which are used for collecting information and planning.
West Wales in History
The name "West Wales" has been used for a long time. In the past, during the time of the Anglo-Saxons (who came to Britain many centuries ago), the term "West Wales" was sometimes used to describe the Kingdom of Cornwall. The word "Wales" comes from an old word that the Anglo-Saxons used for the native people of Britain.
Railways in West Wales
West Wales has several important railway lines that help people travel around the region and beyond.
Main Train Lines
These are the main lines used by regular passenger trains:
- West Wales Line: This line connects many towns and cities in West Wales.
- Heart of Wales Line: This scenic line runs through the middle of Wales, connecting different regions.
- Cambrian Line: This line runs along the coast and through the countryside, offering beautiful views.
Heritage Railways
These are special railways that often use old steam trains or historic carriages. They are popular attractions for visitors:
- Gwili Railway
- Llanelli and Mynydd Mawr Railway
- Teifi Valley Railway
- Vale of Rheidol Railway
