**Historic Laugharne Quay Discovery May Redefine Carmarthenshire’s Medieval Past**
A ground-breaking archaeological find in the quiet village of Laugharne, Carmarthenshire, is prompting historians to revisit centuries-old assumptions about the region’s significance in medieval maritime trade. The recent unearthing of a previously unknown quay at the foot of Laugharne’s medieval castle is being hailed as a transformative discovery that promises to change existing narratives about this part of Wales.
The newly revealed quay, located at Island House—a distinguished Grade-II listed building dating back to the 16th century—came to light during extensive restoration works. Once thought to be just another relic of the past, the timber features uncovered on the site have been meticulously dated to the year 1437 AD, through a combination of dendrochronological and radiocarbon dating techniques. This places the quay firmly within the bustling heart of the medieval period, offering fresh context to Laugharne’s historical standing.
Restoration work at Island House began in early 2020, led by Island House Restoration Ltd, who sought not only to restore the property but to transform it into a vibrant hotel, bar, and restaurant. The site, mere steps from Laugharne Castle and nestled alongside the River Taf, proved to be a treasure trove of historical secrets. Earlier that same year, archaeologists had detected evidence of a waterway believed to have once functioned as a refuse channel serving both the castle and the adjacent settlement since the 12th century.
Ken Murphy of Dyfed Archaeological Trust, overseeing the excavation, expressed his astonishment at the find. “While we anticipated some interesting traces of the past, discovering an actual quay was wholly unexpected,” he commented. Medieval quays have surfaced in large port cities like London and Bristol, but to find such infrastructure in a relatively smaller location such as Laugharne challenges prevailing notions about its historical role in interregional commerce.
The strategic value of sea trade to Laugharne during the Middle Ages is newly underscored by this discovery. The quay, now long buried beneath what has become a town car park, would have served as a lifeline for ships loading and unloading passengers and goods just beyond the town’s defensive walls. Records indicate that by the 17th century, sediment build-up led to the disuse of the water channel, marking the end of the site’s maritime activity.
Further digging revealed not only the quay but also the foundations of a sizable, high-status hall house nearby, complete with an impressive fireplace. This suggests the presence of affluent traders or officials, strengthening the case for Laugharne’s prominence in historic trading networks. For context, Laugharne Castle itself was established in 1116, situating these finds within a broader medieval framework.
Stephen Kirkwood, director of Island House Restoration, reflected on the significance of these revelations, stating, “The archaeological findings are extraordinary and dovetail with the detailed historical research and other studies we’ve commissioned about the property.” He added that after purchasing Island House in a dilapidated condition five years ago, it is now structurally secure and rehabilitation is progressing well. The team is actively considering ways to preserve and display key finds for the public’s benefit.
Open days are being planned at the restoration site, giving locals and scholars alike opportunities to witness these important discoveries first-hand. Organisers hope such events will spark further public interest and appreciation for the region’s rich heritage.
Dr Carol Bell, Chair of Heneb, described the discovery as remarkable, emphasising, “It’s easy to imagine the medieval quay teeming with ships and merchants. The evidence unearthed here not only challenges previous understandings of Laugharne’s past but also highlights its vital role within broader British and even international trading routes.”
This archaeological milestone comes at a pivotal time, encouraging a reevaluation of Laugharne’s place in Welsh and wider British history. Local historians and community leaders anticipate that further excavations and research will continue to shed light on the town’s multifaceted heritage, transforming it from a quiet riverside village into a focal point for historical inquiry and tourism alike.