New Land Speed Museum in Pendine opens its doors to visitors

AN exciting new museum has opened in Pendine, Carmarthenshire, which has welcomed its first visitors during the Whitsun holiday break. The Museum of Land Speed is the newest member of the CofGâr family, the Carmarthenshire County Council museums and arts service.

‘Live the story of sands, speed and sport.’

On your visit to the Museum of Land Speed, get hands on to discover the science of the sands and journey through interactive displays from J.G. Parry-Thomas and the land speed records of the 1920s to Idris Elba’s ‘Flying Mile’ in 2015. Experience the thrill of racing with the legendary car ‘Babs’, hear her engine roar, and feel the wind rushing over your face.

Visitors will also find a special exhibition, designed in collaboration with the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) students, exploring transport ideas of the future. A vibrant gift shop is also on site, providing the perfect place to find motoring souvenirs and tempting treats for all the family. There’s even a purpose-built, accessible function space, filled with facilities for all occasions and spectacular views along Pendine’s seven-mile sands.

This fun and sustainable museum is the latest facility to be completed as part of the Pendine Tourism Attractor Project. The project has been developed from extensive community engagement and consultation and was constructed by Andrew Scott. It aims to promote Pendine’s cultural and natural heritage to drive forward the resort’s future economic regeneration as a ‘day and stay’ event destination.

The Pendine Tourism Attractor also includes the “Caban” accommodation, an adventure playground and much more. All are now open for visitors to enjoy. Caban is an accessible and sustainably built 14 room, 43 bed accommodation, which hosts a restaurant catering to walking holiday and outdoor sports adventure market as well as those seeking a coastal experience.

A 10-berth motorhome facility, which will be developed by Pendine Community Council, is also included in the wider master plan.

Cllr. Gareth John, Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Leisure, Culture and Tourism said: “The Museum of Land Speed is officially open and we can’t wait to welcome visitors to Pendine and the Museum of Land Speed over the summer months and beyond.

“Pendine Sands is iconic within the history of land speed records, not to mention a stunningly beautiful part of Wales. It is only fitting, therefore, that we have a modern, fun and interactive museum at Pendine for children and adults alike to learn more of the history associated with the Sands.”

“Carmarthenshire County Council have worked with the Welsh Government and other key stakeholders to deliver the Tourism Attractor, here in Pendine. It’s an excellent facility, which will enhance Pendine’s reputation as an all-year-round, day-and-stay destination for visitors, accommodate 41 jobs and generate potentially £3m per annum to the regional economy.”

Opening times

27 May to 3 June, open every day, 10am – 5pm.

4 June to 21 July, open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am – 5pm.

22 July – 3 September, open every day, 10am – 6pm

Visit CofGâr’s new website for more opening times and information or follow CofGâr on social media.