Visiting the Old College, Carmarthen: a campus of the University of Wales, Trinity St. David

Firstly, the name of this institution of learning at Carmarthen (Welsh: Caerfyrddin ), Wales, has been quite complex, though I will informally call it Trinity College (Welsh: Coleg y Drindod ) for the purposes of this article.

Some history and features

On foundation, the College was known as South Wales and Monmouthshire Training College (Welsh: Coleg Hyfforddiant De Cymru a Sir Fynwy ). Subsequently and for many years, it was called Trinity College. In recent years, another name change was effected: Trinity College officially became Trinity University College (Welsh: Coleg Prifysgol y Drindod ) before its current name came into effect: University of Wales, Trinity Saint David (Welsh: Prifysgol Cymru Y Drindod Dewi Sant ), of which the former Trinity College is the Carmarthen campus.

Leaving aside the different name changes, Trinity College has a long and consistent history as a centre for higher education, dating from 1848. The foundation stone of the original stone building — still in use — was laid in 1847.

In addition to other, more 'functional' buildings, the site is noted for its landscaped gardens and views of the Tywi valley, on the outskirts of Carmarthen.

Founded as a College for the training of schoolteachers, Trinity retains this purpose as a strong commitment, while having also branched into other subjects, first into the teaching of history, English and theology, but also subsequently into the fields of tourism and advertising. Master's degrees in certain subjects are now offered.

Originally the College was under the auspices of the Church of England, which, in Wales in the early 20th century, became The Church in Wales (Welsh: Yr Eglwys yng Nghymru ).

Some alumni and faculty

Distinguished alumni of Trinity College have included Welsh language author Gwyn Morgan (1954-) and Welsh rugby union player Barry John (1945-), and others. Distinguished former faculty has included founder and editor of the Anglo-Welsh Review Raymond Garlick (1926-2011) and rugby union player and coach Carwyn James (1929-1983), and others.

Also worth seeing

In Carmarthen itself, the castle occupies a prominent position in the downtown area.

Lampeter (distance: 39 kilometres) has another campus of the University of Wales, Trinity St Davids, dating from 1822, with which Trinity College is institutionally linked.

...

How to get there: Continental Airlines flies to London Heathrow Airport , from where car rental is available. London Heathrow is approximately 321 kilometres from Carmarthen. Rail services exists between London Paddington railroad station and Carmarthen. For up to date information, please check with the airline or your travel agent.

MJFenn is an independent travel writer based in Ontario, Canada.