St David's Hospital

St David's Hospital is a three-story complex of local stone with Bath stone dressings and inner brick construction, set on a hilltop west of Carmarthen. The building includes separate wards for men and women, workshops, exercise yards, and water towers that allowed it to operate independently.

The building opened in 1865 as a county asylum designed by architect David Brandon to house 212 patients initially. Its name evolved over time as views on mental health changed, eventually taking the name of Wales's patron saint.

The hospital was named after Saint David, the patron saint of Wales, reflecting its connection to local identity. Visitors can still see the chapel with its colorful bricks, built entirely by patients and showing their craftsmanship.

The building sits on a hillside, so expect slopes when exploring the different levels. The chapel and outdoor areas are accessible, but it is wise to wear appropriate footwear and check which parts are open to visitors.

The chapel was built entirely between 1883 and 1889 by patients themselves, not by professional workers. The colorful glazed bricks that give it its distinctive look were made and laid by the residents.

Location: Carmarthen

Inception: 1865

Elevation above the sea: 57 m

Website: http://wales.nhs.uk/sitesplus/862/directory/hospitals/123

GPS coordinates: 51.85700,-4.33200

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:08