The Bell Inn and the earthquake 

On the evening of 2 November 1893 at 17:45 UTC, South Wales experienced one of its most notable historic seismic events: the Carmarthenshire earthquake of 1893, estimated to have reached a magnitude of 5.0. Recorded by the British Geological Survey Earthquake Seismology programme, the tremor remains one of the most significant earthquakes documented in Welsh history.

The earthquake’s epicentre was located just southwest of Carmarthen, though interestingly, despite its proximity to the town, no damage was reported in Carmarthen itself. The strongest effects were instead felt across surrounding communities, particularly in the area between Cardigan and Swansea, where minor structural damage was reported. Accounts describe cracked plaster, collapsed and damaged chimneys, smashed crockery, and widespread alarm among residents.

One of the most vivid reports came from Kidwelly, where two distinct shocks were felt approximately ten minutes apart. The first was severe enough to demolish chimneys in several streets, partially collapse the chimney of the Bell Inn, and send bricks crashing into the street, slightly injuring a young girl. Witnesses described a deep rumbling noise up to twenty-five seconds before the tremor struck, while others likened the sensation to an electric current passing through their bodies. Furniture reportedly jolted violently, and some residents were temporarily unable to stand.

The earthquake was remarkable for the vast area over which it was felt. Reports confirmed tremors as far north as Lancaster, east to Market Harborough and London, and across the Irish Sea in Tullow. Observers also noted disturbances in the waters of the Towy Estuary, further underlining the force of the event.

This earthquake occurred only fifteen months after the 1892 Pembroke earthquake, marking it as part of a period of heightened seismic activity in South Wales during the late nineteenth century. While the region is not typically associated with major earthquakes, these events highlighted the presence of active geological faults beneath western Wales.

Despite its dramatic local effects, the 1893 Carmarthenshire earthquake caused no major destruction and no reported fatalities. It should not be confused with the fatal 1893 landslide in the Swansea Valley, which was caused by severe weather rather than seismic activity.

Today, the Carmarthenshire earthquake stands as an important historical reminder that even relatively stable parts of the United Kingdom can experience significant seismic events.

(Image Lady Street, Kidwelly, late C19th, Early C20th