Aberystwyth is an established holiday resort, which is home to many of Wales’ cultural institutions, situated on spectacular coastline and an ideal base for exploring the striking and unspoilt countryside at its doorstep.
It has one of the most prestigious colleges of the University of Wales attracting students from far and wide. Wales’ literary treasure, the National Library of Wales, is a good place to start tracing your Welsh ancestors. There is a cosmopolitan ambience to this established resort town that is packed with lively bars, renowned restaurants and quality accommodation. The largest town on this sparsely populated coast of west Wales, Aberystwyth is an ideal base to explore the many hidden coves and sandy beaches of the region. It has been recorded as consistently being one of Britain’s sunniest spots.
The town is at the mouth of the Rheidiol and Ystwyth valleys, which offer secluded walks. Steam trains ride along the Vale of Rheidol railway from Aberystwyth up to the mysteriously named Devils Bridge, passing through some of the most rugged terrain of any railway in the United Kingdom, and offering spectacular views. Further inland are the Plynlimon Hills, ideal for mountain biking, hiking and escaping from the rest of the world.
Must see and do
- Vale of Rheidol Railway, Aberystwyth
- Aberystwyth Arts Centre, Aberystwyth
- Strata Florida Abbey, near Aberystwyth
- Ceredigion Museum, Aberystwyth