Things to do in Aberystwyth
Things to do in Aberystwyth
If you’re looking for things to do in Aberystwyth then you’re in the right place!
We’ve spent 30 years living near Aber and want to share the best is has to offer with you.
So let’s take a look at tuings to do in Aberystwyth town and closeby. We’ve also added some suggestions of things to do when it’s raining!
Things to do in Aberystwyth | In Town
Rheidol Railway
You can catch a steam train along the Vale of Rheidol Railway from Aberystwyth.
The steam engine will take you the 11 miles along the narrow gauge track to Devil’s Bridge (more information below in “Things to do in Aberystwyth | Nearby”)
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2. Aberystwyth Cliff Railway
Another railway but this time instead if steam it’s powered by electricity.
This is Britain’s longest electric funicular railway and the view from up top is beautiful.
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If you don’t fancy a short but steep walk it’s also the easiest way to get to the…
3. The World’s Largest Camera Obscura
Sitting at the top of Constitution Hill is Aberystwyth’s Camera Obscura.
It has a 14-inch lens that reflects 1,000 square miles of land onto a circular screen.
4. Kick the bar at the end of the promenade
OK, so this one isn’t really a ‘day-out’ but if you like tradition and want to do as the locals do then you should really do this at least once!
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There are many theories about how ‘kicking the bar’ became a thing but somehow it took off!
So, when you’re up the north end of the promenade by Constitution Hill make sure you give it a good kick!
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5. Visit Aberystwyth’s Bandstand
Aberystwyth’s bandstand was destroyed by storms in 2014 and has since been fully rebuilt.
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During the Summer they arrange free events from art and craft to water sport demos.
6. Take a wander around Parc Penglais
This area of woodland in Aberystwyth is open to the public to have a wander.
It is a beautifully tranquil space and during springtime it’s covered in bluebells.
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7. Stroll along Aberystwyth’s Promenade
Sometimes the simple things are the best!
No visit to Aber is complete without a stroll along Aberystwyth Promenade during the day with an ice cream or during the evening to watch the starlings roost.
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Towards the southern end you’ll find…
8. Aberystwyth Castle and Playground
One of our favourite things to do in Aberystwyth is to explore the castle battlements.
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They have dominated the town’s seafront since the 13th Century and as a result have such a great atmosphere.
Inside the castle walls, sheltered from the sea, you’ll also find a playground and public toilets.
9. Surfing
You can surf at Aberystwyth or further up the coast at Borth or Ynyslas.
You can hire boards or book lessons here.
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Personally I love surfing in the rain but if you prefer to be indoors then keep reading to see our suggestions for things to do in Aberystwyth when it’s raining…
Things to do in Aberystwyth When It’s Raining
10. Watch a film at the Commodore in Aberystwyth
You won’t find a massive cinema complex in Aberystwyth…we prefer our cinemas to be a little more retro!
This family-run cinema has a fully-licensed lounge, car-park and adult tickets are only £6.
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Booking is advisable, especially if it’s a wet summer’s day as this may be top of everyone’s list!
11. Aberystwyth Arts Centre
The Arts Centre on the University campus hosts cinema screenings, dance, comedy and theatrical events. They also organise various exhibitions and events.
12. The National Library of Wales
The National Library of Wales offers weekly guided tours (booking essential) and hosts various workshops.
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13. Magic of Life Butterfly House
A short drive from Aberystwyth, you’ll find the Magic Life of Butterfly House.
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14. Browse the Ceredigion Museum
former theater cinema and all for free. Please donate to keep this lovely place open.
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15. Blue Island Ceramics
Blue Island Ceramics in Ynyslas is bound to brighten even the dullest of days.
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Whist there, you can paint your own pottery as a souvenir of your trip.
Things to do Near Aberystwyth
16. Strata Florida
Strata Florida translates from Latin as the Vale of Flowers…Ystrad Fflur in Welsh.
It’s a former Cistercian Abbey that was once an important and powerful religious centre in Wales.
Dafydd ap Gwilym, who is one of the best known of Wales’s medieval poets, is buried there under a yew tree.
While you’re close-by you should stop for a walk at….
17. Cors Caron Bog
I know, a bog doesn’t sound that appealing but trust me…it’s beautiful!
A great place for a run or taking the kids on their bike’s too!
18. Visit Hinterland Country
Hinterland or Y Gwyll in Welsh is a popular police detective series set in and around Aberystwyth.
You can see some of the filming locations here (my old office was the police station!)
Filming: Y Gwyll – Hinterland
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See the dunes at Ynyslas
Ynyslas is part of the Dyfi National Nature Reserve.
The sand dunes of Ynyslas are the largest dunes in Ceredigion.
They demonstrate all the stages of dune formation and growth, from sandy shore through vegetated shingle, fore dunes, mobile dunes and fixed dunes to scrub.
They are home to a rich population of orchids, mosses, liverworts, fungi, insects and spiders; many of these species are rare and some are unknown elsewhere in Britain.
19. Take a walk at Hafod
The Hafod Estate is a stunning place for a walk.
It is recognised as one of the best examples in Europe of a Picturesque landscape.
Circular walks lead visitors through beautiful woodlands and along paths with panoramic views.
There’s even a cave with a waterfall at the end!
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20. Find a Playground
If you’re visiting Ceredigion with children then there are several lovely playgrounds in and around Aberystwyth that will keep them entertained.
Take a look at this post if you want to be able to find playgrounds fast, wherever you are in the world.
21. Gaze at the arch in Cwmystwyth
The arch dates back to 1810.
Believe it or not but the main road used to pass underneath it!
22. Climb Pumlumon
The summit of Pumlumon is the highest point of the Cambrian Mountains.
As you can imagine, the views are worth the climb!
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23. RSPB Ynys hir Nature Reserve
Ynys hir boasts seven hides and sits beside the Dyfi Estuary. It covers 500 hectares and includes various habitats.
Bwlch Nant Yr Arian
Another beautiful location in the Cambrian Mountains.
This location offers several walks and mountain biker trails.
There are also two lovely childrens’ play areas and a cafe at Bwlch Nant Yr Arian.
Visit at feeding time to see the red kites being fed over the lake.
Fantasy Farm
Fantasy Farm Park is another favourite of our boys. Not only are there lots of cute animals to see but there is also an indoor play shed with bouncy castles.
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Centre For Alternative Technology
A great day out for set in beautiful mid-Wales, inspires thousands of visitors each year with over 7 acres of gardens and hands on displays, to discover over 40 years of sustainability practice.
The centre teaches you all about the earth’s natural resources. Discover details of renewable energy generation, such as wind and solar power, learn about composting and waste management, and organic growing. Explore working examples of environmentally responsible buildings, and find out fascinating facts from the range of interactive displays
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Devils Bridge Falls
Devils Bridge Falls is a beautiful site where the River Mynach cascades 90 metres into the River Rheidiol below.
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There are actually three bridges, one build on top of the other. Folklore tells a tale of the Devil himself building the first bridge!
Whatever you choose to do during your stay in Aberystwyth we’re sure you’ll have a lovely time.
We hope we’ve helpes you find lots of things to do in Aberystwyth!