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Situated where the river Ystwyth meets the Rheidol and central to the beloved Ceredigion coastline, Aberystwyth is the unofficial capital of mid-Wales and certainly a hub for holidaymakers.

On the bucket list of all well-respected culture-vultures, Aberystwyth boasts the National Library of Wales – where in addition to a plethora of books (including the smallest book in the world) you’ll find the National Screen and Sound Archive of Wales. It’s also home to the Aberystwyth Arts Centre, a ‘national flagship for the arts’. Fans of TVs Hinterland may also fancy a stroll around the local area to spot filming locations.

When it comes to time beside the seaside, Aberystwyth has a charming Victorian esplanade along which you can saunter, fish and chips in hand, as well as the oldest pier in Wales. The best coastal views however can be found at the end of north beach’s promenade 430 feet up at Constitution Hill, which can be reached by Britain’s longest cliff railway. Not only is this a great place to look out to sea where you might spot dolphins frolicking among the waves but this is home to the world’s largest Camera Obscura which provides stunning all-round views back towards the Ceredigion countryside.

While up high, check out Pen Dinas Hill where you’ll find a monument to the first Duke of Wellington with a cracking backdrop. Make time to walk around the ruins of Aberystwyth Castle too. While we’re talking heritage and landscapes, its seems rude not to toot our whistle about the Vale of Rheidol Railway. This is the most pleasing and relaxing way to explore 11¾ miles of charming countryside to Devil’s Bridge with open carriages in the summer so you can enjoy sights of red kites soaring above and the nostalgic scent of steam-power.  

After all that, whether you fancy afternoon tea or a tipple and tapas, there are plenty of places in Aberystwyth to whet your whistle and sample local delicacies including seafood and stinging nettle cheese. Don’t forget a memento! There are all the usual souvenir shops as well as plenty of independent traders selling everything from traditional Celtic crafts to vintage books.

We’ll help you find the perfect Aberystwyth holiday cottage as your base to explore the captivating Ceredigion coastline.