Aberystwyth

Sandwiched between the rolling hills of Mid Wales and the stunning coastline of Cardigan Bay, Aberystwyth occupies one of the most magnificent locations of all the UK's university towns. Originally a bustling harbour, Aberystwyth developed as a flourishing seaside resort during the Victorian era, and remains a popular holiday resort today. However, due to the influx of students studying as the University of Wales campus just outside the town, unlike most tourist centres Aberystwyth retains its lively atmosphere throughout the year, and provides a huge range of attractions and activities to keep everyone entertained, as well as a fantastic base from which to explore the rest of West Wales.

Attractions

In the summer months, the promenade becomes the central focus of the town and a stroll along the seafront is a great introduction to Aberystwyth, offering a chance to relax on the sandy beaches or take a dip in the surprisingly warm sea. Constitution Hill, as the Northern point of the promenade, provides remarkable views of the town and the West Welsh coastline and is well worth the steep climb to the summit, although the less energetic can take the historic Cliff Railway. The Camera Obscura at the top gives a unique 360 degrees panorama of the town as well as a chance to learn about Aberystwyth's colourful history.

At the Southern end of the promenade lie the ruins of the thirteenth century Castle, once one of Wales' most important seats of governments and home to the original nationalist, Owain Glyndwr. The Ceredigion Museum, located in the centre of town, provides some great exhibitions detailing the area's history, as well as showing contemporary local artwork. For more local culture, head to the National Library of Wales, one of the UK's few copyright libraries, which has regular exhibitions of rare publications and collections.

With its dramatic surrounding countryside, Aberystwyth is a fantastic place to enjoy numerous outdoor activities. Hill walking, mountain biking and watersports are particularly popular. The nearby Penglais Nature Park offers some gentle woodland nature walks while the more adventurous can tackle the Pen Dinas Hill which overshadows the town from the South as has some unique viewing points as well as an unusual summit monument.

Shopping

Aberystwyth has all the main high street stores in the town centre, yet it also caters to its student population, with a range of charity and second-hand clothes and music shops offering bargains to those on a budget. For Welsh gifs and souvenirs, it is worth visiting Aberystwyth Arts Centre, which also sells some exclusive pieces of local art and craftwork. The town also has a number of specialist shops for outdoor activities, making Aberystwyth a great place to stock up on essential equipment before heading out on a bike ride or mountain trek.

Nightlife and Eating Out

Aberystwyth has a great range of places to eat and drink to suit every budget. In the main shopping area there are a huge number of coffee shops and sandwich bars offering quick bites, while the restaurants spread around the town cover everything from Italian to Chinese to Indian. The seafront area becomes extremely lively during the evenings, with bars and nightclubs situated along the pier and around Eastgate Street bustling with students and locals alike.

Tourist Information

Aberystywth Tourist Information CentreStryd y BaddonAberystwythSY23 2AG

Ph: +44 1970 612125Email: aberystwythTIC@ceredigion.gov.uk

Airport

The nearest airports to Aberystwyth are Birmingham, Liverpool and Cardiff airports, which all offer international flights, and which lie a couple or hours drive from the town.