Make the most of your visit; there are lots of exciting things to do in Aberystwyth. Go exploring around Constitution Hill, an iconic symbol of Aberystwyth’s past. Take in the views at Aberystwyth Promenade, kayak along the coastline, explore the forests on horseback or experience the beauty of the parks. Start planning your trip now!
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Aberystwyth Things To Do
The stunning seaside town of Aberystwyth is in Ceredigion, West Wales. The Aberystwyth seafront and streets still retain much of their Georgian and Victorian character, with bow windows, collonaded doorways and elegant proportions, whilst the street names suggest that the town is even older, which indeed it is.
There are so many things to do in Aberystwyth for families, things to do in Aberystwyth for adults, things to do in Aberystwyth at night, unusual things to do in Aberystwyth and things to do in Aberystwyth with dogs. Get lost in the town’s winding streets, lined with shops and cafes, and enjoy the classic beauty and architecture. Whatever you decide to do, you won’t be disappointed.
Free Things to Do in Aberystwyth
Whether you’re on a budget or want to keep your spending money for other things, luckily, there are plenty of free things to do in Aberystwyth.
Ceredigion Museum
If you begin your Aberystwyth visit in the heart of town, it makes sense to start your day at the Amgueddfa Ceredigion Museum, which is free to visit. Housed in a beautiful Edwardian theatre, the museum has permanent and temporary displays. From farming to food, clothes to transport and the “It Happened in Aber” audio tour, there’s plenty to experience. It’s a lot bigger than it looks! The museum is open Monday to Saturday between 10am and 5pm.
🐾 Not dog-friendly
National Library of Wales
Sitting high on the hillside, the most extensive library in Wales is something special. The National Library of Wales holds some of the most important official documents and government archives. With more than 6.5 million books on the shelves, you can spend a lot of time here. The smallest book in the world is also here. If you want to use the Reading Room, register in advance.
I really enjoyed the Wales Broadcast Archive. Video and sound footage from BBC Wales, ITV Wales and S4C give you a glimpse of television and radio over the last 100 years. You wear headphones, stand on the appropriate spot and watch or listen. There’s even a section with different songs, so it’s almost like a silent disco!
The general opening times are Monday to Friday from 9am to 6pm and Saturday between 9.30am and 5pm. There is a steep climb up Penglais Hill from the town centre, or there is a designated car park with a small parking fee.
🐾 Not dog-friendly
Aberystwyth Castle
Regular readers will know I love exploring a castle. Wales is the land of castles, but the ruins at Aberystwyth Castle are a gem. However, very little of it is left to see you can still get up close to examine the construction details of this once-revered fortress. Surrounding the castle is greenspace on the hill. You can take advantage of the high vantage point to sit on the benches overlooking the ocean and peer through the public telescopes. It’s the ideal place to enjoy a seaside picnic.
It is considered one of the best castles in Wales partly because it was one of the first of a series built under King Edward I. The construction of the defence system that it provided was considered cutting edge in the 13th Century with features like walls within walls.
🐾 Dog-friendly
St Michael’s Church
Perched right behind the castle, St. Michael’s is an impressive historical church. Four churches have stood on the site. In the 15th Century, the church was dedicated to St Mary and was constructed between the castle and the sea. By 1748 it was in ruins, and the third church replaced its short-lived successor. The present church was built between 1886-1890.
🐾 Not dog-friendly
Aberystwyth Promenade
The mile-long waterfront walkway on Aberystwyth’s North Beach is very active. Aberystwyth Promenade is the town’s focal point and is popular for a morning run or sunset stroll. Expect the usual seaside treats such as donkey rides, bandstand entertainment and bouncy castles. Don’t forget to kick the bar at the end; it’s a tradition!
🐾 Dog-friendly
Aberystwyth Pier
Whilst on the Prom, make your way to the Aberystwyth Pier – Royal Pier – the oldest pier in Wales, built in 1864. It used to be 242 metres, but time and storms have reduced it to 90 metres. It is jam-packed with modern-day amusements, including indoor dodgems and ten-pin bowling. The Saloon Bar has panoramic views; it’s the ideal place to grab some seaside food or have a drink in the Pier Garden.
🐾 Not dog-friendly
North Beach
If you want a relaxing day by the water, the Aberystwyth beach is excellent for swimming, stand-up paddle boarding and building sandcastles. North Beach is the most popular because it is easily accessible from the promenade. It is a favourite for visitors and locals. The beach is covered in dark sand and shingle and is a Blue Flag and Seaside Award winner.
🐾 Dog-friendly. However, there is a seasonal ban between 1 May and 30 September.
South Beach
The South Beach is a little quieter. It is sandwiched between the castle and the harbour. Popular with surfers and bodyboarders as the waves tend to be slightly larger. You may also see one of the resident porpoises, especially during the warmer weather.
🐾 Dog-friendly. However, there is a seasonal ban between 1 May and 30 September.
Aberystwyth Harbour
A visit to Aberystwyth Marina is always enjoyable. As well as being able to berth here, you can also take boat trips. The most popular is to go dolphin spotting or sea fishing. It’s possible to see charter boats nestled alongside the fishing boats.
🐾 Dog-friendly
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Pen Dinas Hill
One of the most significant local landmarks in Aberystwyth is Pen Dinas Hill. The walk-up is moderately steep and takes about 15-20 minutes from the base of the hill. Your reward is a spectacular viewpoint over the ocean and hilly landscape, where you can see cows grazing in farm fields, Aberystwyth Castle, the harbour, and the town.
Pendenis is the largest Iron Age Hillfort in Ceredigion. The monument was built in 1852 in memory of the first Duke of Wellington. The stone column takes the form of an 18-metre upended cannon. It is thought that it was intended to have a statue at the top, which was never installed.
🐾 Dog-friendly
Ceredigion Coastal Path
Who doesn’t love a ramble along the coastline? The Ceredigion Coast Path is 60 miles (96km) long with wildlife, geological, archaeological features and a colourful history. From Aberystwyth, you can explore the route to Llanrhystud. It is a challenging walk but rewarding as you discover Tŵr Gwylanod (seagulls’ tower) and the ‘hanging woodlands’ of Penderi Cliffs.
Or the route from Aberystwyth to Ynyslas. It passes over Constitution Hill and the Cameral Obscura towards Clarach and Borth. There are expansive views over the Dyfi Estuary and mountains beyond. At Borth, the route continues along the beach to Ynyslas, where you can look across the Aberdyfi and Cadair Idris.
🐾 Dog-friendly
Aberystwyth Attractions
Although Aberystwyth has some pretty historic places to see, it’s also a thriving university town with a lively character. It is a quaint town to visit and somewhere you can easily spend a few days relaxing and exploring with something for the whole family.
Aberystwyth Cliff Railway
The Aberystwyth Cliff Railway is found at the end of the Aberystwyth Promenade. It is the most relaxing way to travel to the summit, with glorious panoramic views of Cardigan Bay. The longest electric cliff railway has been transporting visitors to the Welsh town since 1896. But it has recently been refurbished.
The top is known as Constitutional Hill. Here is the largest Camera Obscura in the world. Its 14-inch lens and the 1,000-square-mile view are exciting to experience. The original, built in the castle grounds, disappeared in the 1920s when visitors lost interest, but the replica is just as impressive. It is open daily between 11am and 5pm.
Constitutional Hill also has a popular games room with pool, air hockey, 10-pin bowling or miniature golf. You can also grab a cuppa, cake, or something more substantial, in Y Consti Café.
It is open from April to October from 10am to 5pm (6pm during high season). There is no need to pre-book. Prices are £7 per adult for a return journey and £6 for children (age 4-15). Family tickets are also available.
🐾 Dog-friendly
Vale of Rheidol Railway
One of the best things to do in Aberystwyth is go for a scenic ride on board the Vale of Rheidol Railway through the Rheidol Valley. As you climb Devil’s Bridge, the curvy tracks lead you through the rugged mountains, farm fields, ancient woodlands, and hillsides.
Devil’s Bridge is home to one of the best waterfalls in Wales, with a lot to see and do, like hiking the waterfall loop and seeing the three bridges that gave the area its name. There are small eateries and ice cream shops close to the falls to enjoy before your return back to Aberystwyth.
There are several departures each day, but it’s best to book your tickets in advance in the busy summer season. Tickets are £32 per adult and £4 for children aged 3-15. There are also first-class tickets. However, the only difference is that you get more luxurious chairs.
🐾 Dog-friendly – £4 per dog. Service dogs are free.
Aberystwyth Arts Centre
The Aberystwyth Arts Centre is Wales’ largest arts centre with a wide-ranging programme. You can see drama, dance, music, visual arts and film here. The main concert hall seats over 900 people and is used for live music, stand-up comedy and university graduations. Alongside this, there are dance studios, rehearsal spaces and art rooms.
🐾 Not dog-friendly
Shopping in Aberystwyth
Aberystwyth is a shopping centre for the wider West and Mid Wales area. It has many of the major retail chain stores and plenty of lovely independent shops. Polly was established in 1993 and now has three stores selling women’s clothing, footwear and accessories. A mother-and-daughter duo owns Her Dandy Wolf and sells a mix of men’s and women’s vintage and new clothing, homeware and artwork. In contrast, Stars has jewellery, crystals, fragrance books and tarot.
Ystwyth Books is a small, charming second-hand bookshop. Siop y Pethe is also a bookshop in the Welsh language and by Welsh authors. It also offers Welsh music CDs. Driftwood Designs has a beautiful range of gifts, homeware, prints and cards.
Local Markets
Aberystwyth Market Hall is newly refurbished. It offers a traditional shopping experience. It’s fun to browse the stalls, meet the traders and make a purchase. Current traders in the Main Hall include Boutique Bakery, David Gilbert Jewellery, Dwnia Holistic Therapies and Gitâr—Guitar. The Aberystwyth Farmers Market is monthly, on the first and third Saturday. It is recognised as one of the best in the UK. Here you’ll find seasonal vegetables, local cheese, free-range eggs, meat and poultry, artisan loaves of bread, cakes and pies… and so much more.
Places to Eat in Aberystwyth
Aberystwyth is a foodie heaven, with abundant options for all tastes and budgets. So, whether you’re staying for the long haul or just for a day trip, you’ll surely find several restaurants in Aberystwyth that’ll suit your taste.
Get 50% off food
So, did you know you can get 2 for 1 on meals or 50% off food with a Tastecard? There are independent and chain restaurants to choose from and various cuisines. Get a 2-month free trial here:
Medina is an independently run restaurant with a Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-inspired menu. From shakshuka at breakfast, a falafel wrap at lunch to a dinner menu that will tingle your tastebuds. With a mezze selection including grilled halloumi, cumin fried whitebait and lamb kibbeh. And kebabs served in a pitta with slaw, pickled chilli and lettuce – pulled Lebanese chicken, lamb shawarma and harissa spiced cauliflower.
The Glengower is a waterfront pub with incredible food. They use local ingredients, so dig into beer-battered cod and chips, a halloumi burger with pineapple and sweet chilli, or a braised shine of Welsh beef. It’s worth the visit for the views alone, as the sun terrace overlooks the beach; it’s a top place to catch the sunset.
If you want to splash the cash or enjoy a romantic meal in a luxury restaurant, SY23 is the place to head. It’s a Michelin-starred restaurant in a converted townhouse, cooking local produce over a fire. The 10-course set menu is ever-changing but typically includes scallops, cockles and lamb.
Things to do near Aberystwyth
Aberystwyth, affectionately known as ‘Aber’, is a town with wider horizons than its rural coastline setting and relaxed lifestyle might suggest. You can experience attractions near Aberystwyth without travelling far. As a university town, it’s a melting pot of cultures and ideas.
Free Things To Do Near Aberystwyth
Aberystwyth is an ideal base to explore the landscapes of Ceredigion, the Cardigan Bay coast and the Cambrian Mountains.
Hafod Estate
The 18th Century Hafod Estate is about 12 miles outside Aberystwyth. Here you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Cambrian Mountains. Managed by the National Resources, it has views of the countryside, sheep grazing in the fields, lush forests, historic buildings and the Hafod Uchtryd waterfalls. The five walking trails around the estate are incredible, and they are all waymarked from the main car park. Including two circular walks called the Gentleman’s Walk and the Lady’s Walk.
🐾 Dog-friendly
Bwlch Nant yr Arian Forest Visitor Centre
Bwlch Nant yr Arian Forest Visitor Centre is for walkers, runners and mountain bikers. The visitor centre separates the boundary between lowlands and uplands and has beautiful views of Cardigan Bay and the Cambrian Mountains. The walk by the lake is especially charming.
The Centre is well known and has a long-established tradition of feeding red kites daily. You will find signs along the trails and designated viewing areas about the habits and habitats of the birds. Alongside this, there is a Elenydd stories and an animal discovery trail, a skills park and a playground.
🐾 Dogs are allowed on all of the trails, in the shop, inside the café and on the decking area.
Dyfi National Nature Reserve
The Dyfi National Nature Reserve is situated midway between Aberystwyth and Machynlleth. The Ynyslas Visitor Centre is the ideal place to start your visit. It has an exhibition about what to see and a shop selling hot and cold drinks, books and local produce. From here, walking trails are waymarked from start to finish.
🐾 Dog-friendly
Places to visit near Aberystwyth
There are so many family things to do near Aberystwyth, places to visit near Aberystwyth, unusual things to do near Aberystwyth, things to do near Aberystwyth for adults and things to do near Aberystwyth with dogs. Here are some ideas for day trips from Aberystwyth.
Silver Mountain Experience
Get first-hand experience of what it was like more than 250 years ago for miners at Silver Mountain Experience. Learn about the life of Welsh miners in difficult working conditions as you experience underground tunnels. Plus, Welsh myths and folklore. Explore the Black Chasm, A Dragon’s Tale and A Miner’s Life which is a guided tour.
It’s best to pre-book your tickets. They are cheaper online; £15.95 per adult and £11.95 per child (age 3-15). There are discounts for students, seniors, carers, NHS, military and emergency services.
🐾 Dogs are welcome on short leads to the surface attractions but can’t be taken on guided tours or experiences.
Magic of Life Butterfly House
The indoor tropical house is in the Rheidol Valley. Magic of Life Butterfly House is full of tropical butterflies that fly freely around. It is home to some of the world’s largest and most colourful butterflies. In a season, there can be up to 70 different species. There are also unusual insects, giant caterpillars and plants.
It is open daily from mid-February to November from 10am-4pm. Adults are £9 per adult and £7 for children aged 3-15.
🐾 Dog-friendly
Devil’s Bridge
As mentioned earlier, you can get to Devil’s Bridge via the train, or you can drive there. Devil’s Bridge Falls is a world-famous attraction in the heart of the Cambrian Mountains. There are two walks to choose from The Punchbowl, which takes 10-20 minutes or the long walk, which is a minimum of 45 minutes. You do need to be mobile and sturdy on your feet as there are steep steps, uneven surfaces, and it is slippery in places.
The long walk is beautiful. The path follows the ancient oak woodland deep into the gorge, including 675 steep, natural stone steps, including the last flight known as Jacobs Ladder. After this, you cross the humped bridge, which is the halfway point. From here, you start to ascend back up. There are plenty of places to stop and catch your breath or benches to sit and take in the views. Along the route, there are viewing platforms so you can see the waterfall from different angles.
The turnstiles are coin-operated and have an early bird price of £2 per person. Between 9.30am and 5.30pm (earlier in winter), the kiosk is manned, and you can pay cash or card. Adults are £4.50, and children aged 5-16 are £2.50. Paths are not lit at night. The car park is free.
🐾 Dog-friendly. However, and this is my personal recommendation, if they are likely to pull or aren’t great on the lead, don’t take them. I could not have held on to my dog and navigated the stairs if he had been with me.
Fantasy Farm Park
Fantasy Farm Park has a heated indoor play area for toddlers, with rides, inflatable slides, bouncy castles, a climbing maze, a ball pit, and soft play. Outside is a petting zoo, a go-kart track, a rodeo bull, and pedal boats in the lake. Or, enjoy a picturesque walk along the wonderful Welsh woodland trail.
It is open daily from April to October. Adults are £10.95 per person, and children are £9.95.
🐾 Not dog-friendly
Welsh Language
If you are a native speaker or a learner wanting to practise speaking Welsh, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to do this in Aberystwyth. Many of the locals speak Welsh but are happy to converse in English too.
Places to Stay in Aberystwyth
If you know when you’d like to travel, try to book in advance and as soon as possible. Prices rise the closer you get to the travel date. However, there is a vast array to accommodate all budgets.
Townhouse No1 Aberystwyth
Ad | When it comes to luxury at affordable prices, you won’t want to settle for anything less than the best. Townhouse No.1 is the best place to stay for a truly unforgettable experience. From the moment you walk through the door, you feel at home. The rooms are finished with pure elegance and sophistication.
Even if you’re keen to be out seeing the local sites, you’ll want to have a lie-in because the bed is divine. When you are up, you can make a cup of coffee with the Tassimo machine or tea or hot chocolate. Along with the beautiful power shower with White Stuff toiletries, you’ll be ready to start the day. But before you head out, grab a light breakfast in the kitchen – toast, cereal, fruit, yoghurt and a selection of cheese, biscuits and cakes, alongside bottled juice, pop and water – all the fuel you need for exploring Aberystwyth.
The hotel is a 10-minute walk to the town centre and Promenade. There is free parking on the streets around the building, and as previously mentioned, all the amenities you need for a night or two away. Check it out – you won’t regret it! I didn’t want to leave!
Sykes Holiday Cottages
The award-winning business has cottages across the UK, and the ones in Aberystwyth are beautiful. From cosy lodges with traditional woodburning stoves to contemporary accommodation with a hot tub. With all the amenities you could need, including parking, WiFi and many dog-friendly places, check out Sykes Holiday Cottages.
🐾 Dogs welcome
National Trust Holidays
National Trust Holidays offer a selection of holiday cottages, campsites and bunkhouses set in spectacular locations. They have everything you need for a night away, from kitchen facilities to cosy gardens to relax in during warmer weather.
In Ceredigion, there’s Abermydyr, a woodland retreat fairy-tale cottage that can sleep up to 6 guests; Llanborth Campervan Site, a short walk from Penbryn’s beach; or Pontbrenmydyr a vernacular cottage that sleeps 2 people.
Plan a Trip with Expedia
Booking a hotel via Expedia is a seamless experience that offers convenience and choice at your fingertips. With just a few clicks, you can browse through a wide array of cosy boutique hotels to luxurious resorts, tailored to your preferences and budget. Compare prices, read reviews from fellow travellers, and explore amenities, ensuring you find the perfect place to stay for your trip.
Create your Itinerary
Using TripAdvisor when booking a hotel allows you to access a wealth of reviews and ratings from fellow travellers, helping you make an informed decision on where to stay, while also providing recommendations and insights on planning things to do during your trip.
Last Minute Deals
Don’t be afraid of staying outside of Aberystwyth. Morf Borth, Llanrhystud, Aberaeron, Pondterwyd and Pontarfynach are the surrounding areas. You can also plan with LastMinute.com. Stay at great hotels at a fraction of the price.
Getting to Aberystwyth
Even if you don’t drive, you can get to Barmouth by train with Transport for Wales. Aberystwyth Train Station is in the town centre and is on the Cambrian Coast Railway connected to Barmouth, Harlech, Porthmadog, Machynlleth and Shrewsbury.
Transport for Wales now offers Multiflex, which gives you 12 journeys for the same price as 5 returns. And who doesn’t want to save money? Especially when you can spend the savings on your staycation. There’s also a pretty excellent Capacity Checker tool that helps indicate the often full trains and the ones with plenty of seats available, so you can decide the best time for your journey.
🐾 Dogs are permitted on Transport for Wales trains free of charge, but they must not inconvenience other passengers or staff members and be on a lead at all times. A maximum of two per passenger.
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