Things To Do
in Aberystwyth
Aberystwyth is a charming seaside town located on the west coast of Wales. It is known for its beautiful beaches, traditional Victorian promenade, and rugged cliffs. The town is home to Aberystwyth University, which adds to its vibrant and youthful atmosphere.
Visitors can explore historic landmarks like Aberystwyth Castle, enjoy walks along the Wales Coast Path, and experience a variety of cultural events throughout the year.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll along Aberystwyth beach to take in the fresh sea air and stunning views. Follow it up with a visit to the Aberystwyth Cliff Railway for breathtaking panoramic sights.
Visit the National Library of Wales to discover its impressive collection and exhibitions. Grab lunch at a local café and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the town center.
Dine at a traditional Welsh restaurant where you can savor local dishes. End the night with a relaxing walk along the promenade as the sun sets.
Delve into the past at Aberystwyth Castle, exploring its ruins and historical significance. Enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding area.
Visit the Ceredigion Museum to learn about local history and culture. Afterward, try some shopping in local boutiques and artisan shops.
Enjoy a casual dinner at a pub known for its live music. Engage with locals over a pint and listen to some traditional Welsh tunes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches
- Rich cultural and historical significance
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities
- Strong community presence and friendly locals
- Access to outdoor activities including hiking and water sports
- Home to a reputable university with a diverse student population
- Limited job opportunities, especially in specialized fields
- Lower public transport options compared to bigger cities
- Can be quite rainy and windy, affecting outdoor plans
- Fewer entertainment and nightlife options than urban areas
- Limited shopping facilities and high street brands
- Potential isolation due to its geographical location
Best Activities in Aberystwyth
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails along the sand dunes and coastlines of Ynyslas, perfect for walking and enjoying stunning sea views.
Visit Aberystwyth Beach for a leisurely day of beachcombing, swimming, and sunbathing, while enjoying the lively atmosphere of the seafront.
Take a family-friendly ride along the dedicated cycle path from Aberystwyth to Borth, featuring beautiful coastal scenery along the way.
Stroll down the iconic Victorian Pier, take in the views, grab an ice cream, and enjoy various amusements available on site.
Observe diverse wildlife, including birds and marine life, at the nearby Dyfi Estuary, a great spot for nature enthusiasts.
Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the waters around Aberystwyth, offering a unique perspective of the coastline.
Tours
Uncover the best of Aberystwyth with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Aberystwyth
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic walkway along the beach with stunning views of Cardigan Bay, perfect for sunset photography.
Offering panoramic views of Aberystwyth and the surrounding coastline, this hill is a great spot for capturing landscape photos.
The ruins of this historic castle provide a dramatic backdrop for photos, particularly with the sea in the background.
This funicular railway takes you up to Constitution Hill, where you can get spectacular views over the town and bay.
A beautiful sandy beach ideal for capturing seaside moments, with opportunities for candid shots of beachgoers and the waves.
Not only an architectural marvel, but the library offers views of the town and gardens that are great for photos.
Just a short trip from Aberystwyth, this beach offers beautiful dune landscapes and opportunities for wildlife photography.
Food in Aberystwyth
Aberystwyth Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
This traditional Welsh stew, made with lamb or beef, potatoes, and vegetables, is a must-try for visitors to Aberystwyth. Sample authentic Cawl at local pubs and traditional Welsh restaurants like the Glengower.
Must-Try!
Indulge in a delicious serving of Welsh Rarebit, a classic Welsh dish made of toasted bread topped with a savory cheese sauce. Try it at Ultracomida, a popular deli that serves this local delicacy.
Venture to local cafes such as The Hive or Medina for a taste of Laverbread, a traditional Welsh dish made from seaweed. Savor it as part of a full Welsh breakfast.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Aberystwyth better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore a vibrant array of locally sourced produce, baked goods, and artisanal treats at the Aberystwyth Farmers' Market, held on the first and third Saturday of each month. Don't miss the opportunity to sample homemade Welsh cakes and preserves.
Embark on a stroll along the Ceredigion Coastal Path and discover delightful street food vendors offering everything from fresh seafood to gourmet burgers with stunning coastal views as your backdrop.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always greet people with a smile and a friendly 'hello' or 'hi.' Saying 'please' and 'thank you' is considered essential in maintaining respectful interactions. British culture places a high value on politeness.
People in Aberystwyth, like in many parts of the UK, appreciate personal space. When talking to someone, it's advisable to keep a reasonable distance and avoid standing too close unless you have established a close relationship.
Participate respectfully in local traditions and events, such as attending the Morrison's Market or local arts festivals. Being open to learning about and engaging with the culture will be appreciated by the locals.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Aberystwyth with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Aberystwyth
Ensure a smooth experience
In Aberystwyth, tipping practices generally follow UK norms. It is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% in restaurants if the service is not included in the bill. In pubs, it is common to round up the bill or leave small change. Tipping taxi drivers is also appreciated, typically rounding up to the nearest pound. However, unlike in some other countries, tipping in the UK is not obligatory.
Payment methods in Aberystwyth are diverse, with most establishments accepting cash and debit/credit cards. Contactless payments are widely accepted, and mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay are also common. It is advisable to check in advance whether a place accepts specific payment methods, especially in smaller businesses. Additionally, ATMs are available throughout the town for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Aberystwyth.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a lovely time to visit Aberystwyth as flowers begin to bloom and temperatures start to rise. Expect mild weather, with average temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C. This season is ideal for exploring the coastline and enjoying outdoor activities as the area begins to come alive with color.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Aberystwyth. Visitors can enjoy warm weather, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C, making it perfect for beach activities and festivals. Expect vibrant cultural events, bustling promenades, and an array of outdoor attractions during this time.
Autumn (September to November) offers beautiful fall foliage and a quieter atmosphere as the tourist crowds diminish. The temperatures cool down, ranging from 10°C to 16°C. This is a great time for scenic walks and enjoying local harvest festivals. Expect some rain, but also many sunny days.
Winter (December to February) in Aberystwyth can be cold and wet, with temperatures averaging between 2°C and 8°C. Expect fewer tourists, which can make for a peaceful visit. This season is perfect for enjoying the area's indoor attractions, cozy cafes, and winter events, while also taking in the dramatic coastal scenery.
Aberystwyth at Night
Hiking in Aberystwyth
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hilly area that offers a variety of trails with picturesque views of the surrounding countryside.
Although a bit further away, Snowdon is a popular destination for hikers seeking stunning views from the highest peak in Wales.
A beautiful valley with trails following the River Rheidol, ideal for both casual walkers and seasoned hikers.
A short, accessible hike with breathtaking coastal views, perfect for families and those looking for a leisurely walk.
A popular visitor center with well-marked trails in the forests and hills, offering a variety of lengths and difficulty levels.
Aiports
How to reach Aberystwyth by plane.
Birmingham Airport is located approximately 135 miles from Aberystwyth and serves as one of the major international airports in the UK.
Manchester Airport is about 170 miles from Aberystwyth and is one of the largest airports serving the north of England.
Cardiff Airport is approximately 70 miles from Aberystwyth, offering both domestic and international flights.
Liverpool John Lennon Airport is around 130 miles from Aberystwyth, providing flights to various European destinations.
London Heathrow Airport, located about 200 miles from Aberystwyth, is one of the busiest international airports in the world.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
This group represents the majority demographic in Aberystwyth, consisting primarily of individuals of White British ethnicity.
This includes individuals from various Asian backgrounds, such as Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Chinese, and other Asian ethnicities.
This group includes individuals from African and Caribbean backgrounds.
This demographic encompasses individuals with mixed ethnic backgrounds, combining two or more ethnicities.
This category includes individuals identifying with ethnicities not classified in the above groups, such as those identifying as Gypsy or Traveller, or from other ethnic backgrounds.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a very popular sport in Aberystwyth, with local clubs participating in various leagues and community events.
Rugby has a strong following in Aberystwyth, with both men's and women's teams competing at different levels.
Cricket is played at both amateur and local club levels, with matches taking place during the summer months.
Running events and clubs are popular, catering to fitness enthusiasts and competitive runners alike.
Cycling is a favored activity in Aberystwyth, with access to scenic routes and cycling clubs encouraging participation.
The coastal location of Aberystwyth promotes various water sports, including kayaking, sailing, and windsurfing.
Athletics clubs and events are available for those interested in track and field sports.
Field hockey is actively played in schools and clubs, attracting many young athletes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aberystwyth.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Visitors with plant-based dietary preferences will find ample choices across Aberystwyth, with many restaurants and cafes offering dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus. Notable spots include The Veganist, a cozy eatery celebrated for its innovative vegan dishes.
For gluten-free dining, establishments like Medina and Baravin provide a range of gluten-free dishes and are known for their accommodating approach to dietary restrictions. Additionally, local seafood restaurants often have gluten-free options for those with a taste for the sea’s bounty.