Out & About
Below are listed some of the best things to do and see in and around Ceredigion. If you're short of ideas, there's something to suit everyone - everything from ancient castles to wildlife watching and lots in between!
Also on this page is our beach guide, with a range of beaches in Ceredigion to visit during your stay!
Cardigan Island Coastal Farm Park
Named for its spectacular views across to Cardigan Island just 200 metres offshore, this unique Farm Park which also overlooks the Teifi estuary and Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, is located on a picturesque headland in the southern part of Cardigan Bay. The island itself is a private nature reserve owned by The Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales.
Cardigan Castle
Winner of the Channel 4 Restoration of the Year, this site features 900 years of history including medieval castle walls and a Georgian house restored to its original glory. You can also stay in this great place with a mixture of serviced and self catering accommodation, 4* and 5* respectively. Our 1176 café and restaurant serves great lunches in a modern cantilevered building overlooking the river.
In The Welsh Wind Distillery
A working distillery on the West Wales coast, we are proud to be innovators and providers of bespoke, small batch premium spirits and gin tasting events. Join us for bespoke gin experiences in our gin lab, and gin tasting opportunities. Our gin lab gin making experience offers you the opportunity to become the distiller and discover your own gin, guided by our expert team.
Llanerchaeron Manor
An elegant Georgian villa, set in the wooded Aeron valley. Remarkably unaltered for over 200 years, this self-sufficient estate includes a farm, walled gardens and lake.
SeaMor Dolphin Watching Boat Trips
Join us on a one and a half hour guided Bottlenose Dolphin Watching Boat Trip, leaving from the picturesque fishing village of New Quay, West Wales. Learn about the local history, geology and wildlife from our marine biologist guides and knowledgeable skippers.
Vale of Rheidol Railway
Travelling on the Vale of Rheidol Railway is the finest way to see the stunning Rheidol Valley. We pass through wide open fields,woodland and rugged mountain scenery as the line twists and turns clinging to the hillside gradually climbing nearly 700ft (200m)from Aberystwyth to reach our destination at Devil’s Bridge.
Aberystwyth Cliff Railway
The Aberystwyth Electric Cliff Railway is the longest in Britain and the only one in Wales. Its 778 feet undulating track and tilted carriages are the unique work of Victorian engineer G. Croyden Marks.
Aberystwyth Castle
When approaching Aberystwyth Castle, you may be impressed by two things. First, the fortress is tremendously ruined, so you may find it very difficult to believe that it was as imposing as Edward’s more famous castles, i.e., Conwy, Caernarfon, Harlech and Beaumaris. While the Big Four in the North have survived almost intact, this southernmost of Edward’s castles is essentially devoid of building material. Second, the sea, only a few yards from the castle, commands your attention.
National Library of Wales
The National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth, is the national legal deposit library of Wales and is one of the Welsh Government sponsored bodies. It is the biggest library in Wales, holding over 6.5 million books and periodicals, and the largest collections of archives, portraits, maps and photographic images in Wales.
Magic of Life Butterfly House
Walk among free-flying butterflies in a luxuriant tropical display. Hundreds of butterflies as well as giant caterpillars, beetles and leaf insects. Outside there is a well-established native butterfly garden. Free guided tours are available. Run by biologists.
Bwlch Y Geuffordd Gardens
Bwlch y Geuffordd Gardens in Bronant is an ideal place to visit . Featured in the last series of “Pobl a’u Gerddi”, and joint runner up of Gardeners World “Garden of the Year” competition, category “Challenging Plot”, there is something here for everyone. The garden is open daily, and is an adventure and fantasy garden for children (and adults). It is also a water garden, sculpture park, sumptuous flower garden, and so much more.
Ceredigion Coastal Path
The walk along the sweeping crescent of Cardigan Bay forms a very special part of the Wales Coast Path. Ceredigion’s 60 miles (96km) section probably has the most varied landscape and terrain of the 870 mile (1400km) length of the Wales Coast Path. As well as great views north towards Snowdonia and south towards Pembrokeshire, the Ceredigion Coast path has wildlife, geological and archaeological features and a colourful history to discover along the way.
Welsh Wildlife Centre
During the school holidays and at weekends, we also run a huge array of events for adults, children and families. You can also pick up a copy of our guidebook, hire binoculars so you can discover the wonders of the surrounding nature reserve or children can also hire an Adventure Backpack containing lots of different and fun activities to explore the site. Out on the reserve, there are six bird hides and these look out over the multiple habitats that occur at Teifi Marshes. Our Explorer Trail is completely accessible for wheelchairs, as is the first stretch of our Wetland Trail which forms part of cycle route 82 running between Cilgerran and Cardigan along a disused railway line reclaimed by nature! Other trails on our reserve include the beautiful Woodland Trail which is covered with bluebells in spring, and the more adventurous and challenging Gorge Trail with stunning scenery of the River Teifi.
Epic Fishing Trips
The modern and professional team at Epic Fishing Trips offer exciting family fishy fun sea fishing trips for adventurers of all ages, aboard their clean, quiet and stable catamaran boat ‘Legend of New Quay’. She is a safe, clean and roomy fishing platform with seating for all, dry storage for belongings and a rain shelter for those wet days. They run two hour mackerel and two hour & four hour deep sea fishing trips daily, when sea conditions are favourable.
Beach Guide
Aberaeron
North Beach
This stretch of rocky beach, backed by a coastal path lies about half a mile north of Aberaeron harbour. There are views along the Ceredigion coastline and out towards the Irish Sea. The beach is used by walkers, sailing enthusiasts and fishermen. It can also be a good place for birdwatching.
The town of Aberaeron has some beautiful Regency-era buildings and plenty of craft shops and good places to eat. The local honey is well worth a try, as is the honey ice-cream. Each year the town hosts a seafood festival.
There are a number of car parks in the town, including one just south-west of the harbour, by the yacht club and another at the end of Lower Regent Street right next to the shoreline.
South Beach
The beach south of the harbour in this pleasant little town is the best. A series of groynes run the length of the beach between which are pebbles.
The town of Aberaeron is right next to the beach and has all the facilities as well as a handful of galleries and cafes.
Aberystwyth
Tan Y Bwlch
Tanybwlch Beach lies close to the town of Aberystwyth and has views over the towering Pen Dinas which is the site of a hill fort that dates from the Iron Age. Pen Dinas is home to a memorial in the form of an upturned cannon which marks the victory of Wellington in the Battle of Waterloo from 1815.
The area which includes Pen Dinas and Tanybwlch were designated as a nature reserve in 1999. It is well worth the climb to the summit of the fort to get an aerial view of the beach as well as vistas that stretch out over the sea.
The beach itself is made up largely of coarse sand and shingle. Located just to the south of the wider Aberystwyth Harbour, Tanybwlch lies across the River Ystwyth with its picturesque valley beyond.
Dogs are allowed on the beach all year round and although you can enjoy bracing walks here swimming is not recommended as the seas can be rough. You can however enjoy exploring the rock pools and the stunning scenery.
South Beach
Aberystwyth’s sand and shingle South Beach is known for being quieter than the North Beach lying between the main harbour and Aberystwyth castle. During the summer months you will find lifeguards patrolling the beach which means that families can swim here with peace of mind. The southern end of the beach is a popular spot for those who like surfing and body boarding as the waves here tend to be slightly larger.
If you are lucky when you visit Aberystwyth South Beach, you may see one of the resident porpoises, especially during warmer weather. As well as the flora and fauna found here, the beach has some gorgeous views that stretch all the way along the coast.
In the summer months there are boat trips which leave from the neighbouring Aberystwyth Harbour. These pass by the beach and out into Cardigan Bay in search of lobster, scallops, mackerel, and crab.
North Beach
Aberystwyth North Beach is livelier than the South Beach being slightly more accessible from the town. The beach fronts the town of Aberystwyth and you will find a promenade here that stretches for over a mile, skirting close to the sand. Favourite activities on the promenade include rollerblading, jogging, or just going for a stroll, especially when the weather is warm.
The beach is covered in dark sand and shingle and is a regular Blue Flag and Seaside Award winner. It is also the ideal place to come if you are looking for old fashioned seaside delights such as donkey rides, promenading, sandcastles and ice cream. There is even a pier from the Victorian era as well as an Edwardian bandstand.
Aberystwyth North Beach is a popular family beach. In the summer months you will also find lifeguards patrolling the beach so you can swim with peace of mind. In addition the promenade has a range of attractions for children such as a paddling pool and eateries. At the north end of the promenade you will find Constitution Hill which has a scenic cliff railway.
When the weather is fine you can take in vistas across from Aberystwyth North Beach towards the pretty Llyn Peninsular and majestic Snowdonia.
Clarach Bay
Clarach Bay is a sheltered sand and shingle beach about one mile north of Aberystwyth. The natural cove is flanked by steep cliffs and is backed by a holiday village and caravan park. The clean beach is used by bathers, watersport enthusiasts and walkers. There are lovely views of the bay and there is a possibility of spotting seals, porpoises or dolphins out in the surf. The south side of the beach is the side closest to Aberystwyth, and it is possible to walk from here to the town via a scenic cliff-top walk, over Constitution Hill. This route offers stunning views over Ceredigion Bay. Alternatively, a longer inland footpath can be taken, via Llangorwen. This route, which passes through a nature reserve, is longer, but just as beautiful. There is a car park, toilets and a small shop by the beach. Nearby Aberystwyth has the ruins of a 13th century castle, as well as plenty of shops and places to eat and drink.
Cardigan
Cwmtydu Beach
Once a smugglers cove Cwmtydu lies to the south west of New Quay. The Beach is predominantly shingle with an area of sand exposed at low tides. The cove is relatively safe, with due care and respect, for various water sports including windsurfing, surfing, canoeing, and sailing. The beach is dog friendly all year round The area is well known locally for being a good place to spot dolphins and seals: but if they don’t make an appearance the setting sun will not disappoint you.
Aberporth Beach
Here’s a place where you get the best of both worlds. A beach with a blue flag award and excellent water quality, and one to enjoy with your dog! Car Park, toilets and refreshments are all within easy reach of the beach. Aberporth attracts both bathers and sailors and their safety is assured by Life Guards. A favourite destination for a day out.
Llangrannog Beach
Boasting superb coastal scenery coupled with two sandy beaches; the main one and the adjoining Cilborth Beach in a hidden cove. Llangrannog has always been popular with locals and visitors alike. Once you have traversed the lanes of the steep sided valley of the River Hawen access is good . There is a seafront car park and in the summer months there is additional parking 5 minutes walk from the main beach. The bay is safe with attention to the care needed with any seaside activity. Dogs are allowed on part of the beach from May through September but the rest of the family can have a really enjoyable day out at Llangrannog where there is a well-stocked beach shop and café.
Mwnt Beach
Another jewel in the treasure chest of the coastline of the Cardigan Bay area! Owned by the National Trust the headland of Mwnt overlooks a small and secluded sandy beach. Because of the nature of the terrain Mwnt is not easy to access. There is no avoiding a long steep slope to the beach including steps. There is a large car park, a refreshment kiosk and toilets. Apart from the delights of the beach there are short cliff top walks. A wealth of history including a fifteenth century church makes Mwnt a very special place indeed. This is reflected in it having Green Coast status. This allows the area to be recognised for its water quality without the need for inappropriate development that would spoil natural beauty and damage wildlife. Dogs welcome from October to April only.
Penbryn Beach
A day out at Penbryn needs to be planned but is well worth the extra effort involved. The car park and facilities are some 400 metres from the beach! But there is a turning circle and dropping off point at the beach edge. Penbryn is owned by the National Trust The beach, almost a mile in length, is unspoilt and the fine golden sand and shallow waters make it perfect for children Discover the delights of the rock pools or there is fine walking to be had; there is a woodland walk from the car park to the beach or at low tide Tresaith can be reached. Please do not bring your dog. The immediate area is sympathetic to coastal and woodland birds and the sea is home to Dolphins, Porpoise and Seals.
Tresaith Beach
Tre-saith is named after the River Saith that cascades over the cliffs to Tresaith beach. The waterfall is an unusual coastal feature and that alone makes Tresaith a ‘must go’ place but there is much more to this small sheltered sandy bay. Popular with families for its clean golden sands and relatively safe bathing, water lovers can enjoy the sea safe in the knowledge that there is a Life Guard on duty. Doggies welcome on part of the beach. After a long lazy day on the beach ‘The Ship’ will serve you a glass of something cool while you watch the sun set spectacularly over Cardigan Bay.
Poppit Sands
Poppit is undoubtedly one of the most popular beaches in the area. It is a glorious stretch of sand backed by dunes. For all sorts of reasons it is loved by the numerous visitors that frequent it. Despite its popularity Poppit never seems crowded. Dogs welcome to one side of the beach. The café is always busy and even in the cold dark days of winter you can often find it open. There is also an interesting little RNLI shop next to the main Life Boat station. Unpredictable tides and currents make Poppits’ seemingly simple stretch of coast quite dangerous at times. Fortunately there are excellent Life Guard facilities, warning flags fly and advice can be sort if needed. Poppit boasts a Blue Flag award.