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Aberystwyth

Aberystwyth makes an ideal base for exploring the wild coast and green hills of Ceredigion in Mid Wales. This Victorian seaside university town has its own curving promenade and pebbled beach, but venture out and you'll find sandy coves along Cardigan Bay, the thundering falls at Devil's Bridge and quiet hidden gems in the Cambrian Mountains. Our guides cover the best beaches, waterfalls and lesser-known spots, plus day trips further afield, so you can plan coast-and-country adventures in every direction from town.

Tan Y Bwlch Beach

Best Beaches Near Aberystwyth

Wide Ynyslas, sheltered Cei Bach and Penbryn's sands are among the best beaches near Aberystwyth, quiet shores scattered north and south along Cardigan Bay.

Aberystwyth Castle Grounds

Best Places to Visit Near Aberystwyth

Aberystwyth blends coast, hill and history, with places to visit from Devil's Bridge Falls and Ynyslas Beach to the Hafod Estate and the castle grounds.

Rheidol Falls

Best Waterfalls Near Aberystwyth

The best waterfalls near Aberystwyth hide in the Ceredigion hills, from Rheidol and Devil's Bridge Falls to Dolgoch Falls, Ffrwd Fawr and Arthog Waterfalls.

Frongoch Mine Ruins

Hidden Gems Near Aberystwyth

Lead mine ruins at Cwmystwyth, the wooded Hafod Estate and the hushed bog of Cors Caron count among the finest hidden gems near Aberystwyth, all set inland.

Tan Y Bwlch Beach

Top Beaches Day Trips from Aberystwyth

The best beaches near Aberystwyth line Cardigan Bay, from the dunes at Ynyslas to Penbryn, Cei Bach and the quiet sands of Tan y Bwlch and Llanrhystud.

Frongoch Mine Ruins

Top Hidden Gems Day Trips from Aberystwyth

Behind Aberystwyth lies wild upland, and its hidden gems match it: Frongoch mine ruins, Strata Florida Abbey, the Cwmystwyth workings and Llyn Cau's tarn.

Frequently Asked Questions about Aberystwyth


What are the best beaches near Aberystwyth?

Aberystwyth has its own promenade beach, while a short drive reaches sandy Cardigan Bay favourites like Borth to the north and Llangrannog and New Quay to the south. Many offer rock pools, cliffs and clear water for swimming on calmer days.


Where are the best waterfalls near Aberystwyth?

The Devil's Bridge Falls, around twenty minutes inland, are the area's most famous, tumbling through a wooded gorge beneath three stacked bridges. The Cambrian Mountains behind Aberystwyth hide further cascades, best seen after rain when the streams run full.


Is Aberystwyth a good base for day trips?

Yes. Aberystwyth sits midway along Cardigan Bay, within easy reach of coastal villages, the Devil's Bridge Falls and the Cambrian Mountains. The narrow-gauge Vale of Rheidol Railway and the coast road open up beaches, waterfalls and hidden gems in every direction.

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