Aberystwyth

To find the heart of Aberystwyth you need go no further than the seafront. For locals and visitors alike the seafront is undoubtedly the main attraction. The promenade along the beach is at least a mile in length, making more than enough room for those enjoying a gentle stroll as well as space for the cyclists, joggers and roller-bladers that use it too. As you walk along the promenade you will be able to see glimpses of some of the other attractions that bring people to this lovely seaside resort town. There is the harbour and the marina at the southern side of the promenade with Constitution Hill to the north and in between the busy and ever popular main beach.

Constitution Hill

Constitutional Hill can’t fail to be seen, looming as it does at the northern side of the promenade. Known as ‘Consti’ to the locals, on a clear day the view from the top could see you looking at Mount Snowdon, miles away in the distance but even if the day is not crystal clear you can still get a fantastic view of Aberystwyth and the surrounding countryside. Don’t worry about having to climb all the way to the top either as there is a delightful little electric railway which has been in operation since 1896, that will take the strain for you, in fact it is the longest electric cliff railway still in operation. At the top of the hill you will find a Victorian type camera obscura, and a welcoming café.

North Beach & Marine Terrace

This is the busiest part of the entire seafront; the promenade here is fronted by the traditional seaside hotels as well as houses and students hall of residence. The beach here is composed mainly of shingle on a dark coloured sand, and the water although cold at the best of times, is clean. You will also find a paddling pool for the kids here as well as the old bandstand, which during the height of the summer season is the location for all kinds of entertainment from choral performances to local bands taking the stage. This part of the promenade attracts many bikers, who use it as a meeting place, travelling from all around the surrounding countryside, adding an extra dimension to this traditional seaside town.

This is also where you will find the pier which has stood here since 1864, although only a mere ninety metres rather than its original two hundred and forty two it is home to a large entertainment complex with bars, amusement arcades, night clubs and an ice cream bar and brasserie. The newer part of the promenade was built during the 1900’s and starts at the pier and continues on to the grounds of the castle. The castle ruins date from around the thirteenth century and are now part of a park and family recreational area. From the castle you head onto the marina which was constructed in the 1990’s and the town harbour.