Wondering what to do this Half Term? There’s plenty to keep you entertained in and around the picturesque Welsh seaside town of Aberystwyth.
One of the most popular attractions is The Vale of Rheidol Railway. It is the perfect day out for the entire family – from little ones to grandparents. It is also the perfect way to see the stunning Cambrian Mountains countryside from a vantage point you can only get to by train.
The Vale of Rheidol’s beautifully restored 1920s steam locomotives will take you through 12 miles of glorious Welsh scenery on one of the most spectacular railway journeys in the UK. Sit back and admire the view will the engine, it’s driver and fireman do all the hard work.
As you travel from Aberystwyth on Cardigan Bay to Devil’s Bridge in the heart of the Cambrian Mountains you can chat with the railway’s knowledgeable loco crews, watch as red kites, once threatened with extinction, fly overhead, and soak up the views that can only be seen from the railway line. Listen to the sound of the lovingly restored engine chuffing its way along the tracks and the distinctive whistle as it nears crossings. This is a trip back in time and a chance to enjoy a piece of history.
Autumn is one of the best seasons to ride the train as the trees change colour and the falling leaves open-up the views. The low autumnal sunshine sends long shadows over the landscape below.
Once you arrive at Devil’s Bridge, you can visit the famous waterfalls and learn more about the legend that led to its name, enjoy an all-day breakfast or a cuppa and a Welshcake at Woodlands Tearoom, indulge yourself at the award-winning Sarah Bunton’s Chocolate Shop, soak up the atmosphere while enjoying a drink or a full meal at the Hafod Inn, take a walk between the railway’s restored stations on one of the many paths and trails. And when you are ready, board your train for the return journey to the seaside town of Aberystwyth, where you will find plenty more to keep you busy.
Aberystwyth activities
Visit the Museum in the Engine Shed Display Building (at the station stop in Aberystwyth) and see, close-up, the Vale of Rheidol Railway’s extensive collection of historical narrow-gauge locomotives and rolling stock.
Walk through the historic town of Aberystwyth known for its huge variety of independent shops, stroll on the beach and treat yourself to an award winning bag of chips, enjoy a meal or drinks on the seafront or at one of the many restaurants or pubs in town, visit the ruins of the Castle overlooking the bay, ride the funicular to the top of Constitution Hill, take the children to play games at Aber Game Park, visit the Aberystwyth Museum, practice your skateboarding skills at the skate park, admire the boats at the Marina, and visit the amazing National Library of Wales.
Around Aberystwyth
Just outside the town watch the red kites being fed at Nant Y Arian, pan for gemstones at the Silver Mountain Experience, walk the forests of the Hafod Estate or the coastal path from Aberystwyth to Borth, visit the Lifeboat station, play golf on a course with wonderful countryside views, climb the ancient hillfort of Pen Dinas, visit the ruins Strata Florida, a once great Cistercian Monastery, marvel at the breathtaking landscape of the Elan Valley. As this is a dark sky preserve, stay until the sun sets and enjoy (weather permitting) a view of the Milkway, and if you feel inspired, improve your photography skills with an astrophotography course.
There is plenty to do in and around Aberystwyth this half term – the only challenge might be squeezing it all into a week!
