Enjoy free activities in Aberystwyth: The best budget friendly attractions
Aberystwyth, a scenic Welsh coastal town brimming with history and natural beauty, offers a wealth of exciting, free activities that will keep both locals and visitors enthralled. Whether you're soaking up the sun on pristine beaches, hiking through lush forests, or exploring historical landmarks, Aberystwyth is a superb destination for a budget-friendly adventure. Get ready to experience the charm of this vibrant town - and its many hidden gems.
Clarach Bay Beach
Perfect for: Adventure, relaxation, water sports
Cost: Free
Things to do: Swimming, kayaking, sailing, sunbathing, hiking
Just a stone’s throw from Clarach Bay Holiday Village, this peaceful beach is the perfect escape for those looking to experience the quiet side of Aberystwyth. Clarach Bay beach offers stunning views of Cardigan Bay, where you might catch sight of seals and dolphins in the waters. It’s an ideal spot for water activities including kayaking, windsurfing, and sailing. And, for those who enjoy exploring, the beach provides easy access to the Wales coast path, a scenic trail offering panoramic coastal vistas. Whether you're seeking tranquility or adventure, Clarach Bay is the perfect location for an unforgettable experience and a flavour of the Welsh coast’s natural charm.
Distance from Clarach Bay Holiday Village: 1 minute walk (0.1 miles)
Ceredigion Coast Path
Perfect for: Hiking, nature walks, exploration
Cost: Free
Things to do: Hiking, nature spotting, scenic views
For nature enthusiasts and avid hikers, the Ceredigion Coast Path is a must-see. This 60 mile (96km) trail stretches along the stunning Ceredigion coastline, offering views of rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and the local wildlife. From Clarach Bay, the path heads towards Ynyslas, providing fantastic panoramic views of the coastline. The trail is perfect for those looking to experience the unspoiled beauty of Wales and immerse themselves in the natural landscape. Whether you're in for a challenging hike or just a gentle walk, the Ceredigion Coast Path offers something for everyone.
Distance from Clarach Bay Holiday Village: 3 minute walk (0.1 miles)
National Library of Wales
Perfect for: Relaxing, culture, history
Cost: Free
Things to do: Guided tours, exhibitions, reading
The National Library of Wales is one of the most iconic buildings in Aberystwyth, and for good reason. Located on a hill with breathtaking views of the town and coastline, the library is home to a vast collection of over 6.5 million books. This includes manuscripts, photographs, maps, and archives that chronicle Wales’ history and culture. The library also offers a variety of exhibitions and events, providing visitors an incredible opportunity to delve into Welsh culture and heritage. Whether you're a book lover or just interested in local history, this place is a must-visit.
Distance from Clarach Bay Holiday Village: 8 minute drive (2.5 miles); 57 minute walk (2.2 miles)
Penglais Woods (Parc Natur Penglais)
Perfect for: Walking, nature exploration
Cost: Free
Things to do: Walking, birdwatching, nature spotting
For those looking to immerse themselves in Aberystwyth's natural environment, Penglais Woods is a peaceful retreat. The reserve, which dates back to the 18th century, is home to a variety of flora and fauna. With a well-maintained 2.1 km trail, it’s the perfect location for a leisurely walk through a forest filled with bluebells in the spring and stunning views of the surrounding area. As the only UNESCO Man and the Biosphere urban reserve in Wales, and having received the Prince of Wales Award in 1993 and Ceredigion's first Green Flag Community Award in 2011, the park is a testament to the local community’s efforts to preserve the region’s natural and cultural heritage.
Distance from Clarach Bay Holiday Village: 8 minute drive (2.7 miles); 42 minute walk (1.6 miles)
Ceredigion Museum
Perfect for: Culture, history
Cost: Free
Things to do: Audio tours, exhibitions, local heritage exploration
Located near Aberystwyth’s promenade, Ceredigion Museum is an excellent place to learn about the local history and heritage of the region. The museum houses collections that range from Welsh furniture and traditional costumes to artefacts from the area’s agricultural past. It also hosts a variety of events and temporary exhibitions throughout the year, offering visitors a chance to engage with local culture and history. Don’t forget to stop by the museum’s shop for unique handmade products from local artisans.
Distance from Clarach Bay Holiday Village: 9 minute drive (3 miles); 41 minute walk (1.5 miles)
Aberystwyth Beach
Perfect for: Relaxing, outdoor activities, water sports
Cost: Free
Things to do: Sunbathing, swimming, surfing, paddleboarding, sandcastle building, roller skating, strolling along the promenade
Aberystwyth Beach is a stunning coastal spot ideal for enjoying the Welsh seaside. The beach is split into north and south beaches, each offering a different atmosphere. North beach is the livelier of the two, great for activities such as surfing and roller skating, while south beach offers a quieter retreat with glorious views of Cardigan Bay. Both beaches are connected by a scenic promenade, perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride. With cafes and amenities nearby, it's an accessible place to enjoy the fresh air and natural beauty. Be on the lookout for local marine life such as dolphins and porpoises, which can sometimes be spotted just offshore!
Distance from Clarach Bay Holiday Village: 10 minute drive (3.3 miles); 40 minute walk (1.5 miles)
Aberystwyth Castle
Perfect for: History lovers, exploring
Cost: Free
Things to do: Exploring, picnicking, photography
Aberystwyth Castle, built in the 13th century by King Edward I, is a historical landmark located on a hilltop with spectacular views over Aberystwyth and Cardigan Bay. Although much of the castle is now in ruins, it’s a fascinating place to visit and explore. Why not take a wander through the remnants of the fortress and imagine life during its heyday? The grounds surrounding the castle are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic while enjoying the view. This site offers a deep dive into the region’s history, ideal for history buffs and anyone interested in Welsh heritage.
Distance from Clarach Bay Holiday Village: 11 minute drive (3.3 miles); 49 minute walk (1.8 miles)
Bwlch Nant yr Arian Forest Visitor Centre
Perfect for: Nature lovers, adventure seekers
Cost: Free
Things to do: Birdwatching, hiking, mountain biking, orienteering, nature walks
Located a short drive from Aberystwyth, Bwlch Nant yr Arian Forest Visitor Centre offers visitors the chance to explore beautiful woodlands and spot red kites, which are regularly fed at the centre. The visitor centre also features various trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horse riding. After a day of outdoor adventure, visitors can unwind at the centre’s café, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a peaceful nature walk, Bwlch Nant yr Arian is the perfect spot to experience Aberystwyth’s natural beauty.
Distance from Clarach Bay Holiday Village: 21 minute drive (11.6 miles)
Free activities in Aberystwyth - what's not to like?
Aberystwyth offers a variety of free activities for all types of visitors, from relaxing on scenic beaches to exploring the town’s rich history. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply want to take in the beauty of the Welsh coastline, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. Make your visit even more memorable by staying locally at Clarach Bay Holiday Village, where you can explore the wonders of Aberystwyth while enjoying comfortable accommodation and on-site activities for the whole family.
