Best Hotels in Aberystwyth
Aberystwyth Introduction
Set along a stretch of sandy beach, Aberystwyth is a traditional market town that is considered the unofficial capital of mid-Wales. The large student population means that there's a relaxed, cultural vibe, with lots of lively pubs and bars and a thriving live music scene. However, Aberystwyth still keeps the seaside town charm that brought Victorians to the area, from the old-fashioned pier to the sweeping seafront.Hotels in Aberystwyth
You'll find a great selection of cheap Aberystwyth hotels, including cosy B&Bs and guesthouses. Often just a short walk to the seafront, these hotels tend to provide free WiFi, free parking and a complimentary breakfast to get you ready to start the day. With clean, basic rooms, they're ideal for a short seaside break or for visitors to the university. If you are looking for luxury hotels in Aberystwyth, then look towards the outskirts of town where there are a few country house style properties. These hotels offer boutique accommodation, with facilities such as restaurants and spas.Where to stay
Walk along the promenade of Aberystwyth and you'll be able to enjoy sweeping views across the long, flat beach, with the cliffs and green hills in the distance. Lined with colourful Victorian terraces, as well as bars and restaurants overlooking the sea, Marine Terrace can be followed along the seafront as far as the traditional fishing harbour. Walk inland for a few minutes and you'll hit the main shopping streets, which offer a mixture of traditional, independent shops, plus high street stores. The town is known for having a large number of pubs, and during university term time there's a lively atmosphere at night, with a couple of nightclubs that open until the small hours.Things to see
The Vale of Rheidol Railway chugs through the green valleys, climbing 700ft to overlook lakes and vast forest areas. These polished steam trains have old-fashioned carriages with large windows, so you can enjoy sweeping views, and you'll stop at lots of little stations along the way, making it a great way to travel in Aberystwyth and beyond. Aberystwyth Cliff Railway is one of the few remaining funicular railways in Wales, slowly creeping up the steep line on Constitution Hill. Stop at the top for ice cream and you'll get panoramic views across Aberystwyth. There are also amazing views of the sea from Aberystwyth Castle, a 13th-century fortress which is now in ruins, although large portions of the stone walls are still standing. Walk across the old moat and you'll be able to get up close to the remaining tower and explore these fascinating ruins.How to get to Aberystwyth
Aberystwyth railway station is in the centre of town, close to discount hotels and just a 10-minute walk from the seafront. You can travel from London Euston, changing at Wolverhampton, which takes about 4.5 hours. There are also direct services to Birmingham. The nearest airport is Birmingham International, about 3 hours 20 minutes away by train, where flights arrive from around Europe. Manchester Airport is a similar distance, with a bigger number of international flights. The train journey from Manchester to Aberystwyth is around 4.5 hours as you have to change at Manchester Piccadilly, then Wolverhampton.
