Dog-friendly Ceredigion

Why not experience something truly unique for a short break or a longer stay? Cliff Railway Apartment is located above the station and ticket office at the base of the longest funicular electric cliff railway in Britain, which has been transporting visitors to the summit since opening in 1896. Situated at the northern end of Aberystwyth promenade, the apartment boasts very comfortable accommodation with sea views from the kitchen and direct views over the railway from the bedrooms. Guests are offered free passes on the railway for the duration of their stay (please note there are reduced operating days and times from November to mid March).
The Aberystwyth Cliff Railway operated on a water balance system until electrification in 1921. Today the carriages are hauled to the summit at a stately four miles per hour, and travel majestically to the summit of Constitution Hill, rising dramatically from the sea, providing spectacular and uninterrupted views of the town, Cardigan Bay, and on a clear day, 26 mountain peaks spanning much of the length of Wales. Once at the summit visitors can experience the views afforded by the one of the world’s largest camera obscuras, which offers a bird’s eye view of 1000 square miles of land and seascape. There are also fascinating historical displays, a kids play area, a well-stocked gift shop, and a cafe selling delicious meals, homemade snacks and cakes. The café itself was used for filming during the popular TV detective series "Hinterland" as were many locations around Aberystwyth.
Just a short stroll from the apartment is the beach and promenade, lined with Victorian buildings and leading to the pier. There are plenty of opportunities for shopping and a wide choice of places to eat in this university town, as well as castle ruins, the harbour, the National Library of Wales with a visitor centre, and Aberystwyth Arts Centre, a bustling entertainment venue. The surrounding hills hold the visible remains of an iron age fort and also a monument to Wellington and, once climbed offer stunning views of Cardigan Bay. Also not to be missed is a trip on the lovely Vale of Rheidol steam train, departing from Aberystwyth and travelling through the stunning Welsh countryside to the beautiful Devil’s Bridge waterfalls.
Within very easy reach of Aberystwyth, there are golden sandy beaches, colourful seaside towns and villages, and places to explore such as the Ynyslas National Nature Reserve dominated by a sand dune landscape and home to an array of rare plants, wading birds and wildlife, including colourful orchids early in the summertime. With views inland and across the estuary to Aberdyfi, it is a great spot for walking or relaxing with boardwalks and trails through the dunes. Bwlch Nant-yr-Arian Forest Centre is a large woodland site with a host of activities including walks, cycle trails and red kite feeding with a shop and information centre. The peaceful wooded and landscaped Hafod Estate in the Ystwyth Valley has a variety of waymarked walks.

Tyllwyd, so named after the grey stone used to build this Victorian, detached farmhouse, is wonderfully situated within 80-acres of farmland, which takes full advantage of the glorious hillside views of the Rheidol Valley or “Cwm Rheidol”. The farm now only grazes cattle and sheep, along with hay and silage crops taken from the fields throughout the summer. There is record of a Tyllwyd at this location dating back to 1716 and it may have been part of the Abertrinant Estate at this time. Most of the estate was sold in 1830 and the census from 1841 and 1851 show farmers with their families living at Tyllwyd along with their servants. A later census records lead miners and farm labourer’s residing at Tyllwyd. Only one other building survives from this period and this was the milking parlour, until 2003. The extent of the farm and the house today were probably established in the late 19th Century and was built with servants’ quarters that are now the bathroom and utility room. Servants continued to be employed at the farm and maybe as late as the 1940s. A dairy herd was established with 70 cows and the milking parlour was installed in one of the old 19th-century buildings. Potatoes were also grown and supplied the local chip shops in Aberystwyth. Dairy farming continued at the farm up until 2003.
The house has now been carefully and lovingly restored by the present owners, retaining period features, including original flagstone flooring, that gives the house its character. The spacious country kitchen, with a traditional clothes airing pulley, features a large range cooker with three ovens. The kitchen is open plan with the comfortable dining area so it’s the perfect place for a sociable gathering with friends or family. The living room boasts a cosy wood burner and there’s an adjoining games room to enjoy with table football and darts. On the first floor there are four light and airy attractive bedrooms, two with double aspect windows. The master bedroom features an en-suite shower room and walk-in dressing room. Outside, the large garden is great for children to enjoy and adults to appreciate sitting out with a glass of wine around the fire pit on colder evenings.
Capel Bangor has a pub which serves quality food using local produce, fine wines and real ales.
The Vale of Rheidol narrow gauge steam locomotive is the finest way to explore the stunning Rheidol Valley. Opened in 1902, the railway has been delighting passengers young and old for over a century and the train which begins in Aberystwyth calls at Capel Bangor station on its way to Devil’s Bridge where you can alight to visit the unique waterfalls that have attracted many thousands of visitors since the 18th Century, including William Wordsworth who wrote about the "Torrent at the Devil’s Bridge". Today, the Falls Nature Trail provides a unique opportunity to see this great natural feature in the Rheidol Gorge. Birds of prey such as red kite and buzzards are regularly seen soaring high above the valley floor and breathtaking views can be enjoyed by all.
Stay at lovely Tyllwyd Farmhouse and enjoy this distinctive Welsh region with a thriving cultural identity. It’s perfect for a weekend break or a longer stay with award-winning beaches, sandy coves, sea cliffs, caves and wonderful wildlife, spectacular sunsets and starry dark skies. Horse riding is available just 1½ miles away. Fishing is available nearby, a licence is required and permits are available through Aberystwyth Angling Association. There is also sea fishing in Aberystwyth. Shop ½ mile, pub and restaurant ¾ mile.

In a rural setting, but less than 5 miles east of the seaside town of Aberystwyth, and with beautiful views of the Rheidol Valley, Maesbangor Farmhouse is a large property with lots of room to spread out. Previously two homes, but now combined into one, this spacious semi-detached house offers seven bedrooms sleeping up to 14 guests.

The imposing front of the house looks across the valley, and the front garden even boasts a hot tub where you can relax and take in the view. As you enter inside you will appreciate how ideal the farmhouse is for families or friends who want that extra space, or perhaps a quiet corner. There is a large beamed dining room with a feature wood burner. Leading off is a conservatory overlooking the enclosed terrace with benches and tables as well as a small lawn. The kitchen, complete with a breakfast area, is well-equipped with everything you need to cook up a tasty treat.

On the other side of the house there is a living room with 50" Freeview TV and wood burner, as well as an additional living room. Also on this side of the house you’ll find kitchen number two; smaller than the first but still well-equipped. There are two staircases that lead to the first floor, one leading to four bedrooms, all en-suite, and the other leading to three further bedrooms, one of which is en-suite, and a family bathroom. This is the perfect location for a family holiday, or a break with a group of friends.

Imagine yourself sitting on the the sandy beach overlooking Cardigan Bay, watching dolphins, or perhaps exploring one of the many market towns in the surrounding area. The Victorian resort of Aberystwyth, with its electric cliff railway, promenade and pier, is close by, as is the compelling Cambrian Mountains, dotted with hill sheep farms, forest and lakeland. Take a meandering train ride on what was once a working link between the local lead mines and the harbour; the Vale of Rheidol Railway now runs a steam train service through the Rheidol Valley to Devil’s Bridge, where you can see the famous Mynach Falls, Devil’s Punch Bowl and Jacob’s Ladder. When you’re done with exploring for the day, come back and relax at Maesbangor Farmhouse or visit the gastro pub, situated within half a mile of the house. Beach 6 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant ½ mile.

This beautifully appointed and surprisingly spacious seaside cottage sits just across the road from a beautiful sandy beach on the stunning sweep of Cardigan Bay. Within walking distance are shops pubs, cafes and a golf course.

The views from the cottage are lovely with glimpses of the sea from the bedrooms and views across the fields to the hills from the rear. Borth is a traditional seaside town and forms part of the Dyfi Biosphere, the only UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Wales. At low tide you are able to see the fascinating remains of an ancient submerged forest where stumps of oak, pine, birch, willow and hazel have been preserved by the peat that they have been buried in.

This is also a fabulous location for keen bird watchers with the Dovey Estuary being home to many wading birds, including the colourful shelduck with its bright green head. Just along the coast is Ynyslas with its nature reserve which has been a location for the BBC’s Springwatch programme and of course the Dyfi osprey visitor centre.

In easy walking distance of the cottage is Borth’s Animalarium, a rapidly expanding zoo, dedicated to conservation with endangered animals and birds and makes for a great family day out.

Easily accessible by road, rail or the stunning coastal path is Aberystwyth, famous for its promenade and the UK’s longest electric cliff railway dating back to the Victorian era. It takes you to the summit of Constitution Hill and offers the most magnificent views over Cardigan Bay and even the mountains of Snowdonia on a clear day. The town offers plenty of shops, cafés and restaurants and is also home to the little steam trains on the Vale of Rheidol Railway which takes you on a scenic journey to the famous Devil’s Bridge and waterfalls. This coastline has so many pretty and delightful seaside towns and villages. Visit New Quay, Aberaeron and Aberdovey with their myriad of visitor attractions and activities. Beach 50 yards. Shop, pub and restaurant 300 yards.

With arguably the best views of Aberystwyth and Cardigan Bay, Seascape, one of a pair, is a luxurious holiday retreat in an enviable location, within a 15-minute walk of two beaches and just over half a mile from every amenity this lovely seaside town has to offer. The owners, who live next door, have created an elegant and comfortable holiday home in a peaceful spot. From here you can see the summit of Britain’s longest electric cliff railway, operating since 1896. The top of the hill has one of the largest Camera Obscuras in the world, a café and restaurant, and is only a 6-minute walk from Seascape. Aberystwyth is west Wales’ premier seaside resort and a historic town, offering varied shopping, bars and restaurants, art centres with theatre and cinema, pier and long promenade, castle ruins, the National Library of Wales (tours available) or take the Vale of Rheidol steam train to Devil’s Bridge and Waterfalls. Lovers of nature will appreciate the abundance of walking available from the property and if golf is your sport, Seascape overlooks Aberystwyth Golf Club.
Visit the stunning Ynyslas Nature Reserve and sand dunes with magnificent views across the Dovey Estuary, the Bwlch Nant Yr Arian Forest Visitor Centre or the nearby centre, where you can watch majestic red kites feeding over the lake. Award-winning beaches and iconic harbours make the Ceredigion coast a beautiful place to visit, where dolphins and seals can often be seen. This region inspired Dylan Thomas to write some of his finest poetry. It’s framed by the Cambrian Mountains, the backbone of Wales, rich in wildlife, legends and intriguing landscapes. Whatever your preference, Seascape is the perfect holiday home in an unrivalled position, ideal for exploring this wonderful area or just relaxing and soaking up the views. Beach ½ mile. Shop, pub and restaurant ½ mile.

This beautifully renovated seaside retreat sits on one of Ceredigion’s longest sandy beaches, on the stunning sweep of Cardigan Bay. Step straight onto the pebbles and down to the sand from the deck area, or sit and take in the panorama of sea and sky with glorious sunsets and seabirds and, if you are lucky, dolphins jumping among the waves. Choose your level, on the deck or on one of the two breathtaking balconies with sea views.
Right in the heart of the ancient fishing village of Borth, local amenities such as cafés, pubs, food shops, local art and vintage clothing shops, and even a boutique cinema, are all on your doorstep. This is a great location for water sports, walking and wildlife enthusiasts, with the enormous Dyfi National Nature Reserve protecting its wading birds, wildfowl, ospreys and red kites. Get up close to meerkats, monkeys and many other exotic creatures at Borth Wild Animal Kingdom, with a butterfly sanctuary and pony trekking centre just a short drive away in the Rheidol Valley. Borth Golf Club welcomes visitors, should you fancy a round or two. Train lovers may take the narrow gauge Vale of Rheidol steam train on a scenic journey up to the famous Devil’s Bridge, with its gorge walk across the ravine featuring wild waterfalls and lush vegetation.
The historic seaside town of Aberystwyth is easily accessible by road, bus, rail, or about 5 miles along the stunning coastal path from Borth. From the Victorian promenade and pier, to the play area in the ruined castle, the Arts Centre and National Library of Wales, there is something for everyone, not to mention many wonderful restaurants and shops. The UK’s longest funicular railway, dating back to the Victorian era, takes you to the summit of Constitution Hill and offers the most magnificent view over Cardigan Bay.
This coastline has many picturesque seaside towns and villages. Visit New Quay, Aberaeron and Aberdovey with their myriad of visitor attractions and activities, or head for the Centre for Alternative Technology, Cader Idris in the Snowdonia National Park and the fantasy village of Portmeirion. Situated on the seafront. Shops, cafes and restaurants 200 yards, pubs 100 yards.

Y Beudy has been renovated to a high standard in 2023, and lies in the grounds of a riding school in the fabulous countryside of Capel Bangor. There are direct walks to be had from every direction from this property – perfect for those who enjoy walking and cycling. If you wish to bring your horse then stabling is available directly through the owner.
The property benefits from a lovely open plan living space with a kitchen/dining room and living area with smart TV, electric wood burner and sofa bed. On the first floor are two double bedrooms with zip and link beds, which can be turned into single beds, and both bedrooms have their own en-suite. The kitchen has a stable door leading to the rear enclosed garden – simply sit and enjoy the sounds of the wildlife, for an extra treat the steam train runs directly past the back garden in the daytime – it’s just a fabulous sight to see, make sure you wave to the passengers going by!
If you’re a lover of horses then this is the place to be, and iding lessons and hacks can be arranged via the owner. it is also a great area for those with dogs as plenty of long walks to be had from the property; there is also fishing available at the property.
There is plenty to do and see in the area; Y Beudy is in a rural setting but located just five miles east of the seaside town of Aberystwyth and with beautiful views of the Rheidol Valley. Head to the coast and picture yourself sitting on a sandy beach overlooking Cardigan Bay watching the dolphins, cycling down country lanes, walking in the hills, or just strolling through one of many market towns.
You can escape life’s hustle and bustle and enjoy this region in so many ways. It’s the perfect location to book a family holiday, a romantic getaway, a short break or a weekend away. The dignified Victorian resort of Aberystwyth, with its electric cliff railway, promenade and pier, is close by, as are the compelling Cambrian Mountains, dotted with hill sheep farms, forest and Lakelands. Take a stately meandering train ride on what was once a working link between local lead mines and the harbour; the Vale of Rheidol Railway now runs a steam train service through the Rheidol Valley terminating at Devil’s Bridge. Here you can choose to go and see the three bridges over the river, or visit some of the other attractions such as the famous Mynach Falls, Devil’s Punch Bowl and Jacob’s Ladder. Wherever your day takes you take comfort in knowing that Y Beudy is a fabulous base in beautiful surroundings to return to.

Perfect for a large family gathering or celebration, Oswald House offers spacious and stylish accommodation for a splendid holiday. The vast kitchen and dining space is the social hub of the home and large bi-fold doors open up onto the outside space with a superb hot tub and barbecue; the ideal spot for relaxing in after a busy day sightseeing. Situated in the village of Llanon with a pub and shops within walking distance, this holiday home is the perfect base for immersing yourself in all that the area has to offer. With a superb mix of coast and countryside, Ceredigion is a large and beautiful place to visit. Award-winning beaches, perfect coves, iconic castles and pretty harbours make days out by car or on foot along the 60 miles of Heritage coastline a must. This region inspired Dylan Thomas to write some of his finest poetry. It is framed by the Cambrian Mountains, known as the backbone of Wales, and is so rich in wildlife, legends and fascinating landscapes. Look out for birds of prey such as red kites and buzzards soaring high above, and dolphins or seals in the waters. Drive along the Plynlimon Mountains, through the Tywi Forest or visit the impressive Abergwesyn Pass, and marvel at the solitude.

For a truly authentic Welsh family holiday experience, this is the area to be. The locals are justifiably proud of this region with its rich local folklore which tells of tricking the devil, mermaids, shipwrecked kings and princesses, and even an explanation of why gulls sound as if they’re crying. The little gems of Georgian Aberaeron, historic Cardigan, salty New Quay, traditional Tregaron and Lampeter are waiting to be explored. To the south, the coves of Mwnt, Cwmtydu, Penbryn, Tresaith – which resemble illustrations from books about pirates, are all within easy reach. To the north, around Aberystwyth and Borth, there are vast stretches of sand. Food plays a big part in the experience of Ceredigion, and a wide choice is to be found in the shops, restaurants and cafés offering regional products and ingredients such as the world beating Teifi Valley cheeses, the ubiquitous Welsh cakes, bara brith and of course, some spectacularly good seafood from the coast.

No visit to the area would be complete without a ride on the steam railway. From the coast at Aberystwyth, watch the scenery change whilst travelling through ancient woodland and rugged mountain scenery, with the line clinging to the hillside to reach Devil’s Bridge, home of the famous Mynach Falls and Devil’s Punchbowl. Come and escape to this magnificent area and let Oswald House be your home for a holiday to remember!
Beach ½ mile. Shop, pub and restaurant 600 yards. This property can be booked together with Ty Fynnon (HW7601) and Oswald Lodge (HW7804) to accommodate larger groups.

A deceptively spacious, traditional fisherman’s cottage. A perfect retreat for families and friends to enjoy the traditional seaside holiday, explore the fabulous coastline. Two minute walk from the beach. Cardigan 7 miles.

Set in quiet countryside, where red kites can be seen, this detached cottage is about 1½ miles from New Quay on a working farm but separated from its operations.

Converted from an 18th-century barn, retaining many features. Access to Wales Coast Path about 1 mile. There are two lakes on-site, and a pitch and putt area (dependent on weather and ground conditions) which can be accessed via a footbridge at the bottom of one of the two gardens. Well placed for beaches, villages, walks on lanes and clifftops. Aberaeron, 9 miles, Llangrannog, 7 miles. Shop and pub within 2 miles.