Bryn Hyfryd - Aberystwyth

Fun Days Out

Silver Mine Tours - 8 Miles (12.8 KM)

Experience what life would have been like down a mine as you follow the 'Miners Trail'. The self guided path takes visitors on a tour through the old mine site, featuring fascinating exhibitions. Admire the water wheels, pan for silver-lead and iron pyrites, hear the 'captain's tale' and have fun discovering the history of the mine and the lives of the miners.

Centre for Alternative Technology - 16.6 Miles (26.6 KM)

Nestled in the hillsides of Southern Snowdonia, this is one of the world's most renowned eco-centres, featuring interactive displays and practical examples of sustainable living.

Bards Quest - 18.1 Miles (29 KM)

Bards Quest challenges you to find the hidden legends amidst the Maze, beneath moss and rocks, in the trees, in rippling waters and lying in lakes waiting to be discovered. Take your time, why not make a day of it? Tickets are half price when combined with a ticket for the adjacent King Arthur's Labyrinth Underground Adventure. Remember to visit the Corris Craft Centre to pick yourself up a unique hand crafted souvenir of your visit.

Corris Craft Centre - 18.1 Miles (29 KM)

Corris Craft Centre comprises ten individual and very different craft workshops. Visitors can watch the craftspeople at work and buy unique gifts directly from them. From original Celtic jewellery to handmade cards, the products made here make great souvenirs or gifts for friends and family.

King Arthur's Labyrinth - 18.3 Miles (29.3 KM)

An exciting underground adventure unfolds as you sail along a subterranean river, through the great waterfall, deep inside the spectacular Labyrinth and far into the past .... into a world of myths, legends and storytelling. There is a children's outdoor play area and picnic tables to let off some steam. The labyrinth is open daily from Easter to the end of October. This is well worth a visit!

Llanidloes - 21.9 Miles (35 KM)

A great place to hike or bike, especially over the beautiful mountain road between Machynlleth and Llanidloes. It is also the perfect place to simply relax, stroll around and soak up some of the lovely Welsh scenery. The town is also known for its counterculture and liberal views and was awarded Fairtrade Town status in 2006.

Llanfair Slate Caverns - 28.1 Miles (45 KM)

These 100 year old caverns were man made with only a candle for light. Descend Jacob's Ladder and wonder through the tunnels looking for old drilling holes. Afterwards, experience the views of Cardigan Bay from the Preseli Mountains in the south to the Lleyn peninsular.

Beach

Aberystwyth Cliff Railway - 0.9 Miles (1.4 KM)

Enjoy a relaxing train journey where you can take in the breathtaking views over the seaside town of Aberystwyth. At the summit, you can have a birds eye view of the land and seascape from the worlds largest camera obscura - on a clear day it is possible to see 26 mountain peaks spanning much of the length of Wales! Also available are fascinating historical displays, a kids play area, a well-stocked gift shop, and a cafe selling delicious home-made snacks.

Devil's Bridge Falls - 9.5 Miles (15.2 KM)

Visit these world famous unique waterfalls which attract thousands upon thousands of visitors. One of these visitors was William Wordsworth who wrote 'Torrent at the Devils Bridge'.

Biking & Hiking

Bird Rock Cycle Hire - 12.8 Miles (20.5 KM)

Get out and about with Bird Rock Cycle Hire. Family groups and individuals can hire bikes from here and go exploring around the dramatic landscape of southern Snowdonia. There are ample facilities to take a break and enjoy some lunch along the way. The beautiful Dysynnii Valley near Tywyn in Snowdonia boasts virtually traffic-free countryside, so there is no need to worry about keeping the kids safe.

Coed-y-Brenin Forest Park - 29.2 Miles (46.7 KM)

If you enjoy walking and cycling then Coed-y-Brenin Forest Park is perfect for you. All clearly marked, the trails and tracks criss-cross the park and are suitable for all abilities whether running, biking or hiking. Rest up at the café and enjoy the breathtaking views.

Golf & Sports

Aberdovey Golf Club - 8.3 Miles (13.3 KM)

This golf club has earned a reputation for its friendly and warm welcome. Visitors can play a round of golf, relax afterwards in the newly refurbished clubhouse and take in the beautiful surroundings. Visitors are known to return each year for the top links course at Aberdovey golf club.

Fairbourne Golf Club - 19.5 Miles (31.2 KM)

Experience the beautiful greenscape that is Fairbourne Golf Club! This gorgeous outdoor space offers a great challenge to sportsmen who want to test their abilities with a club. A comfortable timber covered club house was constructed in 1910 and has since been converted to strong stone. Players can stop by for a break and a meal during their time at Fairbourne.

Llyngwyn Lake - 22.3 Miles (35.7 KM)

The 16 acre lake at Llyngwyn is a popular fly-fishing destination. Rainbow and brown trout are found in the lake throughout the year. River fishing is available on the river Wye for elan, marteg, trout, grayling, and some coarse fish. Elan Valley contains 4 lakes which cover an area of 850 acres.

Rhayader Leisure Centre - 24.6 Miles (39.4 KM)

A great leisure centre featuring a 20m swimming pool, fitness suite and squash courts. Whatever your age or fitness level there is something for you. Why not go for a relax in the jacuzzi or take a swim in the pool?

Rhayader Angling - 24.6 Miles (39.4 KM)

Rhayader is a small market town in the heart of the 'Lakeland of Wales' on the banks of the River Wye which stretches 1 mile south and 4 miles north of the town. Brown trout and Grayling fishing available and salmon fishing is renowned on the River Wye.

Llandysul Paddlers Canoe Centre - 28.8 Miles (46.1 KM)

Spend a half day or full day trying your hand at a range of sports including canoeing, archery, rock climbing and kayaking. Transport to and from the centre can be arranged for you and the centre is specially designed to cater for groups with the option to have meals included.

Nature Reserves

Ynys-hir - 14.6 Miles (23.4 KM)

Ynys-hir mixes Welsh oak woodland with wet grassland and salt marshes. In the spring, the ground is carpeted in flowers and birdsong fills the air. You might see flycatchers and redstarts emerging from the nestboxes. Each season brings a different experience to the nature reserve. Recent sightings include a marsh harrier, hen harrier, peregrine and a hobby as well as the regular red kites, buzzards and sparrowhawks.

Gilfach Nature Reserve - 23.3 Miles (37.3 KM)

Nature Reserve with bird watching and well marked out nature trails you can walk round. A beautiful location at the heart of the Cambrian Mountains, with a whole host of differing habitats. There are also events that are set up at Gilfach Nature Reserve such as Badger Watching.

Gardens & Woodlands

Hafod Uchtryd - 2.6 Miles (4.2 KM)

Hafod Uchtryd is classified as probably one of the best examples of an 18th century picture perfect landscape, occupying 200 hectares of the Ystwyth valley and encircling hills it provides stunning views and scenery. There are six different trails on offer, they all vary in length but all will ensure you get the most of this stunning estate, from the magnificent views, cascading waterfalls, gorges, woodland, loads of local wildlife. There is lots of history to the area too and a guided walk will allow you to get the most from this area. Located amongst the estate are a number of structures of interest including an icehouse and obelisk. Hafod Uchtryd is  a place of peace and tranquillity as well as stunning beauty. The perfect place for a leisurely walk amongst beautiful surroundings.

Elan Valley - 22.6 Miles (36.2 KM)

Located near Rhayader, this picturesque Site of Special Scientific Interest is a fabulous location for a leisurely stroll, a mountain bike ride or a fishing trip. With stunning lakes, abundant wildlife and superb views it is a perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors.

Local Attractions

New Quay - 19.5 Miles (31.2 KM)

New Quay is the perfect destination for sightseeing, beach lounging, walking and dolphin spotting. Enjoy a walk along the front to the end of the Quay and watch the boats sail by. Or sit in one of the cafes overlooking the harbour and see the dolphins.

Historical & Heritage Sites

Vale of Rheidol Railway - 1.3 Miles (2.1 KM)

The Vale of Rheidol Railway offers you the opportunity to step back in time to the evocative era of steam travel. This narrow gauge railway was constructed in 1902 and this railroad has been traveling through the stunning scenery of Rheidol Valley for over a century, the route has a number of sharp turns and arduous inclines which, all add to the experience. There are various carriage options, the luxurious First Class Observation Saloon, Third Class or the Open Summer Carriages that allow the fresh air to blow through, any of the carriages gives fantastic views of the panoramic vistas. Your journey will take you through a delightful mixture of landscapes from meadows to craggy mountains as you gradually climb the hillside from Aberystwyth to Devils's Bridge, the journey takes about an hour each way. At the summit there is a cafe and gift shop. You can leave the train at one of the renovated intermediate stations to enjoy the great outdoors or take a walk along many of the trails the valley has to offer and look to the skies to see the birds of prey who habitat here such as Red Kite and Buzzard. There are a number of special events that place during the year so do check the calender to see what is taking place. With friendly staff, amazing scenery and a journey back in time it is an excellent day out for all ages.

Silver Mountain Experience - 8.2 Miles (13.1 KM)

The Silver Mountain Experience is a unique and interesting day out, located high in the Cambrian Mountains, the site consists of abandoned mine workings, mystical forests and plunging streams that will take you back through time. Not for the faint hearted is the Black Chasm, this is classified as 12A and will take you on a terrifying underground experience, as you travel through the dark and abandoned mine tunnels you never know who you will encounter, be prepared, not recommended for the faint hearted! For the younger adventurers there is the Dragons Tale, you will help to find Grotty, Silvers Mountain's resident and bashful dragon. Being one of Wales best maintained Silver-Lead Mines, there is lots of history and you can experience for a short time what it was like to be a miner in these mines in a bygone era, uncover interesting facts of mining life during the A Miner's Life tour, your guide will lead you through the passageways and impart the history of the mines. The whole area offers so much to explore for all ages, junior members of your family can take part in the Magic of Woo Hoo Wood, where they can construct dens amongst the trees, build dams in the stream or play in the water area. Other activities include gem and gold panning, interactive challenges, nature trails and quiz trail, there is so much to see and do here. Onsite is a cafe where you can relax and have some refreshments. As the terrain is uneven in many places, flip flops/sandals are not recommended and also the underground can be cold so warm clothing is also recommended. The staff are friendly and helpful and add to the overall experience. A great day out regardless of age that is reasonably priced.

Rhayader Museum and Gallery - 24.8 Miles (39.7 KM)

Delve into the fascinating world of Rhayader Museum and Gallery, where various exhibitions document and explore local heritage. These exhibitions are constantly changing and offer great insights into numerous projects. The museum gallery focuses on the nature of culture, society and economics in the shaping of the local community.

Dolaucothi Gold Mines - 26.7 Miles (42.7 KM)

Dolaucothi Gold Mines are located in the heart of a 2,500 acre estate and positioned on a wooded hillside that oversees the stunning Cothi Valley. Mining here dates back more than 2000 years to the Romans and some of their methods are still evident. But it is the Roman, Victorian and 1930's and the harsh conditions that the miners endured that are focused on here. The mines here continued to be mined until 1938 when they eventually closed. The tour takes you into the actual working mines, and suitable foot wear is recommended owing to the uneven surface and steep slopes, and you must have a certain degree of mobility to be able to do the tour, children in push chairs can do the Victorian tour. You get to wear a miners lamp and when you enter these dark caverns, you will get to see first hand the dark, dank and cramped conditions the miners worked in, with so much effort for little reward, see and hear the mine in operation as well as seeing the actual mine machinery. There is the choice of a free guided tour which, you book on arrival or you can take a self-guided tour, there is the Roman tour and Victorian tour to choose from. The guides are friendly, engaging and very knowledgeable and impart the history in a lively and interesting way with lots of anecdotes You can try your own hand at panning for gold and see how successful you will be, or take one of the many walks around the area, that vary in length and difficulty. There is also an exhibition that you can look around. The mine is open is open from April through to October and there is a charge for entry. There is a nice little gift shop where you can buy some pretty Welsh gold jewellery and other souvenirs and gifts. The tea shop is pleasant and cosy and serves a nice selection of beverages and hot and cold food at reasonable prices. Dolaucothi Mines offers an intriguing insight into a working mine and will interest all ages, the tour is pitched to cater to everyone and with activity sheets and trails the children can get involved, highly recommended if you are in the area.

The Hall at Abbey-Cwm-hir - 29 Miles (46.4 KM)

A beautiful grade II listed property and one of the finest examples of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture in Wales. The hall was originally built in 1834 by Thomas Wilson; however a huge expansion project led by the Philips family in 1869 doubled its size. Recently restored by the current owners, this magnificent house features some beautiful interiors and impressive collections. Take a stroll around 12 acres of gardens overlooking the ?Abbey of the Long Valley? which dates from the 12th century.