A VICTORIAN seaside town is set to undergo a significant makeover that could further boost its tourism.
The town, which features a cliff railway and the country’s oldest pier, will see its historic promenade upgraded as part of the work.
With a population of around 15,000, this seaside resort is thought to date back as far as the Mesolithic Age.
In 1865, Aberystwyth opened the Royal Pier, the first of its kind in Wales.
Though much shorter after decades of storms, the original structure still stands and is home to anice-cream shop, a pub, a snooker hall, a restaurant, an amusement arcade centre, and also a nightclub.
The town’s historic promenade has also faced wear and tear over the years due to its close proximity to the Irish Sea.
And now the Prom is set to undergo a development to turn it into a “more vibrant, accessible, and attractive space for residents and visitors alike”;;, according to Ceredigion County Council.
The project involves improvements to the public space, including upgraded street lighting, enhanced footpaths, and new street furniture to “refresh and modernise the promenade”;;.
“These upgrades will create a welcoming and safe environment, making the promenade an inviting space to enjoy year-round,”;; the council said.
These improvements, together with a redevelopment of the town’s historic Old College, are fundedby a £10.8 million influx from the UK Government.
They are hoped to “breathe new life into an area rich in cultural heritage”;;.
The Promenade project is set to stimulate new investment, “creating opportunities and boosting confidence in the town”;;, building on Aberystwyth’s “rightful place as an attractor destination”;;.
Councillor Alun Williams, Deputy Leader of Ceredigion County Council spoke about the ongoing work.
“This is a transformative programme of works for Aberystwyth,”;; he said.
“Combined, we are seeing over £60 million of investment into the town.
“The new promenade will greatly improve links with other attractions like the Castle Grounds and the revitalised Old College.
“It will offer more space for active travel and healthier lifestyles as well as adding to the all-round beauty of the seafront.
“The consequent increased footfall will then naturally lead to business growth.
“It’s good to see some of the improvements already in place, like the new lighting around the war memorial at Castle Point.”;;
The overall project is anticipated to conclude this .
According to Visit Wales, a visit to Aberystwyth is “quite impossible without a walk, jog, or mindfulness moment on the mile long Victorian promenade”;;.
The walkway leads to the town’s “best vantage point”;; at the end of north beach’s promenade, atop the 430 feet that is Constitution Hill.
And if that incline sounds too much, especially on a hot summer’s day which have been known to peak as high as the high 20s in Aberystwyth, don’t worry.
The town’s famous funicular Cliff Railway operates from April to October, leading to the world’s largest Camera Obscura, which includes a cafe and gift shop.
It was first opened in 1896 as a means of transporting people between the arcades and restaurant located at the foot of the hill to the park on top.
Adults can still enjoy a return trip for just £7 per person, while children pay £6.
And as well as enjoying this panoramic view, visitors can also take in the town’s vibrant history.
You can travel through the centuries from Pen Dinas Hill, an Iron Age hillfort to a 1850s monument, erected as a memorial to the first Duke of Wellington.
The ruins of Aberystwyth Castle, originally an English castle built to keep the Welsh out in the 13th century, are also worth a visit.
This structure dates back to the same era as the nearby Flint, Rhuddlan, and Builth Wells’ castles.
Aberystwyth Arts Centreis worth a visit, as is the neighbouring National Library of Wales, home to historic books as well as the smallest book in the world.
And in a town where even the local college dates back to 1865, when it was first erected as a luxury hotel, you won’t be short of history to lap up.
But it’s not just ancient attractions in this town, you can also enjoy the town’s , with the South Beach offering a long golden strand compared to the North’s shingle.
However, don’t rule out the latter for a fun family day out as donkey rides are available during the warmer months.
And there’s no shortage of accommodation, with seafront options including The Richmond Hotel, andThe Glengower,ortheGwesty’r Marine Hotel & Spa, with rates starting from just £60 per night.
There is also a wide variety of gastro pubs and restaurants in the area, including many tapas bars.
Aberystwyth is located in Mid Wales, less than a three hour drive from both and , and is home to Hollywood star Taron Egerton.
If you’re looking for other Welsh towns to visit, another seaside town is also .
