Aberaeron Georgian Harbour Town Cardigan Bay

Aberaeron Cardigan Bay West Wales - Image © Janet Baxter
Photo of Aberaeron © Janet Baxter

Aberaeron – a charming Georgian town on the Cardigan Bay coast of West Wales

History of Aberaeron

Aberaeron has a long history as a fishing port with many local people supplementing their income by fishing for herring during the season.

In 1805 plans were laid to construct the harbour at the mouth of the Aeron River. This resulted in the town being greatly expanded with many fine houses being built. The railways brought about the development of many coastal towns such as Aberaeron, Bournemouth and Brighton as holiday destinations

Aberaeron has a good selection of guest houses, self catering cottages and and excellent restaurants. The great classic architect John Nash who built the near by Llanerchaeron mansion was reputedly involved in the planning of the new town.

Shipbuilding also flourished with over 60 sailing vessels being built including 35 schooners ‘the greyhound of the ocean’ Aberaeron became a thriving and prosperous town.

Today in Aberaeron

Colourful Houses in Aberaeron ©Janet Baxter

Aberaeron retains its Georgian character with elegant brightly painted town houses – there are 248 listed buildings in Aberaeron town and it is still a focal point for the rural communities in mid Cardigan Bay.
Aberaeron is becoming something of a foodie delight. Enjoy a stroll around the harbour along Quay Parade, and enjoy lunch or afternoon tea at The Hive on the Quay or the award winning Cellar Restaurant and Bar – The Best Restaurant In Wales 2019. The excellent restaurant – The Harbour Master is situated on the harbour with views of the colourful houses across the water.

Take a boat trip to explore Cardigan Bay’s marine ecology and Heritage Coast from the harbour. Plus many charming shops including the Aberaeron Craft Centre, eating places and pubs to enjoy. There are a number of festivals and events in the town which are worth looking out for when planning a trip here. In July there is the Aberaeron Regatta and August is busy with the Aberaeron Mackerel Fiesta,  Aberaeron Carnival with it’s street floats and colour themed dress code and a Beer and Cider Festival.  All current Aberaeron events can be seen on the events calendar.

Aberaeron to Llanerchaeron Cycle-way

Aberaeron to Llanerchaeron CyclewayThe 3km trip from the edge of town along the old railway track to the historic National Trust mansion and Walled garden at Llanerchaeron makes a lovely family day out. The wide level pedestrian pathway is ideal for cyclists, pushchairs or wheelchairs.

Aberaeron is easy to find on the main A487 Cardigan to Aberystwyth road. There is a regular bus service between Cardigan and Aberystwyth that stops at Aberaeron. There is also plenty of parking in the town.

Links to useful sites: Aberaeron Chamber of Trade Website