History of Aberystwyth

Aberystwyth started life as a garrison town for the Normans in 1277. For centuries fishing, sea faring, lead mining and agriculture were the mainstays of the local economy.

Transformation in the 1860s

Today’s vitality originates from a few tumultuous years during the 1860s which changed Aberystwyth from being a remote market town, port and watering-hole for the wealthier classes to a bustling holiday resort with a new university.

Features of Aberystwyth

With a mile of promenade, beaches, a harbour, ruined castle, medieval street plan, University, National Library of Wales, narrow gauge and funicular railways Aberystwyth is a town of great character and charm.

Tour of the Town

Using images of Aberystwyth dating from a hundred and fifty years ago until the present day the reader is taken on a tour of the town taking in the promenade, outlying districts and the town centre.