The picturesque Welsh seaside town of Aberaeron is known for its colourful buildings, bustling harbour and a thriving independent food scene – and it’s easy to see why it’s so popular
The Welsh coastal path is peppered with charming towns and understated holiday destinations that draw visitors back year after year, and perhaps none more so than Aberaeron.
Whether it’s the Georgian frontages of the beautiful houses painted in pastel hues that line the harbour, the celebrated independent culinary scene or seaside delights on offer at Cardigan Bay, you’re overdue a trip to Aberaeron.
Initially planned in the early 19th century by Rev Alban Thomas Jones Gwynne, Aberaeron was a designed settlement with an operational harbour and boat-building trade.
Today, that very same harbour remains the focal point of the community for the approximately 1,300 locals who call this spot home, where fishing vessels drift alongside kayaks and tourists savour fresh seafood meals with panoramas that sweep across Cardigan Bay.
“Whether you enjoy a stroll around a Georgian country estate, chilling out on the beach or a hearty harbour meal after a train ride, Aberaeron, on the Ceredigion coast, is a place where all visitors can explore and unwind,” describes Visit Wales, which also calls the seaside town “enchanting”, reports Wales Online.
Aberaeron’s Regency-style structures, situated near Alban Square and the waterfront, house independent boutiques, cafés, and guesthouses, setting it apart from the character of other beloved rural Welsh destinations.
As you might expect, social media is awash with travel profiles and influencer content featuring journeys to Aberaeron, highlighting its picturesque charm and thriving harbour life. “Is this the prettiest town in Wales?” Asks Christopher Lee, @christopherlevans, during a trip earlier this year as part of a travel series to answer that very question.
“Just look at the buildings, I am literally obsessed,” Christopher tells his 45,000-strong audience, adding the town was “so busy” during his visit this summer.
“Look at the streets, guys, there’s literally colours everywhere…this is definitely one of the top contenders [for prettiest Welsh town] because everyone is so lovely, there’s plenty to do here and it’s very busy.”
Yet Aberaeron’s charm extends far beyond its picturesque facades and stunning appearance, boasting a rich heritage and stellar reputation for regional delicacies.
The settlement’s gastronomic character stems from its seaside position and farming roots, with exceptional venues like Y Seler serving fresh Carmarthenshire mussels, scallops, and sea bass accompanied by harbour panoramas.
The Hive, another beloved local spot, combines seafood specialities with its famous honey ice cream, paying tribute to the area’s beekeeping legacy.
Numerous historic attractions await exploration, including the National Trust’s Llanerchaeron estate, the harbour’s sea captain residences, and the community-created mosaics chronicling its nautical history.