Things to Do in West Wales This Summer: Top Picks From a Ceredigion Local

Growing up in West Wales as a creative and born-and-bred New Quay girl, my summers were filled with activities such as stealing clay from the cliffs, beach days, arcades, field parties, and festivals. Now residing in Aberystwyth as a self-employed creative in my fifties, much has changed since my early years.  

With more respite to devote to cultural enrichment and meaningful activities, since my two girls have (almost) flown the nest, I'm noticing how much Aberystwyth, New Quay, and their neighbouring coastal towns have evolved, in good and bad ways.  My restless nature has often drawn me to new cities and even other countries, so relocating back home has been an adjustment. That is why I wanted to compile my favourite pursuits and communal activities in the area.

So, if you're a local who is fed up with the same walking trails and Ceredigion’s charming coves are beginning to look as mundane as any stretch of coastline, or a tourist who wants to explore a more authentic side to Ceredigion, here's a perfect way to guide you through your West-Walian summer.

My Top Summer Holiday Activities for Adults in Ceredigion

Stop by Y Bañera for a Cocktail

This Aberystwyth cocktail bar provides the soft, cosy ambience of the interior on a breezy day with a view overlooking the sea.

The menu ‘Bar of Tales’, launched in early 2025, features 18 signature cocktails—each carefully crafted to tell a unique story through each flavour. The cocktails are filled with names of local towns and folklore, such as ‘Twm Sion Cati’ (Wales’ own Robin Hood), bringing back nostalgic memories of my grandmother's tales from childhood. 

Additionally, Y Bañera functions as a bustling music venue featuring local acts, as well as a space for events and creative workshops, making it one of my favourite places in Aberystwyth for a fun girls’ night out. Sign up for the Bauble Pottery Painting that I will be hosting at Y Bañera

Unwind and reconnect at Lindsay Cardwell’s Yoga Classes and Retreats

Many of us across Ceredigion wish to be involved in a leisurely activity matching our unhurried lifestyle, that can be done on a warm summer's day in a walled garden, or in a calming studio on a blustery Welsh evening.

Lindsay’s yoga classes are popular among locals and one of my favourite activities in West Wales. Lindsay blends gentle guidance with mindful movement; her sessions are designed to suit all levels, for beginners of yoga or deepening your practice. With a focus on relaxation, balance, and holistic well-being, I always leave Linday's retreats and classes in West Wales feeling refreshed, relaxed, and balanced.

Step out of your comfort zone by connecting with like-minded women

Many tend to overlook the power of community since the onset of COVID-19, leaving individuals to often wonder how to get involved in summer events in West Wales. Numerous women’s groups across Ceredigion, including the Women’s Institution and Welsh equivalents like Merched y Wawr, offer community and engagement opportunities. A great choice for the younger generation is joining the Aber Girls Club, designed to give the younger generation a similar experience.

One of the best things to do in Ceredigion for locals, which can often be underestimated, is visiting the local community hall, which provides many meetups and workshops similar to those of the WI. I recently hosted a ceramic workshop for children and Adults in New Quay Memorial Hall, which has held markets and events for our community for many years. 

Enjoy a getaway close to home with Penlanlas cottages

It feels like just yesterday when 'staycation' was the buzzword that defined our pandemic days. However, this trend has begun to wither as we’ve adjusted back to our post-pandemic routine. Continue the tradition of spending time on your doorstep with your favourite people. Penlanlas Cottages offer the most picturesque panoramic scenery of Ceredigion all year round.

These idyllic lakeside cottages showcase serenity meeting bespoke interiors, from a choice of Cwm Caseg, an endearing cottage with a stone-built fireplace, which emphasises and features modern amenities and tailored touches. Ysgubor, the other cottage, is a charming converted barn featuring a private patio, and it's a firm favourite among guests. Only 15 minutes from Aberystwyth, Penlanlas Cottages are perfect for a summer family escape or a quaint Christmas gathering.

Take a Splash with AberOutdoors

On the topic of water, and for those with energy to spare, another great way to rest an energetic mind and body is kayaking or paddleboarding. My go-to kayaking club in northern Ceredigion is AberOutdoors, offering SUP and kayak hiring services. 

Located on Y Lanfa, AberOutdoors not only allows chasing the sunset around Aberystwyth harbour, but also gives opportunity to locals and tourists to partake in scenic tours along the Ystwyth and Rheidol rivers and the Ceredigion coastline, shaping a perfect day-escape and a productive way to discover the rich landscape that lies on our doorstep.

Warm your cockles at AberPoeth, the Seafront Sauna

One of the newer instalments in Aberystwyth, which can definitely be categorised as a top outdoor summer activity, is AberPoeth. Situated on Aberystwyth seafront, the sauna provides a Nordic experience with a scenic backdrop of the north Ceredigion countryside.

AberPoeth provides communal and private sessions for individuals who enjoy wild swimming, with many collaborations of local wellbeing-based companies, such as massage sessions, yoga, and summer raves for those with energy to spare.

From locals reconnecting with familiar shores to travellers seeking an authentic taste of coastal life, this guide embraces the slower, more soulful side of West Wales, a place where sea air, art, and community spirit runs deep.