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Bwlch Nant yr Arian Forest Visitor Centre

A hilltop forest retreat near Aberystwyth with stunning views, waymarked trails, and daily red kite feeding.

4.8

Nestled 9 miles east of Aberystwyth, Bwlch Nant yr Arian Forest Visitor Centre is a scenic hilltop destination known for its commanding views of Cardigan Bay and the Cambrian Mountains. It offers a variety of waymarked walking, mountain biking, and running trails through native woodlands and historic mining landscapes. The site is famous for its daily red kite feeding sessions and family-friendly amenities including play areas and accessible lakeside paths.

A brief summary to Bwlch Nant yr Arian Forest Visitor Centre

  • Bwlch Nant yr Arian, Aberystwyth, Ponterwyd, SY23 3AB, GB
  • +441970890453
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 4 hours
  • Budget
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 11 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 11 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 11 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-4 pm
  • Friday 11 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the red kite feeding area in the afternoon to witness these majestic birds in flight.
  • Pick up an Animal Puzzle Trail leaflet at the centre to engage children with sculptures and local folklore.
  • Wear sturdy walking shoes for the Miners Trail, which includes some steep sections and uneven terrain.
  • Parking requires a fee; bring coins or a card for the ticket machine, which does not give change.
  • Check weather conditions before visiting, as some trails may have diversions or closures during extreme weather.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Drive approximately 9 miles east from Aberystwyth along the A44 towards Llangurig. The visitor centre car park is signposted on the left. Parking costs £1.50 for up to two hours or £3 for over two hours, payable by card or coins at ticket machines that do not give change.

  • Bus

    Take the 525 bus from Aberystwyth to Ponterwyd/Llanidloes, which stops on request at the entrance to the Bwlch Nant yr Arian car park. Bus journey time is approximately 30–40 minutes. Check local schedules for service frequency.

  • Train plus Taxi

    Arrive by train at Aberystwyth mainline station, then take a taxi for the 9-mile journey to the visitor centre. Taxi travel time is around 20 minutes, suitable for visitors without a car.

Bwlch Nant yr Arian Forest Visitor Centre location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Windy Conditions

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Discover more about Bwlch Nant yr Arian Forest Visitor Centre

A Scenic Highland Retreat with Panoramic Views

Bwlch Nant yr Arian Forest Visitor Centre is perched dramatically on a hilltop that marks the transition between lowlands and uplands in mid-Wales. From this vantage point, visitors enjoy sweeping vistas across Cardigan Bay and the Cambrian Mountains, where rolling hills meet the sea. The surrounding forest and lake create a tranquil natural setting that invites exploration and relaxation alike.

Trails Rich in History and Nature

The centre serves as the gateway to several waymarked trails catering to walkers, mountain bikers, runners, and horse riders. The Miners Trail traces the route of an old mining leat, winding through bilberry and heather-covered hills and past remnants of the lead mining industry. The Barcud Trail, a gentle circular route around the lake, is suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs and features wooden animal sculptures and poetry boards that celebrate local folklore and history. Recent reforestation efforts have seen 12,000 native trees planted, enhancing the forest’s biodiversity.

Red Kites: Wales’s Majestic Birds of Prey

A highlight of the visitor experience is the daily feeding of red kites, Wales’s national bird of prey. Up to 150 of these majestic birds can be seen soaring and swooping above the lake, a spectacular sight that draws nature lovers and photographers. This conservation success story reflects the recovery of red kite populations in Wales over recent decades.

Family-Friendly Facilities and Activities

The centre offers two timber-constructed play areas designed for toddlers and older children, blending naturally into the forest environment. Visitors can enjoy picnic spots, accessible paths, and a skills park for mountain biking. While the main visitor centre building and café may occasionally have limited access, amenities such as public toilets and a small shop selling local crafts and refreshments are available nearby.

Environmental Stewardship and Visitor Safety

Managed by Natural Resources Wales, the site emphasizes sustainable access and conservation. Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment and ensure their own safety, especially during adverse weather conditions like snow, ice, or high winds. Overnight parking is prohibited to protect the area’s tranquility.

Seasonal Access and Practical Information

Open daily from 11 am to 4 pm, the visitor centre is best visited in mild weather to fully appreciate the outdoor trails and wildlife. Parking is available for a modest fee, payable by card or coins, with no change given. The centre is accessible by car via the A44 from Aberystwyth and by request-stop bus services. The nearest train station is Aberystwyth, 9 miles away.

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