Llanerchaeron
A Georgian estate frozen in time—three centuries of Welsh rural heritage preserved in one remarkable place.
A remarkably preserved Georgian estate near Aberaeron in Ceredigion, Llanerchaeron showcases three centuries of Welsh rural life. Designed by architect John Nash, this National Trust property features an elegant villa, working farm with traditional Welsh breeds, extensive walled gardens still producing fresh vegetables, ornamental lake, and woodland walks. The self-sufficient estate remains largely unaltered since the 18th century, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into historical country living with modern amenities including a café and second-hand bookshop.
A brief summary to Llanerchaeron
- Aberaeron, SA48 8DG, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during the quieter winter weekends (November–December) for a more intimate experience of the grounds and gardens without peak-season crowds.
- Bring sturdy footwear for woodland walks; paths vary in difficulty and terrain, with options ranging from short strolls to longer explorations around the lake and parkland.
- Plan 2–3 hours minimum to experience the villa, gardens, farmyard, and at least one woodland walk; allow extra time if exploring the collections or enjoying the café.
- Purchase fresh produce from the working walled garden—vegetables, herbs, and seasonal items are available for visitors to take home, supporting the estate's ongoing operations.
- Dogs are welcome on leads throughout the grounds and café but cannot enter the villa; ensure you have water and waste bags for your pet's comfort during the visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car from Aberaeron
From Aberaeron town centre, drive south on the A487 towards Cardigan for approximately 3 kilometres. Turn inland towards Ciliau Aeron; follow signs for Llanerchaeron. The journey takes 8–12 minutes depending on traffic. Free parking is available on-site with a 50-yard walk to the main house. The car park entrance can be located using the what3words reference: beginning.comedians.choirs.
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Bus from Aberaeron
Local bus services operate from Aberaeron town centre towards the Aeron valley villages. Journey times vary between 15–25 minutes depending on service frequency and stops. Services are less frequent in winter months. Check local transport schedules in advance, as routes and timetables change seasonally. This option suits visitors without private transport but requires advance planning.
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Walking from Aberaeron
A scenic countryside walk of approximately 4–5 kilometres from Aberaeron town centre follows rural lanes and field paths towards Ciliau Aeron and Llanerchaeron. The walk takes 60–75 minutes and passes through typical Welsh farmland with moderate elevation changes. Terrain is mixed—some sections are on quiet country roads, others on gravel paths. This option suits walkers seeking a full immersion in the landscape but requires good fitness and appropriate footwear.
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Taxi or ride-share from Aberaeron
Taxis and ride-sharing services operate from Aberaeron and surrounding towns. The journey to Llanerchaeron takes approximately 10–15 minutes and costs typically between £12–18 depending on exact pickup location and service provider. This option provides flexibility and convenience, particularly for visitors without access to a car or those arriving by train or coach.
Llanerchaeron location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Llanerchaeron
A Georgian Masterpiece in the Aeron Valley
Llanerchaeron stands as one of Wales' most complete and unaltered country estates, a testament to three centuries of continuous family stewardship. Designed by the renowned architect John Nash in the late 18th century, the elegant Georgian villa commands views across the picturesque Aeron valley, its proportions and setting reflecting the refined tastes of the gentry who built it. What makes Llanerchaeron exceptional is its remarkable preservation—the estate has changed remarkably little over 200 years, allowing visitors to experience authentic historical rural life rather than a reconstructed interpretation.The Working Estate and Agricultural Heritage
Beyond the villa lies a complete working estate that continues its original functions. The Home Farm complex showcases traditional Welsh farming practices, with resident Welsh cobs, rare Welsh pigs, poultry, geese, and doves. The walled garden, heated by ingenious fire pits and hypocausts when first constructed, still produces fresh vegetables and herbs—both edible and medicinal—that visitors can purchase to take home. A Victorian greenhouse and remnants of 1950s structures illustrate the evolution of horticultural technology across generations. The estate's commitment to conservation grazing means sheep and cattle graze in neighbouring fields, maintaining the landscape as it has been managed for centuries.Gardens, Grounds, and Woodland Exploration
The pleasure grounds encompass far more than formal gardens. Waymarked woodland walks wind through parkland and around an ornamental lake, offering peaceful routes for exploration at varying lengths. The walled garden provides structured horticultural interest, while the broader landscape reveals the interplay between productive agriculture and aesthetic design. Wildlife thrives throughout the estate—birds, insects, and small mammals inhabit the meadows, woods, and water features, making it an excellent destination for nature observation across all seasons.The Service Courtyard and Servants' Quarters
The villa's rear reveals a complete service courtyard with stables and servants' quarters, illustrating the hierarchical structure of Georgian household life. These outbuildings, atmospheric and largely original, demonstrate the infrastructure required to maintain a substantial country house. The Geler Jones Collection, housed on-site, features donated decorative antiques and industrial relics that add layers of historical context to the visitor experience.Seasonal Celebrations and Year-Round Access
Llanerchaeron transforms seasonally, hosting events like the Christmas Fair featuring over seventy local food and craft producers, wreath-making workshops, and festive decorations throughout the villa. Winter walks remain accessible most weekends, providing quieter alternatives to peak-season visits. The estate welcomes visitors throughout the year, with extended opening hours during school holidays and summer months, though some facilities operate on reduced schedules during winter.Modern Visitor Amenities Within Historic Surroundings
Conti's Café, situated on the banks of the river Aeron, offers light refreshments in a picturesque riverside setting. The second-hand bookshop provides browsing opportunities, while the visitor reception and gift shop cater to modern expectations. Free parking and accessible facilities, including wheelchairs and accessible toilets, ensure inclusive access to this historic property. Dogs are welcome throughout most of the grounds, though not within the villa itself.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Traeth Graig y Don
18.3 km
Discover Traeth Graig y Don, where Welsh history meets breathtaking coastal landscapes in a serene and timeless setting.
Castle Hotel
23.5 km
Historic charm and cozy comfort converge at Aberystwyth’s Castle Hotel, a welcoming coastal retreat with unique drinks and friendly hospitality.
Nwy Prydain Beacon
24.9 km
Historic beacon atop Constitution Hill offering panoramic coastal views and a glimpse into Aberystwyth’s industrial heritage.
Sloeberry Farm
26.2 km
Eco-friendly lodges and canvas tents near Aberporth beach offering peaceful countryside escapes with private hot tubs and stunning starry skies.
Cardigan Walks
33.3 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of Cardigan with Cardigan Walks, your ultimate tour guide to nature and history.
Cardigan Guildhall Market
33.3 km
Discover Cardigan Guildhall Market, a historic indoor market blending heritage charm with vibrant local trade in the heart of Cardigan.
Brynellen
35.3 km
Explore Bryn Celli Ddu, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic passage tomb on Anglesey, famed for its ancient burial chamber and summer solstice alignment.
Cerig y Penrhyn
37.3 km
Explore the enchanting Cerig y Penrhyn, a historical landmark in Wales that showcases the region's rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty.
Carmarthen Work House
40.2 km
Explore the historic Carmarthen Work House, a powerful testament to Wales’ social welfare past and resilience through times of hardship.
Dyfi Furnace
40.5 km
Discover the historical significance and natural beauty of Dyfi Furnace, a captivating landmark in Machynlleth, Wales, rich in heritage and wildlife.
The Dyfed Archaeological Trust
40.5 km
Explore the Dyfed Archaeological Trust in Llandeilo for an enriching journey through Wales' fascinating archaeological heritage and vibrant local culture.
Castell Dinefwr
40.5 km
Explore the rich history and stunning landscapes at Castell Dinefwr, a captivating castle in Llandeilo, Wales, perfect for every traveler.
South African War Memorial
40.7 km
A dignified tribute in Carmarthen’s Guildhall Square commemorating local heroes of the Anglo-Boer War with a striking marble soldier statue.
Carmarthen Castle
40.7 km
Discover the captivating history and stunning views at Carmarthen Castle, a must-visit historical attraction in Wales.
Dyfed Powys Police Federation
40.8 km
Discover the Dyfed Powys Police Federation in Carmarthen for a unique perspective on local law enforcement and community safety initiatives.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Red Lion Inn
3.3 km
A beautifully restored 200-year-old Welsh pub offering hearty food, warm hospitality, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Ffos-y-ffin.
New Quay Harbour
9.0 km
Discover New Quay Harbour, a scenic Welsh fishing village famed for its dolphins, sandy beaches, and rich maritime heritage on the stunning Cardigan Bay coast.
Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre
9.1 km
Discover the vibrant marine life of Cardigan Bay through interactive exhibits, dolphin-spotting, and conservation at New Quay’s marine wildlife centre.
Dolphin Survey Boat Trips
9.1 km
Experience intimate dolphin encounters and marine wildlife discovery on small, ethical boat trips from New Quay’s scenic Cardigan Bay.
The Black Lion - New Quay, West Wales
9.2 km
Historic clifftop pub and hotel in New Quay blending Welsh heritage, Dylan Thomas lore, and stunning coastal views.
Bwlch y Geuffordd Gardens
16.2 km
Discover a magical wildlife and water garden high above Aberystwyth, where whimsical art and family adventures await in a tranquil Welsh setting.
Carreg Slic
18.1 km
Discover Carreg Slic, the legendary sea stack of Llangrannog, where natural beauty meets Welsh folklore on a stunning Blue Flag beach.
Penbryn Beach
20.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Penbryn Beach, a nearly mile-long sandy cove framed by woodland and cliffs on Wales’ stunning Cardigan Bay coast.
Internal Fire Museum of Power
21.2 km
Discover the vibrant history of steam and internal combustion engines brought to life in the scenic Welsh countryside at the Internal Fire Museum of Power.
Tresaith Waterfall
21.8 km
Discover the rare coastal waterfall cascading onto sandy shores at Tresaith Beach, a serene gem along Wales’ Cardigan Bay coast.
Tresaith
22.0 km
Discover Tresaith Beach’s rare waterfall, Blue Flag sands, and vibrant marine life on Wales’ scenic Ceredigion coast.
Pen Dinas Hill Fort
22.6 km
Explore Pen Dinas Hill Fort’s ancient ramparts and soak in sweeping views of Snowdonia, the coast, and Aberystwyth’s historic landscape.
In the Welsh Wind Distillery
22.8 km
Discover Wales’ smallest distillery crafting bespoke gins and spirits in a charming rural setting at the Gogerddan Arms, Tanygroes.
Aberystwyth Castle
23.5 km
Experience the rich history and stunning views at Aberystwyth Castle, a key historical landmark on the Welsh coast.
War Memorial
23.6 km
A striking coastal monument in Aberystwyth honoring local war heroes with powerful sculptures and breathtaking sea views.
Essential places to dine
The Stubborn Duckling Ltd
3.4 km
A cozy, modern restaurant in Aberaeron’s historic square, renowned for quality food and warm Welsh hospitality.
Y Seler
3.6 km
Boutique harbour-side hotel with vibrant rooms, fresh seafood dining, and stunning views in the heart of Aberaeron.
The Old Watch House
9.1 km
Fresh seafood and stunning sea views combine in a welcoming coastal restaurant with vegan options and dog-friendly outdoor seating.
The Pepper Pot Bar and Grill
9.2 km
Cozy bistro and grill in New Quay offering fresh seafood, vegan options, and scenic harbor views with friendly service.
Penrhiwllan Inn
9.8 km
Traditional Welsh pub with cozy fires, hearty homecooked meals, and local ales in the charming seaside town of New Quay.
The Barn at Pengarreg
10.6 km
Coastal dining and drinks with stunning views near Pengarreg Caravan Park in Llanrhystud, perfect for relaxed Welsh seaside hospitality.
New Inn Ceredigion
16.4 km
Charming country pub in Rhydlewis offering hearty English cuisine, warm hospitality, and a cozy rural atmosphere in scenic Ceredigion.
Gwarcefel Arms
16.9 km
A charming Welsh pub in Pren-gwyn offering superb fish and chips, lively music nights, and warm local hospitality in a cozy countryside setting.
Y Talbot Tregaron
19.9 km
Historic 17th-century inn in Tregaron offering award-winning local cuisine, cozy rooms, and a lively bar with authentic Welsh charm.
Daffodil at Penrhiwllan
21.3 km
A vibrant, food-led country pub in scenic Penrhiwllan offering fresh local dishes, craft beers, and a colorful, welcoming atmosphere.
Emlyn Cafe
22.1 km
Discover Emlyn Cafe in Tan-y-groes – your perfect breakfast spot for delicious food and warm hospitality amidst scenic Welsh landscapes.
Athro Lounge
23.8 km
Modern British dining with vegan and gluten-free options in a stylish, historic setting—Aberystwyth’s welcoming social lounge.
The Boy Ashore
23.8 km
Rustic beachside dining with fresh seafood and stunning ocean views on Dyffryn Beach, Aberporth’s coastal gem.
Caffi Sgadan
23.8 km
Savor fresh local seafood and classic fish & chips in a friendly, casual café nestled in Aberporth’s charming coastal village.
Baravin
24.1 km
Casual coastal dining with fresh seafood, craft drinks, and stunning views of Cardigan Bay in the heart of Aberystwyth.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
BOX OF DELIGHTS
3.6 km
Aberaeron’s cheerful lifestyle shop for coastal clothing, footwear, and gifts – a relaxed stop for seaside style and thoughtful souvenirs.
The Shell Shop
9.2 km
Discover unique seashell treasures and coastal gifts in the heart of New Quay at The Shell Shop, open daily with friendly service and seaside charm.
Anrhegaron | Welsh Gifts
19.9 km
Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and unique gifts at Anrhegaron, a charming boutique in Tregaron’s historic market square.
Charlies Stores Ltd Aberystwyth (Parc-y-Llyn)
23.3 km
Spacious and friendly, Charlies Stores Ltd at Parc-y-Llyn is Aberystwyth’s premier destination for home, garden, clothing, and seasonal shopping under one roof.
London House Stores
23.6 km
Your friendly local convenience store in Aberporth, offering fresh local produce, essentials, and seaside goods daily until late evening.
Driftwood Designs
23.8 km
Welsh-designed gifts and art celebrating coastal beauty and creative storytelling from Aberystwyth.
Broc-Môr
23.9 km
Discover unique Welsh gifts and local artisan treasures at Broc-Môr, Aberystwyth’s charming boutique gift shop.
Stars
24.0 km
Discover unique gifts, handcrafted jewelry, and local charm at Stars, Aberystwyth’s beloved gift shop on Terrace Road.
Ambassadors
24.1 km
Explore Ambassadors in Aberystwyth for unique gifts and local crafts that capture the essence of this charming coastal town.
Fair & Fabulous
25.9 km
Discover ethically crafted gifts and sustainable treasures at Fair & Fabulous, Newcastle Emlyn’s premier Fair Trade boutique.
B&M Store with Garden Centre
32.1 km
Budget-friendly shopping meets garden centre expertise in Cardigan's largest discount store.
Y R Hen Emporiwm
33.2 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Y R Hen Emporiwm, Cardigan’s welcoming gift shop open daily.
Mundos
33.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Mundos, Cardigan’s welcoming gift shop with a curated selection of treasures.
Cardi Ent Party Store
33.2 km
Your go-to party shop in Cardigan for balloons, greeting cards, karaoke rentals, and mobile disco fun, open Monday to Saturday.
ADERYN
33.3 km
Charming boutique offering unique fashion accessories in the historic heart of Cardigan, Wales.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Prince of Wales
3.7 km
A welcoming, dog-friendly pub in Aberaeron serving classic home-cooked dishes in a cozy, friendly atmosphere with a beer garden.
Cadwgan Inn
3.7 km
Experience authentic Welsh pub culture in a cozy, old-fashioned setting with a warm fire and friendly locals in Aberaeron’s Cadwgan Inn.
The Gilfach Inn
5.3 km
A cozy Welsh village pub with local ales, hearty food, and a scenic beer garden in the peaceful village of Mydroilyn.
Tafarn y Vale / Vale of Aeron
5.9 km
A warm, community-owned pub in Felinfach offering hearty fare, local ales, and lively events in a welcoming Welsh countryside setting.
The Sea Horse Inn
9.2 km
A friendly, traditional Welsh pub in New Quay known for local ales, lively quiz nights, and a welcoming dog-friendly atmosphere.
Penrhiwgaled Arms
9.5 km
A cozy, family-run pub in Cross Inn offering hearty Welsh fare, friendly service, and a warm village atmosphere near New Quay.
Ship Inn, Tresaith
21.9 km
Seaside pub with stunning Cardigan Bay views, cozy rooms, and classic Welsh fare just steps from Tresaith’s golden beach and waterfall.
Yr Hen Lew Du
23.7 km
A charming and relaxed Welsh pub in Aberystwyth, serving hearty home-cooked meals with a warm, quirky atmosphere and bilingual menus.
The Ship Bar & Grill
23.8 km
Traditional Welsh pub with hearty homemade food, sea views, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Aberporth.
The Libertine
24.0 km
A captivating cocktail bar in Aberystwyth blending mystic charm with expert mixology and a relaxed, inviting atmosphere.
The Black Lion, Abergorlech
28.4 km
A welcoming Welsh country pub in scenic Cothi Valley, serving seasonal local dishes and craft ales near Brechfa Forest.
The Forest Arms Pub, Restaurant & Rooms
30.2 km
A charming Welsh pub and inn in historic Brechfa, perfect for outdoor lovers seeking cozy comfort and local hospitality.
The Lamb Inn
33.2 km
A cozy and affordable traditional pub in Cardigan offering hearty British fare, friendly service, and a lively local atmosphere.
Cardiff Arms
33.3 km
A family-run pub in Cilgerran offering hearty food, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Welsh countryside.
Saddlers Arms
33.3 km
Cozy traditional Welsh pub on Cardigan’s High Street, known for cask ales, friendly locals, and lively nights with karaoke and jukebox tunes.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Yokoswnb
23.7 km
A vibrant, budget-friendly nightclub and bar in Aberystwyth, popular with students for its lively atmosphere and central location.
Pier Pressure
23.8 km
Experience Aberystwyth’s vibrant nightlife at Pier Pressure, a lively nightclub set on the historic Royal Pier by scenic Cardigan Bay.
Lucifer's Nightlife
40.6 km
Experience Carmarthen's vibrant nightlife and fast food fusion at Lucifer's Nightlife, where music, dancing, and late-night bites come alive on Queen Street.
Savannah's Night Club
40.7 km
Experience Carmarthen’s vibrant nightlife at Savannah's Night Club—where music, dance, and stylish vibes create unforgettable Saturday nights.
Basement Sessions
53.3 km
Dive into the lively nightlife of Llanidloes at Basement Sessions, where eclectic music and vibrant energy create memorable experiences.
Jac’s Mansion
56.9 km
Experience welcoming, vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife at Jac’s Mansion, Builth Wells’ iconic gay nightclub with a lively, inclusive atmosphere.
The Club Barmouth
57.1 km
Experience vibrant Saturday nights at The Club Barmouth, where stylish vibes meet lively music by the scenic Welsh coast.
New Horizons
61.0 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at New Horizons, Dyffryn Ardudwy’s welcoming nightclub with spaces for all ages.
The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club
62.6 km
Experience lively nights and vibrant music at The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club, Gorseinon’s premier destination for unforgettable nightlife.
Caersws Village Club
63.5 km
A vibrant village club in Caersws offering lively events, warm community spirit, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of rural Wales.
Brecon Working Mens Club
64.3 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality at Brecon Working Mens Club, where locals gather for drinks and camaraderie in a charming setting.
BRECON JAZZ
64.3 km
Experience the soulful sounds of Brecon Jazz, an intimate venue celebrating the rich heritage of jazz music in the heart of Wales.
The Lounge Bar & Cafe
64.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Brecon at The Lounge Bar & Cafe, where crafted cocktails and a lively atmosphere await.
The Rorkes Drift
64.4 km
Discover the heart of Brecon at The Rorkes Drift, a quintessential pub offering hearty meals and a welcoming atmosphere for all travelers.
The Sarah Siddons
64.4 km
Experience the heart of Welsh hospitality at The Sarah Siddons, a cozy pub in Brecon offering local ales and hearty dishes.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
