Pen Dinas Hill Fort: Ancient Iron Age Stronghold with Panoramic Views
Explore Pen Dinas Hill Fort’s ancient ramparts and soak in sweeping views of Snowdonia, the coast, and Aberystwyth’s historic landscape.
Pen Dinas Hill Fort, located in Penparcau near Aberystwyth, Wales, is an extensive Iron Age hillfort dating back around 400 BC. This historic site features sprawling earthwork ramparts and the Wellington Monument at its summit. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of Snowdonia, the coastline, and Aberystwyth town, making the steep climb rewarding for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
A brief summary to Pen Dinas Hill Fort
- Hillfort, Pen Dinas, Aberystwyth, Penparcau, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy walking shoes as the climb to the summit is steep and paths can be uneven.
- Keep dogs on a lead and be cautious of grazing cows on the hill.
- Visit on a clear day for the best panoramic views of Snowdonia and the coastline.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are no amenities at the summit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus service from Aberystwyth town center to Penparcau, which runs every 20-30 minutes and takes approximately 15-20 minutes. From the bus stop, it is a 10-15 minute walk uphill to the hillfort. Tickets cost around £2-£4 one way.
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Car
Driving from Aberystwyth, the journey to Pen Dinas Hill Fort takes about 10 minutes. Limited roadside parking is available near the base of the hill in Penparcau village. Note that parking spaces are limited and the final approach involves a steep walk.
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Walking
For those staying in Aberystwyth, a scenic 45-minute walk along coastal and village paths leads to Pen Dinas Hill Fort. The terrain is moderately steep and uneven in places, so suitable footwear is recommended.
Pen Dinas Hill Fort location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Pen Dinas Hill Fort
An Iron Age Fortress Above Aberystwyth
Pen Dinas Hill Fort stands as one of the largest and most significant Iron Age hillforts in mid-Wales, perched on a prominent coastal hill in Penparcau, just south of Aberystwyth. Constructed around 400 BC, it comprises two separate forts built at different times, with massive earthwork ramparts and defensive ditches that once protected its inhabitants. The fort’s strategic location provided commanding views over the surrounding landscape and the sea, allowing ancient settlers to monitor approaching threats from miles away.Layers of History and Archaeological Significance
Beyond its Iron Age origins, the site also includes a Bronze Age burial mound on its southern summit, indicating its long-standing ceremonial and strategic importance. Archaeological digs have revealed the scale and complexity of the fortifications, including traces of roundhouses and settlement areas within the ramparts. The hillfort offers a tangible link to prehistoric life, showcasing ancient defensive architecture and community organization.The Wellington Monument: A Later Tribute
Atop the summit stands the Wellington Monument, erected in the 19th century to honor Arthur Wellesley, the 1st Duke of Wellington. This imposing landmark contrasts with the ancient earthworks, blending historical eras and adding a Victorian-era narrative to the site. The monument serves as a focal point for visitors, symbolizing both military prowess and local heritage.Unrivaled Panoramic Vistas
Climbing Pen Dinas rewards visitors with spectacular 360-degree views encompassing the Snowdonia mountain range, the Ceredigion coastline, and the town of Aberystwyth below. On clear days, the vistas extend far across the landscape, making it a favored spot for photographers, hikers, and history enthusiasts. The natural beauty combined with the historical ambiance creates a unique and inspiring atmosphere.Visitor Experience and Natural Setting
The ascent to the summit involves a moderately steep walk over well-trodden paths, requiring sturdy footwear for comfort and safety. The hill is often grazed by cows, so visitors are advised to keep dogs on leads and maintain respectful distance. The site is open year-round with no admission fee, welcoming walkers, families, and those interested in Celtic heritage. The peaceful surroundings and open skies contribute to a tranquil and reflective experience.Conservation and Community Engagement
Pen Dinas is recognized for its archaeological and cultural significance and is the subject of ongoing community projects and conservation efforts. These initiatives aim to preserve the earthworks and promote awareness of the site’s heritage. Informational signage and maps help visitors appreciate the historical context and natural environment, ensuring Pen Dinas remains a treasured landmark for future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Castle Hotel
1.3 km
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Nwy Prydain Beacon
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Brynellen
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Cerig y Penrhyn
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Machynlleth Town Clock
26.1 km
Historic Machynlleth Town Clock, a Victorian landmark symbolizing community pride and Welsh heritage in the heart of Penrallt Street.
Traeth Graig y Don
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Discover Traeth Graig y Don, where Welsh history meets breathtaking coastal landscapes in a serene and timeless setting.
Precipice Walk
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Explore the enchanting Precipice Walk in Dolgellau, a hiking paradise offering breathtaking views, rich wildlife, and a perfect escape into nature's beauty.
Llettyrhaflaeth Farm
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Discover the beauty of the Welsh countryside at Llettyrhaflaeth Farm, where nature, farm life, and breathtaking landscapes await you.
National Trust - South Snowdonia
46.3 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of South Snowdonia, a serene nature reserve perfect for hiking and relaxation.
Sloeberry Farm
46.5 km
Eco-friendly lodges and canvas tents near Aberporth beach offering peaceful countryside escapes with private hot tubs and stunning starry skies.
Talley Abbey
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Wales' only Premonstratensian abbey, where medieval ambition meets lakeside serenity.
Newcastle Emlyn Castle
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Llanfair Slate Caverns
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Coed y Brenin Forest Park
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Experience breathtaking landscapes and thrilling adventures at Coed y Brenin Forest Park, a national treasure in North Wales.
Llywelyn Monument
50.5 km
A solemn granite monument at Cilmeri honors Llywelyn the Last, marking the site where Wales’ final native prince fell in battle, symbolizing a pivotal moment in Welsh history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Vale of Rheidol Railway
1.1 km
Experience a nostalgic steam train journey through Wales’ scenic Rheidol Valley, from Aberystwyth to Devil’s Bridge, steeped in heritage and natural beauty.
Aberystwyth Castle
1.4 km
Experience the rich history and stunning views at Aberystwyth Castle, a key historical landmark on the Welsh coast.
War Memorial
1.5 km
A striking coastal monument in Aberystwyth honoring local war heroes with powerful sculptures and breathtaking sea views.
Amgueddfa Ceredigion Museum
1.6 km
Discover Ceredigion’s rich heritage in a stunning Edwardian theatre with engaging exhibits and a traditional Welsh museum cottage.
Aberystwyth Beach
1.7 km
A scenic Welsh seaside escape with sandy shores, historic charm, and vibrant coastal life along Cardigan Bay.
Wales Coastal Path Aberystwyth
1.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Wales Coastal Path at Aberystwyth, where rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and rich history meet in a vibrant seaside town.
Parc Natur Penglais
2.0 km
A tranquil woodland reserve on Penglais Hill boasting stunning coastal views and vibrant spring bluebells near Aberystwyth.
Aberystwyth Cliff Railway
2.3 km
Ride Britain’s longest electric funicular up Constitution Hill for breathtaking coastal views, historic charm, and family-friendly fun in Aberystwyth.
Constitution Hill
2.6 km
Historic cliff railway, panoramic coastal views, and the world’s largest Camera Obscura atop Aberystwyth’s iconic Constitution Hill.
It's A Gift
9.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and charming gifts at It's A Gift, Borth’s friendly and inviting local gift shop.
The Magic of Life Butterfly House
11.4 km
Walk among free-flying tropical butterflies in a lush indoor rainforest in the heart of the Rheidol Valley, where nature, education and conservation come together in a unique, dog-friendly sanctuary.
Bwlch y Geuffordd Gardens
13.0 km
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Bwlch Nant yr Arian Forest Visitor Centre
13.4 km
A hilltop forest retreat near Aberystwyth with stunning views, waymarked trails, and daily red kite feeding.
Ynyslas National Nature Reserve
14.2 km
Discover vast sand dunes, rich wildlife, and tranquil coastal beauty at Ynyslas National Nature Reserve in Mid Wales.
Ynyslas Sand Dunes
14.3 km
Wales's largest sand dunes meet pristine beach and rare orchids at this protected coastal sanctuary.
Essential places to dine
Athro Lounge
1.4 km
Modern British dining with vegan and gluten-free options in a stylish, historic setting—Aberystwyth’s welcoming social lounge.
Baravin
1.7 km
Casual coastal dining with fresh seafood, craft drinks, and stunning views of Cardigan Bay in the heart of Aberystwyth.
Premier Inn Aberystwyth hotel
1.8 km
Comfortable seafront hotel with modern rooms, friendly service, and great breakfast near Aberystwyth’s main attractions.
The Barn at Pengarreg
12.0 km
Coastal dining and drinks with stunning views near Pengarreg Caravan Park in Llanrhystud, perfect for relaxed Welsh seaside hospitality.
Ynyshir Restaurant and Rooms
18.4 km
Experience Wales’ premier two-Michelin-starred culinary adventure with immersive dining and luxurious rooms in a serene countryside setting.
Proper Gander
20.6 km
Family-run Modern European seafood restaurant in Tywyn with a warm atmosphere and seasonal Welsh dishes on the Cambrian Coast.
Salt Marsh Kitchen
20.7 km
Experience the fresh, seasonal flavors of Welsh seafood in a cozy, refined bistro setting at Salt Marsh Kitchen in Tywyn.
Y Seler
21.4 km
Boutique harbour-side hotel with vibrant rooms, fresh seafood dining, and stunning views in the heart of Aberaeron.
The Stubborn Duckling Ltd
21.4 km
A cozy, modern restaurant in Aberaeron’s historic square, renowned for quality food and warm Welsh hospitality.
Y Talbot Tregaron
22.7 km
Historic 17th-century inn in Tregaron offering award-winning local cuisine, cozy rooms, and a lively bar with authentic Welsh charm.
Riverside Hotel Pennal
23.2 km
Charming riverside hotel and restaurant in Pennal offering warm Welsh hospitality, cozy rooms, and delicious local cuisine near Snowdonia National Park.
Y Llew Coch - Mach (The Red Lion Machynlleth Town)
26.2 km
Experience Michelin-quality dining and lively music in the heart of Machynlleth’s welcoming Red Lion pub.
Gwen Restaurant and Wine Bar
26.2 km
An intimate 8-seat fine dining experience in Machynlleth, blending bold flavors and local ingredients with expert wine pairings.
The Old Watch House
27.9 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
28.0 km
Cozy bistro and grill in New Quay offering fresh seafood, vegan options, and scenic harbor views with friendly service.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Charlies Stores Ltd Aberystwyth (Parc-y-Llyn)
1.0 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.
Driftwood Designs
1.5 km
Welsh-designed gifts and art celebrating coastal beauty and creative storytelling from Aberystwyth.
Broc-Môr
1.5 km
Discover unique Welsh gifts and local artisan treasures at Broc-Môr, Aberystwyth’s charming boutique gift shop.
Stars
1.7 km
Discover unique gifts, handcrafted jewelry, and local charm at Stars, Aberystwyth’s beloved gift shop on Terrace Road.
Ambassadors
1.7 km
Explore Ambassadors in Aberystwyth for unique gifts and local crafts that capture the essence of this charming coastal town.
BOX OF DELIGHTS
21.4 km
Aberaeron’s cheerful lifestyle shop for coastal clothing, footwear, and gifts – a relaxed stop for seaside style and thoughtful souvenirs.
Anrhegaron | Welsh Gifts
22.6 km
Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and unique gifts at Anrhegaron, a charming boutique in Tregaron’s historic market square.
Ian Snow
26.1 km
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The Shell Shop
28.0 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.
The Set Piece
35.7 km
A charming gift shop in Barmouth offering unique local crafts and souvenirs just steps from the beach.
White Leaf Clothing Boutique
37.1 km
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Hill Walking Outdoor Wear Ltd
40.4 km
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The Little Pink Tree
40.5 km
Discover unique treasures and handcrafted gifts at The Little Pink Tree, a charming gift shop in Rhayader, Wales.
Quillies
40.5 km
Discover authentic Welsh crafts and unique local artistry at Quillies, Rhayader’s beloved gift shop and cultural hub.
London House Stores
43.2 km
Your friendly local convenience store in Aberporth, offering fresh local produce, essentials, and seaside goods daily until late evening.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Yr Hen Lew Du
1.3 km
A charming and relaxed Welsh pub in Aberystwyth, serving hearty home-cooked meals with a warm, quirky atmosphere and bilingual menus.
The Libertine
1.7 km
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Y Llew Gwyn
11.4 km
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Cambrian Coast Bar & Grill
12.2 km
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Prince of Wales
21.3 km
A welcoming, dog-friendly pub in Aberaeron serving classic home-cooked dishes in a cozy, friendly atmosphere with a beer garden.
Cadwgan Inn
21.4 km
Experience authentic Welsh pub culture in a cozy, old-fashioned setting with a warm fire and friendly locals in Aberaeron’s Cadwgan Inn.
Tafarn y Vale / Vale of Aeron
24.7 km
A warm, community-owned pub in Felinfach offering hearty fare, local ales, and lively events in a welcoming Welsh countryside setting.
The Gilfach Inn
27.9 km
A cozy Welsh village pub with local ales, hearty food, and a scenic beer garden in the peaceful village of Mydroilyn.
The Sea Horse Inn
28.3 km
A friendly, traditional Welsh pub in New Quay known for local ales, lively quiz nights, and a welcoming dog-friendly atmosphere.
Hendre Hall Pub / Bar
29.7 km
Cozy Welsh pub in scenic Llwyngwril offering local ales, hearty meals, live music, and warm hospitality by the coast.
Penrhiwgaled Arms
30.0 km
A cozy, family-run pub in Cross Inn offering hearty Welsh fare, friendly service, and a warm village atmosphere near New Quay.
The Last Inn
35.5 km
A cosy, rustic pub in Barmouth serving excellent real ales, hearty local dishes, and warm Welsh hospitality daily from noon to late evening.
Yr Unicorn
40.2 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality, local ales, and lively music at Yr Unicorn, Dolgellau’s beloved traditional pub in the heart of town.
The Eagles Inn
40.2 km
A historic Welsh pub and inn in Rhayader offering hearty food, friendly service, and a scenic beer garden with mountain views.
The Castle
40.4 km
A friendly, historic pub in Rhayader offering hearty meals, live sports, and a pioneering vegetarian menu in a lively, welcoming setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Yokoswnb
1.4 km
A vibrant, budget-friendly nightclub and bar in Aberystwyth, popular with students for its lively atmosphere and central location.
Pier Pressure
1.6 km
Experience Aberystwyth’s vibrant nightlife at Pier Pressure, a lively nightclub set on the historic Royal Pier by scenic Cardigan Bay.
The Club Barmouth
35.7 km
Experience vibrant Saturday nights at The Club Barmouth, where stylish vibes meet lively music by the scenic Welsh coast.
Basement Sessions
37.3 km
Dive into the lively nightlife of Llanidloes at Basement Sessions, where eclectic music and vibrant energy create memorable experiences.
New Horizons
40.0 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at New Horizons, Dyffryn Ardudwy’s welcoming nightclub with spaces for all ages.
Caersws Village Club
46.1 km
A vibrant village club in Caersws offering lively events, warm community spirit, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of rural Wales.
The Steam Mill
53.4 km
Discover The Steam Mill, Newtown's premier events venue, blending modern amenities with local culture for unforgettable experiences.
The Monty Club
53.5 km
A welcoming social and sports club in Newtown with ample space for pool, snooker, darts, and vibrant community events.
Jac’s Mansion
54.3 km
Experience welcoming, vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife at Jac’s Mansion, Builth Wells’ iconic gay nightclub with a lively, inclusive atmosphere.
The Cove
58.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Cove in Hafan Y Mor, North Wales, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await.
Clwb Llyn Bach
58.6 km
Discover the lively spirit of Clwb Llyn Bach, a top pub in Porthmadog offering great drinks, vibrant events, and a friendly atmosphere.
Vics Boogie-Nights
59.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Vic's Boogie-Nights, Abererch's premier bar for music, dancing, and unforgettable memories.
Bryn Arms
60.1 km
A cozy pub in Gellilydan offering hearty homemade meals, lively events, and charming gardens for a welcoming Welsh experience.
Club Mambo
62.5 km
Discover the energetic vibe of Club Mambo, a lively bar in Carmarthen offering delicious drinks and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Lucifer's Nightlife
62.5 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly