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Machynlleth Town Clock: A Historic Welsh Landmark

Historic Machynlleth Town Clock, a Victorian landmark symbolizing community pride and Welsh heritage in the heart of Penrallt Street.

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The Machynlleth Town Clock, located on Penrallt Street, is a cherished historical landmark erected in 1873 by the townspeople to commemorate the coming of age of the eldest son of the Fifth Marquess of Londonderry. This iconic clock tower stands as a symbol of community pride and local heritage in the heart of Machynlleth, Wales.

A brief summary to Machynlleth Town Clock

  • Penrallt St, Machynlleth, SY20 8AG, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

  • Visit on a Wednesday to experience Machynlleth’s vibrant weekly market nearby, offering local produce and crafts.
  • Explore nearby cultural sites like the Owain Glyndŵr Centre and MOMA Machynlleth for a deeper understanding of Welsh history and art.
  • Check the clock’s chimes and timing during your visit as it has been recently repaired for its 150th anniversary.
  • Use the Maengwyn Street pay and display car park for convenient parking with disabled spaces close to the clock.
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Getting There

  • Train

    Take the Cambrian Line train to Machynlleth station, with direct services from Birmingham, Shrewsbury, and Aberystwyth. The station is approximately 1.5 km from the town clock, a 20-minute walk or short taxi ride. Train fares vary but typically range from £10 to £30 depending on origin.

  • Car

    Drive via the A487 or A470 main roads, with travel times around 1.5 to 2 hours from regional cities like Cardiff or Shrewsbury. Use the Maengwyn Street pay and display car park near the clock, which includes disabled spaces. Parking fees are modest, around £1-£3 per hour.

  • Bus

    Local bus services connect Machynlleth with nearby towns, stopping within walking distance of Penrallt Street. Services run regularly but check schedules for frequency. Tickets typically cost £3-£7 for local journeys.

  • Walking

    From Machynlleth town center or station, walking to the clock tower takes about 15-20 minutes along mostly flat, paved streets suitable for most mobility levels.

Machynlleth Town Clock location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Machynlleth Town Clock

Origins Rooted in Community Celebration

The Machynlleth Town Clock was erected in 1873 by the inhabitants of Machynlleth and its surrounding district to mark the coming of age of the eldest son of the Fifth Marquess of Londonderry. This act of communal effort reflects the town's strong sense of identity and pride. The clock has since stood as a central feature on Penrallt Street, a main thoroughfare in Machynlleth, symbolizing both the passage of time and the town’s historical continuity.

Architectural and Cultural Significance

The clock tower is a prominent historical monument in Machynlleth, blending Victorian-era design with local craftsmanship. It is more than just a timepiece; it serves as a cultural heartbeat for the town. The clock’s hourly chimes have sparked lively community debate, highlighting its role as a living part of the town’s social fabric. Its presence on Penrallt Street places it amid Machynlleth’s independent shops and artisan stores, contributing to the street’s vibrant atmosphere.

Setting Within Machynlleth’s Historic Core

Penrallt Street, where the clock stands, is a hub of local commerce and history. Nearby attractions include the Owain Glyndŵr Centre, commemorating the Welsh prince crowned in Machynlleth in 1404, and MOMA Machynlleth, a contemporary Welsh art gallery housed in a historic building. The clock tower’s location makes it a natural focal point for visitors exploring the town’s rich heritage and lively market days.

Community Engagement and Preservation Efforts

The clock has been a subject of community interest and care, with recent efforts to repair it in time for its 150th anniversary. Despite periods of malfunction, it remains a beloved landmark. The town council and residents view it as a symbol of Machynlleth’s enduring spirit and history, underscoring the importance of preserving such monuments for future generations.

Visitor Experience and Atmosphere

Visitors to the Machynlleth Town Clock can enjoy the quaint charm of the surrounding streets, filled with unique shops, cafes, and weekly markets. The clock tower’s chimes punctuate the town’s tranquil yet lively ambience, inviting reflection on the passage of time in a setting rich with Welsh culture and history. The area is accessible and welcoming, making it suitable for a variety of visitors.

Integration with Local Amenities and Accessibility

Machynlleth offers convenient amenities near the clock, including parking facilities on Maengwyn Street and accessible cultural venues like MOMA Machynlleth. The town’s infrastructure supports visitors with mobility needs, ensuring that the clock tower and its surroundings can be enjoyed by all. This integration enhances the visitor experience, blending historical exploration with modern convenience.

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