Lampeter

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Around Ceredigion (Cardiganshire)

Lampeter

It’s hard to find early references to Lampeter, but the remains of castles, standing stones and burial chambers confirm the existence of a hidden historical past. The mottes of those early castles can be found near Olwen, Allt Goch and Goetre.

During the Roman occupation roads were built, parts of which are still in use today. The Romans also at the nearby Dolaucothi gold mines.

In 1137 Owain Gwynedd destroyed a castle which had been built by the King at Pont Stephen. Its remains can be found in the College grounds. This is one of the earliest references to the town.

Lampeter was mentioned when Gerald of Wales made his tour to raise an army for the Crusaders, and in 1284 a weekly market was granted to Rhys ap Meredith. The town fell under the control of the King when Cardiganshire became a Royal County, but through the centuries its Welsh culture and language has survived.

Lampeter is about 4 hours by road from London or Manchester and there are rail links to Aberystwyth and Carmarthen. Coaches from Holyhead, Cardiff and Swansea link to Lampeter via local bus services from Aberystwyth and Carmarthen.

The town is famous for its University which is situated in the centre of the town.

Where to go

There are quite a few shops for visitors to browse. Several historic sites are in the town itself and other attractions can be found a short distance away.

The network of footpaths, bridleways and quiet roads lead to pretty riverbanks, ancient hill forts and standing stones.

How to get there

From the south take the M4 to Carmarthen, then take the A485 north to Lampeter.

From the north or Midlands, head for Aberystwyth, then take the A487 to Lampeter via Aberaeron.

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