Steam&Slate
The Georgian harbour and painted houses at Aberaeron

Aberaeron

A Georgian harbour painted in impossible colours.

Photo: Roger Kidd / CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Aberaeron is the prettiest town on the Ceredigion coast, a planned Georgian harbour of terraces painted in bold, clashing colours around a working quay. It has become a food destination out of proportion to its size, and its honey ice cream is locally famous.

CountyCeredigion
Best seasonOutside the April–September dolphin season for value

Staying near Aberaeron

A charming, walkable harbour base for the middle of Cardigan Bay, well placed for New Quay's dolphins and the Aeron valley inland.

What's here

The harbour and the painted terraces; the honey ice cream and harbourside dining; the coast path in both directions; and easy trips to New Quay for dolphin-watching.

When to visit

Late spring to early autumn for the harbour at its best; the town's food scene is a year-round draw.

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Common questions

Why are the houses in Aberaeron so colourful?

Aberaeron was built largely to a single Georgian plan in the early 19th century around its new harbour, giving it an unusually uniform terraced architecture. Owners have since painted the houses in bold contrasting colours, which has become the town's trademark look.

Is Aberaeron good for food?

Yes — for its size, Aberaeron has a strong food reputation, with harbourside restaurants and its well-known honey ice cream. It makes a good base for a Cardigan Bay break that combines coast walks with eating well.

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