In this issue of Community Update, we are delighted to select Aberystwyth Cliff Railway with our Commitment to Excellence Award.
The Aberystwyth Cliff Railway (in Welsh: Rheilffordd y Graig) at Constitution Hill opened during the late Victorian era in 1896, using a water balance system and later electrified in 1921. It is a spectacular feat of engineering and at 778 feet (237m) long, it is the longest electric funicular cliff railway in Britain.
We spoke to General Manager: Alun Davies to find out more about recent changes,
“We are delighted to say we have refurbished the area to include improved disabled access for our visitors. We have accessible parking for adapted vehicles, on a first-come-first-serve basis and wheelchairs and pushchairs can access the railway via a paved ramp. Each of our carriages contain a compartment wide enough for wheelchair access.
We are carrying on with some more renovations over the winter months, when we intend to replace the chassis on both trains and upgrade the emergency breaking system.
In the meantime, we look forward to welcoming everyone to our Welsh wonder: The Aberystwyth Cliff Railway.”
The carriages travel at a leisurely 4 miles per hour, offering panoramic views of Cardigan Bay. Engineering enthusiasts will marvel at the robust motor and high-tensile steel cables and precision electronic safety system and optical fans will love the Camera Obscura: one of the World’s largest, with an impressive 14-inch lens. The camera obscura captures 1,000 square metres of surrounding landscape in fascinating moving colour pictures.
There’s plenty to occupy younger children and teenagers with a newly-opened miniature golf course and the indoor games room with pool, air hockey and even 10-pin bowling. The gift shop is open for souvenirs and postcards.
Visitors are welcome to a picnic to enjoy on Constitution Hill or enjoy the daily delicious delights in the Y Consti Café. The menu includes sandwiches and paninis, children’s menu, classic main meals and breakfast options. Gluten-free and plant-based choices are also available. The café is renowned for its homemade cakes and cream teas, perfect for a family treat! The fully licences bar sells a wide selection of wine, beer and spirits, for a little afternoon tipple.
The Y Consti restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience- perfect for a family celebration or romantic evening out, complete with stunning evening views of Cardigan Bay.
For those looking to stay longer in the area, The Cliff Railway Apartment is available for 7-night bookings. The apartment is perfect for a family of four, complete with a double bed and separate twin beds.
To plan your excursion today, see the website below:
T 01970 617642