Surrounded by magnificent sand dunes, Tywyn is a charming Welsh seaside resort overlooking Cardigan Bay. It is famed as the location of the Cadfan Stone, which was inscribed with Old Welsh in the 9th century and is the departure point for the heritage Talyllyn Railway.
Things to do in Tywyn
Stretching along the length of town is Tywyn Beach, which is a popular destination for water sports such as surfing and jet skiing. Harbour porpoises and bottlenose dolphins are often seen playing in the waters of Cardigan Bay and there are areas where dogs can run free. Just behind the beach is the Tywyn Leisure Park, where you’ll find family-friendly games and a golf course.
One of the most popular ways to explore the region is aboard the Talyllyn Railway, a narrow-gauge railway that was constructed in 1865 to transport slate from the quarries at Bryn Eglwys. At the Narrow Gauge Railway Museum, you’ll find vintage locomotives and wagons, as well as historic signals, tickets and souvenirs. There is also an exhibit dedicated to former volunteer Rev. Wilbert Awdry, who authored “Thomas the Tank Engine”.
For a unique cinematic experience, catch a flick at the Magic Lantern, a cinema house that occupies a late 19th-century assembly room. Admire the magenta facade before settling into one of the comfortable seats to watch a screening of a Royal Shakespeare Company or National Theatre performance. In the small foyer, live comedy and musical performances are regularly held.
Getting around Tywyn
Tywyn is around three hours’ drive from Cardiff Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe. The much larger Birmingham Airport is 2.5 hours away. Regular trains connect to the Tywyn railway station and the town is small enough to explore on foot.