Why Aberaeron is great for a dog-friendly holiday

Whatever the weather, there’s nothing like a trip to the beach with your dog to enjoy the salty sea air and crunch of sand and shingle underfoot. Aberaeron has a picturesque view of Cardigan Bay and plenty of beach to amble along, all while keeping parking and refreshments close at hand. 

Aberaeron South Beach 

Also referred to as the Northern Groyne among the locals, the southern part of the beach in Aberaeron sits just south of the harbour. Offering a beautiful, sweeping stretch of shingle and pebbles with a gentle incline down to the shore, it’s brilliant for dogs and humans (though it’s best to wear some comfy walking shoes for this walk).  

If you’re lucky, on a sunny day you might spot the porpoise pods this bay is known for!  

The town of Aberaeron is just behind this stretch of beach so you can wander for a bite to eat before heading back.  

Aberaeron North Beach 

North of the Aberaeron harbour, you’ll find another stretch of rugged beach that’s popular among fishermen, birdwatchers, and you guessed it, dog walkers! 

It’s part sand, part rocky groynes with a stunning view of the Irish Sea and rolling hills of Ceredigion. Adults, kids, and dogs will enjoy exploring this quieter stretch of beach. You can walk with your pup down from the car park located behind the beach, or from the coastal path.

They say that getting a breath of fresh sea air makes you sleep well, but before you head back to Quay West Holiday Park to rest your head, grab a quick bite to eat. In this gorgeous Georgian townyou’ll find pubs, restaurants, and cafes that are as fond of your dog as you are.  

Prince of Wales Pub 

If you’re a fan of a hearty plate of traditional pub grub, the Prince of Wales pub is ideal! They’re known for warm and friendly service with generous portions of food, with lighter bites during the day and a carvery on Sundays. Choose the airy dining room or snuggle up in the bar area. Dogs are of course welcome inside.

You might need to book ahead for this one — find it tucked down Queen Street, a short walk from the beach.  

The Hive  

With a contemporary interior and a full menu offering local fare, The Hive is a great place to pop in for a bite. Dogs are welcome in the garden area. Treat yourself to breakfast, lunch or dinner and take in the harbour views with your meal.  

You’ll find The Hive nestled right next to Aberaeron Harbour.  

McCowan's Cafe 

Located next to the playing field on Alban Square, you’ll find this vintage-style cafe. McCowan's offers the perfect spot to sit and enjoy a cuppa and a slice of something delicious! It’s popular with the locals and offers a warm welcome and delicious home-cooked food. Dogs are just as welcome as people.

Up for an adventure with your furry friend? Here are some dog-friendly Aberaeron walks that you’ll love. Get your boots on and get out there!  

Aberaeron Town Trail 

Distance: 4.2 miles 

Terrain: mostly pavement and coastal path with a few stiles 

This circular path takes you all around the perimeter of Aberaeron, starting in the town centre. On your way, you’ll have easy access to public toilets and places to stop off for refreshments. As this route’s made up of public access paths and part of the coastal path, it’s best to keep your dog on a lead.  

Throughout your journey, you’ll get to take in the beautiful Ceredigion landscape made up of brightly painted houses and shops with the more rugged terrain of the beach.  

Aeron Valley to Llanerchaeron 

Distance: 2.5 miles 

Terrain: Flat road and gravel path 

Taking this straight, scenic path from Aberaeron, you can follow the River Aeron’s northern banks all the way up to the elegant Georgian villa of Llanerchaeron, owned by the National Trust. The route takes you from the road to gravel path, so it’sfairly easy for you and your dog to walk from start to finish.  

End the journey by exploring Llanerchaeron’s walled garden, lake, and visitor centre with your dog — they’re allowed in as long as you keep them on a lead. 

Aberaeron to Aberarth 

Distance: 7 miles 

Terrain: coastal path, inclines in places 

The Ceredigion Coastal Path is 180 miles long, covering the entire Cardigan Bay. For a gentle walk while you’re in Aberaeron, start from Aberaeron Beach and follow the signposted route north toward Aberarth. Along the way, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the bay, rolling hills, and once you reach Aberarth, you may see Snowdonia to the North.  

The Ceredigion Council recommend dogs stay on leads for this trip, though some beaches may allow dogs to roam to their heart’s content along the way!