Holiday rentals in Machynlleth

Once the capital of Wales and the location of the first Welsh parliament, Machynlleth initially appears to be an unassuming market town. Upon closer inspection, you’ll discover a creative hub with a thriving arts scene. The town’s prominent clock tower sits in the middle of the high street, welcoming visitors to the spot where the first prince of Wales was crowned in 1404. A market has taken place here every Wednesday since 1291; the town’s book and antique shops are full of hidden treasures, and art galleries showcase the creations of local artisans.

Machynlleth is located in the UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere, a protected area of natural beauty celebrated for its working relationship between humans and the environment. This natural approach to living is reflected in the town’s sustainable cafes, whole-food stores, and wellness shops. Machynlleth is surrounded by hills and mountains that beckon to be climbed, and Aberdyfi Beach is less than 20 minutes away. Back in town, visitors can while away afternoons with walks along the river bank or linger over a local ale in a beer garden.

Thanks to the town’s proximity to sandy beaches, Machynlleth holiday rentals are very popular during the summer holidays in July and August, when the town comes alive with holidaymakers looking to spot lapwings and butterflies at the nearby Ynys-Hir nature reserve. The famed Machynlleth Comedy Festival is usually held in May and draws in big-name comedians from across the United Kingdom, while the Gŵyl Machynlleth Festival is a musical celebration of traditional Welsh culture that takes place in August.

Booking Machynlleth cottages for the first week in September means that you can enjoy the Glyndŵr Festival, which marks the start of the future prince’s rebellion in 1400. Things get much quieter and temperatures start to drop once autumn rolls around, and some local businesses close over the winter.

MOMA Machynlleth

True to the creative energy of the town, the Museum of Modern Art is a focal point for the local arts scene. This former Wesleyan chapel known as the Tabernacle now houses the best of Welsh modern art. Home to regularly updated exhibitions, the seven galleries feature a diverse collection of pieces from 1900 onwards. The concert hall also hosts frequent live events, including plays, concerts, and literary shows.

Centre for Alternative Technology

In 1974, in an old slate quarry near the town, eco-activists established the Centre for Alternative Technology to research and promote green living. Today, the community has evolved into an educational charity, with hands-on activities and innovations showcasing the best in sustainability. Arriving on the remarkable water-powered funicular railway is an experience in itself, and sets the tone for the rest of your visit.

Owain Glyndŵr’s Parliament House

This unassuming building on the high street is one of the most historically important in the country. On this site, in 1404, the first parliament of Wales was held, and the centre’s namesake was crowned prince of Wales following his successful rebellion against the English. Today, the medieval house has become a community hub, with an exhibition telling historical stories from the local area.