Aberaeron is situated at the mouth of the River Aeron. With its elegant, brightly painted houses, sparkling water and picturesque harbour, this charming Georgian seaside town is sometimes known as the “Jewel of Cardigan Bay”. Serving the rural communities of the area, the bustling town offers good shopping and craft centres selling local produce, plenty of pubs and eateries, leisure centre, swimming pool, 9-hole pitch & putt golf course, regattas, concerts, festivals, carnival, and delightful walks and cycle rides.   Aberaeron began life as a small herring-fishing village, but gradually grew into an important ship building centre and trading port. After the harbour was built in the early 19th century, the Rev. Alban Gwynne constructed a “new town” and it is reputed that the famous Georgian architect, John Nash, was involved in the design. The coming of railway transport saw the decline of the sea-faring industries, and the town developed as a popular holiday resort. Recreational craft now use the harbour, which has good mooring facilities and a thriving sailing club. Boat trips are available out into the bay to view the rugged coastline and marine wildlife. The local seashore is pebbled, with fine sand visible at low tide, and, for surfers, Aberaeron is a ‘point break' which works on big southerly swells. .