Pendinas

Pen Dinas rises above the coast at Penparcau, just south of Aberystwyth. The hill carries one of the largest Iron Age hillforts in Wales, built in several phases over centuries. Two separate forts once stood here, later joined by connecting banks and ditches. The northern fort has a simple stone gateway on its western side, while the southern fort is defended by steep slopes and terraced earthworks. A Bronze Age burial mound marks the southern summit, and the Wellington Monument crowns the highest point. The site is recognised as the pre-eminent hillfort along Cardigan Bay. Archaeologists found pottery, beads and metal fragments dating to around 100 BC. Excavations in the 1930s were led by Professor Daryll Forde, and recent work in 2021–2022 has aimed to protect and study the remains. A hoard of Roman coins from the 4th century suggests the fort remained a place of importance into later times. Visitors follow well-marked trails from Aberystwyth town centre to reach the hilltop. The Wellington Monument stands eighteen metres high, formed from an upended cannon. From the summit there are wide views over Cardigan Bay and the town below. The earthworks and gateways show how the forts were designed for defence. The contrast between the northern and southern forts highlights changes in construction over time.