Ceredigion

Ceredigion is a county and principal area in the west of Wales. It lies along Cardigan Bay and forms part of the historic county of Cardiganshire, known for its rugged coastline, rural landscapes and coastal towns. The county town and administrative capital is Aberystwyth, a university town that hosts Aberystwyth University and the National Library of Wales. Other notable towns include Cardigan, Aberaeron, Lampeter and New Quay.

In 1996, Ceredigion became a unitary authority within Wales, replacing the former Cardiganshire County. It is governed by Ceredigion County Council and is represented in the Senedd in the Mid and West Wales region and in the UK Parliament by the constituency of Ceredigion. The area is predominantly Welsh-speaking, with language use strong in education, local government and daily life.

Geographically, the county combines a coastal belt along Cardigan Bay with inland hills toward the Cambrian Mountains. The Teifi and Aeron rivers run through the region, and the coastline features beaches, estuaries and cliffs. The Ceredigion Coast Path is part of the Wales Coast Path, attracting walkers and visitors. The economy relies on tourism, agriculture, fishing and small industries, with the university and public services playing significant roles.

Cardigan Bay is known for marine life, including bottlenose dolphins. The area has a rich Welsh-language cultural heritage and hosts historic sites such as Cardigan Castle and the National Library of Wales in Aberystwyth. Through Aberystwyth University, the region contributes to education and research in Wales.