Machynlleth

Machynlleth is a market town and community in Powys, Wales, historically part of Montgomeryshire. It lies in the Dyfi valley on the River Dyfi and serves as the principal town for the surrounding rural area of mid-Dyfi valley. The town grew in medieval times as a market and fairs centre; it was granted a market charter in the late 13th century. In 1404, Owain Glyndŵr is said to have held a Welsh parliament in Machynlleth during his rebellion, a milestone in Welsh history.

Today, Machynlleth retains a diverse cultural scene. Notable institutions include the Centre for Alternative Technology, a pioneering education and research centre focused on sustainability, nearby at Llwyngwern. The town has cultural venues such as Oriel Machynlleth gallery and hosts annual cultural events, including music and arts festivals. The nearby Ynys-hir Nature Reserve and the Dyfi Biosphere Reserve (designated by UNESCO in 2009) reflect the area’s environmental importance. The town is in a bilingual Welsh-English area, with Welsh widely spoken.

Transport and accessibility: Machynlleth has a railway station on the Cambrian Line, linking Shrewsbury with Aberystwyth and Pwllheli, and is served by local bus routes. The town is also a hub for access to the Dyfi valley and the coastline of Cardigan Bay.