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Christmas Market Trail | Two Days of Festive Shopping from Aberystwyth to Builth Wells

A two-day driving trail for Christmas shopping across Mid Wales, from Aberystwyth on the Ceredigion coast through Machynlleth and Welshpool to Builth Wells, timed for the Royal Welsh Winter Fair on 30 November and 1 December 2026. You'll find local makers, independent shops, farm produce and plenty of places to stop for lunch.

Day one morning: Aberystwyth

Start in Aberystwyth, the biggest shopping town on the coast, with independent shops, delis and bookshops a few streets from the seafront. The National Library of Wales on the hill above the town has free exhibitions, and Caffi Pen Dinas inside is a good place for coffee with a view over the bay.

Day one afternoon: Machynlleth and Corris

Drive north along the Dyfi to Machynlleth. Ian Snow on the main street sells crafts and homeware, and the town has galleries and independent shops. Just north, Corris Craft Centre is home to a group of craft workshops where you can buy direct from the makers. Stay the night nearby, with dinner at The Wynnstay in Machynlleth.

Day two morning: Welshpool and Powis Castle

Head east over the hills to Welshpool. Gifts of Wales in the town stocks Welsh-made presents, and Powis Castle on the edge of town is worth a visit for its gardens and views. Lunch at the Dragon Hotel in Montgomery, a few miles south, where the old market town has a charter market.

Day two afternoon: Builth Wells and the Winter Fair

Finish at the Royal Welsh Showground in Llanelwedd, Builth Wells, for the Winter Fair: prize livestock, a food hall full of Welsh produce and stalls selling gifts and decorations. The Metropole Hotel in Llandrindod Wells, a short drive north, has a restaurant and bar if you're staying another night.

Good to know

The route is about 90 miles. Parking at the Winter Fair fills early, so arrive first thing. Many small shops keep shorter winter hours, so check before you set off, and book rooms early for Winter Fair week.