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Rhayader
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Rhayader Rhaeadr Gwy |
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| Population | 2,075 (2001 census)[1] |
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| OS grid reference | |
| Principal area | Powys |
| Ceremonial county | Powys |
| Constituent country | Wales |
| Sovereign state | United Kingdom |
| Post town | RHAYADER |
| Postcode district | LD6 |
| Dial code | 01597 |
| Police | Dyfed-Powys |
| Fire | Mid and West Wales |
| Ambulance | Wales |
| UK Parliament | Brecon & Radnorshire |
| European Parliament | Wales |
| List of places: UK • Wales | |
Rhayader (Welsh: Rhaeadr Gwy) is a busy and historic market town in Mid Wales. It is the first town that lies on the River Wye.
The town serves a wide rural catchment area. It is situated midway between North Wales and South Wales on the A470, 13 miles North of Builth Wells and 30 miles East of Aberystwyth on the A44. A station on the Mid Wales Railway line existed in the town until 1963, but was closed under the 'Beeching Axe' programme of modernisation. The nearest station is now at Pen-y-Bont railway station on the Heart of Wales Line.
Tourism and agriculture are the most important industries locally. Walkers and cyclists are drawn to Rhayader for the abundance of trails and bridleways surrounding the town, which is the gateway to a massive complex of reservoirs and Dams (The Elan Valley), known as the 'Lakeland of Wales'. This vast area was flooded in 1893 to supply water to Birmingham, and is home to some of Britain's rarest wildlife and plants, along with magnificent feats of engineering.
The town itself is known as the centre of the anti-toll gate Rebecca riots and for the red kites which live nearby. Rhayader is also home to a museum, a leisure centre, numerous parks and all the amenities expected of a larger town. Rhayader is also renowned for its high concentration of pubs and drinking establishments. A Carnival week is held every July.
The town's Rugby Union team play in Asda League 5 North. Its football club, Rhayader Town F.C., ceased to exist in the summer of 2006 despite previously having some success. The team played in the League of Wales - the top-tier of domestic Welsh football between 1997 and 2002.
The town is well known by motocross fans. Every summer the Rhayader Motorcycle and Light Car Club stage a series of midweek motocross events at the nearby Cwmythig Hill circuit, many of Britain's top riders taking part, along with local motocross aces. The race series has gained a somewhat cult following, with over 4,000 spectators regularly attending events.
The town lies in the traditional county of Radnorshire.