The newest ‘must-see’ attraction has opened up in Rhayader.

On Thursday, May 23 TimeScape Rhayader / Amserwedd Rhaeadr Gwy opened its doors for the first time.

More than 100 people attended the launch of Mid Wales’ new all-weather visitor attraction, including the Mayors of Rhayader and Llandrindod Wells, the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, and the Deputy Lieutenant of Powys.

Timescape Rhayader is a new heritage and arts attraction. New installations look at the fascinating stories from the community and those who lived there before, their unique landscapes, climate change and sustainable behavior, folklore and belief, farming and the environment, migration and identity.

Timescape Rhayader
Timescape Rhayader is a new heritage and arts attraction, and will be the first all-weather attraction in Rhayader (Copyright: Emma Porter)

For more than two years a team of dedicated and highly skilled people have been developing this heritage and arts attraction, in conversation with the local community.

The project was funded by the Welsh Government, Elan Links HLF Landscape Scheme, Powys County Council, Rhayader Town Council, Art Fund, Community Foundation Wales, Ashley Family Foundation, Oakdale Trust and Llysdinam Trust.

The Cabinet Secretary for Culture and Social Justice, Lesley Griffiths, said: “It’s fantastic to see CARAD’s creativity in developing an immersive way for people to engage with Rhayader’s history.

“I am pleased the Welsh Government has supported CARAD’s work with a Capital Transformation Grant of over £140,000 to create a new exhibition space, and to have supported the museum with a grant for rising costs in 2023. I am sure this unique and innovative attraction will get lots of people involved in learning about the community’s history.”

Timescape Rhayader
For more than two years a team of dedicated and highly skilled people have been burning the midnight oil, ready for the official opening (Copyright: Emma Porter)

Cath Allan, CARAD’s co-director and creative lead on TimeScape Rhayader said: “We’re passionate believers in the power of creativity and heritage to bring people together in shared endeavours, and to inspire individuals to push themselves beyond their comfort zones. 

“This project has involved Rhayader’s community at every stage of its development, with over one hundred volunteers giving thousands of hours of their time. It’s a brilliant effort and an exceptional achievement!”

The opening hours for TimeScape Rhayader, from May 30, are Thursday - Saturday (10.30am - 4pm) with last entry at 3:30pm.

Ticket Prices: Adults £ 6.00.  Children (under 16) – £0.01.  There will be several ‘Pay What You Can’ days a year for local people.