Mid Wales is the undiscovered gem of upland Britain, and the Old Weather Station lies in the heart of Mid Wales. Nestling on the slopes of Plumlumon, on the edge of the Hafren Forest and near the head of Llyn Clywedog, the centre is surrounded by the stunning scenary of the Cambrian Mountains.
Only a couple of hours from Birmingham, the area feels a world away. The centre lies on the boundary between the upland farms and the wild hills, at just under 1000ft above sea level. The Rivers Severn & Wye both rise on the slopes of Plumlumon, a few miles from the centre.
Cadair Idris and the Arans in the south of Snowdonia National Park are under 30 minutes drive, as are the beaches and dunes of Cardigan Bay.
The area is a haven for wildlife. Red Kites, Buzzards and Ravens are common place, Merlin, Peregine Falcons and Hen Harriers patrol the hillsides, Goshawk quarter the forest. Llyn Clywedog is a regular spring & autumn 'refueling point' for Osprey. Dippers are common on the rivers and streams and the forest is home to flocks of crossbill. The rivers and llyn Clywedog are also the home to Otters, and Hares are seen in the upland fields. The keen naturalist will find many more whilst the interested amateur will simply marvel at the number and diversity of the wildlife.
The villages and towns are picturesque and relatively unspoilt, whilst providing all the basic services you will require. Both Llanidloes and Machynlleth have banks, a range of shops, small supermarkets, chemists and a selection of pubs, cafes & resturants.