Welcome to TimeScape Rhayader
“TimeScape Rhayader is an outstanding example of what a museum should be. It’s not just a load of old cupboards full of old things; it takes you on a journey through the past that leads you onto the future with a greater understanding of how we got here”
- Chris, Leominster
What is TimeScape Rhayader?
TimeScape Rhayader is a journey for all through everything related to Rhayader and the Elan Valley. Explore our communties’ past, present, and future, people and politics, stories and situations, nature and science, faith and folklore. From the moment you step into this wonderful space you’ll be immersed in lots of thoughtfully put-together installations that explore the local area’s fascinating stories.
You’ll learn about the things that have shaped our communities. Our digital displays range from a magic iSandbox where children can play ‘Cyclops vs Dragons’ to a a digital reconstruction of the Roman marching camp at Esgair Perfedd on our digital table!
And if you’re feeling really brave…
Pay a visit to the atmospheric Dragon’s Cave which is also accessible through a crawl-through tunnel (children or those with good knees only!), featuring CARAD’s very own resident giant copper dragon, Queen Belrenin! She’s a very wise dragon – whisper in her ear, ask her a question, then let her wisdom guide you…
We also have a delightful little shop that sells all sorts of arts, crafts, gifts and books, many produced by local talent - there really is something in TimeScape Rhayader for everyone from the moment you arrive.
If you think you know what museums all are about, come and visit us and be prepared to have those thoughts changed! We are so looking forward to welcoming you to TimeScape Rhayader – there’s lots to see and find out about, and we know you’re going to love it just as much as we do…
Accessibility Information
Parking
There is disabled car parking
Free entry for carers
People accompanying visitors with a disability are free. (0.1p to help us count numbers!)
Service dogs or guide dogs are welcome
We regret but other dogs are not allowed in the building.
Wheelchair access
TimeScape is fully wheelchair accessible
Borrow a wheelchair
Wheelchairs can be borrowed free of charge but cannot be booked in
advance. Please ask one of our volunteers for availability on arrival.
Accessible toilets and changing facilities
There are accessible toilets and baby changing facilities.
Lifts
There is a lift up to the second floor.
Seating
Seating is available throughout TimeScape
Sensory backpacks
Sensory backpacks are available to borrow (we may ask for a returnable deposit) from the welcome desk. These contain lots of sensory aids, including:
- Sunglasses
- Map
- Magnifying glass
- Puppet,
- Timer
- Ear defenders
- Fidget toy
- Paper towels
Please return the bag to the Museum Shop at the end of your visit.
If you would like any further information about how we can help you to enjoy your visit, please get in touch using one of the ways listed at the bottom of this page.
Volunteering at TimeScape Rhayader
TimeScape Rhayader is a volunteer led initiative and without their help and support we wouldn’t even be able to open the doors! If you’d like to join our team of volunteers and be part of sharing the stories of TimeScape with our visitors, then please do get in touch. You can find out how to do that and a bit more about volunteering with us here.
Get in touch
Opening days / times (from Easter to December) – Thursday to Saturday. 10.30 – 4pm
Prices - £6 for Adults, 0.1p for children under 16.
Contact no – 07788 663172
Email: all@carad.org.uk
Donate to CARAD
We rely solely on grants, donations and sponsorship to continue our work. If you’d like to donate, however small, every penny and pound counts; we promise it will be put to good use and would be very much appreciated.
TimeScape Rhayader began its life as the Rhayader Museum and Gallery, and between 2021 and 2023 we set about turning it into the attraction that’s waiting to welcome you today. We couldn’t have done it without our key funding partners, and would like to thank the following for their support and trust:
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 and private donors who wish to remain anonymous