Centre for Alternative Technology
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If you've wondered it, we've tried it. If we haven't tried it, we will.
Our eco-centre features working examples of sustainable living, renewable energy, environmentally responsible building, energy conservation, organic growing and composting. Things we've tried, so we can tell you what would work for you.
A ride on the remarkable water-balanced cliff railway kicks off a day out which is sure to entertain and inspire novices and enthusiasts alike. As you walk round the site you can discover many aspects of how we can improve our relationship with the earth's natural resources - working with natural processes rather than exhausting them.
There's plenty for the kids too. Activities to explain about solar, wind and wave power, as well as many other technologies, 
and an adventure playground and a maze. If you have children, they'll love it, but there are important messages too.
The Centre has its own reservoir and water supply, and its own sewage systems. In fact this aspect of our work is one of our most famous - we are pioneers in the use of composting toilets and reed beds - make sure you contribute to them when you come! Many of the displays also have applications in developing countries.
A few members of staff live on the site with their families, so it is very much a working demonstration of alternative technology. The Centre generates its own electricity, mainly from renewable sources of energy. Over half the hot water used annually is solar heated and the buildings display many features of ecological design and energy conservation.
While you are here you can take the opportunity to visit the information desk and, during the summer holidays, take a specialist tour with our engineers, biologists, horticulturists and builders.
The visitor centre is open to the public for most of the year (except over Christmas and one week in January). We're sure you won't be disappointed if you decide to come!
General Information: Visitor centre open 7 days a week
- Car park
- Cafeteria restaurant
- Practical and informative publications
- A mail-order service of 'green' books and products
- Educational service for schools
- Consultancy for individuals and businesses
- Residential courses
- Membership and a free information service.
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Directions |
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3 miles north of Machynlleth on the A487 or Sustrans Route 8. Half price entry if you travel by train. Just show your ticket at reception. If you travel by bus, bicycle or on foot you can claim £1 discount on your entry price - bus 34 stops directly at CAT. Buses 30, 32 and X32 stop in Pantperthog, a 3 min walk to the Centre. Parking for bicycles, cars and coaches is available on site. |
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Centre for Alternative Technology Postcode for SatNav: SY20 9AZ
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Days Out near Centre for Alternative Technology
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Borth Animalarium (13 Miles)*
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Aberystwyth Arts Centre (16 Miles)*
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Ceredigion Museum (17 Miles)*
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Llanidloes Museum (17 Miles)*
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Harlech Castle (19 Miles)*
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Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway (21 Miles)*
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Portmeirion Village (22 Miles)*
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Newtown Textile Museum (23 Miles)*
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Strata Florida Abbey (23 Miles)*
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Gilfach Nature Reserve (23 Miles)*
Places to Visit near Centre for Alternative Technology
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Borth (12 Miles)*
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Barmouth (12 Miles)*
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Aberystwyth (17 Miles)*
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Porthmadog (23 Miles)*
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Rhayader (25 Miles)*
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Llanystumdwy (26 Miles)*
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Pwllheli (29 Miles)*
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Abererch (29 Miles)*
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Abersoch (29 Miles)*
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Aberaeron (30 Miles)*
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