Wild Gorse Magazine - Summer 2024

Wild Gorse MAGAZINE

Cover: Ty Sawna

Disclaimer: Reasonable care has been taken to ensure that the information contained in this guide in print and on the website are as up-to-date and accurate as possible, as of the time of publication, but no responsibility can be taken by Wild Gorse Magazine Magazine for any errors or omissions contained herein. Furthermore, responsibility for any losses,damages or distress resulting from adherence to any information made available through this guide/website is not the responsibility of Wild Gorse Magazine. Readers are advised to check with listings/article information with event providers to avoid disappointment. No responsibility will be accepted for any errors or omissions.

Welcome to our 4th instalment of Wild Gorse Magazine for the Summer of 2024.

With our inspirational cover art courtesy of the incredible Ty Sawna, we hope this entire edition fills you with joy, inspiration and plenty to do over the summer months.

If you’re searching for somewhere unique and beautiful to stay, we’ve got some amazing choices for you as well as wild adventures, inspirational living ideas, foodie delights and some fantastic events that you simply won’t want to miss.

From A Taste Of West Wales over in Carmarthen to Cuddfest in Haverfordwest as well as the much-loved Growing Wild Children’s Festival in Lamphey (check out our back cover which you can colour in...whatever age you are!) there’s plenty to get excited about.

Happy Summer 2024!

If you’d like to be a part of our next edition, due out for Autumn/Winter, get in touch today. Either call, email or visit our website for details or to book.

With connections in a digital age becoming less and less ‘social’ driving so many of us to need a disconnect from the day to

Follow each venue on their social media pages for regular news and updates and contact them soon for summer bookings.

“It’s hard to put into words just how utterly beautiful Angela and Ian’s wonderful escape is. Instant Wow factor, the moment we walked through the gate only for the Wows to continue!”

Where better to escape than a rustic yet luxurious cabin nestled within a wildflower meadow?

A glamping experience with a big hint of luxury, Erwain Escapes hand-built cabin is the perfect place to unwind and immerse yourself in the great outdoors. Bathe in seclusion within their sunken outdoor bath, toast marshmallows at the fire pit and wake up to the sound of bird song and the river flowing, the ultimate green therapy.

Situated in Cwmdu, Llandeilo, take the chance to truly disconnect from the digital world (there is intentionally no WIFI here!) and switch off at this adult only getaway.

A trip to Erwain Escapes is all about simplicity and comfort and there really is no better way to soothe the soul than this cosy exclusive cabin experience.

It’s clear to see that owners Angela and Ian have a passion for nature and the outdoors. With its living roof and almost hobbit style structure, this magical creation is like a fairytale come true. Complete with wood burning stove, this sustainable, one-of-a-kind stay is the perfect place for couples or solo travellers looking for a sense of peace and tranquillity. It’s also a magical setting for those celebrating special moments and celebrations. Whatever your reason, escape, stargaze and reconnect with Erwain Escapes.

Affordable Luxury in Pembrokeshire

Dog Friendly Cottages

The Barn Sleeps 4/5

The Coach House Sleeps 5/6

Fully Equiped Kitchen

Log Burner

Book Early and spread the cost!

Welcome hamper on arrival, free wifi, outdoor area with fire pit and lots more!

St Brides Bay Holiday Cottages Pembrokeshire

“Discover our handpicked range of Pembrokeshire holiday cottages in picturesque coastal areas of St Brides Bay. Whether you are looking for a luxury coastal cottage or a cosy rural retreat, we will help you find your perfect home from home on the Pembrokeshire coast.”

www.stbridesbaycottages.com

Summer adventures

await you in Cardigan Bay

Look out for special offers on your stay at checkout!

Nestled along the beautiful coastline of Wales, Cardigan Bay is the perfect Summer escape. Choose one of our many pristine beaches to relax in the sunshine, feel the sand between your toes and take a refreshing dip in the sea. Admire the Bay’s natural beauty during a boat tour, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the coast and spot dolphins and seals along the way.

Wander the coastal path, explore the many historic ruins dotting the landscape, and visit our quaint seaside towns to refuel at one of the many cafés, pubs and eateries or our local farm shops offering delicious locally-sourced food and beverages. Return to the comfort of our luxury, child-free, dog-friendly cottages and soak up the tranquillity of our surroundings in your private hot tub.

Scan the QR code to discover Dolgoy Cottages

Dyffryn Conin is a working farm conveniently located between Narberth and the Preseli Hills, a short drive away from beautiful beaches and miles of spectacular coastal path walks.

This comfortable and tranquil accommodation sleeps up to 8 people within 4 spacious bedrooms, it is dog friendly and has a large secluded garden to relax, unwind and dine alfresco.

Email: info@dyffrynconinfarmholidaylet.co.uk

www.dyffrynconinfarmholidaylet.co.uk

With adventures on their doorstep in every direction, Dyffryn Conin Holiday Let is the perfect base to both relax and discover all kinds of amazing places nearby.

From the epic Llys-Y-Fran lake, where you can try a wide range of water sports as well as archery, see their magnificent waterfalls and enjoy a bite to eat at their cafe. Or for those with an interest in history, the Pentre Ifan buriel chamber in the Presili Hills will transport you back to Neolithic times.

Nature lovers can enjoy a wide variety woodland & coastal walks plus the most magical beaches imaginable. Boat trips offer unique experiences of the incredible sealife West Wales has to offer, such as dolphins and seals. There are also fantastic coastal foraging trips nearby.

But if staying local is what you’d prefer, Dyffryn Conin Holiday Let really does have it all. This spacious farmhouse has beautiful gardens and nature all around, it’s perfect for all of the family, groups...even the dog!

Llys y Frân Lake & Pentre Ifan

Coastal Foraging & Glen Beach

Spring and early summer are my favourite time of year on the water, not only are we often blessed with beautiful glassy calm seas and sunny weather but it is one pf the best times of year for our wildlife.

The coastal flowers in spring turn our cliff paths and islands into an unrivalled display of colour with carpets of bluebells, campions, squill and thrift and the cliffs are teaming with breeding sea birds.

The Celtic Deep which forms part of the continental shelf of Europe is an important area of ocean frontal activity resulting in an abundance of plankton, especially copepods, which makes it such a good foraging ground for both marine mammals and seabirds.

We run a variety of trips including our very popular Ramsey and Skomer Island trips but It is also the perfect time of year for running our offshore trips to Grassholm and the Celtic Deep. On this 2.5 expedition we visit the most remote of the Pembrokeshire Islands in search of seabirds, whales and dolphins.

Grassholm Seabird whale and dolphin watch

Spring is arguably the best time of year to visit the Pembrokeshire Islands, as its coastline explodes in a riot of colours with the blooming of the spring flowers. In addition the cliffs are teaming with visiting seabirds laying their eggs and raising young. What better way to explore and soak up this amazing spectacle than to take a boat trip around the islands.

Join us on a 2.5 hour expedition to the most remote of the Pembrokeshire islands, the offshore reefs and edges of the Celtic Deep. Visit Grassholm Island where you will be immersed in a sensory experience as thousands of gannets circle overhead. Your ears will be filled with the constant squabble of the birds and your nose will be in for a treat! The gannet is Britain’s largest and most majestic seabird and Grassholm Island is the 3rd largest colony in the world. On leaving Grassholm we continue offshore in search for Porpoise, Whales and Dolphins. Porpoise and common dolphin are regular sightings and whilst our harbour porpoise are quite shy, common dolphin are a curious and playful species which will often interact with the boats, bow riding and leaping out of the water much to the delight of crew and and passengers alike. Sightings of the enigmatic Rissos dolphins and elusive Minke whales are always a possibility and both species have already been spotted this year.

On this trip in early summer we will also encounter large numbers of our visiting seabirds such as guillemots, razorbill, puffins and, if we’re lucky the Manx shearwater or elusive Storm Petrel.

Sunset Shearwater Voyage

Let us take you on a voyage to witness one of the wonders of the natural world, as 360,000 Manx shearwater return to their burrows at dusk.

We will explore the echoing caves and stunning wildlife of Ramsey Island, before heading further offshore to find the Shearwaters returning to the islands. Conditions permitting we head towards the Bishops and Clerks and May till early August we often encounter puffins on this trip as they nest in small numbers on the North Bishop. The evening light glinting from the golden lichens that grow on the west cliffs of Ramsey is a sight to see, but the real experience to be sought after is when we sit with the engines off, gazing back to shore and marvelling at the tranquil gliding flight of the shearwaters as they swoop around us, wingtips skimming the surface of the sea as the sun sets. This trip provides the perfect end to the perfect day in Pembrokeshire.

There are also our resident porpoises to be seen feeding the tidal waters of Ramsey Sound and Skomer and seals to be found basking on rocks or popping up an inquisitive head to see what we are up to. As we approach late spring we start to venture further afield to Grassholm Island and the Celtic Deep where you will see thousands of gannets, the largest and most magnificent of our seabirds and hopefully encounter dolphins and possibly even whales.

Grassholm & The Celtic Deep

The concept of a black kitchen may initially evoke visions of darkness and gloom, and have negative connotations, but it’s quite the opposite. The lack of colour can help create a sense of calm, it is simple, elegant, and bold, yet still feels warm and embracing.

There are other reasons to consider black as the choice for your new kitchen. Quality never goes out of style, and neither does black. It exudes a sense of luxury that can elevate the entire aesthetic of a space, whether it's a sleek modern apartment or a cosy cottage-style home.

It’s worth remembering that black is not a just one hue, but a spectrum of shades ranging from deep charcoal to jet black. This versatility allows for endless customisation options, enabling homeowners to create a kitchen that perfectly suits their taste and style preferences.

Black also serves as an ideal backdrop for showcasing statement pieces such as bold artwork or designer lighting xtures, allowing them to take centre stage without overwhelming the space.

In a world where we are often being urged to express our individuality, black kitchens o er an opportunity to do so, inviting homeowners to embrace their unique sense of style and creativity.

Whether you opt for a sleek modern aesthetic or a more eclectic vibe, a black kitchen provides the perfect canvas for bringing your design vision to life.

Discover the Beauty of Inspirational Living

At Wild Gorse Magazine, we believe that inspiration can transform your living and work space into a space that truly reflects your personality and values. Join us on a journey of artistic discovery and find inspiration for your own living and work space.

Find Inspiration in Every Corner

We feature a wide range of art, jewellery, handmade items, and interior design solutions that will ignite your creativity and elevate your living and work space. Whether you’re

looking for a unique painting to adorn your walls or a handcrafted piece of jewellery to add a touch of elegance, you’ll find it all here.

Create a space or a feeling that reflects your unique personality and brings you joy every day.

The interior design ‘musthave’ for 2024, ewe’ll be spoilt for choice with a Ewemoo!

Everyone’s got their own go-to colour and there’s a Ewemoo footstool to suit any taste and colour palette choice.

Proudly made in Wales, a Ewemoo footstool is crafted using only the finest materials and adds an elegant, quirky and character filled finish to any space.

Visit their website to view a large selection of footstools, including their original sheep, bulls, pigs and even hedgehogs!

See Ewemoo soon at:

The Smallholding & Countryside Festival, 18th & 19th May, Builth Wells, the Hay Festival, 23rd May to 2nd June and the Cardiff Bay Food Festival 5,6 & 7 of July.

www.ewemoo.co.uk

Discover your favourite Ewemoo today!

Dawn Harries Art

Dawn Harries Art

Dawn Harries is a Contemporary Landscape Painter whose work is heavily influenced by the Welsh Landscape.

‘Quie t Landscapes’

Solo Exhibition at Cyfarthfa Castle

16th April - 7th July 2024

Creating unique atmospheric paintings in an impressionistic style, Dawn’s work nurtures a sense of place, and brings warmth and nature into your home. In recent years she’s become increasingly interested in capturing the sense of light in the landscape, often making the atmospheric quality of the scene the most important aspect.

‘Quiet Landscapes’ is a solo exhibition of original oil paintings by Dawn at the beautiful Cyfarthfa Castle Museum & Art Gallery from 16th April to 7th July 2024.

Dawn Harries Art

Dawn Harries Art

Dawn Harries is a Contemporary Landscape Painter whose work is heavily influenced by the Welsh Landscape.

Creating unique atmospheric paintings in an impressionistic style, Dawn’s work nurtures a sense of place, and brings warmth and nature into your home. In recent years she’s become increasingly interested in capturing the sense of light in the landscape, often making the atmospheric quality of the scene the most important aspect.

Dawn Harries is a Contemporary Landscape Painter whose work is heavily influenced by the Welsh Landscape.

Creating unique atmospheric paintings in an impressionistic style, Dawn’s work nurtures a sense of place, and brings warmth and nature into your home. In recent years she’s become increasingly interested in capturing the sense of light in the landscape, often making the atmospheric quality of the scene the most important aspect.

‘Quiet Landscapes’ is a solo exhibition of original oil paintings by Dawn at the beautiful Cyfarthfa Castle Museum & Art Gallery from 16th April to 7th July 2024.

‘Quiet Landscapes’ is a solo exhibition of original oil paintings by Dawn at the beautiful Cyfarthfa Castle Museum & Art Gallery from 16th April to 7th July 2024.

Cyfarthfa Castle

Museum & Art Gallery, Cyfarthfa Park, Brecon Road, Merthyr Tydfil, CF47 8RE

Tuesday - Sunday 10am-4.30pm

@dawnharriesart www.dawnharriesart.co.uk info@dawnharries.com

Dawn Harries Art

Dawn Harries is a Contemporary Landscape Painter whose work is heavily influenced by the Welsh Landscape.

Creating unique atmospheric paintings in an impressionistic style, Dawn’s work nurtures a sense of place, and brings warmth and nature into your home. In recent years she’s become increasingly interested in capturing the sense of light in the landscape, often making the atmospheric quality of the scene the most important aspect.

‘Quiet Landscapes’ is a solo exhibition of original oil paintings by Dawn at the beautiful Cyfarthfa Castle Museum & Art Gallery from 16th April to 7th July 2024.

This summer, discover all kinds of tantalising food & drink. From tapas and wine tasting at the fabulous Hebron Vineyard to a taste of the sea at Van-y-Mor or even just a really great coffee with Flynn’s Coffee or a Cuppa Gower.

There are fantastic foodie events looming too, such as Cuddfest, 23rd - 25th August.

TOURS

TASTINGS

TAPAS

An organic vineyard using natural regenerative processes, Hebron Vineyard produces exceptional wine in the heart of West Wales.

With many years cultivating award-winning wines, passionate owners Jemma and Paul celebrate their vineyard through guided tours, wine tastings and food pairing tapas, held on Fridays and Saturdays. At £35pp, this unforgettable experience is excellent value.

Perfect for individuals and groups, a trip to Hebron Vineyard is a celebration of Welsh wine and a glorious environment to enjoy it. To book, visit their website.

If you love a farm shop, you’ll really love Bedw From The Farm Gate over in Llangrannog. Packed with all kinds of fresh and seasonal produce as well as all kinds of gift ideas, it’s the perfect place to visit for foodie inspiration.

For further details about any of the venues included here, visit their websites or social media pages and don’t forget to give them a follow for regular news and updates.

NEED

Cafe/Mobile coffee van serving speciality coffee, tea & hot cocoa. Bookings open. Tel: 07590 073553 Email: Booking@flynnscoffee.co.uk www.flynnscoffee.co.uk

Buy it online/supply it: www.cuppagower.co.uk “Our roasts are more than just a drink, they’re a journey through the scenic beauty of the Gower.”

A COFFEE VAN FOR YOUR EVENT? Breakfast & Brunch 9am - 2pm

Open every day, closed on Wed & Thurs 5pm - 8pm

Based at the beautiful Glan-y-Mor Campsite in St. Davids, Van-Y-Môr is the ultimate place eat beside the sea. Owner chef Florin, serves fresh, locally sourced ingredients, from breakfast burritos to shawarma wraps with all kinds of amazing fillings, plus lots more. Look out for their weekend specials, serving up all things amazing, like freshly caught crab & lobster rolls! For regular news & updates, follow them on Facebook @ Van-Y-Mor & Instagram @van_y_mor

Summer at the Farm...

Bedw From the Farm Gate is the perfect farm shop to get a taste of every season. Bringing you the freshest and most delicious produce grown right here on our farm, as well as locally sourced goods, all of our produce has animal welfare and the environment in mind.

The farm has been in the family for over 100 years. We still farm in a traditional, sustainable, non-intensive way, with the highest standards of animal welfare, to produce the best quality food and produce. We are very proud of our traditional ethical farming methods and our ability to work with and support many other Small Local and British Artisan Businesses.

Our Shop

Our farm shop is situated in a converted barn at our farm gate, on the outskirts of Llangrannog. Along with our own eggs, meat, fruit, veg and honey, we sell local organic bread, cakes, butter, and yoghurt, flowers, some basic supplies, homeware and gifts. We also have a lovely selection of locally made organic cow and Sheeps milk cheese.

By purchasing from us, you are helping support over 50 local small businesses.

What’s new for the Summer

The Summer months bring much colour with our vibrant selection of fruit and vegetables. Our awarding winning meats are also available, such as our grass fed beef, pork and lamb, chicken, duck and turkey. We also have bacon and our much-loved bbq boxes with a selection perfect for those summer evenings, dining outdoors. You’ll also love our fantastic range of beef sausages with traditional flavours as well as the super summery harrisa.

We offer a bespoke pre ordering service on all our beef options from an eigth of a steer, taster box, casserole pack or a specific joint or cut for a special occasion. Lamb and pork boxes are also available as well as our BBQ and breakfast boxes. Pre-ordering gives you the opportunity to have your meat posted out overnight fresh instead of frozen.

Please see our website or contact us directly to discuss your requirments. We also sell cooked meats and other savouries such aspork pies as well as delicious cakes and bakes.

Wellbeing

Located on Oxwich Bay beach in the Gower, Swansea, Ty Sawna is a bespoke wood-fired barrel sauna.

With ocean views like no other, this breathtaking sauna experience is available for commual use or private hire and sits up to 18 people spread over two barrel saunas.

Warm up and recharge then let the cool ocean be your plunge pool. Relax, socialise and reap the benefits of a sauna in a technology free, meditative space to quiet your mind, connect with nature and soothe your soul.

ATaste of West Wales is a much-loved event during the Spring and Summer seasons, held at the magnificent Botanical Gardens in Carmarthen, West Wales.

Their next event is an amazing celebration of Summer. Held on the 27th and 28th July they’ll have all kinds of art and craft, food, drinks and entertainment.

Meet talented artisan makers and producers and immerse yourself in this wonderful array of all things Welsh.

What better way to spend the summer than to visit these magnificent Welsh gardens. In full bloom, it promises a multi-scensory experience with the added bonus of this incredible event inside. 10am - 6pm.

Growing Wild Children's Festival 2024:

A Magical Outdoor Adventure for the Whole Family!

On Saturday, 31st August Dewslake Farm Campsite will be hosting the fifth Growing Wild Children's Festival, a family-friendly event set amidst the stunning natural beauty of rural Pembrokeshire. This enchanting festival celebrates nature, creativity, and music with a rich array of workshops and activities designed to captivate and inspire children of all ages.

Explore Nature and Create:

Immerse yourselves in the wonders of the great outdoors with bushcraft sessions and bug hunts, get crafty with papermaking, flag painting or adorn yourselves with beautiful flower crowns. Engage in relaxing yoga sessions, or let your creativity run wild with print, pottery and suncatcher workshops.

Music and Entertainment:

Live performances from different local musicians spanning a range of genres will entertain throughout the day and in to the evening. Seeing the children experience the joy of live music from incredible local artists is always a highlight.

Camping and Glamping:

A little about Dewslake Farm Campsite:

Located between Pembroke and Tenby, Dewslake Farm Campsite offers a serene and spacious setting for our festival. Known for its lush landscapes and welcoming atmosphere, it's the ideal place for families to connect with nature and each other. You can find out more about Dewslake and the events they have on this summer on their website www. dewslakecamping.co.uk

Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to experience the magic of the Growing Wild Children's Festival 2024. Secure your tickets now and prepare for a day filled with fun, creativity, and nature!

Scan the QR code for tickets.

Make a weekend of it with our camping options, available from Friday to Sunday. Whether you bring your own tent, camper van, roof-tent, or caravan, Dewslake Farm Campsite provides the perfect backdrop for a family adventure under the stars. Glamping options are also available for those seeking a little extra comfort.

B E A P A R T O F O U R N E X T E D I T I O N

A U T U M N / W I N T E R 2 0 2 4

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b o o k i n g / a r t w o r k d e a d l i n e i s t h e 2 3 r d A u g u s t a t 4 p m . F u l l

d e s i g n i s i n c l u d e d . I t i s o u t f r o m t h e 5 t h S e p t e m b e r .

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