North Wales Magazine – August 2018

AUGUST 2018

!

EE FR

MAGAZINE on? s ’ t a h W nthly

Your mtoo local guide ents ev

Steaming ahead The best railway journeys

Top 10…

Campsites

MAKINGTHE AULTIMATE SPLASH WATERSPORTS INSIDE J Homes & Interiors J Town in Focus J food & drink

DISCOVER FOUR EXCEPTIONAL HOLIDAY HOME DESTINATIONS

Discover a choice of wonderful holiday home parks in North Wales with beautiful countryside views and gorgeous coastal vistas. Experience exceptional leisure facilities, mind-boggling family fun activities, luxurious spa experiences and restaurants offering menus of tantalising and delicious dishes. With super stylish five-star comfort guaranteed, you and your family will want for nothing.

SITE FEES

Purchasing your very own holiday home has never been easier – or more affordable. With a number of options available, you can buy the holiday home of your dreams and start enjoying days full of fun, adventure, and relaxation.

INCLUDED UNTIL MARCH

2020

*

Experience worlds full of freedom, fun and excitement, enjoy endlessgetaways, long weekends and full-on holidays as often as you wish

Regal Tempo

2 bed model

£44,995 Homeseeker Buckland

2 bed model

£169,995 Westfield

2 bed model

£209,995 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK AN EXCLUSIVE PARK TOUR, VISIT OUR WEBSITE AND LIVE CHAT WITH ONE OF OUR LOVELY TEAM OR TELEPHONE:

01745 858 010 www.darwinescapes.co.uk

Book your very own viewing tour and explore a world full of new experiences and lavish lifestyles

*Applies to new customer purchases only on selected new and pre-owned models. No part exchange allowance can be used in conjunction with this offer.

MAGAZINE

LUXURY OUTDOOR LIVING

Our new Olive Tree Coffee Rooms are now open from 9am-5pm Monday to Saturday, 10.30am-4.30pm Sundays; to give plenty of time for sampling our delicious breakfast menu (9am-11.30pm) and ÂŁ3 afternoon tea and cake deal (3pm-4.30pm). Please call 01492 580665 for all reservations and enquiries.

Our collection of top of the range, all weather furniture at affordable prices, ready to add the perfect finishing touch to your home or garden

NEW exciting and ground-breaking BBQ range called Everdure

by Heston Blumenthal

Page 4 NWM 2017 Snowdonia Nurseries & Garden Centre, Glan Conwy 01492 580703 www.snowdonianurseries.co.uk

MAGAZINE

Dear Reader One of the best things about living in North

of Colwyn Bay twinkling in the distance, you

Wales has got to be the fabulous scenery.

could be forgiven for thinking that you were

And many of us are lucky enough to be able

on Mediterranean shores.

to walk straight out of the front door and take in beautiful views without even having to get

And, on the off chance that you were taking

in the car.

beautiful North Wales for granted, spend your breakfast time listening to a London-

I have to say, being just minutes from the

based radio station. Nothing makes you

beach was a deal clincher when we were

appreciate our region more than hearing

house hunting here eight years ago – and

of yet more commuting misery whilst you

the novelty is yet to wear off. Having lived

are munching on your cornflakes, just a

in London for a decade, the fact that the

stones throw away from some jaw dropping

managing director of North Wales Magazine

scenery…

– Darcy Hamilton, aka our Bichon Frise/Collie cross – can be on the beach at the drop of a hat never ceases to amaze me.

But it’s not just any beach – it’s a beach with a view. Last night, as the moon was reflecting off the water in Rhos harbour with the lights

Kate Hamilton Founding Editor

J Are you organising or taking part in an event that should be covered in our what’s on listings? Then make sure you tell us! whatson@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk J Keep in touch. Send in your contributions, letters, photos and press releases and become part of the North Wales Magazine family. editorial@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk J Subscribe. If you want to ensure that you receive each and every copy of North Wales Magazine then why not subscribe? All you pay for is the post and packaging. subscribe@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk J Advertise. If you own a business in North Wales and want to get your message in front of 20,000 local readers every month then drop us a line. Prices start from just £75. sales@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk

J

In this issue...

We want to hear from you!

You don’t have to be a master chef or top bartender to get creative in the kitchen this August – just follow our simple recipes for both food & drink!

Front cover credit: Anglesey Outdoors (www.angleseyoutdoors.com)

NWM 2018 Page 5

Internal Doors External Doors Garage Doors Composite uPVC Aluminium BiFolds Windows Stairs Glass MAGAZINE

Quality Installations Inside & Out

Showroom Open 6 Days Mon - Fri 8:30 - 5 Sat 8:30 - 4 133 - 135 Vale Road Rhyl LL18 2PG 01745 353700 northwalesdoors.com Page 6 NWM 2017

Contents 9 What’s On?

Your guide to all of the best events taking place

20 The Big Picture

MAGAZINE

Editor Kate Hamilton Publisher Grant Hamilton Sales & Marketing Manager Carly Redgers

Picturesque Porth Iago

23 Ten of the best…

Art Director Simon Marriott

29 Town in Focus

Contributors Stephen Gregory Alison Hough Tim Watson Cai Ross Julian Hughes Simon Smith Steve Goodier Nick Embrey Luke Edwards Caroline Roberts Janet Hill

Campsites

The historical town of Ruthin

37 Watersports

Make waves this summer

37 43

43 Llyn y Dywarchen Is it science or magic?

47 Great railway journeys Steaming through North Wales

Contact Us editorial @northwalesmagazine.co.uk sales @northwalesmagazine.co.uk subscribe@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk

53 Climbing high

The mountains of Snowdonia

59 Food & Drink

The regions wining, dining and culinary scene

whatson @northwalesmagazine.co.uk

77 Homes & Property

North Wales Magazine is an independent, regional monthly magazine produced

by KSG Publishing. It is available to pick up from a wide range of independent outlets throughout Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Wrexham, Gwynedd and the Isle of Anglesey.

Get inspired by homes that are on the market

101 Community News

A roundup of regional happenings

105 Walking

The Snowdonia Precipice Walk

53

109 Competitions

Your chance to win fabulous local prizes

113 Crossword

Get to grips with our brain-teasing puzzle

115 In my opinion…

Our expert columnists share their thoughts

130 Horoscopes

What does August have in store?

77

Disclaimer: All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part (electronically or in print) without written permission is strictly prohibited. Every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of published content, and any views or opinions presented are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of North Wales Magazine.

The publishers assume no responsibility for any damage, loss or injury arising from participation in, or as a result of, any offer, competition, information or advertisement contained within the magazine. North Wales Magazine does not endorse any of the advertisements featured. All words and images remain the property of their respective owners and all copyrights are observed. North Wales Magazine is not associated with any newspaper group.

Privacy Notice. You can read North Wales Magazine’s Privacy Notice in full at www.northwalesmagazine.co.uk

NWM 2018 Page 7

EXPRESS & STAR

BIRMINGHAM MAIL

THE STAGE THE GLOBE

LIVERPOOL ECHO

BILL KENWRIGHT & LAURIE MANSFIELD PRESENT

THE MUSICAL DIRECTED BY

BY BAFTA

AWARD WINNING

JEFF POPE

BILL KENWRIGHT AND BOB TOMSON ROBERT WILLIS

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER LIGHTING

DESIGN GARY McCANN NICK RICHINGS SOUND DAN SAMSON

TUE 21 - SAT 25 AUGUST 7.30pm Wednesday, Thursday & Saturday matinees 2.30pm.

Tickets from £30.50 (Limited concessions available, book early to avoid disappointment) BOX OFFICE 01745 33 00 00 rhylpavilion.co.uk [Cilla The Musical] ©ITV Studios Limited and Motion Content Group Limited 2014-20[18]. Licensed by ITV Broadcasting Limited and ITV Global Entertainment Limited. All rights reserved.

Velocity 2 Dawn to Dusk Discount 1st – 31st Find your adventure this summer on Velocity 2 - now with four lines and even bigger capacity! Grab the special Dawn and Dusk Departures offer to get 10% off your ride on the fastest zip line in the world! Visit zipworld.co.uk/promo/north-wales-mag to get your promo code now!

What’s on this...

August

She sees the shadows 1st – 31st

Wrexham Play Day 1st Techniquest Glyndwr invites all families to Wrexham for a popup play day. Head to the former

Mostyn Gallery is pleased to present the first off-site

TJ Hughes building between

collaboration by DRAF (David Roberts Art Foundation), with

11am and 4:30pm to enjoy a

works by a wide range of artists. The exhibition runs until

water slide, den building, maze, go carts and more!

4th November

Vintage & Antiques Fair 1st Llandudno Town Hall hosts a Vintage and Antiques Fair every Wednesday in August

Festival of Dreames 1st-10th Actors, musicians and puppeteers from around the globe are coming to Holyhead for what promises to be an amazing festival centred on a re-working of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. To reserve your tickets for a performance, please contact Ucheldre Centre 01407 763361.

Show starts at 7pm

Samphire Brasserie & Bar New Summer Menu 1st – 31st Samphire Brasserie & Bar has launched its summer menu. Try the brand-new menu which focuses on local seasonal produce. The restaurant is situated within The Cae Mor Hotel in Llandudno – call 01492 878101 to book

NWM 2018 Page 9

MAGAZINE

August

Beer and Cider Festival 3rd-5th Llangollen Railway is hosting a special three-day Beer festival. Sample 16 real ales and eight ciders from across Wales and Shropshire for £3 a pint from 10:30am- 11:30pm at Tywyn Wharf. Enjoy soul, funk and disco

The Mixed Summer Art Show

music Saturday at 7pm with Groove

1st-15th

Dynamite. An evening train will

Ffin y Parc Country House & Gallery

depart Tywyn Wharf on the Saturday

invites art enthusiasts to view the

at 8pm to take you home or just for

new gallery which hosts work from

a trip up the valley to Abergynolwyn

the likes of Katie Allen, Chloe Holt, George Lloyd Jones, Martin

and back

Llewellyn and Sir Kyffin Williams KBE RA, to name a few

Family Fun Evenings at GreenWood Fforest Park

Menai Food Festival 4th Sample sweet and savoury

2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd & 30th

local delicacies and quench

Enjoy playful summer nights in GreenWood’s outdoor

your thirst with local beers

play areas, where kids can explore and get closer to

and ciders while enjoying

nature. With a list of family things to try out ranging

live music at the highly

from extraordinary entertainment in the Forest Theatre,

anticipated first ever Menai

creative craft workshops, bubble artistry by Dr Zigs to

Food Festival. The festivities

great dining options, book your evening today at www.

take place on the recreation field

greenwoodfamilypark.co.uk

and surrounding areas in Menai Bridge, Anglesey. A mini funfair on site to keep little ones entertained!

Open from 9.30am - 6pm. Admission is £3 per adult and accompanied children go free. Visit www.menaifoodfestival. com for more information

LlanBikeFest 4th-5th You don’t have to be a motorcycle fanatic to enjoy a great day out at

North Wales Blues and Soul Festival

– LlanBikeFest at the Llangollen Pavilion. It’s a family friendly

3rd-5th

festival, with lots to see and

The North Wales Blues and Soul

enjoy. Accompanied youngsters

festival returns to Mold for it’s

aged 16 and under free, and

fifth year with a stellar line-up

adults £10 online or £12 at the

led by GRAMMY®-nominated

gate. For more information, visit

UK soul singer James Hunter.

www.llanbikefest.co.uk

To purchase tickets, visit www. nwbluesandsoul.co.uk

Page 10 NWM 2018

the Llangollen Motorcycle Festival

Encaustic Art with Linda

Vintage & Antique Fair

4th-5th

4th-6th

Artist Linda Morris creates fantasy pictures using special

Porthmadog will host a three day

irons and hot wax to glide across special paper. Visit her at

Vintage and Antique fair at Y

the Afonwen Centre in Caerwys

Ganolfan

A 1960’s Weekend

Farm Meltdown 5th

4th-5th

Come to Manorafon Farm Park in Abergele

Now in it’s 7th Year,

today for Farm Meltdown! But watch out

Let’s Twist Again will be

because silly farmers, talking chickens and

delivering performances

a naughty Little Bo Peep will all be about!

of the greatest hits from the 50’s to the 70’s at Venue Cymru

Fame the Musical 6th-11th Based on the 1980 phenomenal pop culture film, Fame The Musical is coming to Venue Cymru. The international smash

Flint Male Voice Choir Concert

hit follows the lives of students at New York’s High School For The Performing Arts. Featuring the Oscar-winning title song

5th

and a cast of outstanding dancers, singers, musicians and

The St. Mary’s Church in Betws y Coed will host a concert

actors as they transform from star struck pupils to superstars.

showcasing the beautiful songs sang by the Flint Male Voice

Tickets start at £16. www.venuecymru.co.uk

Choir. Show starts at 8pm. Tickets are £6 or £5 with a Conwy Card. Visit www.brogwydyr.cymru for more information

André Rieu 2018: Amore - My Tribute to Lovet 5th One of the most popular live acts in the world, the King of the Waltz André Rieu. ‘Amore - My Tribute to Love’, is the renowned violinist’s tribute to his love for music, and his love for both of his families. This concert is packed full of humour, fun and emotion for all ages. Show starts at 3pm, tickets are £8-10 for adults and £3 for children. Contact Ucheldre Centre 01407 763361

6th & 21st

Summer Beach Cleans Join Anglesey Sea Zoo for a Summer Beach Cleans! Get outdoors and help the environment at the same time! Kit provided, just bring your own wellies and waterproofs. All ages welcome! To sign up, email aquarium@angleseyseazoo.co.uk

NWM 2018 Page 11

MAGAZINE

August Jackie at Jewels 7th-8th

Red Squirrel Walk 8th Find out about some of Plas Cadnant’s most charming residents with Red Squirrel Ranger Holly at 2pm today.

No extra charge (donations to Friends of the Anglesey Red Squirrels welcome) www.redsquirrels.info

Watch artist Jackie create jewelry at the Afonwen Centre in

Children’s Natural Art Workshop

Caerwys using different beads, stones and crystals

9th Bring your children along to The Ugly House for an afternoon session of natural art and sculpture in the woods with

Century of Musicals

environmental artist Tim Pugh. Advance booking essential:

7th, 14th, 21st & 28th

claire@snowdonia-society.org.uk

Llandudno Musical Productions present Century of Musicals every Tuesday at 7pm in August at the Llandudno Town Hall.

Enjoy a collection of songs and routines from various musicals.

Hand Painted Furniture with Charlotte

Tickets cost £7.50 at the door

9-10th Bring in your own small piece of furniture and Charlotte will paint it for you at the Afonwen Centre in Caerwys. Email to book a time slot: countrycommissions@gmail.com

2018 Welsh National Sheep Dog Trials 9th – 11th The 2018 Welsh National is being held at Penbedw Estate in Nannerch, Flintshire. Come and watch the top 150 Welsh

Medieval Feasts at Ruthin Castle

sheepdogs and their handlers compete for a chance to represent Wales at the Annual International Trials

7th Ruthin Castle provides a superb stage for hosting themed medieval dinners modelled upon the legendary feasts the Earl of Warwick held at The Castle in the 16th Century. Revellers assemble in the Presence Chamber for the partaking of bread and salt, age-old symbols of hospitality. Feast with daggers and fingers and toast with goblets! Call to book 01824 702664

American Superslam Wrestling

Goodnight Mister Tom

7th

9th – 11th

Rhyl Town Hall is hosting two hours of live family entertainment with wrestlers from all over the world taking on the

Theatre in the Community bring this Olivier award-winning production of ‘Goodnight Mister Tom’ to the Rhyl Pavilion stage. A wonderfully uplifting play with music, set during

very best of Great Britain.

the Second World War, Goodnight Mister Tom tells the story

Taking place every Tuesday

of young William Beech, who is evacuated to the idyllic

in August 2018

countryside and so begins a heart warming friendship between William and the elderly villager Tom Oakley.

Page 12 NWM 2018

TIR PRINCE MARKET & BOOT SALE

North Wales’ largest & most popular weekly market

Every Saturday and Sunday from Wednesday 25th July we are open every Wednesday and Friday up to an including Friday 7th September as well as every Saturday and Sunday we are also open on August Bank Holiday Monday.

New traders are welcome Gates open 6am

01745 345123

www.tirprince.co.uk/markets

DIRECTIONS:

Just type our postcode LL22 9NW

into your sat nav and when you see the big roller coaster you know you have arrived!

NEW traders welcome, call Geoff on 07747 442963 or email: e.witherspoon@tirprince.co.uk NWM 2018 Page 13

MAGAZINE

Yn Agor

Gwanwyn 2019

Rhyl

Edrychwch beth allech chi wneud haf nesaf...

Cyfle i chi ennill Cofrestrwch ar

www.sc2rhyl.co.uk Ac fe allwch ennill

Tocyn teulu am ddim

Opening

Spring 2019

Rhyl

Look what you could be doing next summer...

YOUR CHANCE TO WIN Register on

www.sc2rhyl.co.uk and you could win a

FREE FAMILY TICKET Page 14 NWM 2018

Fused and Slumped Glass with Pam and Lorraine 11th & 12th Shop for lovely pendants, plates, bowls and coasters at the Afonwen Centre in Caerwys

Visit Manorafon Farm Park 11th & 12th

Day out with Thomas

Visit Manorafon Farm Park this weekend and meet

10th-12th

unicorn trainer and tractor

Thomas and his friends are back again this year! Enjoy a

fanatic Mr Candy Wheels

train ride with Thomas and meet the Fat Controller at the

and his apprentice, Sugar

Llangollen Railway Station. To purchase tickets, visit www.

Sprinkles. Watch the unicorn parade and sit in some very old

dayoutwiththomas.co.uk

vintage tractors

Eglwysbach Show

Rhyl Events Arena – Summer Festival

11th

12th

The Eglwysbach Show is a full agricultural &

Heather Small – the voice of M People – will be

horticultural show with children’s classes, a speed

performing at a free festival in Rhyl today. Denbighshire

shearing competition, dog show, donkey rides, tractors,

County Council, with support from Rhyl Town Council, is

fairground and more! Gates open at 9:30am. Visit www.

hosting the event, which also features Showaddywaddy

eglwysbachshow.co.uk for more information

and Doctor and The Medics, at Rhyl Events Arena from midday until 6pm

The Soul Man 11th

Denbigh PigFest

Dance the night away at Criccieth Memorial Hall for an

12th

unforgettable evening from The Soul Man - as seen on All

Enjoy live music from local Welsh artists, food and dancing

Together Now. Call 01766 523672 for further information

at the Plas Pigot in Denbigh. Fun starts at 12pm. Email

.

pigfestdenbigh@outlook.com for more information

The North Wales Truck Show 11th & 12th

Handmade Jewelry by Kay

Anticipating in the region of

14th

200 vehicles in attendance

Kay will exhibit her unique jewelry, accessories and gifts at

for the public to admire along

the Afonwen Centre in Caerwys

with trade, food and charity stalls, the two day event caters to the whole family with a fun

14th & 15th

fair, play bus and live music.

Anglesey County Show

Last year the gathering raised £7,500 which was split equally

The Anglesey Agricultural Show is an annual two-day

between Ty Gobaith and Alaw Ward Ysbyty Gwynedd charities.

event event held at the Mona Showground. The Show offers

This year the event will benefit 4Louis Stillbirth charity

superbly presented animals and livestock, shopping and

and Blood Bikes Wales. For more information, visit www.

exhibition pavilion, equestrian events, craft exhibitors, food

northwalestruckgathering.co.uk

hall, produce exhibitions, machinery and vehicle stands

NWM 2018 Page 15

MAGAZINE

15th

18th

Browse through unique jewelry, handmade cards, brooches

Tir Prince is hosting Ladies Night Harness Racing tonight –

and more at the Afonwen Centre in Caerwys

with a first prize of a night for two in the Kinmel & Kinspa

Crafty Sisters Cymru

Ladies Night Harness Racing Hotel with Dinner Bed & Breakfast included. One to attend!

16th

Denbigh and Flint Show

18th

Packed with all you’d expect

That’ll Be The Day

from a Summer County show,

Back by ever-growing

marvel at vintage cars, tractors,

popular demand, get

horses and livestock, while

ready to party as the UK’s

enjoying local foods and drinks.

favourite Rock & Roll variety

Fun for the whole family, gates open at 9am. Visit www.

production returns with another brand-new show!

denbighandflintshow.com

Featuring incredible live music performances, this hugely entertaining Rock & Roll spectacular blends classic gold hits from the 50s, 60s & 70s, with bags of hilarious

16thth

Victorian Pastimes

comedy! Book your tickets today: www.venuecymru.co.uk

What did the Victorian’s do to keep entertained during the warmer months? Join Penryhn Castle every Thursday

18th

throughout the summer holidays to enjoy a wide selection

Race The Train

of activities such as tennis, croquet, skittles, hobby

Organised by The Rotary Club of Tywyn in aid of their

horses and even quoits to name but a few

chosen charities, hundreds of runners take the challenge to beat the Llangollen Railway train over challenging crosscountry courses. Race entry forms and tickets for the race

17th

Summer BBQ

and runner/supporters trains are only available from www. racethetrain.com

Rhug Estate, a 6,700 acre in-hand organic farm and estate in Denbighshire invite you to an evening of dining BBQ style 18th – 19th

from 5:30pm-9:30pm. Enjoy fresh burgers, sausages, kebabs

Gwrych Castle Medieval Festival

and more! Visit www.rhug.co.uk

With a birds of prey display, children’s sword fighting school, re-enactors, magicians, horse 17th-19th

displays and more, Gwrych Castle in Abergele

Rock The Park

promises to be a fun day out! Festival runs from

Wrexham will host a 3-day family

10am-5pm each day

friendly music festival which is ideal for music fans of all ages and genre’s.

19th

Featuring world class

St Asaph Rotary Country Fayre

tribute acts, live

This traditional family event brings together the community

DJ’s and local up-

for a day of fun and interesting activities and events, whilst

and-coming talent

raising funds for local charities. Come and try out the

this festival has

interactive circus skills area where you can try juggling and

something for everyone. Book now at

learn to ride a unicycle. Bring your dogs along too

www.rockthepark.co.uk

Page 16 NWM 2018

23rd

Rock ‘n’ Roll at Tan-y-Bwlch Station Enjoy live music and a tasty barbeque at Tan-y-Bwlch station.

21st

Cilla The Musical

Travel to Tan-y-Bwlch by special train from Porthmadog Harbour Station at 7:15pm and enjoy an evening of food, fun

Continuing with her critically acclaimed portrayal of the

and live music at this picturesque station set in the natural

nation’s sweetheart is Kara Lily Hayworth as Cilla, will

beauty of one of Snowdonia’s wooded valleys. Call 01766

perform at the Rhyl Pavillion. The show, written by BAFTA®

516024 for further information

award winning Jeff Pope, has been met with Five Star reviews and standing ovations up and down the country. It has also been nominated for Best New Musical at the What’s

25th & 26th

On Stage awards. To purchase tickets, call the Box Office on

Sheepdog Show

01745 33 0000

Lots of canine fun at Manorafon Farm Park this weekend. Headlining will be top rated trainer Gwyn Lightfoot and his amazing sheepdogs

21st – Sept 2nd

Shrek The Musical The ogre takes stage at Venue Cymru for 13 days of fun for the whole family. Based on the story and characters from the Oscar®-winning DreamWorks Animation film, this hilarious and spectacular production turns the world of fairytales upside down in an all-singing, all-dancing, must-see musical comedy. Book your tickets today: www.venuecymru.co.uk

22nd

Corwen Shears and Meirionnydd Show The Rhug Estate hosts this year’s Summer county show. Fun for the whole family, watch a shear cutting competition, horse riding and live music while enjoying fresh local baked goods and more.

25th & 26th

Rhyl Air Show Head to the Rhyl Promenade for an action packed, fun-filled 2-day event with displays in the air and on the ground! Free

22nd-27th

Beaumaris Castle Medieval Festival

to attend

Knights will do battle to conquer the land, jesters and musicians will entertain, and the townsfolk will demonstrate

26th

how life was in medieval Wales. Festival hours 10am-5pm.

Covent Garden Consort Opera Gala

Visit www.cadw.gov.uk for more information

The Covent Garden Consort is an accomplished group of singers from the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden and performed to great acclaim at venues across the UK and abroad. Catch this spectacular musical event at the Ucheldre in Anglesey. Show starts at 7pm. For tickets, call 01407 763361

NWM 2018 Page 17

MAGAZINE

August 26th

VWave Show

28th – 31st

Marathon Roc 2018 The conveyor belt of new bands continues in Galeri Caernarfon with the 11th Marathon Roc. This four-day event offers a unique opportunity for young musicians (ages 1325) to come together and be mentored by three of Wales’s best musicians (Osian Williams, Branwen Williams and Gai

Join Surf Snowdonia for their first ever VW show, VWave!

Toms) to compose new songs. Please note that this is a Welsh

The show celebrates both classic and modern Volkswagens.

language event with limited capacity

Surf Snowdonia offers an option to stay the night. Call for more information: 01492 353123 30th-31st

Blood Wedding 27th

Climb Snowdon Open Walk

Top Knotch Theatre presents their debut production of Blood Wedding, by Frederico García Lorca. A play that is thought provoking, evocative and in parts dark, it revolves around a

Join a guided walk

woman and the two men that love her. An adaptation set in

on Snowdon with

a small Welsh town, Blood Wedding examines the societal

local and experienced

norms that keep her from being with the one she loves. Book

mountain leaders.

your tickets: www.theatrclwyd.com

This is your chance to summit Wales’ highest mountain and learn more about its history and surroundings.

31st

A fantastic opportunity to maximise your time on this majestic

Supersonic 70’s Show

peak, and allowing experts to look after the planning and

Now in its ninth year of

management of the day. Call 01286 685472 for further

touring, the ‘Supersonic 70s

information

show’ has been ‘wowing’ audiences nationwide with a show GLAM packed

28th

Rum & Reggae Festival

with incredible hits from Queen, Fleetwood Mac, ELO, David Cassidy, Sweet, T.Rex, The

Round off August in style as Surf

Carpenters, 10cc, Elton John and more. The band even adds in

Snowdonia brings you rum and

a touch of ‘Grease’ and the Eurovision song contest all played

reggae surf side! Sponsored by

to exquisite precision. Show starts at 7:30pm. Tickets are £20

Barti Ddu Dum, a slice of the Caribbean will be taking over

concessions. Call the Box Office at the Rhyl Pavilion Theatre to

our tipi for this special 1-day event. Expect everything from

book your tickets: 01745 330000

live reggae music, world-wide rums, DJs, marble painting, hula hooping, smokey BBQ and of course world class surfing while sipping on your favourite rum and mixer! Party starts

1st September

at 3pm. Tickets are £13 and include two drinks! Visit www.

1960’s Holiday Gala

surfsnowdonia.com

Rhos-on-Sea is hosting a 1960’s themed holiday gala today.

Live entertainment, a holiday camp compére and fun competitions for all will all be held in the village an

28th

Poem Open Come and see inside the family Mausoleum at Bodnant Garden today

Page 18 NWM 2018

on the prom

Are you organising or taking part in an event that should be covered in our what’s on listings? Then get in touch! whatson@northwalesmagazine.co.uk

NWM 2018 Page 19

MAGAZINE

Page 20 NWM 2018

The big picture If you are looking for the perfect picnic spot, then you could do worse than Porth Iago on the Llšn Peninsula. Porth Iago is a small cove situated between the headlands of Dinas and Graig Ddu, and it offers the perfect spot to sit back and admire the view. However, access to the shore is down a steep sandy path, so it’s not a beach to visit if you have tonnes of equipment or a pushchair with you. A pay and display car park is located above the beach, which is reached via a track through Ty Mawr farm. Dogs are allowed, but they must be in vehicles when passing through the farm for obvious reasons. Porth Iago is a very sheltered beach, making it good for both sunbathing and swimming. Oh, and picnicking.

NWM 2018 Page 21

UPTO 2 September

SUMMER FUN

SB

ON THE FARM

C

SAHIRA BOUTIQUE

M

every Tuesday... farmer giggle juggle wiggle Normal admission. Here every Tuesday in the holidays, Farmer Giggle Juggle Wiggle will be performing regular shows throughout the day

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

SUNDAY 5 AUGUST… FARM MELTDOWN

Normal Admission + show tickets at £1.50 per child Watch out; silly farmers, talking chickens and a naughty Little Bo Peep about! We fear that general acts of silliness will be on show throughout the day!

K

Sahira boutique brings fresh, young and on-trend styles to women of all ages. Stocking sizes 8-18+ we aim to empower every woman to look and feel the best version of herself.

From 9-5 to ‘girls night out’ - sahira boutique is all you, all the time. Whether a new customer or an old friend, a very warm welcome to sahira boutique.

FOR INQUIRIES OR TO FIND OUT MORE PLEASE VISIT

WWW.SAHIRABOUTIQUE.COM

WEEKEND 11, 12 AUGUST… UNICORNS AND TRACTORS Normal admission + arena tickets at £1 per child. Meet Unicorn Trainer and tractor fanatic Mr Candy Wheels and his apprentice, Sugar Sprinkles. Watch our unicorn parade and sit in some very old vintage tractors

WEEKEND 25, 26 august…SHEEPDOG SHOW

Normal admission + arena tickets at 50p per child, £1 per adult. Lots of K9 fun on the farm this weekend. Headlining will be top rated trainer, Gwyn Lightfoot and his amazing sheepdogs.

Open everyday 10am – 5pm (last admission 4pm) Manorafon Farm Park, Llanddulas Rd, Abergele, LL22 8ET. TEL: 01745 833237 WWW.MANORAFON-FARM-PARK.CO.UK

NEWYDD 2018 NEW

Enjoy the high-speed adrenaline-fuelled rush of reaching velocity this summer VELOCITY trips on the Menai Strait from Menai Bridge, Anglesey Phone 0333 1234 303 Online bookings www.ribride.co.uk

Ten

of the best

Campsites

There are lots of superb campsites to stay on throughout North Wales. Read on if you are looking for the perfect spot to pitch your tent up this summer‌

TYDDYN ISAF CARAVAN PARK A multi-award winning site on Anglesey located near a beautiful bay on the islands north west coast and close to Dulas. The site is family owned with spaces for about 80 units and takes tents, caravans and campervans plus has static caravans. There are plenty of electric hook-ups for those who need them and the site is well landscaped and laid out.

There are lovely clean toilet and shower blocks, a laundry, a shop, a restaurant and nice children’s play areas and fields. The views over the sea and Lligwy Bay are stunning and best from the higher pitches. The adjoining beaches and bays are great for beach sports and sunbathing. www.tyddynisaf.co.uk

MANORAFON FARM TOURING AND CAMPING SITE Manorafon Farm Touring and Camping Site is located in Abergele and is very handy for the beaches and bays of Colwyn Bay and Rhos-onSea with Rhyl not being too far away either. The site is an oasis of peace and tranquillity set amidst trees in rolling countryside. Camping areas are grass and often separated by open fencing with a good track running around the whole camping field. Caravans have hard standing pitches. There are electric hook-ups for those who need them. The site has around 34 pitches overall and is set on the Gwrych Castle Estate.

The toilets and showers are clean and tidy and there is a small laundry available too. www.manorafon.co.uk

NWM 2018 Page 23

MAGAZINE

NANT MILL FAMILY TOURING CARAVAN AND TENTING PARK

Silver Nant Mill Family Touring Caravan and Tenting Park is a friendly family-run site near Prestatyn. The site is quite large with several fields taking around 150 units. The fields are slightly sloping and so the best spot for tents is at the bottom. Booking is advised here most of the time as the site is very popular and regulars return year after year.

The pitches are predominately grass with electric hook-ups which are mostly used for the caravans but can be booked for camping too as long as you let the site know you need one. The toilet block is located centrally near the top of the field, and the toilets are key coded and neat and clean. www.nantmilltouring.co.uk

FRON FARM CARAVAN AND CAMPING PARK Fron Farm Caravan and Camping Park is set on working farm high up in the Clwydian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The site has strict rules on noise and behaviour and is well run and very clean and is very popular with families who have children. There is a play area and pitches for about 80 units. There are several camping and caravan fields and a road/track network connects them all. There are electric hook-ups and two shower and toilet blocks which are kept clean and tidy. The farm sells some basic provisions from a small shop. A separate road leads off the site through a forest back to the main Mold Road to avoid congestion. www.fronfarmcaravanpark.co.uk

FFERM CILCENNUS CAMPING SITE Fferm Cilcennus Camping site is to be found between LLanrwst and Betws-y-Coed and is a hidden gem set on a working farm and located in a clearing amongst trees.

The site takes caravans, campervans and tents. The field is sloping in places and with the flattest pitches for camping being at the bottom. Pitches are grass with plenty of electric hook-ups available for those who need them. A track runs around the site. The toilet and shower block are set near the farmhouse and are spotlessly clean and include a campers kitchen, a disabled toilet and shower and a pool table room.

Fferm Cilcennus is ideally placed for the Conwy Valley area of Snowdonia. www.cilcennusfarm.co.uk

Page 24 NWM 2018

LLYN GWYNANT CAMPSITE A true adventure lover’s site on the shores of Llyn Gwynant and the banks of The Afon Glaslyn, Llyn Gwynant Campsite is also set below the slopes of The Snowdon Massif and is surrounded by towering mountains. There is a shop at reception and the site has a good toilet and shower block plus a laundry. The camping fields are spacious and flat but cars have mostly to be left in parking areas and gear carried to your pitch. Larger tents have specific areas allocated to them and if you want an electric hook-up it must be booked in advance. This is site best suited for tents but small caravans and campervans can be accommodated too. www.gwynant.com

TYN-YR-ONNEN FARM CAMPSITE Tyn Yr Onnen Farm Campsite is at Waunfawr between Caernarfon and Beddgelert and is spectacularly located on a working farm on a hillside under Moel Ellio. There are two main fields separated by a fence/ hedge with plenty of electric hook-ups and spectacular views. Families love it here as there is a large TV and games room plus a children’s play area and lots of animals. There are two shower and toilet blocks which are clean and tidy. There is also a launderette and washing up room. The site has its own small shop selling basics and there are also a collection of pods to hire at the top of the fields. www.tyn-yr-onnen.co.uk

NWM 2018 Page 25

MAGAZINE

TYN CORNEL CAMPING SITE Tyn Cornel Camping Site near Bala is a great base for Southern Snowdonia and, as it is on The River Tyweryn next to The National White Water Centre (where you can go white water rafting and kayaking), it is a real adventure lover’s location. It is also handily placed for The Arenigs and The Arran mountain ranges. The site has two fields – one for tents and a second narrower field for caravans and tents who want electric hook-ups. The toilet and shower block is centrally located and very clean and the site has belle tents and pods to hire too. www.tyncornelcamping.co.uk

DOLGAMEDD CAMPING AND CARAVAN PARK Dolgamedd Camping and Caravan Park near Dolgellau is hidden away in a wooded valley next to a pretty river. The site takes campervans, caravans and tents and there are plenty of electric hook-ups for caravans and campervans – but only eight for tents. There is a clean modern toilet and shower block a laundry. The site is set over a series of fields with tents going on the lower field next to the river where they are allowed to have open fires. Above this there is a caravan field for tourers and campervans while, at the other side of the site, is The Hayfield – which is another location for tourers and campervans. www.dolgamedd.co.uk

NANTCOL WATERFALLS CAMPSITE

Nantcol Waterfalls Campsite near Llanbedr is a remote location with tight approach lanes that will not suit caravanners or campervan owners with large units but is ideal for campers in cars. Nantcol offers a real wilderness experience and is set in quiet valley with a waterfall and a river which has formed a natural swimming pool for campers to use. The site allows open fires in set places but you have to buy your logs from reception. Pitches are mostly grass and electric hookups are available for those who require them. There is a small shop selling basics, wifi is available, and the clean toilet block is modern and well equipped. www.nantcolwaterfalls.co.uk

Page 26 NWM 2018

Ruthin Gaol

Plas Newydd

Explore the cells of this Victorian Pentonville style prison and learn about the prisoners who stayed here!

Activities available for all ages.

Nantclwyd y Dre Explore Wales’ oldest timbered town house with its beautifully restored historic gardens, a hidden gem in the heart of Ruthin.

Open 26th March–30th September every day except Tuesday 10am–5pm Visit www.ruthingaol.co.uk for prices and further visiting information

Visit this extraordinary Gothicised home of the ‘Ladies of Llangollen’ and enjoy its spectacular historic gardens.

Open 7th April–September Opening days and times vary please visit www.nantclwydydre.co.uk for opening information and prices

Open 30th March–30th September every day 10.30am–5pm Visit www.plasnewyddllangollen.co.uk for prices and further visiting information

20 % off admission 20 % off admission 20 % off admission To Ruthin Gaol

To Plas Newydd

To Nantclwyd y Dre

Llangollen Single use only.

www.ruthingaol.co.uk

Single use only. www.plasnewyddllangollen.co.uk

Single use only.

www.nantclwydydre.co.uk

Visit our website www.denbighshire.gov.uk/heritage for more information including upcoming events!

Follow us on Facebook @heritagedenbighshire

HP Ty Arch HR.pdf

1

12/07/2018

16:03

Design service for: • Extensions • New Build Houses • Barn Conversions • Commercial/Industrial and Agricultural Buildings • Holiday Lets • Planning and Building Regulation Applications Any further details you need please get in touch.

www.tyarchitecture.co.uk Page 28 NWM 2018

EXPLORING

Ruthin

Steve Goodier takes a trip down memory lane in Ruthin, and discovers a town steeped in history…

I have been to Ruthin many times both as a child with my parents (who loved the area around The Clwydian Hills) and on a business basis when I was older and used to call on a family sawmills in the town regularly. But the best way I ever got there was in a battered old Citroen 2CV when my wife and I thumbed a lift from Denbigh one hot late spring day.

We had walked the final section of Offa’s Dyke Long Distance Footpath and camped overnight at Prestatyn planning to return to Ruthin the next day to collect our car. It was some years ago and the bus we took stopped at Denbigh and as it was Sunday there was no further buses that day on to Ruthin. We started walking and stuck our thumb out. A hippy couple in a multi coloured 2CV picked us up and the journey to Ruthin was passed singing along to old ‘Summer of Love’

Apart from the high mountain wall of The Clwydians the town

songs and trying to hold the two back doors of the car shut as

has the Denbigh Moors and Clocaenog Forest to the west.

they were broken!

Ruthin lies on the River Clwyd at the point where it enters the lower ground of The Vale of Clwyd. Denbigh is an 8 miles/13

Now I am sure you won’t arrive in this lovely market town in

km drive to the North West and the town is 12 miles/19 km

quite such a surreal way but however you choose to get here

north of Corwen and 14 miles/23 km east of Cerrigydrudion.

you will discover an historic location that has its roots in the

There have been some notable people who have lived in

13th Century and which is well worth exploring.

Ruthin (which is twinned with Brieg in Brittany) including the English novelist Staley J. Weyman who lived in the town for 33

Geographically Ruthin nestles snugly in the pretty Vale of

years and the climber and base jumper Eric Jones who was

Clwyd and lies beneath mighty Moel Ffamau (the highest

raised on a farm nearby. More recently Cynthia Lennon, the

peak in The Clwydian Hill range at 1,844 ft/562 metres). The

first wife of Beatles icon John Lennon, settled in Ruthin and

Clwydians look very impressive from the town but equally

her son, Julian Lennon attended Ruthin School.

some of the best views of Ruthin are to be had as you descend off The Clwydian range towards it on the A494 as you drive

Having set the scene let’s leave the geography behind and

from Mold. It is from this lofty vantage point that you can see

have a look at the town itself and some of its history. There

the really sheltered position Ruthin has.

is some evidence that the site of modern Ruthin was home to

NWM 2018 Page 29

MAGAZINE

What to do CLIMB MOEL FFAMAU AND VISIT THE CLWDIAN HILLS

GO TO RUTHIN GAOL

Moel Ffamau is the highest mountain in The Clwydian

Ruthin Gaol closed in 1916 and all the prisoners and

Range. The peak lies within The Moel Ffamau Country

wardens were transferred to Shrewsbury Gaol. After

Park and there are several ways to the top all along good

being used for a variety of purposes in the 102 years

paths and tracks. There are two car parks on a minor

since its closure, the gaol is today a museum and

road off The A494 a lower forest car park and an upper

heritage centre that tells the story of the building

one at Bwlch Pen Barras. There is a charge for parking

and its inmates. It is the only Pentonville style prison

and you should choose a clear day for your ascent as

currently open to the public and makes a great and very

the views in all directions are stunning. Wear boots

educational half day out if you are in the Ruthin area.

and sensible clothing as this is a high exposed summit

You can see how the prisoners lived their daily lives in

where weather can change quickly. Take along Ordnance

Victorian times, the punishments they suffered and even

Survey Map Explorer 265 The Clwydian Range. There are

explore the various cells including the punishment (or

the remains of an old tower on the top.

‘dark’) cell and the condemned cell. You can learn about

www.moelfamau.co.uk

John Jones (the ‘Welsh Houdini’) and William Hughes who was the last prisoner hanged in the gaol.

VISIT LOGGERHEADS COUNTRY PARK

www.denbighshire.gov.uk

Loggerheads Country Park has been attracting visitors since the 1920s and its popularity draws in tourists

SPEND A FEW HOURS AT RUTHIN CRAFT CENTRE

from far afield. Set in a dramatic and wooded river valley

Why not add a bit of culture to your visit to Ruthin and

(The Alyn Valley) Loggerheads has great paths and

spend a few hours at the lovely buildings of Ruthin Craft

tracks that pass by dramatic cliffs and outcrops. For

Centre? The centre is a beautifully designed modern

walkers, families and those who just want a picnic the

complex that is also a working art and crafts hub for

area is superb and a sunny day here really brings in the

the surrounding regions. Ruthin craft Centre has three

crowds. There are well marked trails and if you want

bright and well lit galleries where there are regularly

to just head off on your own and explore the paths you

changing exhibitions. A walk around them is relaxing

are free to do so. Once an important lead mining area it’s

and very enjoyable. As well as this the centre has a shop

hard to imagine it that way now. The carpark is located

selling a varied collection of superb handmade items and

on The A494 Mold to Ruthin road facing the We Three

you can complete you time there by having something to

Loggerheads Inn and there is a charge for parking. The

eat and drink at the on-site café.

car park has information on the area and a café.

www.ruthincraftcentre.org.uk

www.visitclwydianrange.co.uk

Page 30 NWM 2018

Products Available:CUSHIONS WATER PROOF SPORTS BAGS

Holistic Therapies In Ruthin Free convenient parking, directly outside...

BUNTING APRONS OVEN GLOVES DECORATIONS KEY RINGS BABY BLANKETS HEAD TOWELS NOTICE BOARDS AND SO MUCH MORE….

All the above items can be personalized with embroidery or applique

Lyn has been lovingly making handmade gifts, decorations, bags and a wide range of other items for over 5 years since moving to live in North Wales. Lyn is mainly self-taught after initially learning basic skills at school.

Lyn has gained experience in many skilled crafts including crochet, knitting and card making before finally finding her passion which is sewing. After moving to Cilcain Village, near Mold, Lyn attended a local sewing class to refresh and enhance her skills, before making gifts for family and friends. This grew rapidly when people began to see the beautiful and unique gifts and ideas that Lyn creates, until it became the all consuming passion that is it today.

HP the studio v2 copy.pdf

1

24/07/2018

Shop Address Clwyd Street, Ruthin, LL15 1HH Mobile:07872 435107 11:50

www.lovinglymadebylyn.co.uk

Reflexology

Access Bars

Bowen Technique

Crystal Facial

Reiki

Crystal Therapy

Hot Stone Massage

Massage

lifestyle Unit 1 • Plot 4 Lon Parcwr Industrial Estate • Ruthin • LL15 1NJ T: 01824 702119 The Lifestyle Spa www.thelifestylespa.co.uk

The Studio Gallery, 10 Upper Clwyd Street, Ruthin, LL15 1HY Contemporary art and local crafts Open Tuesday – Saturday 10.30 – 4.30 Instagram: TheStudioArtsCoFacebook: The Studio Gallery

Open Studio 31 August

NWM 2018 Page 31

LEONARDO'S DELICATESSEN

The Art of Fine Food &Inventors of new Flavours Open for lunches Homemade sandwiches Daily Hot Food, Panini & Toasted Wraps

C

M

Vegan Specials also available

Y

Coffee's & tea's

CM

MY

Meals On Wheels Available

CY

CMY

Multi award winning delicatessan

K

Chicken Leek & Laverbread pie - WINNER OF THE TRUE TASTE OF WALES Gold Star and Champion Pie of britain.

Freshly brewed coffee by our trained baristas, and a selection of flavoured teas.

Come in and try for yourself!

GIVE US A BELL: 01824 707161

www.leonardosdeli.co.uk

DROP US A LINE: info@leonardosdeli.co.uk leonardos delicatessen 4 well street, ruthin, LL15 1AH

Page 32 NWM 2018

We’re a restaurant / coffee shop open for breakfast lunch and dinner, serving homemade traditional food with a modern twist.

Selling juices, healthy smoothies & Kombucha With a carefully selected choice of wine, beer & spirits.

Email - ruperts_restaurant@icloud.com Facebook.com/rupertsno6 Instagram @rupertsno6

Where to stay RUTHIN CASTLE HOTEL Historic Ruthin Castle, survivor of two English Civil War sieges, has now been converted into a luxury spa hotel and makes a great destination to stay at if you come to Ruthin. The hotel nestles in acres of parkland in which you will find a relaxing spa. There are 54 bedrooms with 4 different room styles – The Princes of Wales Suite, The Llety Maes Ffynnon self catering apartment

Castle Suites, Castle Deluxe and Castle Luxury. The hotel offers excellent dining facilities with a great menu and holds regular Medieval Feast nights. www.ruthincastle. co.uk

Celtic and Roman settlements but the town really got put on the map when Ruthin Castle was built in 1277 by Dafydd the

LLETY MAES FFYNNON

brother of Prince Llwelyn ap Gruffudd.

Set within the historic town of Ruthin and with a balcony overlooking the lake and leafy park this ground

There is much history to this structure and it was one

floor apartment is perfect for those wanting all amenities

of few buildings left standing in Ruthin when Owain

within walking distance and still be close to beautiful

Glyndwr burned the town to the ground as part of his

countryside.

ongoing rebellion again King Henry IV which began on 16th

www.walescottageholidays.co.uk

September 1400. During The English Civil War the castle survived an 11-week siege by Parliamentary forces and they

WOODLANDS HALL HOTEL

returned for a second go two years later in 1646. Once the

Woodlands Hall Hotel is located a little to the west of

castle had surrendered to Major-General Mytton Parliament

Ruthin at Llanfwog but is still a good central base to

ordered it be destroyed. It was rebuilt in the 19th Century as

explore the area from. The Conservatory Restaurant

a country house and has now been turned into the luxury

offers a good and varied menu and has great views

Ruthin Castle Hotel.

to The Moel Ffamau hills from many tables. The hotel has snooker room and a good fitness suite if you feel

Ruthin gained fame in the 18th Century as it found itself on

energetic. There are also two function rooms and there

one of the main drovers roads from Wales to England and,

is usually live entertainment at the hotel every Saturday

at the time, it was reputed to have a pub for everyday of the

night. www.woodlandshallhotel.co.uk

year. Public records from October 1891 record the smaller amount of 31 pubs here but a count in 2007 showed only 11.

CEDAR TREE COTTAGE Just a short drive from the market town of Ruthin and

The railway arrived in 1863 in the form of The Ruthin and

an excellent location for mountain biking and walking

Corwen line which formed part of a track linking Rhyl on

by the Clocaenog Forest, this quality annexe cottage for a

the coast with Corwen and then continued to eventually

couple offers a modern and well-presented space with a

reach Bala and Barmouth. The line closed in 1963 and the

private garden.

old station is now a large roundabout with shops nearby.

www.walescottageholidays.co.uk

One of Ruthin’s little known claims to fame is that the first copies of The Welsh National Anthem (‘Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau’) was printed in a shop on Well Street.

which is a Grade 1 listed building dating from 1314 making it Ruthin’s oldest building. Along with the castle it is said to be

The travel writer George Borrow walked to Ruthin from

one of the only buildings to survive the burning of the town

Llangollen in the mid-18th Century as part of his tour of

by Owain Glyndwr.

Wales recorded in his classic walking book ‘Wild Wales’. He called at The Cross Foxes Inn (on Well Street) which today

The old Gaol is a popular tourist sight but ceased to be a

is The Wynnstay Arms but is still the same half timbered

prison in 1916. Dating from around 1775 Ruthin Gaol (which

old coaching inn that Borrow encountered when he stopped

became HM Prison Ruthin) the only person ever executed

there. On Castle Street you will find Nantclwyd House

here was William Hughes of Denbigh who was hanged in

NWM 2018 Page 33

MAGAZINE

Eating and drinking ON THE HILL RESTAURANT A popular restaurant in a 16th Century building. A good varied menu offers freshly prepared food using as many locally sourced ingredients as possible. The

February 1903 for murdering his wife. The gaols most illustrious

menu is varied month to month.

prisoner was the poacher and career thief John Jones who was

www.onthehillrestaurant.co.uk

known as ‘Coch Bach y Bala’ who had spent a large portion of his adult life in one gaol or another in North Wales and managed

LEONARDO’S DELI

to escape from Ruthin Gaol on two occasions. On the second

Whether you want to pick up some freshly roasted

breakout, after living rough for a few days, he was shot in the

meat or a mouth-watering pie, Leonardo’s has a

leg by one of his pursuers (Reginald Jones-Bateman) and died of

fabulous choice ready to fill your picnic hampers…

blood loss and shock.

01824 707161 The county council bought the gaol buildings in 1926 and used RUPERT’S NO.6

some of them as offices, the county archives and the town

This lovely restaurant and bar serves a variety of

library. During The Second World War the old buildings were

breakfast options (including vegan), beautiful coffee

used as a munitions factory. Since 2004 the gaol buildings have

and some lovely flavoured tea. Breakfast is served

been a museum.

until 12, then onto its lunch menu – consisting of salads, filled flatbreads, tacos & burgers. Evening

Ruthin is home to many ghost stories and legends with Ruthin

service includes a selection of pizzas and pastas with

Castle being reputedly heavily haunted. As well as this St. Peters

a variety of side dishes. The bar is open until 11pm

Square at the top of the town has been home to several spooky

www.facebook.com/rupertsno6

happenings with the most regularly reported one being of a ghostly wail heard by customers using the hole-in-the-wall cash

GAIL’S CAFÉ

machine here. Long ago Ruthin’s court house and gallows were at

This fabulous dog-friendly café serves a wide range

this location so associations have been made with this.

of fresh food from breakfast to pasta bakes, and cakes to gluten free options. The brie and cranberry

Modern Ruthin is a vibrant town that is a pleasure to walk

summer salad platter is especially good!

around and explore with plenty of places to eat or have a

01824 707660

drink and lots of shops both very modern and old traditional.

It is a stopping off point for walkers, mountain bikers and climbers who have been on The Clwydian Hills or The Denbigh

Where to shop

Moors and beyond this Southern Snowdonia. It is getting well

CHOO CHOO

West of England into the countryside.

established on the tourist trail too and is a popular Sunday drive destination for those who head out from the cities of The North

Located right in the heart of town, Choo Choo sells a wide variety of clothes, scarves, gifts and home

Whatever your reason for coming here it is well worth including

accessories. Pop in to see the wide range of brands for

Ruthin on your travel itinerary as you will be delighted by what

yourself

you find and will soon add it to your list of ‘regular’ stopping points

01824 709761

in North Wales. n

HIDEAWAY Hideaway makes gorgeous hand made leather goods from its workshop on Clwyd Street, which is set in one of the oldest half timbered shop premises in Ruthin www.hideawayruthin.co.uk LOVINGLY MADE A shop that does what it says on the tin! A range of handmade crafts that have been lovingly made by Lyn http://lovinglymadebylyn.co.uk

Page 34 NWM 2018

Steve Goodier is a freelance outdoor writer that specialises in North Wales. He is the author of ten outdoor books and his latest ‘Ten Best Pub Walks in Snowdonia’ will be published later this year, followed by ‘Ten Best Waterfall and Lake Walks in Snowdonia’ (www.northerneyebooks.co.uk).

He is married to Paula and has two grown up children.

NWM 2018 Page 35

WORLD CLASS NATIONAL OUDOOR CENTRE

MAGAZINE

R O O D T U O !

S C I EP ENTUARRS +E E Y V 8 D A FROM TEL:

112

IN

K CO.U .

I A EN

ASM

03 0 30

030

RE U T N VE

AD Y L I FAM

IL: EMA

PL FO@

Y ENJO .. .

W O RR O M O T AY! D O T BOOK

S

ND EEKE

W

PS

TH YOU

AD

URE T N E V

g or NS ily... n i k o f o SIO m l S s E a S e e f i Y r t T ’ i e l IVI v T i o C t A h IC w EaPc s e u h o t r o s d i k r

CAM Y A OLID

H

@PL

I

A

NA E M S

PERFEC T CHILDC ARE SOLUT ION

Our half day Youth Activities and Youth Adventure Breaks keep the children occupied and entertained whilst making new lifelong friends and have the freedom to express themselves in a safe, supportive environment with first class care.

Page 36 NWM 2018

GET WET THIS SUMMER! Who needs a holiday abroad when the weather in this beautiful part of the country has been exceeding 25C?!

One of the best ways to enjoy the summer rays is in the water, and we are ridiculously lucky with the range of watersports that we have on our doorstep.

From gentle paddleboarding to adrenalin pumping white water rafting, we have it all. So, whether you prefer to hit the water alone or with your family, we’ve compiled some of our favourite watersports located right here in North Wales, that are perfect for couples, families and small groups. Ready to get wet? Then let’s dive right in…

National White Water Centre Bala The National White Water Centre is dedicated to providing the best white water experiences on offer in the UK. It is a world-class whitewater venue available to all paddle sport enthusiasts and to help Canoe Wales develop canoeing and kayaking throughout Wales. Their aim is for everyone to enjoy the river as much as they do; whether it’s through the white water rafting sessions, providing a great place to kayak and canoe throughout the year, or by helping people take their first steps into paddlesport through our support of Canoe Wales.

We sent our contributor and marketing manager, Carly, to experience white water rafting in Bala recently. “It was a wonderful outdoor weekend group activity that felt safe yet exhilarating,” she explained. “I couldn’t stop laughing and felt an immediate comradery with the group that I was rafting with, whom I had only just met, as we worked together in unison. Our guide, George, was a barrel of laughs, who made each run better than the last. I can’t wait to return!” www.nationalwhitewatercentre.co.uk

NWM 2018 Page 37

MAGAZINE

Plas Menai Whether you are looking for adventurous activities for yourself, your kids or the whole family, Plas Menai has something for everyone. Offering half day epic activities for youths – a great summer childcare solution - while keeping the children occupied, entertained and outdoors. The centre also runs multi activity ‘Family Adventure Weekends’ that allow even the busiest of families to enjoy an epic break, and the kids could join their week-long ‘Youth Adventure Holiday Camps’. www.plasmenai.co.uk

RibRide For the adventurers who prefer to sit back and enjoy watersports without exerting the energy, RibRide has exactly what you need. Enjoy a fleet of RIBs which operate from the base in Menai Bridge all year round, and from Holyhead Marina during the summer months.

New for 2018, RibRide introduces VELOCITY, a is 11.5m long and 900hp powered Yamaha speed boat which skims the waves giving you a rush of reaching velocity!

VELOCITY trips are 30 minutes on the water, and tickets are £40 per person. www.ribride.co.uk

Surf Snowdonia The world’s first inland surf lagoon and the only guaranteed surf break in the UK, Surf Snowdonia has been a leading destination for water sports in North Wales since 2013. Whether you’re an expert surfer, beginner or simply enjoy sitting outdoors with an iced cold beverage, Surf Snowdonia should be on your summer list of things to do! Families with small children can enjoy the indoor soft play area or the crash and splash lagoon. After the adventure, enjoy a burger and pint at the Surfside Café.

To make the most of your stay, Surf Snowdonia also offers glamping pods, which are especially convenient to stay in during one of Surf’s many events this summer. For a full list of happenings, including the Rum & Reggae festival on the 23rd of August, visit their website. www.surfsnowdonia.com

Page 38 NWM 2018

Colwyn Bay Watersports Colwyn Bay Watersports operates out of Porth Eirias on the newly redeveloped water front and beach in the town. The centre

Anglesey Outdoors

offers personal tuition in sailing, windsurfing and power boating and plays an active role in the community to get local schools and

Coasteering satisfies your inner child. The one that used to scramble

groups onto the water. The company has

and hop around the shoreline at the beach, pushing the boundaries

hosted some of the country’s most prestigous

your parents had set you, in your quest for exploration. Now that you

windsurfing events such as the Student

are an adult (on paper anyway), you don’t have to leave this fun behind,

National Awards and has worked closely

you can take it up a notch with coasteering. Thrilling cliff-jumping,

with the charity group, All Afloat, to get

swimming, shore scrambling and swell riding, are a combination

hundreds of local primary school children

guaranteed to satisfy your thirst for adventure once more. Feel the

sailing for the very first time. It has also

butterflies as you commit to a jump, and the exhilaration of achieving it.

worked closely with organisations such as

Under the guidance of experienced instructors at Anglesey Outdoors,

the Blind Veterans and local charities with

you can safely explore the sublime coastline of Anglesey, with its

a focus on rehabilitation and therapy. The

stunning Precambrian rock formations, hidden sea caves and abundant

centre is looking forward to a busy summer

wildlife, and leap to your hearts content. Anglesey Outdoors is just a

and the return of its very popular Beach

penguin march away from the beach, they provide you with high quality

Club. Aimed at 8- to 14-year-olds, the club

kit and showering facilities, as well as offering accommodation and a

gives holidaying youngsters the chance

bar/bistro.

to try out a whole range of water sports

www.angleseyoutdoors.com

and beach activities while having fun and learning new skills. www.colwynbaywatersports.co.uk

Bodyboating Llangollen Based in Llangollen, Bodyboating is a revolutionary water sport combining elements of surfing, kayaking and swimming. The boats are designed to accommodate all skill levels allowing the beauty of flat water or white water to be enjoyed by beginners and pros alike. All you need is a sense of adventure! Being the only provider of this sport in the UK, the centre promises an experience of the river like no other.

Just lie down, paddle with your hands, and hold on through the rapids! www.bodyboating.co.uk

NWM 2018 Page 39

MAGAZINE

Stand Up Paddle board UK The UK’s leading paddleboard instructional centre dedicated to SUP, invite water buffs a chance to tour canals, shred the waves, run the rapids, fish, and even share a board with your dog this summer. It’s no wonder SUPing is one of the fastest growing sports worldwide and Stand Up Paddle Board UK, located in Corwen, is your one-stop shop to do it all! www.standuppaddleboarduk.com

SUP Yoga Yoga is great way of adapting a traditional yoga practice whilst floating on water. Leave the confined space of the leisure centre behind and let Snowdonia become your new classroom and the paddleboard your new floating yoga. Sian Sykes, founder of Psyched Paddleboarding introduces this unique experience as a great way to take time out, reconnect with nature with like-minded people. SUP yoga allows you to fully connect with the board by adjusting to the movement of the board on water, you will maximize your core stability throughout the entire class. SUP Yoga can be practiced wearing your usual yoga clothing, however wetsuits are available on hire if you prefer. You can choose to do a drop in or a block booking of 5 classes. Prices start from £20pp. www.psychedpaddleboarding.com

Page 40 NWM 2018

NWM 2018 Page 41

The legend of the lake The island on Llyn y Dywarchen – is it science or magic? Stephen Gregory unearths the legends of the lake‌

NWM 2018 Page 43

MAGAZINE

It seems rather small and unremarkable. But this is where Edmond Halley – Astronomer Royal, a mathematician and physicist and the astronomer best-known for his discovery of the comet which was named after him – took a dip to satisfy his curiosity about a legend he’d heard about the place.

It was early in the 1700s, the precise date is unknown. Halley was travelling in Snowdonia and he rested in Beddgelert. One of the locals, maybe the landlord of the hostelry where he was staying, told him about the little lake at the very top of the Swimming and star gazing at the same time … what bliss!

Nantlle valley, a lake known as Edmond Halley (the lake of the

You can do it on your own, or skinny-dipping with your best

turf sod), with an island which was quite unattached to the

friend. Either way it’s a joy!

bottom or the banks of the lake itself. It was a floating island, which moved mysteriously about the surface, depending on

Imagine a clear, cool summer’s night. You’re high in the

the winds or the currents.

mountains. You’ve slipped out of your clothes and into a still, black lake. And as you roll onto your back and let your head

The landlord might have seen how he’d captured the curiosity

lie on the cold, cold water, you gaze into an infinity of stars.

of the eminent gentleman who was gracing his humble inn, and so he’d rummaged among the fusty old tomes on a

Relax. Breathe. It’s a miracle. You have left your earthly,

fireside bookcase and pulled down a volume of real antiquity

earth-bound body… and you’re weightless, you’re wonderful,

– the Travels of Gerald of Wales (or Giraldus Cambrensis) a

you’re star-bound.

historian and the archdeacon of Brecon who, long ago in 1188, had described the very lake and its strange island.

I know a place in our endlessly marvellous North Wales where you can go wild-swimming and star-gazing at the

It’s well documented that, the following night, Edmond Halley

same time. And what’s more, it’s a place where one of the

went for a swim in Llyn y Dywarchen. The great man wasn’t

world’s most brilliant astronomers did it, three hundred

likely to be duped by fanciful ideas – indeed the previous

years ago.

year he’d ruffled feathers in the Church by suggesting that the Biblical Flood and the story of Noah’s Ark had been

These days, to find the place and do the same, you would

caused by the impact of a comet. And so he confirmed and

drive or cycle or maybe walk up the steep valley from

explained the existence of the island. He swam out to it. He

Nantlle village, through the hamlet of Drws y Coed and find

swam around it. He steered it here and there and about the

yourself at the lake known as Llyn y Dywarchen.

surface of the lake, pushing it with a wooden paddle. He was

Page 44 NWM 2018

so busy with his paddle and his scientific examination of the

by magic by a beautiful nymph, where she and her mortal boy

island that he – an astronomer – hardly glanced up to the stars

could celebrate a love which transcended the boundaries of

in the sky. At last he decided it was simply a congealed mat of

earth and water…

reeds and grasses.

Nowadays, there is an island on Llyn y Dywarchen. No one has Which is all good. I mean, it must be good if one of the world’s

ever seen it moving. I suppose that, if you go skinny-dipping

greatest scientists explains the truth behind a legend. Isn’t it?

and star-gazing in the lake on a blissful summer’s night, you might want to swim to the island and feel around its edges

Maybe not. I mean, what happens to the old myths and

and prove to yourself and your best friend that it’s a perfectly

legends? Before Edmond Halley dived into the lake and

normal and real island – yes, a congealed mat of grasses and

started prodding at the island with his paddle, there was

reeds that, over the years, has rooted itself to the bottom of

a much more touching and poignant story about Llyn y

the lake and anchored there. Of course, the great scientist

Dywarchen…

Edmond Halley was right. Wasn’t he always right, even about the comets which hurtled and whizzed in the night sky?

Once upon a time (to begin in the old-fashioned way) a

Your curiosity satisfied, you will enjoy your swim in the lake,

handsome youth had been strolling by the lakeside and fallen

earthbound in your earthly body.

head over heels (literally) in love with a beautiful water-nymph who lived within the deep green depths. Yes, she lured him

Or, on the other hand, as you roll onto your back and let your

into her watery realm. But sadly, being a mortal human being,

head lie on the cold, cold water… as you relax and breathe and

he could not stay in the lake for very long… neither could

stare into an infinity of stars… you might feel the mischievous

she leave the lake to be with him. What could they do, to be

tug of a beautiful nymph, as she tries to lure you into her

together?

realm. You might hear the whispering of lovers on the island, celebrating a love beyond the boundaries of earth and water.

The nymph conjured an island which floated on the lake. This island, belonging neither to the land nor to the water, was the

And then you’ll be weightless and wonderful. You’ll be star-bound. n

only place where they could meet and share their love.

Gerald of Wales had seen the island on his travels, towards the end of the 12th Century. He wrote in his book that he saw cattle stepping onto the island when it drifted to the shore – they grazed on it and then stepped off as it moved to the shore again. A congealed mat of reeds and grasses? Surely not. It must have been a real island, the historian decided, created

Stephen Gregory’s seventh novel, PLAGUE OF GULLS, which is set entirely within and around the medieval castle and town walls of Caernarfon, comes out this month. Check it out and order your copy by googling PS Publishing / Stephen Gregory, or email the author directly on stephengregory1@hotmail.com

NWM 2018 Page 45

One Beautiful National Park...

Two Great Railways..!

• Relax and enjoy the spectacular scenery while travelling through Snowdonia in a comfortable, modern, traditionally-styled carriage - including the option of Pullman-quality First Class seats.

• On-train 'at-your-seat' refreshments service - with a range of hot food also served on the Welsh Highland Railway.

• Variety of long, medium or short train rides available.

• Trains run daily, from early till late, during Summer visit our website for details of special events and evening excursions.

•

One Child per Adult - some T&Cs apply

FFESTINIOG & WELSH HIGHLAND RAILWAYS Page 46 NWM 2018 festrail.co.uk

01766 516024

ALL ABOARD! Carly Redgers discovers five charming summer train journeys through beautiful North Wales…

Some of North Wales’ wildest and most beautiful scenery can be best enjoyed from a train window. For a largely uninterrupted experience and memories you’ll never forget, sit back and relax into your train seat and savour the romance of gleaming steam engines and carriages.

Here are our favourite scenic routes within North Wales. Which one will you take?

Snowdon Mountain Railway Duration: 4.7 miles from Llanberis to the Summit of Snowdon Price: ‘Early Bird’ prices start from £14 Let Snowdon Mountain Railway take you on the journey of a lifetime to the rooftop of Wales, Snowdon Mountain. At 1085m,

A true mountain and place of legend, book tickets and

the mountain dominates the landscape of the Snowdonia

see exactly why Snowdon Mountain Railway has been

National Park. From the first views of the waterfall plunging

described as one of the most unique and wonderful railway

into the gorge below at the start of the journey, to the breath-

journeys in the world. With stunning scenery and awe-

taking sights over the sheer edge of Rocky Valley, every

inspiring views it’s all part of a great day out for you and

moment is magical.

your family in North Wales.

One of the world’s greatest panoramas is revealed at the

Before you leave, make sure to taste the Welsh Oggie, a

Summit. Hafod Eryri, the UK’s highest visitor centre, has

traditional Welsh pasty filled with lamb, leek and potatoes

spectacular panoramic views to the valleys below. Venture

served at the Station and Platform Grill. Trains will be

to the cairn, where on a clear day the views stretch as far as

running to the summit daily (weather permitting) until the

Ireland. From the Summit of the highest Mountain in Wales

end of October.

and England, young and old can embrace the invigorating atmosphere of Eryri – Land of the Eagles.

www.snowdonrailway.co.uk

NWM 2018 Page 47

MAGAZINE

Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway Duration: Various routes extending 40 miles through Snowdonia Price: Prices vary between £8.90 and £61.80, depending on the experience. Children under three travel for free

The Ffestiniog Railway is the oldest independent railway company in the world – being founded by an Act of Parliament in 1832. It introduced the world’s first narrow gauge steam locomotives in 1863 and four of the original locos remain.

The railway was built as a gravity and horse drawn line to transport slate from the quarries in the mountains around Blaenau Ffestiniog.

Travel in style and book a seat on the Pullman First Class carriage to enjoy luxury buffet service and bubbly while marvelling at the scenes flying by your window.

Interestingly, the Pullman Carriage on the Welsh Highland Railway was named Glaslyn by Her Majesty the Queen in 2010.

And if you like live music then make sure that you add these

Llanberis Lake Railways

dates to your social calendar:

Duration: 5 miles, a 60-minute journey

• Jazz evenings - August 2nd, 9th & 16th

Price: From £9

• Rock ‘n’ Roll evening on August 23rd www.festrail.co.uk

Page 48 NWM 2018

Talyllyn Railway Duration: 7.2 miles, a 55-minute journey Price: From £15.45, children under three travel for free Experience the nostalgia of historic steam trains in some of Wales’ finest countryside. Talyllyn operates the first preserved steam train in the world. Running continuously since 1865, the railway starts on the coast at Tywyn, snakes through the foothills of Cader Idris to Dolgoch Falls, Abergynolwyn and Nant Gwernol.

Each railway ticket allows you to break your journey and extend your day, leaving leisure time to take a country walk, explore wooded paths, discover waterfalls or visit the beach. While filming Coastal Railways, Julie Walters Savour the grandeur of Snowdonia with a journey aboard

describes Talyllyn Railway as “a beautiful heritage route

this special narrow-gauge steam train. Let the steam

which inspired Thomas the Tank Engine”.

trains take you past 13th century Dolbadarn Castle, across rivers and streams and along part of the old slate railway

Don’t forget to leave time to sample locally-brewed award-

route following the shores of beautiful Lake Padarn. Enjoy

winning beers at the Tywyn Wharf! Also, every Friday

magnificent views of Snowdon and the surrounding high

during the month of August take part in Fish ‘n’ Chip

peaks from the comfort of your carriage.

Friday by enjoying the good old British favourite after your steam journey.

The five-mile return journey takes around 60 minutes, and the trains stop for a few minutes at Cei Llydan mid-way

www.talyllyn.co.uk

along the lake. Then return to Gilfach Ddu to disembark and visit the souvenir shop and café. The station is also right next to the National Slate Museum, which is free to visit!

Children in Super Hero costume ride free from 1st-3rd of August! Come dressed as your favourite Super Hero, cartoon or Disney character and travel free of charge. Also, the best dressed on each day will win a prize. Maximum of 4 children with every full fare paying adult. Any further children in the group will pay a discount rate of £3.50 per child. Visit: lake-railway.co.uk for more information. No pre booking required.

NWM 2018 Page 49

MAGAZINE

Llangollen Railway Duration: 10 miles through Dee Valley, 90 minute roundtrip Price: Starting at £14.40, children under two travel for free Experience rail travel as it used to be with a journey aboard the picturesque Llangollen Railway. Start the journey near Llangollen’s historic Dee Bridge, follow The River Dee and the Dee valley and continue ten miles to reach Corwen. Coast through both an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Plus, this August, Llangollen Railway is hosting three exciting events for the whole family: • Enjoy 1960’s concerts at Llangollen Station and enjoy real ale and classic 60’s favourites • Peep! Peep! Thomas the Tank Engine is back! Get your tickets for a Day Out With Thomas on the 10th • On the 18th, join Llangollen Railway for an evening of live Jazz music in their function coach. An on-train bar will be available throughout the journey. Advance booking is essential www.llangollen-railway.co.uk

Page 50 NWM 2018

The Real Ale Train Saturday 25th August - Saturday 6th October & Saturday 8th December 2018

Step on board and soak up t h e atmosphere w h i l s t t r a v e l l i n g behind a vintage steam e n g i n e . S i t back and enjoy a s e l e c t i o n o f l o c a l l y brewed a l e s .

All PRE BOOKED tickets will receive a free souvenir pint glass T h i s i s a v e r y p o p u l a r e v e n t so p l e a s e make s u r e t o book e a r l y t o avoid a n y d i s a p p o i n t me n t .

You can book y o u r t i c k e t s v i a t h e w e b s i t e below o r c a l l 01978 860979, b u t p l e a s e n o t e t h a t a l l t e l e p h o n e booki ngs a r e s u b j e c t t o a £2.50 c h a r g e p e r t r a n s a c t i o n .

www. lla n g o lle n -ra ilwa y. c o . u k

llan real ale train poster.indd 1

18/06/2018 22:35

Prices fro m

£19 Under 1’s FREE

LLANGOLLEN RAILWAY

Mince Pie Specials Llangollen to Carrog Return

th

26 , 27th , 30th , 31st December 2018 & 1st January 2019

Santa Claus makes a very special visit each Christmas to the famous Llangollen Railway.

A decorated steam train will transport you in style from Llangollen Station to Carrog (renamed Lapland for Santa’s visit). Santa will give each good boy and girl a special gift on the journey & the adults onboard receive a mince pie & a little tipple from Santa’s helpers.

hristmas C L A I C For a SPE For details of train times and booking please log on to our website or call.

Please note that PRE-BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL

www.llangollen-railway.co.uk SPECIAL

EXTRA

01978 860979 *telephone booking fees apply

Sit back and relax in comfort as you admire the beautiful Dee Valley in our specially decorated carriages.  Adults receive a mince pie and a tipple.  Children can enjoy a treat and a drink.

Trains depart Llangollen Station at 10.40am, 1pm & 3.10pm Terms & Conditions apply Please note - all seats are first come first serve.

ADVANCED TICKET PRICES Adults - £17, Seniors - £15, Children - £10, Family (2 Adults + 2 Children) - £46 Book online now at

www.llangollen-railway.co.uk Or telephone 01978 860979

MAGAZINE

25 UP TO

% OFF

IDAY L O H TED SELEC OMES H

THE

CROSS

BLUE EVENT at Ty Mawr Holiday Park

SPEAK TO US TODAY FOR MORE INFO ON: 01745 770 566 VISIT PARKDEANRESORTS.CO.UK/BLUECROSS TY MAWR HOLIDAY PARK, TOWYN ROAD, TOWYN, ABERGELE, CONWY, LL22 9HG Selected parks only, full terms can be found at parkdeanresorts.co.uk/bluecross.

Page 52 NWM 2018

Local author Stephen Gregory has rambled the hills, ridges and peaks of North Wales as both a boy and man.

So, just what has he learnt?

A mountain

to climb

I was eight years old when I first conquered Snowdon itself.

at the top and promised myself I would never try climbing

It was an end-of-term school outing, nearly 60 years ago,

again. Was she impressed? I don’t think so.

in those innocent days before ‘health ‘n’ safety’, long before

But seriously… rock climbing is the beating heart of North

mobile phones and GPS and satellite weather forecasts. The

Wales.

whole school set off from Pen y Pass and up the Pyg Track and eventually scrambled towards the summit.

Climbing has a history. It has tradition and lore. It is peopled with heroes and characters, yes, the stuff of legend. And

We were little boys, in our plimsolls and shorts. Of course we

just as importantly, it’s the pulse of life, of being alive,

had our supplies – a hard-boiled egg and a jam sandwich,

for countless residents and visitors who pit themselves,

each. Water? We drank from the streams.

physically and mentally, against the ancient, unforgiving landscape of Snowdonia.

Four teachers with 120 prep-school boys. We had a lovely, blustery, sunny day. We all made it to the top and back down

History? Go for a drink in the Pen y Gwryd Hotel, at the top of

to the bus… a bit tired and a bit sunburned, but safe and

Nant Gwynant on the road towards Capel Curig, and appraise

sound.

the autographs on the ceiling. Tenzing Norgay, Edmund Hilary… yes, you’re standing on the footprints of legends.

I’ve carried on hiking and rambling, long into my husky manhood. But climbing? Real climbing? No, not really.

Pen y Gwryd was built as a farmhouse in 1811 but became a

Once only, to try and impress a girl, I let her take me up

hostelry or inn from the 1840s. It was such a popular meeting

the cliffs at Tremadog. I watched her nimbly swarming the

place for like-minded adventurers and athletes and lovers

rock face, as she moved upwards and upwards through the

of the wild outdoors that it was established as the Climbers

shade of the woodland and onto the sunlit crag, and then

Club in 1898.

she disappeared. A few minutes later, she called down to me to follow. Knees trembling, knees uncontrollably knocking,

The rest is history, as they say. In the 1950s, it was the base

I made the same climb. No, not the same. She pulled me up

for the expedition training for their assault on Everest.

and up on a very tight rope until I collapsed breathlessly

These young men came to stay at the Pen y Gwryd Hotel,

NWM 2018 Page 53

MAGAZINE

knowing that the challenges and problems, both physical

the challenges of the Llanberis pass and Tremadog and the

and mental, of the Snowdon Horseshoe – in particular the

sea cliffs of Anglesey. As a hapless non-climber myself, I can

extreme rock faces of Lliwedd – were necessary, even

only marvel at their feats and roll the magical names of their

essential to their preparation. And in 1953, on the Everest

routes around my tongue… Cenotaph Corner, Cemetery Gates,

expedition – coinciding with the coronation of HM Queen

Dinas Mot. From their giddy youthful days in Snowdonia –

Elizabeth II – they knew that they had honed their strength

and by all accounts their famous and infamous parties in the

and skills and courage in faraway Snowdonia.

60s and 70s – men and women have launched themselves from North Wales to the furthest and remotest corners of

Their names are written on the ceiling of the dining

the world… to the awesome challenges of Patagonia, to the

room in the Pen y Gwryd Hotel. Edmund Hillary… Tenzing

Himalayas, to the Alps, onto the sheer rock faces of Half

Norgay… John Hunt…

Dome and El Cap in Yosemite.

And then in 1955, another team who would make the first

Think of the Eiger. The name sends a shiver down your

successful assault on Kangchenjunga stayed at the Pen y

spine. You should know that many of the young men

Gwryd Hotel. They stood in the dining room and reached up

who pitted their courage and skills and the very limits of

to the ceiling to write their names. And look again carefully,

endurance against the north face of the Eiger – Cliff Phillips

hold your breath in respectful silence, and you’ll also see

and Pete Minx and Eric Jones and Leo Dickinson, to name

the signatures of climbers from Mallory’s legendary Everest

the first climbers to actually film their ascent – trained and

expedition in 1924.

worked and achieved their fitness here in Snowdonia.

Of course you don’t have to be a hero to enjoy climbing in

I’ve been there. I’ve had a drink at the bar and read the

North Wales. You can be a serious athlete or an enthusiast or

names and stood on the footprints of heroes. It’s humbling,

even a bumbly. There are many established climbing centres

for a bumbly like me.

in and around Snowdonia where you can climb safely in the hands of patient and well-qualified professionals. Plas

And, over the years, many more climbers have embraced

Page 54 NWM 2018

y Brenin at Capel Curig and Ogwen Cottage in the Ogwen

valley are marvellous centres for all kinds of outdoor pursuits.

And there are indoor climbing walls, where, on rainy days when the prospect of a slippery slab or an icy gully is less than appealing, you can try your very first climb as an absolute beginner or test your strength and prowess as an expert… try the Beacon Climbing Centre in Caernarfon, for example.

And talking of rainy or icy days – yes, there are quite a few of them throughout the year in Wales – why not slope off to Pete’s Eats on the High Street in Llanberis and enjoy a real climber’s experience without the slightest risk to life or limb?

Pete’s Eats is a great venue for excellent food and steaming

and places that have made climbing in North Wales the

mugs of tea and coffee, always a warm welcome and plenty

essential breath of life. In fact, in Llanberis you don’t have

of young and older climbers and hikers and walkers to chat

to go further than the High Street to continue drinking in

with. There’s an impressive library and as many maps as

the atmosphere of rock-climbing which is so much a part of

you need for browsing and planning and daydreaming… and

the place. The Heights or the Dolbadarn Hotel, Joe Brown’s

the walls are hung with a veritable gallery of photographs of

climbing shop, Ginger Cain’s art gallery…

climbers and their dizzying, vertiginous routes, marvellous moments captured forever – the iconic and legendary people

Relax and browse and take it all in, and wait for a break in the weather before you tackle the real rocks for yourself. And don’t forget your hard-boiled egg and jam sandwich! n

Stephen Gregory’s seventh novel, PLAGUE OF GULLS, which is set entirely within and around the medieval castle and town walls of Caernarfon, comes out this month. Check it out and order your copy by googling PS Publishing / Stephen Gregory, or email the author directly on stephengregory1@hotmail.com

NWM 2018 Page 55

Anglesey

Conwy

Flintshire

Denbighshire

Gwynedd

North Powys

Page 56 NWM 2018

Wrexham

Grow your business today by creating the leaders of tomorrow Tyfwch eich busnes heddiw Drwy greu arweinwyr yfory Want to grow your business but looking for more than a qualification?

ION leadership offer ‘hands on’ experiences for our delegates and creates scenarios to facilitate learning experiences that are designed to be followed up by action in the workplace. Throw in an incredible peer support network, a fun learning environment and first class businesses and your business will soar! Available to businesses in North West Wales and funded up to 70% by the European Social Fund.

The 20Twenty flagship programme is designed to deliver profitable and sustainable growth by equipping managers and leaders with the skills to deliver improved efficiencies, plan growth strategies and implement expansion goals. Available to businesses in North East Wales with up to 70% funding available through the European Social Fund, accredited by the Chartered Management Institute. 20Twenty workshops cover: Leadership and Mental Resilience, Coaching and High Performing Teams, Business Finance, Management Performance and Innovation, Marketing and Efficiency

Ydych chi yn awyddus i dyfu eich busnes ond yn chwilio am fwy na chymhwyster?

Mae rhaglen Arweinyddiaeth ION yn cynnig profiadau arbennnig i’w mynychwyr ac yn creu sefyllfaoedd sy’n galluogi profiadau dysgu sydd wedi’u dylunio i gael eu gweithredu yn y gweithle. Ychwanegwch at hyn y gefnogaeth anhygoel a gewch gan eich rhwydwaith o gyfoedion, amgylchedd dysgu hwyliog a busnesau dosbarth cyntaf ac fe welwch eich busnes yn tyfu! Mae’r rhaglen ar gael i fusnesau yng Ngogledd Orllewin Cymru ac wedi’i ariannu hyd at 70% drwy Gronfa Gymdeithasol Ewrop.

Mae’r Rhaglen Twf Busnes 20Twenty wedi’i dylunio i gynnig twf cynaliadwy a phroffidiol drwy roi’r sgiliau angenrheidiol i reolwyr ac arweinyddion i fod yn fwy effeithiol, darparu strategaethau twf a chreu goliau y gellir eu cyrraedd. Mae ar gael i fusnesau yng Ngogledd Ddwyrain Cymru gyda hyd at 70% o gyllid drwy Gronfa Gymdeithasol Ewrop, wedi’i achredu gan y Sefydliad Rheolaeth Siartredig. Mae gweithdai 20Twenty yn cynnwys: Arweinyddiaeth a Gwydnwch Meddyliol, Cymhelliant a Thimau Perfformiad Uchel, Cyllid Busnes, Rheoli Perfformiad ac Arloesi a Marchnata ac Effeithlonrwydd.

01248 382497

01248 382569

www.ionleadership.co.uk

www.20TwentyBusinessGrowth.com

NWM 2018 Page 57

Abersoch Holiday Homes

S TAY I N S T Y L E O N T H E L L Ŷ N

NEW 9 PEN Y BONT,

has the ultimate collection of coastal chic self-catering properties in Abersoch and the Llŷn Peninsula. Our high quality, specially selected properties range from large renovated farmhouses and boutique luxury homes, to pretty picturesque cottages.

We have something for everyone.

HAFAN DAWEL, ABERSOCH Exquisite styling, a high quality finish and an enviable location on a quiet private road within walking distance to all Abersoch's beaches, restaurants and amenities makes Hafan Dawel one of the most desirable and luxurious holiday houses in Abersoch.

ABERSOCH

14

6

5

2

Y GARN, ABERSOCH

S TAY I N S T Y L E O N T H E L L Ŷ N

9 Pen y Bont is a beautifully designed house with exquisite indoor and outdoor living spaces. Set over 3 levels the house is located on the exclusive Pen y Bont development at the entrance to Abersoch and a stone's throw to this renowned village's desirable shops, cafes, restaurants and beaches.

This waterside property with views over the inner harbour towards Cardigan Bay offers a sophisticated and contemporary seaside retreat, whatever the season!

6

3

2

Oozing luxury and elegance, this exquisite house with hot tub features spacious living areas, a top-quality kitchen, fabulous bathrooms and incredible outside spaces including a glass infinity balcony, all within walking distance of all the Abersoch beaches and amenities.

11

4

3

0

V21 THE WARREN, ABERSOCH Uncompromising luxury in an unrivalled location, this superior Lissett lodge sits right on the beach front at the exclusive Warren Holiday Park, with stylish interior, incredible views, spacious terrace and access to the luxury spa and leisure facilities; this really is the perfect seaside getaway!

6

3

2

0

1

WENDON, LANBEDROG

Take a look at our full collection -

abersochholidayhomes.co.uk T: 01758 740992 | E: info@abersochholidayhomes.co.uk

Desirably located in lower Llanbedrog with sea views, Wendon is a perfect family escape. A short walk to renowned sandy National Trust beach, art gallery, restaurants and pub. There in no need to move from this holiday home and its pretty sea side village.

8

4

1

0

FOOD & DRINK INSIDE Cocktails Restaurant Profile Recipes Wine Column

NWM 2018 Page 59

PLENTY FOR

TW£NTY The Bodnant butchery ‘Plenty for Twenty’ Box features a selection of tasty, locally sourced favourites, all in one box for just £20*!

BOX INCLUDES:

- 4 x Welsh beef & black pepper burgers 110g - 4 x Welsh lamb skewer 120g - 4 x Welsh pork steaks 120g - Bodnant cooked ham 230g - Spatchcock chicken 1.5kg

ALL THIS FOR

£20

*WHILE STOCKS LAST

Bodnant Welsh Food, Tal y Cafn, Conwy, LL28 5RP. Telephone: 01492 651104

www.bodnant-welshfood.co.uk

FRESH, SEASONAL, LOCAL, HANDMADE

Wild caught traceable sustainable seafood

fuel your north wales adventure...

Page 60 NWM 2018

junction Conwy Road Llandudno Junction conwy ll31 9du

valley london road valley anglesey LL65 3DP

Restaurant & take away

take away with seating

The fantastic four Chris Marshall, founder and head distiller at Snowdonia Distillery, shares four incredible gin cocktails you’ll want to master this summer…

word as originating in the United States, but it wasn’t

Summer is the perfect time for cocktails, so we thought

The Balance and Columbian Repository – and it is this

it would be a great idea to share a few of our favourite

mix of ingredients that form the basis of the cocktails

classic recipes that Snowdonia Distillery is currently

that we know and love today.

until 1806 that the first published description was recorded. “A cocktail is a stimulating liquor, composed of spirits of any kind, sugar, water, and bitters,” reported

making at our Cocktail Academy and Tasting Room in Tal Y Cafn. So whether you’re making them for guests at a

But wherever, and whenever, cocktails originated there

barbecue, or simply to cool yourself down after a long day

is no disputing their popularity today. All four of the

of working in this heat, these drinks will surely go down

below cocktails are simple to create, don’t require a vast

a treat.

collection of exotic ingredients (everything can easily be sourced locally) and they don’t require a ton of bar

The history of cocktails is somewhat murky (rather like

equipment either. So get some friends round, have a go

a Dirty Martini). The Oxford English Dictionary cites the

and enjoy!

NWM 2018 Page 61

MAGAZINE

White Lady This classic gin cocktail has been hitting the spot since its creation in the Ciro Club in London in 1919, and is still one of the first cocktails we would recommend trying our gin in.

Floral or fruity gins work best in this, so we have gone with Yellow label, as the delicate mountain flowers really stand out in this cocktail. Elderflower liqueur can be used instead of the triple sec, to make it even more floral.

40ml Foragers Yellow Label Gin

Bramble

20ml Triple Sec

This British classic, invented by Dick

30ml Lemon Juice

Bradsell in the 1980s, is really more of a

20ml Gomme

spring drink, but after our un-seasonally cold spring the blackberries have only

Shake hard and double strain into

started just coming out so we thought we

a large coupe glass, garnish with a

would include it on this list.

lemon zest.

40ml Foragers Black Label Gin 20ml Blackberry Liqueur 20ml Lemon Juice 10ml Gomme Add the Gin, Lemon Juice and Gomme to a rocks glass, add crushed ice and stir.

Swirl the liqueur over the ice, garnish with two blackberries.

Page 62 NWM 2018

Gin Gin Mule Lying fantastically somewhere between a Mule and a Mojito, this drink is fantastic for hot summer days. The gin used lends some delicate fruit and floral flavours, while the mint and ginger beer make it a little bit fiery, whilst also being

Clover club

incredibly refreshing.

This pre-prohibition era fruity number is lesser-known 60ml 1680 Gin

favourite of ours, but tastes great and is really simple.

30ml Lime Juice

We muddle fresh raspberries in ours, and the egg white

20ml Gomme

is optional as it’s only used to act as an emulsifier.

6/8 mint leaves Ginger Beer

40ml 1680 Gin 20ml Raspberry Liqueur

Add all ingredients except for the ginger

30ml Lemon Juice

beer into a mug (copper is preferred),

20ml Gomme

top with crushed ice, mix, then top with

3 Fresh Raspberries

ginger beer. Garnish with a mint sprig

1 egg white

and lime wedge.

Add all the ingredients into your shaker and then muddle the raspberries to break them up. Shake really For more cocktail inspiration visit snowdoniadistillery.co.uk

hard to get foam, then double strain into a Nick and Nora glass. Garnish with 3 raspberries skewered.

NWM 2018 Page 63

...a feast of food, music, & family fun! ...gŵyl o fwyd, cerddoriaeth, a hwyl i’r teulu!

ADMISSION

MYNEDIAD

ADULTS £7 PER DAY CHILDREN £3

OEDOLION £7 POB DYDD PLANT £3

10am – 5pm DAILY

(aged 4-13, under 3s free)

10yb – 5yp

15-16 SEPTEMBER / MEDI 2018

(rhwng 4-13 oed, dan 3 oed am ddim)

FAMILY £15

TEULU £15

(2 adults/2children)

(2 oedolyn/2 blentyn)

New Street Car Park, Mold Sat Nav: CH7 1NY

Maes Parcio Stryd Newydd, Yr Wyddgrug Llyw lloeren: CH7 1NY

on the menu... ar y fwydlen...

ENTERTAINMENT ADLONIANT

AL CHEFS MASTERCLASSES WITH CELEBRITY & LOC R KNE FAUL LISA OR INCLUDING COOK & AUTH & GRAHAM TINSLEY LLEOL AC DOSBARTHIADAU MEISTR EFO COGYDDION URES ENWOG YN CYNNWYS Y GOGYDDES A’R AWD LISA FAULKNER A GRAHAM TINSLEY

STREET FOOD BWYD STRYD

CHILDREN’S COOKERY SCHOOL & SCIENCE LAB YSGOL GOGINIO I BLANT A LABORDY GWYDDONIAETH

TOP EXHIBITORS ARDDANGOSWYR O FRI

we’re social

ar y cyfryngau cymdeithasol

@moldfoodfestival @moldfoodfest mold_food_and_drink_festival

CREATING A BUZZ Nick Embrey heads to Anglesey, where he makes a beeline for The Bull…

For a jobbing writer

Tabberner, executive head chef at the Bull in Beaumaris,

such as myself, being

and when he’s not suited head to toe in white bee keeping

dispatched to interview

garb, you’ll find him prowling the kitchens bedecked in

the region’s finest

chef’s gear of a similar hue and putting to good use some

chefs can be a tricky

of that honey he’s lovingly helped to create. However, as

business, garnering

you might expect of a man originally hailing from many

facts, balancing deadlines and forging ahead with articles

miles away in the West Midlands, his journey to the

to sate the hunger of North Wales’ food-loving locals. So

historic seaside town has seen him travel far and wide,

when the words “I am a qualified bee keeper” buzzed

both literally and in a culinary sense too.

from the lips of this month’s willing participant I knew I’d find the job a little easier and that I’d struck headline

Training at University College Birmingham and achieving

writer’s gold. After all, you can’t fail to find an Apidae

a national diploma level 3 in professional cookery,

related pun or two to kick start any piece, no matter the

Andrew’s first taste of the professional kitchen came via

enormity of your writer’s block.

a one day per week placement at Fairlawns Hotel and Spa where he cut his teeth performing the “very basic

And just who is this apiarist I hear you cry? The mystery

jobs.” Like all successful chefs, effort and industry were

man behind the protective head netting is Andrew

rewarded, in this case with a full time job at the Walsall

NWM 2018 Page 65

MAGAZINE

based hotel after completing his studies. Not one to rest easy,

clutches, it is hardly surprising that he wound up at the Bull

he moved on after 12 months and with laser like focus and

in Beaumaris in late 2015, a town that clings to the north

enormous determination, set his sights on some of the UK’s

westerly edge of that rugged coastline and stares boldly down

finest food establishments for his next career move, one that

the length of the nautically treacherous Menai Straights.

would eventually see him take a birth in the engine room at

At the Bull, being an executive chef is a well-earned title too,

La Becasse in Ludlow, Shropshire.

with Andrew overseeing not one but two different venues on the same site. Downstairs, visitors will find the ‘Coach,’ a

Working closely with Will Holland at this rural culinary gem,

“new stylish restaurant where we serve an informal menu in

Andrew struck up a strong professional relationship that saw

casual surroundings,” whilst upstairs at the ‘Loft,’ patrons can

him and the rest of Will’s team eventually move southwards

sample a more “formal yet fun” atmosphere alongside dishes

from Shropshire to start up ‘Coast’ in Pembrokeshire, stopping

of “outstanding combinations of local island produce and

only long enough along the way to buy a trophy cabinet or

imaginative ingredients.”

two, vessels which only rung hollow for four days in Coast’s newly opened dining room before Messrs Holland and co

Named with a nod to the Bull’s former coaching inn status,

managed to stuff them full of AA rosettes and the prestigious

Coach has space for 85 covers and includes a lovely outdoor

award of ‘best restaurant in Wales 2014.’ Eying a spare slice

eating area complete with the recent addition of a “huge

of shelf space in need of a trophy, the cheffing duo of Holland

Argentinian style barbeque” that is fired up on Mondays

and Tabberner set out to fill it in 2015 when Andrew bagged

and Fridays during the summer months. For anyone foolish

‘Junior Chef of Wales,’ with Will as his mentor.

enough not to plan their visit to coincide with the swirling smoky aromas of a good charcoal fire and a two inch steak

As well as being a tremendous personal achievement, it

cooked al-fresco, other eye-catching dishes are standing by to

meant the newly crowned champion now needed a kitchen

be picked from the menu. To name but a few, there’s creamy

to call his own. So with the hypnotically idyllic and inspiring

haddock smokies, crispy whitebait, garlic aioli and lime or

Welsh coastline having gripped this ‘Midlands man’ in its

sweet and sticky glazed chicken wings with red cabbage

Page 66 NWM 2018

to start, while at the business end, hungry diners can feast

held a one off eight-course fish banquet in celebration of

on mains of sea bass, salt aged Himalayan rib eye steak or

Wales’ Year of the Sea. An occasion that took food provenance

pressed Welsh belly pork. Coach also has a solid children’s

to the extreme, eager and enthusiastic guests were not only

menu too as well as a stout collection of gins behind the

treated to Andrew and his team’s handiwork behind the

bar for those weary parents who left the house without the

stoves but also a slideshow presentation from a local fish

‘tablet.’

enthusiast including pictures of each fish on the menu that night and the fisherman who caught it.

Upstairs, guests are treated to a more formal affair, but as

Bringing the interview to a close, I asked Andrew what his

Andrew is quick to point out, not a stuffy one. The menu in

ambitions were for the brace of top quality restaurants under

the Loft is smaller and is changed on the first of each month

his command – a question that seems almost embarrassing

in order to keep things fresh, seasonal and “exciting for us in

to ask of such a prodigious young talent who has already

the kitchen.” On arrival in the lounge downstairs, guests are

garnered two AA rosettes for Loft as well as seeing it

treated to canapés and a pre-dinner drink while they order

take 49th place in ‘Harden’s Square Meal 2017 best UK

their food. Once upstairs, diners can sample a second set of

restaurants’ competition. Typical of the man though, ambitions

canapés, homemade bread and butter and a pre-meal amuse

still run high and he hopes to secure a third rosette for the

bouche, all before tucking into starters, mains, pre-deserts,

Loft – something he assures me his team are well on the

deserts and petit fours, the sum total of which makes the

way to doing – as well as having in his sights a first rosette

experience nearer to a six course banquet, and all of it served

for Coach downstairs. Given that he and his team of worker

at a table that is yours for the evening.

bees are all under the age of 26, I came away with the sense that the successes achieved to date are just the start of

As always, a great kitchen stands and falls on the reliability,

even greater things to come. As for the bee related puns, I

quality and availability of its local produce, something Andrew

believe I’ve let you off lightly, but in saying that, I confidently

is all too aware of. Wherever possible, local is key for both

anticipate a swarm of expectant foodies heading for the

restaurants and especially the Loft, where during the summer

Bull this August, each one performing their own excited

months, as much as 92% of produce is sourced from near to

waggledance as they make their way inside. n

or on the island of Anglesey. In particular, Andrew’s butcher “slaughters near enough to order,” his veg is picked up from Medwyns of Anglesey, cod, crab, mussels and lobsters are lifted straight out of the Menai Straights and one particular variety of meat is supplied from ‘Oinc Oink’ farm near Caernarfon – I’ll leave you to guess exactly which variety.

Nick Embrey is a teacher from the borders who recently started blogging about the antics of his crazy brown Labrador called Dudley. You can follow them at www.stareofthedog.co.uk

Underlining the Bull’s ‘keep it local’ philosophy, Loft recently

NWM 2018 Page 67

Page 68 NWM 2018

Food

for thought

As a child, the idea of camping outdoors

tent that had a foyer!

overnight was the height of bravery, and provided an opportunity to imitate some

In the pre-multi-storey-tent days, the food

of my heroes at the time. My brother and

on camping holidays was uniformly terrible.

I were big Asterix fans, so once we’d

Faced with a uselessly small Calor Gas stove

eventually pitched up our ‘tent’ (in reality a

and one pan, dinner was almost always

double bed sheet suspended over a broom

canned; beans, the ones with the strange

and secured to the ground with stones) we

pork sausages in them, accompanied with

could start re-staging the kind of outdoor

sliced white Sunblest bread… if we were

feasts that every Asterix book ended with,

lucky. And did anyone else have one of those

and devour the pork chop bounty our

hot-coil things that you plugged into the car’s

mum had cooked us in lieu of spit-roasted

cigarette lighter and left in your coffee mug

wild boar.

for 45 minutes until it heated up?

A few years later, cowboys were the thing,

These days, such sufferance is beyond

having been fed a steady diet of Clint

the pale. As such, for anyone thinking of

Eastwood films and weekly doses of Alias

spending a healthy percentage of August

Smith & Jones. On many happy occasions,

under the canvas, I highly recommend that

Cai Ross is co-owner and

we would sleep outside in a feather-

they get hold of a copy of Guyrope Gourmet

Maitre d’ of the award-

festooned wigwam, firing off cap-guns,

by writer, chef, ukulele player and camping

winning Paysanne Bistro

pretending we could play the harmonica and

enthusiast Josh Sutton. Armed with a

in Deganwy, which has

eating pork n’ beans off a tin plate.

cool box full of fresh ingredients and his

been serving French

inspired and faff-free recipes, the tartan

country-style food to the

There is still something pleasingly primitive

cloth dining area outside your tent will

fine people of North Wales

about sleeping outdoors, counting the stars

become the envy of everyone else on the

since 1988. He also writes

above and listening out for the occasional

campsite. I’ve nicked one of his recipes and

for Calibre Magazine, BBC

hooting owl. Then again, the kind of

thrown in one of our own.

Good Food, HeyUGuys.

camping equipment you can get hold of

com and The North Wales

these days is so advanced that the tents

And, if you have been suitably inspired, turn

have separate rooms and solar powered

to page 23 for a list of the best campsites in

phone-charging stations. I recently saw one

North Wales. Happy camping!

Weekly News

NWM 2018 Page 69

MAGAZINE

Recipes

ARINATED M ’S N O T T JOSH SU AKS TUNA STE

GAZPACHO Serves 4

all peeled onion, 1 sm ed p op ch per, 1 1 green pep er b m cucu lic ushed gar 2 cloves cr ta 1 cup Passa s olive oil n oo 2 tablesp gar poon of su ey Half a teas fresh parsl ed p op ch s n ds oo on sp m le b al 2 ta toasted ns flaked, 2 tablespoo s ped tomatoe 2 tins chop Serves 2

, pith, grill it seeds and e th e it ov op m d re l and ch e pepper an s, than pee les.

Quarter th in blacken sk the vegetab e l th al l ti op n u ch p d u e an d er si sley skin cucumb cept the par seeds from together ex g hing yt in up. Discard h an yt r er fo blend ev e covered at er g cold, ri ef R Liquidise or ooth. it. Serve it ds until sm d to freeze te p m te and almon e b on’t onds. ours, but d toasted alm up to 48 h arsley and p e th h it w garnished

chopped and finely ed ed se ed en chilli, 1 small gre me li a Juice of ing sauce t chilli dipp ee pepper sw 1 tbsp d and black n u ro g h es fr Sea salt & a steaks 2 small tun eet chilli juice and sw e m li , li pinch of il e ch and add a Combine th ixing bowl m a over the in r ou ce P u d pepper. dipping sa n u ro ea g of you prepar d plenty eep while sea salt an st to e av le s and tuna steak salad. en re g h fres to very high flame pan over a le d e pan. d th ri -g on e ry marinad Heat a d e th of p y for ro kad pan is read hot and flic s, then the m na ea tu st e d th an kness of If it sizzles on the thic each g on in s d te en u ep an 1 1/2 min the fish. D th e or gh m u o for n pink thro steaks, cook e stripe of ic n e a e ak m av will le ave time, side. This k. (If you h ea st r u yo of the middle o with it!) o salsa to g at m to a p u .co.uk pegourmet www.guyro

Don’t fancy cooking?

01492 582079 @PaysanneDeganwy www.paysannedeganwy.co.uk

Page 70 NWM 2018

THE

1st & 2nd SEPT 2018

MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT

Our popular restaurant in the heart of North Wales serves fantastic food which is all cooked in house. Freshly cooked and genuine Turkish, Greek, Italian and Spanish food with a wide selection of fresh fish and seafood.

153 Mostyn Street Llandudno Gwynedd LL30 2PE Tel: 01492 860670 Email:

Choose from our à la carte menu, our daily special’s menu or our two course set menu, which includes a glass of house wine at £17.50 (not available on Saturday nights or bank holidays)

cindy.atay@hotmail.co.uk

www.thenewmediterraneanrestaurant.co.uk

1st & 2nd SEPTEMBER 2018 Fabulous food, live music and great family fun BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER TOP CHEF DEMONSTRATIONS, LIVE MUSIC, 100+ EXHIBITORSCRAFTS, TALK TENT, CHILDRENS ENTERTAINMENT, PERFORMING ARTS, APPEARANCE FROM ‘CRAGEN’ THE GIANT SEA CREATURE

OPENING HOURS 10AM-8PM SATURDAY / 10AM-5PM SUNDAY £5 ONE DAY TICKET, £7 TWO DAY TICKET CHILDREN FREE UNDER 14 WITH A PAYING ADULT

E TH WY T A ON N C PE N O IN W E O G N ID BR

Rose Hill Street, Conwy, LL32 8LD 01492 572974

Open 7 days a week www.jdoughspizzas.co.uk

129 Mostyn Street, Llandudno, LL30 2PE 01492 871813

There’s Something For Everyone

C

M

Wales’ Largest Range Of Ice Cream with 48 Flavours!

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

14 Rhos Road, Rhos-on-Sea, Colwyn Bay , LL28 4PP 01492 543024 / sophiemarmalade@outlook.com

www.marmaladecafe.co.uk QP Chilli Cow July.pdf

Open for Breakfast, Lunch, Coffee, Cake & Afternoon Tea.

1

22/06/2018

12:32

NEW

(Tearoom at Conwy Only)

for 2018

C

M

Y

FREE Ice Cream For Children Under 14 With This Voucher

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Maximum 2 children per accompanying adult.

Valid for children’s ice cream. Valid throughout August

Sample our amazing fresh artisan ice cream in our quaint new ice cream parlour Enjoy the stunning views of the Clwydian Hills, maybe see a cow or two and on select days watch us make the ice cream fresh Open Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday 11-4.30pm

Now In 2 Locations: Conwy Garden World, Glan Conwy, LL28 5TH Tel: 01492 562755 North Wales Garden World, Kinmel Bay, LL18 5TU Tel: 01745 338222

Cycling groups welcome!

Refreshments and specials available too Limited parking available

www.chillycow.co.uk Stryt Fawr, Llanychan, Ruthin LL15 1UF / 07968 993495

Raise your glass THE WINES OF PORTUGAL

There is a lot to be written about Portuguese wine regions and its wines. During the past few years, Portuguese wines have been gaining ground in terms of exportation and, consequently, reputation. The most famous Portuguese wine is, by far, Port Wine, but there are a lot more wines that deserve recognition throughout the world.

I remember in my early days in the wine trade I was taken aback with the assorted styles or Portuguese wine, and that interest has been growing since. shadows. Dry Douro wines can be red, white, or rosé and a The Grape to Glass opened 21 months ago, and since day one

wide range of grapes are allowed.

we have offered more Portuguese options on a monthly basis.

You’ll certainly hear from us that these are wines that should

The red wines tend to be robust and full-bodied and often

be appearing at your dinner table, whatever the weather or

spend some time ageing in oak to round out and soften the

occasion.

often hard tannins. The same red grapes that you see in Port are mostly used for the dry wines, including Touriga Nacional,

Port and Vinho Verde may be familiar to you, but have you

Touriga Franca, Tinta Barroca, and Tinta Roriz (known as

ever heard of Castelão or Fernão Pires? These are just

Tempranillo in Spain), either in a blend or bottled alone as a

two of the many grapes that are native to Portugal, and not

single varietal.

grown much anywhere else. Today we will introduce some of Portugal’s grapes and growing regions, so you can get started

Give these wines a try if you are a fan of Rioja, Ribera del

on your wine-drinking explorations.

Duero, or Brunello di Montalcino.

We stock wines from many of Portugal’s regions including

To many wine enthusiasts and the connoisseur, Portugal is the

Vinho Verde, Douro, Dão, Lisboa, Peninsula de Setubal and

last frontier of wine in Western Europe; there is still so much

Alentejo.

to be tasted and explored.

The Douro wines are the most acclaimed, but other regional

White grapes make up only a small fraction of the wines you’ll

areas of Portugal also stand out and are shouting to be heard.

find, and include Rabigato, Viosinho, and Malvasia Fina.

The steep, terraced vineyards along the Douro River have

Want to try a Douro white? Track down Symington’s ‘Altano

been producing world-class wines for centuries – mostly

Douro’. Something richer? ‘Duque de Viseu’ from Carvalhais

in the form of the famous dessert wine, port. In the last few

from Dao is a firm favourite of both Mark and I. And our

decades, however, the dry wines are emerging from the

favourite red? ’Periquita’ reserve from Setubal… Whoa!!!

Drop by and pop in for a taste so we can show you our collection. n

Tim Watson runs The Grape to Glass Wine Shop and Tasting Room

Iechyd da!

in Rhos-on-Sea which, as well as offering wine from far reaching

Tim & Mark

lands, also stocks locally produced beers, wines and spirits The Grape to Glass Wine Shop and Tasting Room 8b Rhos Parade, Penrhyn Avenue, Rhos-on-Sea, LL29 7RE 01492 545934 www.thegrapetoglass.co.uk

NWM 2018 Page 73

Global Tiles Ltd Unit 4 Falcon Estate, Mochdre Business Park Colwyn Bay, LL28 5HF Tel: 01492541540 abbie@globaltiles.ltd.uk

Bathrooms | Bedrooms | Kitchens Ensuites | Wetrooms | Tiles

Keep up to date with our facebook and instagram page www.facebook.com/global.tiles.limited - instagram@global.tiles.limited Pelipal bathrooms

MAGAZINE

Page 76 NWM 2018

This three-bedroom spacious bungalow has views to the rear overlooking the Clwydian Mountains. Positioned in a lovely area on the outskirts of St Asaph, it has an asking price of ÂŁ190,000 and is available to view via Beresford Adams. For further information call 01745 853521

HOMES & INTERIORS NWM 2018 Page 77

INTELLIGENT ELECTRIC HEATING Tailored to suit your home & lifestyle

Property

of the month Bryn Teg is a very impressive five-bedroom home located in Abergele. This modern detached house, which is nestled in two acres of landscaped gardens and woodland, was designed by the current owners to the highest standard throughout and has additional features including integrated vacuum system, laundry chute and nuvo home entertainment system.

The downstairs accommodation comprises of double height vestibule and hallway with a feature galleried landing, a large double height lounge with log burner, a study/playroom and a modern open plan kitchen/lounge/diner. This open plan family room is truly the heart of the home, and features a log burner and two sets of French doors giving access to a flagged patio area overlooking the landscaped gardens.

Upstairs there is a galleried landing, master bedroom with balcony, walk-in wardrobe and en suite with separate bath

NWM 2018 Page 79

MAGAZINE

and shower, double bedroom with walk in wardrobe and en suite, a further two double bedrooms with a Jack and Jill en suite and a fifth double bedroom currently being used as an office.

Outside to the front there is off road parking for approximately eight vehicles all set within landscaped gardens and mature shrubs with a central island. The south facing rear garden is laid to lawn and surrounded by woodland. There has also been planning permission granted to convert the existing double garage to a cinema room and build a new integral garage to the side of this impressive house.

The property is located on the outskirts of the town of Abergele with its local shops, schools, leisure centre, parks and amenities all located nearby.

Bryn Teg is currently on the market with Fletcher & Poole for ÂŁ649,950. For further information visit www.fletcherpoole.com

Page 80 NWM 2018

Fires and Fireplaces The Fireplace Specialist You Can Trust...

CHOOSE FROM OUR STUNNING FIREPLACE SELECTION AT OUR LARGE SHOWROOM AND ENHANCE YOUR HOME

• Home surveys and made to measure bespoke service • Quality installation from start to finish - No outside contractors • Plasterwork, gas runs, load bearing lintels, chimney cowls, all rubbish removed from site Call: 01492 536353 or Visit our showroom at:

Unit 1, Falcon Estate, Eagles Farm Road, Mochdre Business Park, Mochdre, LL28 5HF Mon – Fri: 10.00 - 5.00 and Sat 10.00 - 4.00 Sunday CLOSED • Customer car park • Wheelchair friendly

The Selling & Letting Agents

Sales / Lettings - 3 Lancaster Square, Conwy LL32 8HT • Tel 01492 583100 Sales - 1a Penrhyn Avenue, Rhos-on-Sea LL28 4PS • Tel: 01492 549178 email: conwy@fletcherpoole.com

email: rhos@fletcherpoole.com

REDLANDS CLOSE, PENRHYN BAY

GWYNT Y MOR APARTMENTS, RHOS ON SEA £239,950

£285,000

• Three bedroom detached dormer bungalow • Additional good size loft room • Quiet cul de sac location • South facing garden

• Luxury two bedroom ground floor apartment • One allocated secure parking space • Situted close to rhos on sea village • Benefitting from far reaching sea views

EPC

F

APT 19, FOREST HILLS, COLWYN BAY

DINERTH ROAD, RHOS ON SEA £219,950

website: www.fletcherpoole.com

• Three bedroom detached bungalow • Conservatory with far reaching countryside views • Off road parking • Situated in a sought after location

£354,950

• Three bedroom penthouse apartment • Immaculately presented througout • Light & spacious accommodation • Beautiful views

OPENING HOURS: MONDAY – FRIDAY 9.00-5.30 SATURDAY 9.30-4.00

INDEPENDENT ESTATE AGENTS VALUATION - If you are thinking of moving at anytime in the near future please do not hesitate to ask for a FREE SALES VALUATION www.fletcherpoole.com

The Selling & Letting Agents

Sales / Lettings - 3 Lancaster Square, Conwy LL32 8HT • Tel 01492 583100 Sales - 1a Penrhyn Avenue, Rhos-on-Sea LL28 4PS • Tel: 01492 549178 email: conwy@fletcherpoole.com

email: rhos@fletcherpoole.com

website: www.fletcherpoole.com

LLANDUDNO JUNCTION

LLANDUDNO £298,000

• This beautiful home also enjoys views over Llandudno Town, the Gt. Orme, & a south facing rear garden.

• Spacious well planned accommodation • Driveway parking with lovely front garden, car port, garage • The south facing rear garden is been beautifully landscaped

EPC

£350,000 • Detached, 3 bedrooms (plus converted attic) family home occupies a substantial plot • Situated in a convenient location with easy access into Llandudno and Conwy.

• Spacious ample & lovely accommodation, parking area with car port & good size garage.

• With its large, south facing garden, this is a property well worth viewing!

F

TYN Y GROES

DEGANWY £310,000

£450,000 • A beautifully presented 4 bedroom home on a corner plot in a sought after location.

• Enjoys superb far reaching views over the mountains, Conwy Castle, harbour & estuary.

• The property has been modernised to a very high standard with thoughtful attention to detail.

• Good size garage, landscaped enclosed rear & side gardens ideal for capturing the sun.

• 3 bedroom detached stone built barn conversion enjoying beautiful uninterrupted countryside views.

• Superb sunroom with vaulted ceiling & large picture windows.

• Surrounded by gardens offering a variety of seating areas & a lawned garden.

• Driveway parking can be accessed via a shared driveway

OPENING HOURS: MONDAY – FRIDAY 9.00-5.30 SATURDAY 9.30-4.00

INDEPENDENT ESTATE AGENTS VALUATION - If you are thinking of moving at anytime in the near future please do not hesitate to ask for a FREE SALES VALUATION www.fletcherpoole.com

sales & lettings beresfordadams.co.uk Colwyn Bay | 01492 849334

Conwy | 01492 849339

Llandudno | 01492 849290

• Kitchen Dining • En Suite Bathroom • Fantastic Village Location • Viewing Highly Recommended

Llwyn Du, Eglwysbach £515,000

Marine Drive, Rhos on Sea £425,000 • Beautifully presented beachfront home • Stunning views • Completley upgraded and refurbished • Incredibly high specification finish

• Ideal investment • Two detached properties • Scope for further development • Stunning, panoramic views

• Four double bedrooms • Extensive off road parking • Superb landscaped garden • Viewing essential

EPC

• Set within approx 2 acres • Private water supply • Paddock and woodland • Beautiful rural location

F

01758 649090

Tal Y Cafn, Conwy Offers Over £325,000 • Former Grade 2 Listed Toll House • Three Double Bedrooms • Three Reception Rooms • Modern Kitchen & Refurbished Bathroom

Bryn Y Mor OIRO £595,000 • Large Grounds Mainly Laid To Lawn & Off Road Parking • Detached Workshop & Stable - Equestrian Potential • Local Authority Licence For Static Caravan • Services: Electric, Solid Fuel C. Heating, Septic Tank

• 4 Acres Land With Option to Purchase Further 3 Acres • Sauna, Ground Floor Bedroom With En-Suite, • Stables, Tack Room, Ménage & Hay Store • First Floor Further 2 Bedroom, Cloakroom • Lounge, Dining Room, Kitchen, Utility Room, Bathroom • Superb Far Reaching Coastal & Sea Views • Further Acco: Lounge, Dining Room, Kitchenette, Shower Room

sales & lettings beresfordadams.co.uk Caernarfon | 01286 829149

Porthmadog | 01766 569134

Pwllheli | 01758 649095

Abersoch | 01758 649090

The Old Rectory, Boduan £895,000

Criccieth £350,000

• 5 Bedrooms in main residence • Detached Georgian residence.

• Set in approximately 3 acres with additional cottage. • 3 Reception rooms.

• Currently run as a 5-star rated Bed & Breakfast.

• Landscaped gardens, paddocks, purpose built Manege • Additional three bedroom eight birth caravan • Rural location near to local amenities

• Spacious semi-detached property dating back to 1930s • Well maintained gardens to the front and rear • Fantastic property offering much potential, yet • 5 double bedrooms arranged over two floors • Stunning views towards the sea and coastline retaining many original features • Own driveway that leads to the detached garage

EPC

F

Doc Fictoria, Caernarfon O.I.R.O £260,000 • Stylish three storey waterside property • Located within popular Doc Fictoria complex • Recreational Room, open plan lounge/fitted kitchen/diner • Three bedrooms (master with en-suite), family bathroom

Rhiw Nr Aberdaron o/o £395,000 • Generous balcony to 1st and 2nd floors • Allocated parking and it’s own car port • Magnificent views towards the Menai Straits • Viewing highly recommended

• Character filled cottage • Superlative setting • Panoramic views to bardsey • Delightful mature grounds

• Re-furbished 3 bed accommodation • Many desirable features • Oil fired c/h, d / glazing.

• Area outstanding natural beauty.

sales & lettings beresfordadams.co.uk Bangor | 01248 489318

Holyhead | 01407 799184

Menai Bridge | 01248 489323

Holywell | 01352 809410

Trem Y foel, Y felinheli £225,000

Holywell, Flintshire £425,000

• Close to great local facilities • 3 bedroom semi detached • Near Bangor & Caernarfon, excellent link road onto the A55.

• Breath taking views of the Menai Strait • Presented to a high standard throughout • Lounge, kitchen, dining room, bathroom, garage.

• Situated in a popular established residential area.• Gas C/H, of road parking, rear enclosed garden.

• Delightful spacious modern family home • Landscaped Gardens • Lounge, Dining Room, study, conservatory • Popular Village Location • Master Bedroom with en-suite and walk in wardrobe • Easy access for commuting • Sizeable double garage

EPC

F

Llys menai £650,000

Cemaes Bay, Sir Ynys Mon £345,000

• Prestigious Victorian detached 8 bedroom house • Includes garage and ample parking spaces.

• Large grounds spanning approximately 1.25 acres. • Retains many original features • Fabulous views over the Menai Strait and Anglesey • Grounds big enough for building plots (STP) • Currently configured for use as 3 generous flats

• 6 Bed Edwardian Townhouse • Spectacular Panoramic sea Views • Original Period Features • Detached Garage

• Walking Distance to the Beach • Fully Double Glazed & Centrally Heated • Sought after Location • 25ft Kitchen Diner

sales & lettings beresfordadams.co.uk Rhyl | 01745 449344

Abergele | 01745 449349

Prestatyn | 01745 449339

Ruthin £450,000 • Character property • Beautiful views of the open countryside • Close to Ruthin town centre • Landscaped gardens & Paddock

Ruthin | 01824 729139

Rhyl OIRO £225,000 • Five bedroom detached family home • 1st floor 4 beds, one en-suite and family bathroom • Benefits from an extension and garage conversion. • Fully double glazed with gas central heating.

• Large kitchen/diner with utility room • Front and rear gardens as well as a double driveway • Ground floor bedroom, family room & W/C • Viewing highly recommended

• Master with En suite • Garage & Carport • Detached outbuilding • Original Farmhouse features

EPC

St Asaph £190,000 • No Chain • 3 Bedroom spacious bungalow • Views to rear overlooking the Clwydian Mountians • Modern bathroom suite

F

Llandullas, Abergele o/o £300,000 • Fitted kitchen with dining area • Positioned on the outskirts of St Asaph • Double glazed and gas central heating.

• Stunning Chapel Conversion • Five Bedrooms • Three Living Areas • Four Contemporary Bathrooms

• 500sqft Contemporary Kitchen • Basement Workshop/Store • Parking and Decking Garden to the Rear • Renewable Energy Heating System

Tudor Rose  32 Castle Street  Beaumaris  Anglesey  LL58 8AP Tel: 01248 810847  Fax: 01248 811770  dafydd@joan-hopkin.co.uk  www.joan-hopkin.co.uk

Beaumaris, Anglesey £885,000 A marine residence situated on the sea front of this sought after and select town, enjoying panoramic southerly views to the front over the Menai Strait towards the Carneddau and Glyderau mountains and with the benefit of a good sized courtyard garden to the rear and off road parking to the front. Chauntry House is a Grade II listed dwelling, currently providing six bedroom four bathroom accommodation, with the option of adapting the second floor into a self contained apartment if required. A feature of this property is the recently built Anglesey limestone three storey bay window which is of a style worthy of this elegant residence, with many rooms having high ceilings with deep cornices, a sweeping curved staircase and handmade timber kitchen.

Beaumaris, Anglesey £625,000 An outstanding Grade II listed Victorian residence of character, extending to the sea shore, and consequently enjoying panoramic southerly views over the Menai Straits towards the Snowdonia mountain ranges. Benefitting from five/six bedrooms, three bathrooms and three/four reception rooms, this substantial house offers modernised family accommodation but with many historical features retained.

Situated on Castle Street, within the town of Beaumaris, the property is a very short walk to the local tourist attractions, pier and shopping facilities, and is most worthy of internal inspection, to appreciate not only the spacious accommodation, but also the superb sea side position and the outstanding sea and mountain views this affords.

MISREPRESENTATION ACT 1967 These particulars are believed to be correct but their accuracy is in no way guaranteed and they do not form part of any contract. Neither the vendor nor his Agents make any representation or warranty in relation to this property is offered subject to the owner’s confirmation of price, to a contract and to not having been sold.

All prices quoted are subject to Owner’s acceptance and to the property being unsold.

new online agency CONWY • FLINTSHIRE • DEESIDE • DENBIGHSHIRE

WE’RE THAN YOPA & PURPLE BRICKS*

your local online agents with high street customer service NOW COVERING THE WHOLE OF NORTH EAST WALES

2018

ESTATE AGENT IN FLINTSHIRE & DENBIGHSHIRE

...........

property urgently required

call us now for your free valuation

01352 372000

www.williamsestatesdirect.com *Purple Bricks £849. Yopa £839. Direct by Williams Estates £829. Quoted standard prices correct as of 25th June 2018

Inside Out North Wales Magazine brings you the latest products from the world of interiors

A right grilling With summer in full swing, now is the time to get rid of your rusty old barbeque and invest in a top of the line charcoal grill. Snowdonia Nurseries in Glan Conwy is currently selling the Hub BBQ model from Heston Blumenthal’s Everdure range for just £1,199 – down from £1,499! Usually barbeques of this size have a gas bottle, but the Hub is a traditional charcoal grill that can still cater for large crowds.

And don’t let the elegant contemporary design fool you either – this barbeque is ready to cook in just ten minutes, thanks to its Fast Flame Ignition System. www.snowdonianurseries.co.uk

Bright lights These versatile Bulkhead wall lights are a beautiful addition to both interior and exterior spaces. They are hand-crafted in industrial-styled metal with a patina finish, and can be strategically placed to cascade light to whichever feature you would like to focus on. These lights are inspired by nautical themes and create the perfect harmony between classic and contemporary. Lights have an IP20, IP44 and IP65 rating, which makes them suitable for both bathroom and outdoor use. www.industville.co.uk

Heavenly Hamper Perfect for alfresco dining, this light weight and easy to carry hamper is stocked with all the essentials needed for a traditional outdoor picnic.

The beautiful basket includes stainless steel cutlery for four, four ceramic plates, four plastic wine glasses, a salt and pepper set and that all-important corkscrew. An ideal gift (even if it’s to yourself!) for a family day out… www.giftcompany.com

NWM 2018 Page 91

MAGAZINE

Floating fabrics Bring the outside in during the summer months with gorgeous floating fabrics that have been designed to make you feel cool all year round. Inspired by the sandy coastline, the Sea & Sand fabric collection from ILIV comprises of a refreshing medley of playful print designs. Pictured is the Sea-Ferns fabric in Marine, which retails from ÂŁ25.00 per metre. www.i-liv.co.uk

Coffee break Stoneworkz in Denbigh makes and supplies a beautiful range of homeware items ranging from tableware to coffee tables. All pieces are unique lifetime products that are bound to enhance any room of the house. This Slate & Oak coffee table features a traditional oak frame with a natural riven slate top, and is available for ÂŁ380.00. www.stoneworkzltd.co.uk

Island life The Cape Verde Mirrored Dressing Stand offers a combination of vintage travel nostalgia combined with the finesse and luxury of modern mirrored furniture. An utterly unique mix of studs on bonded leather cover the edge of each piece, along side high quality bevelled mirror panels. In this range from MY Furniture you will also find a matching bedside table, a low chest, a tall boy and a dressing console table. What better way to bring island life into the bedroom? www.my-furniture.co.uk

Page 92 NWM 2018

Family Owned & Run Independent Bathroom Supplier / Plumbers Merchant Showroom & Counter Opening Times: Monday - Friday 07:00am to 17:00pm Saturday - 08:00am to 13:00pm Sunday - Closed Unit 4, Eagles Estate, Mochdre, Business Park, Colwyn Bay, Conwy LL28 5HF

01492 541 542

GETFLOOREDPROOF.pdf

1

alandanielsplumbingsupplies@gmail.com

13/09/2017

www.alandaniels.co.uk

10:47

MAGAZINE

Carpets - Vinyls - Laminates

10% OFF ON PRODUCTION OF THIS ADVERT.

WORKTOPS |HEARTHS | VANITIES | SILLS | CLADDING GRANITE |QUARTZ |SLATE | MARBLE | LIMESTONE

BESPOKE GRANITE & QUARTZ WORKTOPS WITH A *15 YEAR WARRANTY (subject to terms & conditions)

T's and C's apply.

LIVING ROOM CARPETS SUPPLIED AND FITTED FROM ONLY

£150

QUALITY V-GROOVE LAMINATE FLOORING SUPPLIED AND FITTED get.fl FROM ONLY

£25 / m2

Natural Stone & Quartz Specialists, all products bespoke. Full measuring & installation services provided Call our friendly team for a quote, advice or just to talk through options

26 PENRHYN ROAD, COLWYN BAY LL29 8LG

Tel: 01492 535 913 get.floored@outlook.com

Free No Obligation Quote

01745 797 007 • info@stoneworkzltd.co.uk • www.stoneworkzltd.co.uk Page 60 NWM 2018

TRADE ONLY

AMERICAN STYLE

HOT TUBS

CONTACT US • We are the current reigning Spa Retailer of the Year at the UK Pool and Spa Awards • We are Approved by Which?

• Our decking business is Approved by the Federation of Master Builders • We are members of the British and Irish Spa and Hot Tub Association • One of the UK’s fastest growing hot tubs companies • Owned by Global Award Winning Entrepreneur Gareth Jones Page 94 NWM 2018

NORTH WALES SHOWROOM UK Leisure Living, Unit 8, The Old Creamery Station Road, Mochdre, Colwyn Bay, North Wales, LL28 5EF CHESHIRE SHOWROOM Gordale Garden Centre, Chester High Road Burton, CH64 8TF sales@hottubsnorthwales.biz Tel: 0845 034 35 50 Open 7 days a week in both locations Registered in England and Wales Company Number: 9686767 VAT No: 230 7896 93

WWW.UKLEISURELIVING.CO.UK

IN HOT WATER As more and more people shun airports and foreign travel, there is more disposable income to be spent right in your own back garden. And what better way to enjoy your outdoor space every day of the year than soaking in a hot tub?

This image: Concept Spa can advise on the logistics of hot tub installation Bottom Left: Elegant Spas believes that Hydrotherapy has become a huge part in many peoples day-to-day lives Bottom right: UK Leisure Living supplies Hot Springs hot tubs that boast a 20-year parts guarantee

More and more people are plunging for a hot tub in their own

with many physical and emotional complaints such as back

garden, in a bid to increase their quality of life. What was now

pain, anxiety and stress, muscle pain, headaches and ligament

a luxury item has become increasingly affordable and is now

injuries to name a few. Our Spas have jets strategically placed

gracing the gardens of many North Walians. But what are the

so they work your body from the shoulders right the way

benefits of owning a hot tub?

down to the soles of your feet!”

“We believe Hydrotherapy has become a huge part in our

So, if you are sold on that, then the next step is to do your

customers day-to-day lives,” says Emma from Elegant Spas in

research – because not all hot tubs were created equal!

Bangor. “So, with a soak in the tub for as little as 20 minutes

“Like everything in life, you get what you pay for with hot

working absolute wonders for the body, it’s no wonder Hot

tubs,” says Gareth of UK Leisure Living in Mochdre. “We are

Tubs have become so popular. Hydrotherapy is when the body

all about quality. We only sell tubs from decent manufacturers

is immersed in water along with the power of the jets helping

that have been around a long time and that offer a good

to heal and move the body in particular places. It can help

warranty. Hot Springs, for example, has a 40-year history and

NWM 2018 Page 95

MAGAZINE

Concept Spa recommends that you decide why you want a hot tub and what you want to get out of it before you buy

UK Leisure Living provides a complete installation service

offers a 20-year parts guarantee – meaning that your hot tub

other people have to say about a brand of hot tub or a dealer,”

is guaranteed to still be running in 20 years time. If you go for

he says. “When you buy a hot tub you want to make sure that

a cheaper brand then getting parts can be a major problem.”

the person you buy it off is going to not only sell you a great product but offer a great aftersales service. If something goes

UK Leisure Living recommends that hot tubs are placed on a

wrong you want to know that you can rely on them to fix the

concrete base, and can organise all aspects of installation.

issue promptly and professionally.”

“Access can be a problem,” says Gareth. “If you don’t have wide

If fact there are numerous practical considerations to think

access then you might have to use a crane to install your hot

about before you install your hot tub, and electrics is right

tub – otherwise you’ll have to make sure that your spa can fit

up there. “It is critically important that you get the electrical

through a 3ft gate.”

aspect of the installation bob on,” explains Paul of Gough Electrical in Rhuddlan. “The supply to the hot tub should be

You also need to work out where to site your hot tub. “Privacy

protected by a 30 mA RCD, and the cable must also be suitably

is vital,” adds Gareth. “Otherwise it comes down to personal

protected along its route. Cables should be protected against

preference. Some people like to soak under a gazebo in order

foreseeable damage, according to Regulation 522.8.10, either

to keep out of the rain, while others like to be able to see the

by armouring or by suitable enclosure. Unprotected cables

stars in the sky.”

should not be buried directly in the ground, nor should they be clipped to wooden fences etc., as such an arrangement may

And a hot tub isn’t just for your own use – many landlords,

provide inadequate support and protection.

especially in the holiday let market, are now installing a hot tub in a bid to increase their rental yield. “If you’re buying a

“Some of the latest tubs are classed as ‘’plug and play’’ and

hot tub for a rental property then it is very important that the

require just a 13 amp supply,” he adds. “Although this is quite

hot tub is compliant with HSE (Health and Safety Executive)

an easy option, it’s better to go for a higher rated model as

regulation,” warns Jack from Concept Spa in Llangefni.

the plug and play option are often restricted to not being

“Research what the regulation is before you go to visit your

able to run the pumps and heaters at the same time to keep

local dealer, this will arm you with enough knowledge to know

the load down. This means that whilst enjoying the bubbly

whether or not what you’re buying is fit for purpose.”

side of the fun, the heaters are inactive and therefore the water temperature can tumble in the colder weather. The

Jack also advises to check any company reviews before you

higher rated tubs, usually 20 amps and above can run all the

sign on the dotted line. “It may sound simple but so many

goodies at the same time, making for a far more pleasurable

people forget that they can quickly and easily check what

experience.” n

Page 96 NWM 2018

✓ Family run business ✓ 10 year manufacturer and fitters guarantee ✓ Secure by Design Standards ✓ Showroom car parking ✓ Installers are employed not sub-contracted

✓ Card facilities ✓ Finance available ✓ Certass members ✓ Extensive product range

Call today for a free, no obligation quote

01492 543 317 info@conwyvalleywindows.co.uk

www.conwyvalleywindows.co.uk

Showroom location: The Roundabout, Glan Y Mor Road, Penrhyn Bay, Llandudno, LL303NI

WINDOWS . DOORS . CONSERVATORIES EXTENSIONS . ORANGERIES . LANTERNS TILED CONSERVATORY ROOF SYSTEM Our sales team, workmanship and aftercare are first rate, but don’t just take our word for it, this is what our customers have to say...

“Every workman was on time, knowledgeable and friendly. The workmanship is of a very high standard.

I must say a special ‘Thank You’ to Andy, the Surveyor. He has been very approachable and nothing has been too much trouble. I highly recommend Conwy Valley Windows.”

- S.Lloyd “Provided sound, practical and budget-friendly advice on the best ways to double glaze The fitters were polite, knowledgable and experienced... The windows and doors are of excellent quality, and heating bills have reduced since fitting. Sound-proofing is top notch. Finally, this was an on-going project over 18 months; we used Conwy Valley Windows for all the work because we were confident and happy they would provide the best service.

- S. Gow “We are more than happy to continue to work with Conwy Valley because the support was honest, authentic and the price was so fair, and to top if off the quality of the work was absolutely superb.”

- I. Urbat

WINDOWS & DOORS • GARAGE DOORS • ORANGERIES • CONSERVATORIES • ROOFLINE • GARDEN ROOMS

COME AND SEE

OUR NEW GARDEN ROOM AND ORANGERY AT OUR MOLD SHOWROOMS

PLEASE ASK FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTATION

Visit our large lifestyle showrooms in Mold: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 10am-4pm

TELEPHONE:

Mold: 01352 758812 Chester: 01244 879818

MOLD: Bromfield Industrial Estate, Mold Flintshire CH7 1HA Email: reception@snowdoniawindows.co.uk

www.snowdoniawindows.co.uk

PART OF THE WALL-LAG GROUP OF COMPANIES

Fletcher and Poole celebrates 20th Anniversary On Friday 20th July, Fletcher and Poole Estate Agents reached 20 years in business. The successful estate agent celebrated by holding an open event in both its Rhos-on-Sea and Conwy branches, inviting vendors, customers and business partners for a glass of Prosecco in order to mark the occasion.

General manager John Yates said he was thrilled with the response, catching up with customers old and new.

Elaine Fletcher, who founded the company in 1998, said she was delighted that the business had grown from strength to strength. “We now employ 24 staff members between the two offices, providing both sales and lettings services, she commented. “I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported us over the years to make the business the success that it is today. I am proud to employ such a hard-working, dedicated team, with some staff members having been with us since the company’s inception. I am really looking forward to seeing the company’s continued growth and a promising and successful future.”

Even Elaine’s 90-year-old father, Tony, was present at the event helping to entertain guests. It was lovely to see three generations present, with Elaine’s daughter and Conwy branch manager Alex Fletcher also attending.

“At Fletcher and Poole, we pride ourselves in providing an honest, friendly and comprehensive sales and letting service,” continued Elaine. “Our customers are our number one priority with excellent service being paramount.” www.fletcherpoole.com

Awards success for Mococo Mococo has announced that it has been presented with the most prestigious award in the jewellery industry, receiving the Retailer of the Year award for six or more stores at the UK Jewellery Awards 2018.

Mococo were up against some of the biggest jewellery retailers in the country including Beaverbrooks, Goldsmiths and Chisholm Hunter. The Retail Jewellers stated: “In a hotly contested category, this winner [Mococo] produced an excellent mystery shop report together with roaring endorsements from our judging panel.” In addition, Mococo has also been shortlisted for “Independent Fashion Jewellery Retailer of the Year” by the Professional Jewellers Award 2018. Mococo prides itself on quality customer service, having been awarded for the second year running with a “Gold Trusted Merchant” rating from Feefo for achieving consistently great feedback. Maureen Hooson, founder and managing director at Mococo, said: “Mococo has been built on a culture of impeccable service and client care. Our loyal customers, and the brands we represent, love our style of personal service and have been instrumental in our growth and upsurge in popularity.” www.mococo.co.uk

NWM 2018 Page 101

MAGAZINE

Welsh whisky firm planning new site in Llandudno

College boss walks for charity

Speaking at a conference for the acclaimed 20Twenty

Coleg Cambria CEO David Jones and wife Julia trekked

Business Growth Programme at Holt Lodge in Wrexham,

cross-country to all five North Wales campuses to raise

Penderyn Distillery boss Stephen Davies revealed

money for the NSPCC. The couple have already passed the

that the company will be expanding into other areas

£9,000 mark but are still pushing towards their target

of the country in the near future. Plans for Llandudno

of £10,000. Having set off at 5am from Llysfasi David and

include a retail outlet, visitor centre and training hub for

Julia hiked to Northop and on to Deeside, before heading

workshops, helping to spread the popular brand across

for Yale and Bersham Road in Wrexham. They then made

the country, reaffirming its patriotic identity. “We have

their way back to Lysfasi, near Ruthin - a staggering

grown to the point where turnover is around £11m and

100,000 steps or 48 miles in 13 hours and 45 minutes

we employ 50 workers, so we are looking further afield,”

of actual walking. Julia completed the challenge despite

commented Stephen, MD of the Aberdare-based range,

suffering with blisters, aches and pains for much of the

which also includes Brecon Gin. “Our customer base has

afternoon, and the pair pushed each other all the way,

also grown - Harrods, Asda, Tesco, Waitrose and other

supported by passing motorists, friends, colleagues and

supermarket giants all stock our premium products - and

family. “It was an epic day, a really gruelling challenge

venues including the Ritz and Savoy hotels in London.

in searing heat,” said David. “We are still collecting

But our Welsh roots are so important to us; we started

money so it’s not too late to support us - we and the

with no money for marketing but realised that if you

NSPCC appreciate every pound given, as it goes to such

don’t invest you have no future. We believe in the product

an incredible cause.” One of the NSPCC services that

and have a passionate team with a fabulous brand which

will benefit from their effort is Speak Out Stay Safe – a

tells a story that resonates with people – especially here

groundbreaking campaign which sees specially-trained

in Wales.” Stephen appeared alongside Professor Brian

staff and volunteers visiting primary schools to deliver

Morgan, the founder of both the Penderyn Distillery and

assemblies which help equip pupils with the knowledge

20Twenty, at the event. “The 20Twenty Programme will

they need to recognise abuse and speak out about it.

introduce you to all types of leadership, whether it be

In North Wales alone, the charity visited 147 primary

transactional, transformational or distributed, there are

schools in 2016-17 and spoke to 12,575 children. To

different levels of effectiveness,” commented Professor

sponsor David, visit: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/

Morgan. “Good leadership is about taking people with you

cylchcambriadaviddavidscambriacircle.

- as Stephen has at Penderyn - and achieving successful change under conditions of uncertainty.” 20Twenty targets firms in Flintshire, Powys and Wrexham and is up to 70% paid for by the European Social Fund via Welsh

And the winner is…

Government.

Huge congratulations go to Lesley Roberts of Northop,

www.20twentybusinessgrowth.com

Denise Donovan of Rhos-on-Sea and Anne Jones of Bangor who have all won a family ticket to Greenwood this summer. We hope you all enjoy your fabulous day out!

Page 102 NWM 2018

WOOD BURNING STOVES, GAS FIRES & FIREPLACES With over 150 stoves and fireplaces to browse in our showroom, many exclusive to the area, you won’t find a larger selection locally. Established over 60 years ago and with the most experienced team in the area you’re sure to get all the advice you need.

KITCHENS

COOKERS

BATHROOMS

Quality kitchens, hand made in the UK. Designed in store to suit your lifestyle and hand painted in any colour you choose.

The best names in range cooking under one roof, including Everhot, Rayburn, Esse, Rangemaster, AGA, Smeg & Lacanche.

From a refreshing power shower to a relaxing soaking bathtub, we’ve got the perfect new bathroom, tiles or wetroom for you.

BRANDS THAT YOU CAN TRUST

YOUR ONE STOP HOME IMPROVEMENT SHOWROOM IS OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY, 8.30AM TO 5PM

Chester Street, St Asaph, LL17 0RE

01745 582254 | www.rnwilliams.co.uk

At your local Barchester care home

At our care homes across Denbighshire and Flintshire, we pride ourselves on making everyone feel at home. We offer a range of personalised care services that support independence and maintain individual interests, with a varied activities programme and freshly prepared home-cooked meals.

At Barchester we understand that finding the right care home can be a daunting decision, that’s why our friendly te am are on hand to offer advice and guidance at a time to suit you.

Join us for our Summer Open Days! Visit our website for full event details Whether you need urgent care or just some help and advice, our team are here when you need them. For more information please call or visit our website www.barchester.com Bradshaw Manor Rhyl, LL18 3ER Tel: 01745 274 276

Bod Hyfryd Flint, CH6 5LH Tel: 01352 851 805

Rhiwlas Flintshire, CH6 5LH Tel: 01352 851 804

Nursing Care • Residential Care • Dementia Care • Respite Care & Short Breaks

Walking

world

THE SNOWDONIA PRECIPICE WALK The Precipice Walk is one of the classic short walks of Snowdonia and is

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW J 3.61 miles/5.80 kilometres J Time: Allow 2 – 2.5 hours J Start: Precipice Walk car park around

probably the most popular hike in Southern Snowdonia. The route starts

3 miles/4.8 Km north of Dolgellau on

from a high car park three miles north of Dolgellau and follows an elevated

a minor road south of the village of

circular course at around 700 ft/213 metres to 800 ft/244 metres above sea

Llanfachreth. The car park is free and

level traversing the upper slopes of Foel Cynwch and has magnificent views

has toilets and picnic benches

for most of the outing. The walk does not follow public rights of way and is a private route on courtesy paths owned by The Nannau Estate which has been encouraging walkers to come and enjoy the walk since 1890 on the understanding they keep to the designated route, observe the country code and keep dogs on a lead and under control. The Precipice walk makes a wonderful half day out and to get the very best out of it you need to save

J Grid Ref: SH 745212 J Nearest postcode: LL40 2NG J Ordnance Survey Map: Ordnance Survey OL Explorer OL 18 – Harlech, Porthmadog and Bala

J What to expect: Despite the short

it for a clear bright morning or afternoon when the views are at their very

mileage this is a quite difficult and

best. The going is quite rough so boots should be worn and the path can

rough walk with some ascent and

be very narrow in places with steep drops down to the valley below so the

descent involved. The route follows

walk is probably best avoided by anyone who has a fear of heights.

paths and tracks and the route finding is straightforward but some of the paths can be quite narrow with

WALK DETAILS

steep drops off them to the valley below. Children should be carefully supervised on these sections. The

START

route should be avoided in bad

Exit the car park at the bottom near a road junction going left before the

weather and boots should always

road to follow the sign for ‘The Precipice Walk’ and follow the footpath

be worn – it’s probably best to take

to the road. Go left to descend and in a short distance (at the entrance to

along a rucksack with hats, gloves

‘Gwern Offeiriaid) leave the road going left to take an uphill track. Rise

and wet weather gear in case the

steadily with the forest right. As the angle eases a track joins from the left and you curve right near a gate to descend into trees and continue to reach the parking area for the house of ‘Gwern Offeiriaid’

weather changes while you are out.

J Suitable for: Most fit walkers should have no problems on this route.

Families with children aged six and

2) Go left to rise left of the house and once above it cut right then shortly cut left. Rise up to curve left and pass through a gate. Continue by a wall to a point where the path splits with the seemingly better path going left towards Llyn Cynwch. However, our way is along the right fork where we

over should be fine as long as they keep them well supervised.

J Dogs: OK on a lead J Refreshments: Dolgellau has plenty of shops, cafes and pubs

NWM 2018 Page 105

Rhyd-y-creua farm

MAGAZINE Parking

3

START/ FINISH

Tyddyn Bach

2

4

START/ FINISH A470

5

Llyn Cynwch Reservoir

Hotel

Pen-y-clogwyn

Afon Mawddach River

6

follow a rising path to cut right at a wall corner. Rise by the

5) Continue on the path as it curves left and right above a

wall passing through a wall gap. Continue on the path beyond

shallow valley and a small scree slope and continue to curve

keeping the wall right. As you proceed great views open up of

right around another shallow valley. Continue on the path to

the valley to your right. Pass a sheepfold at a narrow end of a

pass a bench viewpoint and continue to pass through a gate

field and continue next to the now crumbling wall. Soon leave

in a wall. Now follow the path to soon head towards a forest.

the wall to follow the path over the hillside to make a short

Curve left to continue above a steep sided valley to continue

descent and rise to pass through a wall gap.

past the forest right. At a wall near a forest corner pass

C

through a gate and follow the path beyond passing marker

M

Points of interest on this section:

posts to curve right and reach Llyn Cynwch at a junction by a

Y

J The hill you are walking around is Foel Cynwch and it rises

large footpath sign.

to around 1,050 ft/320 metres.

Points of interest on this section 3) Continue to follow the path along the hillside to pass a path junction right for ‘The Copper Mines’. Stay ahead here for ‘The Precipice Walk’ and continue on the obvious high level

J The bench viewpoint passed has superb views of the impressive Cadair Idris massif to the south.

J Llyn Cynwch is a reservoir and is very popular with

path high above the valley. Pass over a scree slope as the path

fishermen and according to legend there is a marble palace

narrows and continue to reach a gate in a fence above a house

at the bottom inhabited by fairies.

in an enclosure in the valley below (‘Dol-y-clochydd’).

6) Go left to follow the west shore of the lake to pass through Points of interest on this section

a wall gap. Next continue through trees to walk up the final

J The river in the valley below is The Afon Mawddach which

narrow section of the reservoir. At the reservoir end continue

rises on the slopes of the Snowdonian mountain of Ddualt

on the path to re-join your outbound route near a wall and go

and flows for 28 miles/45 Km to run into a wide estuary

right on it to pass through a gate and continue to reach the

near Dolgellau and continue to the sea at Barmouth. The

house of ‘Gwern Offeiriaid’. Go right following your outbound

road visible is The A470.

route to curve left near a gate. Shortly leave your outbound

J There are stunning views all along this section with The

Pen-y-clogwyn

Rhinog Mountains to the west being very prominent and the

route to cut right at a junction. Follow this path to re-enter the car park at the top end. n

valley below looking superb.

A WORD OF CAUTION 4) Pass through the gate and continue on the path beyond.

Walking in the outdoors can be a strenuous activity and it

The path rises slightly and curves around a gully to continue

is up to you to ensure that you are fit and healthy enough to

high above the valley. As you proceed there are large drops to

undertake the route described and to approach the venture

the right and stunning vistas all around. Continue on the path

with caution and care. You should wear appropriate footwear

to pass through a broken wall at a wall junction and by a post

and suitable clothing, take along food and drink plus carry the relevant map and a compass and be able to use it. The details

Points of interest on this section

given here are believed to be correct at the time of going to

J Above you and left here is the small hillock of Foel Faner

press. However, neither North Wales Magazine nor the author

(951 ft/290 metres) on the top of which is an Iron aged hill fort.

Page 106 NWM 2018

can accept responsibility for inaccuracies encountered.

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

DISCOVER ABERSOCH GARDEN CENTRE

Stylish Outdoor Furniture, Homeware & Gifts Premium Napoleon BBQ Certified Store FREE local delivery available Open seven days a week from 9:30am - 5:30pm

01758 713098 - LL53 7UD www.abersochgardencentre.com info@abersochgardencentre.com

• All Day Breakfasts • Lunches - Hot and Cold • Afternoon Teas • Homemade Cakes • Hot and Cold Drinks • Fine Wine and Beer

ABERSOCH GARDEN CENTRE’S MEDITERRANEAN STYLE LICENCED TEA ROOM Uniquely designed wedding cakes • Celebration cakes • Cup Cakes and Cake Pops • Handmade Luxury Belgian Chocolates

www.petalpot.co.uk 01758 713098 - LL53 7UD • info@petalpot.co.uk

NWM 2018 Page 107

l Nationa Week Marine 5th-10th August

Sea Zoo Marine Week 12th-17th August

August Beach Cleans

& Whale eek W in Dolph

6th August 21st August

29th July 3rd August

Northop Golf Club - north east wales’ only championship course 

USPGA GREENS - NO TEMPORARY GREENS ANYTIME of the YEAR!! 

Driving Range, Putting Green & Short game practice area 

Food & Fully Licensed Bar

2018 SUMMER SOCIETY DAYS (minimum 8 players)

18 Holes (Golf Only) from £15pp

COME AND JOIN US!!

THINKING OF TAKING UP GOLF or CHANGING CLUBS? FULL MEMBERSHIP FOR LESS THAN £13 PER WEEK!!

5-DAY MEMBERSHIP From £9 per week COLT MEMBERSHIP From less than £3 per week

18 Holes, Bacon Bap Coffee/Tea from £20pp 18 Holes, Bacon Bap Coffee/Tea & two course meal from £30pp Packages can be tailormade to suit your needs—call to discuss

2018 OPENS Tuesday 14th August - Seniors Open Sunday 19th August - 4BBB Open

FREE MEMBERSHIP for JUNIORS (t & c apply)

Sunday 26th August - CAPTAINS’ CHARITY DAY

Call Tony or Matt on 01352 840440 for further details .

See website for full details & entry forms

Sinclair House, Northop Country Park, Northop, CH7 6WA Tel: 01352 840440 E: tonygodden@northopgolfclub.co.uk W: northopgolfclub.co.uk

COMPETITION

Win

A spa day for two at Portmeirion Enjoy a two-course lunch at Castell Deudraeth followed by either a manicure, back massage or facial at the Mermaid Spa at Portmeirion.

The Mermaid Spa offers a wide range of spa treatments and packages including body wraps and facials, aroma massages and manicures. Qualified therapists use the purest vegan-friendly products and all-natural therapies. Perfect for individuals, couples, celebrations or days out with frien ds. Unwind in a haven of tranquillity overlooking the Dwyryd Estuary in the heart of the magical Portmeirion Village.

To Enter To win this fabulous spa day for two at Portmeirion, simply answer the question below and send your name and address to competition@northwalesmagazine.co.uk by Wednesday 22nd August – making sure that you put ‘Portmeirion spa day’ in the subject line.

Good luck!

We collect your information when you enter our competitions, and store this information on our systems. We will use this information to contact you if you are the competition winner, and to contact you occasionally with details of relevant offers. If you win the competition, your name and the town where you live will be printed in the following issue. Please visit www. northwalesmagazine.co.uk for our full Privacy Notice.

T&Cs: Must be booked in advance. Prize must be taken within 12 months of prize draw. Prize cannot be refunded or exchanged for cash. Any additional cost exceeding the value of the prize is the responsibility of the individual.

NWM 2018 Page 109

zipworld.co.uk

E BOUNC BELOW

find out more

online ZIPWORLD.CO.UK

CAVERNS

Voted Best Family Attraction

adventurous

25th

YEAR

family

fun!

Open daily 10am-5.30pm 17th March - 4th November

GreenWood, Y Felinheli, Gwynedd. Use sat nav LL55 3AD

greenwoodfamilypark.co.uk

book your

tickets online and save!

Win COMPETITION Spectacular high-octane World Championship motor sport action is coming to North Wales at the start of October – and here’s a brilliant chance to win a pair of coveted World Rally Passes giving access to the entire four-day event.

A pair of World Rally Passes for the 2018 Dayinsure Wales Rally GB

Based at the Rally Village in Deeside, this year’s not-to-bemissed Dayinsure Wales Rally GB – the British round of the globe-trotting FIA World Rally Championship – takes place from 4th – 7th October. The thrilling event promises to be the biggest and best yet with the latest generation of even more powerful and exciting cars, plus a titanic title fight guaranteed to wow visitors. What’s more local hero Elfyn Evans will be gunning for back-to-back victories having scored a famous home win in 2017.

While lots of the dramatic competitive action takes place against-the-clock in the legendary Welsh forests, this year’s thrilling four-day schedule commences on Thursday evening with a dramatic speed test under the floodlights at the Tir Prince Raceway in Towyn, County Conwy.

The packed programme also includes a spectacular finale on Sunday morning with cars racing flat out against the clock around the Great Orme and onto the streets of Llandudno.

Adult tickets to Dayinsure Wales Rally GB start from just £15 if purchased in advance – to find out more visit walesrallygb.com.

We collect your information when you enter our competitions, and store this information on our systems. We will use this information to contact you if you are the competition winner, and to contact you occasionally with details of relevant offers. If you win the competition, your name and the town where you live will be printed in the following issue. Please visit www.northwalesmagazine.co.uk for our full Privacy Notice.

To Enter To win a pair of World Rally Passes for the 2018 Dayinsure Wales Rally GB, simply answer the question below and send your name and address to competition@northwalesmagazine. co.uk by Wednesday 22nd August – making sure that you put ‘Dayinsure Wales Rally GB’ in the subject line. Good luck!

Which British driver made history in winning the 2017 Dayinsure Wales Rally GB? a) Colin McRae b) Elfyn Evans c) Richard Burns

NWM 2018 Page 111

High life, low maintenance living in Anglesey.

Helping you live life to the full, is one of our passions. Benllech in Anglesey is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing lifestyle. Whether you enjoy the quiet life, or love to get involved in whatever’s going on, as one of our homeowners in Plas Glanrafon you can do as much, or as little, as you wish. We think you deserve to enjoy your leisure years to the full.

Plas Glanrafon Tyn-Y-Gongl, Benllech, Anglesey, LL74 8TP Open daily, 10.30am-5pm One and two bedroom apartments for sale in Benllech, Anglesey.

This exclusive development for the over 55’s offers: ✓ Exterior Maintenance taken care of ✓ Beautiful gardens all year round ✓ Luxury fixtures & fittings ✓ Door Camera entry ✓ Great location close to local amenities ✓ Stunning homeowners’ lounge & sun terrace

Call 0800 310 0229 mccarthyandstone.co.uk/plasglanrafon

LP-NW-NWM-3570

To find out more...

The Last Word Across 9 Capital (5,4) 10 Maxim (5) 11 Femoral region (5) 12 Comparison standard (9) 13 Unusual (8) 14 Botch (6) 15 Snug (4) 17 Prepares for publication (5) 19 Homework (4) 22 Order to come (6) 23 Comfortable piece of furniture (8) 25 Misunderstanding (9) 27 Paddled (5) 29 Burdened (5) 30 Form of hypnosis (9) Down 1 Expel (4) 2 Choice (6) 3 Bow and arrow skill (7) 4 UK biscuit brand sold as cookies (8) 5 Tolerate (4) 6 Serious collision (5-2) 7 Longitudinal fuselage component (8) 8 One who maintains accounts (10) 13 Easy to reach (10) 16 An unspecified person (8) 18 Hare beater (8) 20 Perfumed toilet water (7) 21 Film: “The Hunt for Red ---� (7) 24 Apprehensive (6) 26 Gammy (4) 28 10 U S cents (4) Down: 1 Oust, 2 Option, 3 Archery, 4 Maryland, 5 Bear, 6 Smash-up, 7 Stringer, 8 Bookkeeper, 13 Accessible, 16 Somebody, 18 Tortoise, 20 Cologne, 21 October, 24 Afraid, 26 Lame, 28 Dime.

Across: 9 Upper case, 10 Motto, 11 Thigh, 12 Yardstick, 13 Abnormal, 14 Bungle, 15 Cosy, 17 Edits, 19 Prep, 22 Summon, 23 Armchair, 25 Imbroglio, 27 Oared, 29 Laden, 30 Mesmerism.

NWM 2018 Page 113

WEDDING OPEN DAY SUNDAY 23RD SEPTEMBER – 1pm to 5pm

Set in 100 acres of private, ancient woodland on the beautiful Llyn Peninsula, Talhenbont Hall is the perfect wedding venue.

Accommodation can be provided for up to 40 guests in the main hall and five charming cottages, and the entire estate is available for exclusive use for the duration of your wedding.

Join us at our next Wedding Open Day on Sunday 23rd September, 1pm to 5pm and see what our beautiful venue can offer you for your special day. Enjoy a glass of bubbles, sample some delicious canapes and meet some of our key suppliers. It is free to attend.

Please register your attendance at www.talhenbonthall.co.uk

Chwilog, Pwllheli, Gwynedd, Criccieth LL53 6SZ / 01766 810247

THE

wedding planner

Over the last four issues, I’ve given you some tips and advice

Look through a photographer’s portfolio from previous

to set you off on your way for your big day! From the ceremony

weddings they’ve covered, to see the look and style of their

to the venue and a brief look at wedding insurance, you should

work. Each photographer has a slightly different style and

be well on your way along your wedding planning journey.

you need to choose the style that’s right for you as a couple.

Once you’ve narrowed it down to one or two wedding

So, your date is booked, the ceremony is confirmed, and you’ve

photographers, give them a call to see if they’re available on

found your dream venue but what should you tackle next?

the date of your wedding and before confirming anything, arrange to meet them in person.

This is probably my favourite part of the wedding planning journey, as you can involve friends and family more with

When choosing your photographer not only do you need to

these parts and even delegate tasks to them so you’re not

pick someone with the style you’re looking for, you also need

overwhelmed with it all! For me personally the next task I

to choose someone who you’re both comfortable with, as you’ll

would tackle is choosing your photographer.

be spending a lot of time with that person on the day of your wedding, so it’s important to get it right!

A good photographer is worth their weight in gold, trust me!

You want to look back on your pictures for years to come,

Having found the photographer you wish to go with

which is why it is hugely important to look around and find

make sure you’ve done some research into any ratings or

the perfect person for your day. If you’re on a tight budget

testimonials they have. Do you know someone who used them

and you have family members or friends offering to take

for their wedding? Ask them what their thoughts were and

your wedding pictures I completely understand however,

how happy they were with the photographs after the wedding.

is there another aspect in relation to your wedding, where you can save money enabling you to pay for a professional

And as always… obtain a written quote and ask for their full

photographer?

terms and conditions, so you know exactly what deposit to pay and when, how much the total cost will be and what is included in your package.

Once you have a budget set for your wedding pictures, remember these are one of the few items you’ll have to show for your wedding in years to come, you need to do some

Just remember… the cake is eaten, the flowers will die, but the

research into the different photographers local to you.

wedding photos will last forever!

Caroline Roberts runs Events by Caroline Louise, an event management company that specialises in wedding planning. She also owns Bella, the Prosecco Van and provides happiness in a glass! For more information please visit www.eventsbycarolinelouise.com

NWM 2018 Page 115

MAGAZINE

Get planning!

August Tower Hill Barns Opening Day, Trevor Sunday 12th 1- 5pm September St George Hotel Wedding Fayre, Llandudno Sunday 9th 12-4pm Quay Hotel and Spa Wedding Open Day, Deganwy Sunday 16th 12-4pm Talhenbont Hall Wedding Open Day, Pwllheli Sunday 23rd 1-5pm Eriviat Hall Open Evening Wedding Showcase, Denbigh Thursday 27th 5-8pm Tre-Ysgawen Hall Autumn Wedding Fayre Sunday 30th

Boxing clever Have you ever heard of a First Fight Box? The theory is that during your loved-up engagement period you spend some time writing love letters to each other – more specifically, you take the time to put down on paper reasons why you fell in love with your spouse-to-be in the first place. You can even include your hopes and dreams for the future, but DO NOT read what your partner has written. Pop the letters into a wooden box and add in a bottle (or two) of your favourite wine. Then, during your reception, you take turns to nail the box shut so that it can’t be accidently opened. When your first marital argument arises, open the box (and the wine) and retreat to separate corners of the house in order read the letters, sip the wine and reflect on why you married each other in the first place.

Clogau re-launches bridal collection North Walian jewellery brand Clogau has unveiled their exquisite new bridal ring styles as part of their Compose by Clogau® re-launch.

The re-launch follows months of research and planning to develop and perfect its bridal offering, including six new ring designs – all of which contain rare Welsh gold, as favoured by some royal brides since 1923. This wonderful tradition was carried into its 95th year with the ring of Her Royal Highness, The Duchess of Sussex being crafted from pure Welsh gold earlier this year.

Compose by Clogau® enables brides-to-be the opportunity to discover their own bridal style, from romantic and elegant to glamorous and stylish, truly expressing their individuality and capturing the magic of their love story.

The re-launch also sees the bridal range available to purchase on Clogau’s website for the first time since its initial launch in 2014. They are also available to purchase within Clogau’s Broughton boutique from their Compose by Clogau® retail partners. www.clogau.co.uk

Page 116 NWM 2018

Autumn Wedding Fayre with Free admission Nothing could be more special than your wedding day.

For the perfect venue come and meet us at our fabulous Wedding Fayre.

Representatives from the essential wedding service providers will be here to help create your perfect day.

Come along to our Autumn Wedding Fayre Sunday 30th September 2018 Special offers available when booking your wedding To arrange a tour of the Hall or for more information Call us on: 01248 750750

treysgawen-hall.co.uk NWM 2018 Page 117

Sea

life

Frankie Hobro talks about the beauty of plankton because good things come in small packages – with a secret sparkle!

most familiar marine animals start life in some form of larval planktonic form.

Viewed under a microscope these amazing little plants and beasties make a bizarre and motley crew, a medley of weird shapes and sizes, consisting of spheres, cones, tubes and other erratic shapes combined with spikes, swirls, branches, antennae, hairs and other appendages, or none of the above!

It is probably not surprising then that plankton is a popular subject medium for abstract artwork!

Here at the Anglesey Sea Zoo we pump all the water for our tanks directly from the Menai Strait, creating a natural and seasonal system just like the sea on our doorstep. The incoming plankton is a great natural source of food for many of the animals in our tanks, so we have sea squirts, various other invertebrates and many different algae naturally thriving in here, having entered the systems as plankton.

The word ‘plankton’ generally conjures up the image of tiny,

Surprisingly few people are aware that the phenomenon of

transparent and insignificant blobs floating around like gloop

marine phosphorescence is all due to plankton! It is commonly

in the sea. Many people are vaguely aware of the importance of

assumed that the warm tropical seas in countries such as

this profuse and apparently mundane stuff in the marine food

the Maldives are the best locations to see this, but the truly

web, but very few know the covert secret of some plankton

phenomenal light displays in such places are equally matched

species – the mesmerizing, hidden sparkle, which results in

by some locations closer to home.

the spectacular and hugely understated natural phenomenon of bioluminescence!

Certain kinds of bioluminescent algae, which are widespread throughout the world’s oceans, produce a flash of light

The word Plankton comes from the Greek word planktos

whenever they are disturbed by motion such as wave action or

meaning ‘wanderer’ or ‘drifter’ so technically anything which

someone swimming. Glowing blue is most common but a few

drifts within an oceanic current can be referred to as plankton,

species can glow green, red or even orange. The light emitted is

but generally it is used to describe the diverse collection of tiny

a chemical called luciferin which is produced through oxidation

organisms which get carried around by currents.

reactions and is believed to be a defense mechanism against predators.

Broadly speaking, plankton consists of two different kinds of organisms mixed up in one big melting pot – phytoplankton,

Here in the UK there are certain hotspots for observing

which are different kinds of plants or algae, and zooplankton,

bioluminescence and Penmon Point on the East coast of Anglesey

which is made up of various tiny animals.

is one of these places, where a particular species of fluorescent plankton gets trapped in the bay rather. Science nerds call these

Phytoplankton forms the essential foundations of the marine

little algae Noctiluca scintillans but they are more commonly

food web and these poor microscopic algae are food for

known as ‘Sea Sparkle’ which sums them up more accurately!

everything else, from slightly larger zooplankton right up to

They are most prevalent in late spring to early summer in

large animals such as hefty baleen whales! Most phytoplankton

shallow seas after a period of prolonged warm weather, and the

are too small to see with the naked eye, but like all plants they

mesmerizing light display is at its most spectacular during the

contain chlorophyll and other pigments so they may be seen as

darkest part of the night, between midnight and 3am. The timing

coloured patches in the water when present in large blooms.

may not be ideal but, having been fortunate enough to witness

Small fish and other animals feed on the phytoplankton and

this breathtaking phenomenon personally, I can vouch for the

these are then eaten by larger marine animals, and thus these

fact that this magical experience it is well worth the disruption

algae are the staple food in the marine food chain.

of night’s sleep! n

Some of the microscopic animals which make up zooplankton, such as diatoms (pictured under a microscope), krill and tiny copepods are permanent members of the plankton, and others, such as the larvae of many larger marine animals like sea urchins, starfish and fish are temporary members, since

Frankie Hobro is the owner and director of Anglesey Sea Zoo. She has always been a passionate advocate for conservation, and has a long history working on hands-on conservation projects with critically endangered species in difficult conditions abroad

NWM 2018 Page 119

THE OFFICIAL OUTLET FOR

clearance AND

VISIT ONE OF OUR STORES BELOW

FLINT

Page 120 NWM 2018

UNITS F1/F2 • FLINTSHIRE RETAIL PARK • CH6 5GB

|

FIND MORE STORES AT THEOUTLET.UK.COM

LLANDUDNO

6-8 MADOC STREET • LLANDUDNO • LL30 2TP

On the road

The i8 is the highest selling hybrid sports car and has truly taken its class by storm. I recently got invited by BMW to drive the 2018 Coupé and it staggers me how innovative this car is.

If you want something that catches the eye, is environmentally friendly and also a perfect sports car, then seriously consider the revolutionary multi-award winning i8.

It consists of the Drive module – an aluminium chassis – and the Life module – an ultralight passenger compartment made of high-strength carbon-fibre. BMW say that “Together they create sustainability and a perfect weight balance, delivering unmatched sportiness” – it means the suspension on the BMW i8 is a little softer and soaks up all the bumps on a modern Welsh B-road.

The i8 is, in fact, perfect for the British roads with Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), which reduces wheel spin, and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive system. The powertrain in the BMW i8 is a mid-engine set up with a 231hp TwinPower Turbo threecylinder in-line petrol engine (six-speed transmission) driving the rear and a 143hp two-speed electric motor which drives

The production BMW i8, launched in 2013, changed so little

the front wheels.

from the plug-in hybrid concept car – first shown at the 2011 International Motor Show in Frankfurt. It’s what makes this

This means the i8 can run for 34 miles on pure electric (ideal

BMW even more special as, due to the futuristic design, it

for town driving) or have a 374hp hybrid set up which allows

hasn’t aged at all. It still looks fresh and so different to all other

for sporty driving without the miles per gallon issues. The

cars on the road. Benoit Jacob, the i8 designer, was influenced

0-62mph figure for the Coupé is 4.4 secs and 4.6 secs for the

by the 1978 BMW M1, drawn by the legendary Giorgetto

Roadster (convertible); the mpg is a staggering 148.6 for the i8

Giugiaro (famous for DeLorean, Lotus Esprit etc.) so the original

Coupé (134.5 for the Roadster).

DNA was there to build on.

The BMW i8 truly redefines what the modern sports car is One of the most striking features of the BMW i8 Coupé is the

about; Munich has shown that you can still have a hybrid, but

doors. They are of a Dihedral design and move forwards and

enjoy the sharpest of handling and performance. The BMW

upwards, adding a bit of drama to the car when you open them.

i8 starts from £112,735 for the Coupé and £124,735 for the

The car I drove, by the way, was painted in a sophisticated

Roadster. n

individual Donington Grey. The interior of the i8 is familiar BMW, but has that space age concept feel,

Freelance motoring journalist Luke Edwards is a member

like nothing else in the price range. Yes it’s a very

of the British Guild of Motoring Writers and is a motoring

low car to get in and out of, so do beware, and you

specialist for BBC local radio. He can be found as a

can take small passengers in the rear of the Coupé.

competitor in the occasional Hill Climb competition too – but in his car rather than on his feet. You can follow Luke

The BMW i8 Coupé is built with an exceptional

Edwards’ Motoring on Twitter @exhaustnotesuk

lightweight concept called LifeDrive architecture.

NWM 2018 Page 121

Get creative at The Mad Hatter Studio in Holyhead!

With over 60 different pottery items to choose from, you can paint or use quick-drying foam clay to your heart's content. Prices range from £5 and there really is something for everyone!

'Build Your Own Bear' experiences are also available at £15. This includes an 8" bearskin, stuffing, 'Wish upon a Star' heart, birth certificate and carry box. T-shirts to decorate are also available for an extra £3.

Other fun-filled packages include: • Birthday parties • Hen parties • Monthly 'Paint & Prosecco' nights• Regular Family workshops (i.e. Minions, Superheroes, Princesses etc.)

Open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday in the School Holidays 10am - 4pm. Booking is advisable so please message our Facebook page or call ahead to book your seats.

FB:@themadhatterstudioholyhead Tel: 07938 745958 Address: 5 Victoria Terrace, Holyhead, Anglesey, LL65 1UT

OPEN MORNING

Senior: Saturday 6 October Prep: Friday 5 October (Both 9.30am) 2 ½ - 18 • Boys & Girls • Day, Weekly and Flexi Boarding • GCSE, A-level and BTEC

Tel: 01492 530155 • admissions@rydalpenrhos.com

Senior Scholarships and Bursaries available • Stunning location on the North Wales coast

www.rydalpenrhos.com

Learning by heart Waiting for exam results can be a stressful time – but there are ways to take your mind off your possible grades. Keeping busy in the run-up (summer jobs, work experience, keeping active, volunteering, reading etc. etc.), resisting the urge to talk about what grades you might get, understanding that there’s really nothing more you can do, and along with trying not to imagine all sorts of doomsday scenarios are to be recommended but, given human nature, probably futile.

At Rydal Penrhos we focus on five ways of wellbeing: learning, giving, taking notice, connecting and being active. These five

day; being ahead of the game may mean you get just as good

strategies are particularly prudent at this time of year. A group

a course or alternative as your initial preference. Avoid social

of my pupils recently completed the National Three Peaks

media and #GCSEresults or any other trending topics – they’re

Challenge. One was a Year 13 and one was a Year 11; it may be

distraction and likely to depress you further.

a rather extreme approach to distract yourself but for the 30 hours they were involved it certainly had the desired effect.

If your GCSE results are different from what was expected

The best course of action is to be as well prepared as possible.

– perhaps they’re better – speak with your school about

Read all the school’s advice, know who you can contact on the

alternative sixth form options; you may wish to change subjects

day, how and when. If necessary, on the day, act promptly,

and it’s good to know if such things are possible. However, don’t

calmly and for a time steer clear of social media and other

be in too much of a rush to change. Remember it’s important to

peoples’ celebrations.

enjoy a subject in the sixth form not just study a subject you have a higher GCSE grade in. Similarly for university consider

It is always better for the pupils, rather than parents, to be the

carefully which is more important the university or the course.

ones taking action whether it be contacting a university, the

I am inclined to stick with a particular course unless it means

exams officer, a head of year or a tutor. Such initiative shows a

going to a university which you really won’t enjoy or may

maturity that will impress the necessary people. Simply getting

damage future career prospects. In which case consider a

cross and blaming others will do you no good at this stage. If

similar, but alternative course at a more reputable university.

particular grades are needed for a university place or a subject in the sixth form then have a plan B but also know how to

Finally, if results go the way you want, or better, don’t forget to

appeal a result, and the timescales, if it’s appropriate to do so.

thank your teachers, your parents and your friends – though

Remarks, priority remarks and requesting copies of your exam

some may need your support and advice – they’ve all helped

scripts all have strict deadlines so it’s important to be aware of

get you to this point and will be delighted and relieved in equal

them.

measure too. n

Being prepared to act and knowing how to will give you greater confidence the night before and on the day. National newspapers and the UCAS website will be also full of advice

Simon Smith is the headmaster of Rydal

in the lead up and it pays to keep abreast of what’s being

Penrhos in Colwyn Bay. He is married

advised. Knowing whether another school might accept you, or

with two teenage children and has a

how university Clearing works and the courses with spaces,

passion for rugby

will mean you can act more certainly and calmly on results

NWM 2018 Page 123

Criccieth Cleaning Ltd Criccieth Cleaning Ltd have been working in the Gwynedd area building a strong reputation for reliability, professional high standards and value for money.

• Domestic Cleaning •�Commercial Contracts• Carpets and Upholstery • Gardening Services • Holiday Homes Changeovers • Home Maintenance • Windows and Gutterings • Other Services

45 High Street, Criccieth, Gwynedd LL52 0EY Call: 01766 523 633 / Fax: 01766 522 640 Email: info@cricciethcleaningltd.co.uk

HP Tackle Box FINAL HR.pdf

1

25/06/2018

19:28

Criccieth Tackle Box All you need for a great catch Salt water Fly and Lure fishing including general shore fishing equipment. Frozen bait.

45 HIGH STREET CRICCIETH GWYNEDD LL52 0EY 01766 523633 CRICCIETHTACKLEBOX@GMAIL.COM

Three places to visit in August Penrhosfeilw Common, Anglesey

Getting back

to Nature

There’s plenty of wildlife across the region in August, says Julian Hughes, if you know where to look.

The maritime heath is part of RSPB’s South Stack nature reserve, but receives far fewer visitors than the seacliffs and lighthouse to the north. Known to birdwatchers as ‘The Range’, this headland is a great place to spot fly-past seabirds during a northwesterly gale. On a cool early morning you might spot

All at sea

a resting Adder or Common Lizard, and the heather is at is

Seabirds are heading out to sea following their brief visit to nest on cliffs and islands. Take a pair of binoculars if you’re heading to the beach and look out for Gannets, their

Credit: Derek Moore

most colourful during August.

black pointed wings outstretched to carry them across our bays and eventually to the Gulf of

Glaslyn estuary, Porthmadog

Guinea off West Africa where they’ll spend the winter. If the sea is calm, watch for Gannets

The sea extended five miles

folding their wings and plunge-diving to catch fish. If August brings a big storm, migrating

inland of Porthmadog until the

seabirds will be blown closer to the shore, where you might see large numbers of Kittiwakes,

Cob causeway was built in 1811,

auks and Manx Shearwaters as well as Gannets.

but the new sea wall didn’t stop winter flooding and so

The first leg

is used for seasonal grazing

Birds make some monumental journeys twice each year, migrating to

in summer and becomes a

Europe to nest in spring, then heading to west or southern Africa to see

massive wetland each winter.

through the northern winter. Wetland wading birds make some of the

In late summer, waders such

longest flights, as they breed in the insect-rich, daylight-long Arctic

as Black-tailed Godwits, Greenshanks and Redshanks

tundra. North Wales may be the first stop on their southward travels, so check out estuaries, quiet beaches and the muddy margins of lakes

Credit: Dave Williams

stoop to feed on the muddy edges. Llyn Bach car park at

where birds such as Black-tailed Godwits, Knots and Sanderlings will feed for a few days ahead of

Pioneer pink plant

the north end of the Cob is a

the next leg of their migration. Please don’t disturb

Few wild plants

good place to start.

them, and keep your dogs on a lead, as refuelling

start to flower in

is a matter of life-and-death to these birds.

August, but some of

Gronant sand dunes,

July’s plants should

Prestatyn

still bloom despite

Evenings in early August sees

the parched soil. Rosebay Willowherb

terns gather on the tideline at

is an introduced pioneer plant, quickly

Gronant beach, roosting and

colonising abandoned buildings and

feeding before heading for

railway sidings; in its native North

Africa. In dunes behind the

America, it’s known as Fireweed because

beach, young reintroduced

it’s one of the first flowers to grow after

Sand Lizards are hatching

a fire has scorched the forest. Its pink-

from eggs buried in the sand,

purple flowers grow like a staircase

and tiny Natterjack toadlets

around the stem, tapering at the top,

are around temporary pools.

which can be more than a metre from the

The lizards and toads are

ground. After the flowers have faded, the

specially protected, so do not

plant will be enveloped in fluffy white

disturb or handle them.

Help a hedgehog

Credit: : Jorg Hempel

Young hedgehogs become independent of their mum during August and wander off on their own adventures. This is when they’re at their most vulnerable, especially to road traffic, and numbers have halved since 2000 and by a shocking 97% since the 1950s. We can make our gardens more hedgehog-friendly, by ensuring they can get under fences or through walls, by leaving wild patches, creating piles of logs and leaves that remain through the winter, by not using slug pellets and by checking before using the mower or strimmer.

seeds.

Credit: Rosebay Willowherb

Julian Hughes grew up in North Wales, which instilled a lifelong love of nature. He lives near Llandudno, manages the RSPB’s Conwy nature reserve, and writes about the region’s wildlife.

NWM 2018 Page 125

For the love of all things

vintage...

The confessions of a modern day Magpie Tatty Divine and the French Connection Ooh la la! This month has seen Team Tatty

A sad farewell has been said to one of

going stir crazy for the faded glamour of French

my favourite pieces of vintage clothing

antiques, and deliveries of fresh stock have

(sob, sob) – a beautiful full length black

been arriving in abundance to TDHQ, Ivy St. I am

velvet 1930’s cloak, embellished with

drawn like a moth to the flame, when it comes

thousands of gold sequins and crystal

to the romance and grandeur of a crumbling

beads. Happily though it is returning

chateau. My style inspiration leads on from this

to its spiritual home in Paris to live

and my signature look is one that I refer to as

with an artist, who I know will be

“Bohemian Aristocrat”. A term coined by my style

very appreciative of it and its life will

hero and interior design savant, Roger Saul of

begin again.

Mulberry Home.

An exciting sale this week has been One of the greatest thrills in my line of work is

purchased by Professor of Dress

unpacking deliveries of stock. I often buy on

History, Amy de la Haye, Curator of the

instinct, without ever physically seeing the item

V&A and Senior Chair at the London College of

first, so it is always a moment of excitement and

Fashion. Professor de la Haye also wrote one of

anticipation to see if my instincts have paid off.

my much referred to books, Chanel: Couture and

Our recent acquisitions of French antiques have

Industry. It is praise indeed that such an admired

surpassed all expectations! A delicieux 19th

academic in her field should favour the stock we

Century quilt, made from the most exquisite

have and make not one, but two purchases.

fabric I have ever seen. The fabric design, encompasses a dramatic faded black background,

Finally… Alex and I would like to thank The Mayor

overlaid with flora and fauna and swooping

of Colwyn Bay, Cllr Steve Williams, for cutting the

Tatty is constantly

blue birds – just beautiful. A pair of fabulous

red ribbon and declaring Tatty Divine open for

searching for new

church alter candelabra, not one bit ecclesiastical

business. It has been decided that our showroom

stock and would love

looking… like a pair of gilded trees, emblazoned

opening hours will be Friday and Saturday 10-4pm

to hear from you if

with branches of leaves and sunflower heads,

and open 24/7 online. If you have anything that

very much an interior designers pick. Finally

may be of interest to us, please do bring it along. n

you have any of the following for sale: fine vintage, decorative

the award to “Best in Showroom” goes to a

antiques, vintage

magnificent mid century Hollywood Regency wall

À bientôt!

textiles/quilts or

light. It is what can only be described as a piece

Madame Tatty x

Welsh blankets

of art in its own right, a light installation. For the faint hearted it is not, for Rock Royalty it is. A four foot sheath of gilded faux bamboo, covered with

Ali Hough (Tatty) is a dealer in fine

Ivy leaves and enamelled Ivy flowers, set with

vintage and antiques. Based at: Tatty

four electric candle lights… C’est magnifique!!

HQ, No. 12 Ivy Street, Colwyn Bay. For all enquiries please contact 07940 730421 or email sales@tattydivine.co.uk

NWM 2018 Page 127

THE LAST LAUGH As you’ll be reading this just as the school holidays have

Such bitter experience

started it’s a fairly safe bet that the heatwave is now officially

led me to introduce the

over. It was wonderful, life-changing even as we all reset our

rule that I need a week

body clocks and the children gave up going to bed or being

of guaranteed sunshine

tired ever again. The World Cup was on. North Wales was

before I go out and buy a

bathed in non-stop sunshine. But it’s over now. The signs had

paddling pool. Then and

been coming – the announcement of a hose pipe ban in the

only then, will I even think

North West of England from August 1 was the beginning of

about filling it with water.

the end, and delivery of a paddling pool to our house after a three week delay was the final straw.

This plan failed this year because by the time I came round to the idea, everywhere had sold out of paddling pools. And I

In our house the summer of 2018 had a paddling pool-shaped

mean everywhere. Even the storm-lashed one with a puncture

hole in it. While the rest of North Wales splashed in the sun, I

I’d been monitoring on Ebay got snapped up, probably by a

was schlepping around the shops, sunburnt and bemoaning

dad like me, probably drunk having lost an argument with his

my appalling lack of foresight, trying to source an inflatable.

family about the right time to buy a paddling pool.

How could I have left it so late, you might ask and equally reasonably you might question why a university-educated

I scoured the internet, hung outside beach shops, even

dad of three didn’t have a paddling pool already?

followed those massive signs that say ‘Hot Tubs’ in the hope that some entrepreneurial soul had decided to open a side

The answer to this is that I usually adopt a just-in-time

line without informing the general public.

approach to paddling pool buying and it has never let me down. Until now. That’s down to two reasons. Reason number

In the end, I bit the bullet and ordered one from a company

one is that I think it’s important to keep one last big treat

that said it was going to take three weeks to arrive. By this

back for the summer holidays. Admittedly this creates

time I was so desperate, so utterly swayed by the idea that

tensions with the Paddling Pool Lobby (PPL) aka my kids,

this heatwave was going to last forever, that I was prepared

who like to make their demands early and often. It was on

to wait. Three weeks? I reasoned that will be just as the kids

February 8 this year – early, but actually a day later than last

break up and I’ll look like a hero. Provided of course there isn’t

year - when my youngest spotted a light grey circle in the

a hosepipe ban by then.

sky and asked for an ice cream. When I said it was too cold, his immediate response was “Please can we put the paddling

It was left to my neighbour to provide some North Walian

pool up then?”

wisdom. “Why do you need a paddling pool when you live by the sea?” Which is exactly what I said to my kids in February.

“Nice manners, but no.” It was a genuine ‘no’ because in

I closed my eyes and parroted the answer my kids gave: “it’s

February, we didn’t have a paddling pool, nor did we have the

not the same. The sea’s boring.” I need a drink – just not one

one from last year. That’s because like family tennis lessons,

out of a paddling pool…n

hammocks from supermarkets and holiday romances, paddling pools never last a full summer. In our house, they are punctured almost instantaneously because kids treat paddling pools like the boot of a car – a place to chuck stuff.

Dave Rothnie is resident

Either that or they take so much hassle to fill that by the time

compere of Stand-up at the

the water level and temperature is acceptable to the PPL,

Seaside, an acclaimed comedy

we’re well into autumn, and the pool is storm-damaged and

night that takes place on the

coated in wet leaves, lying marooned on the lawn in a puddle

final Saturday of every month

of its own self-esteem.

at The Station in Colwyn Bay.

NWM 2018 Page 129

MAGAZINE

IN THE

STARS...

While everyone remembers Russell Grant from his Breakfast TV appearances in the 1980’s, most people don’t realise that Russell was the first astrologer in over 300 years to present a horoscope forecast to a member of the Royal Family (HRH Queen Mother). Now dubbed the “Royal Astrologer” Russell has appeared on numerous television shows, including Strictly Come Dancing.

He divides his time between London and his North Wales home near Portmeirion. www.russellgrant.com

August’s horoscopes brought to you by Russell Grant ARIES (March 21st-April 20th) A Solar Eclipse on the 11th will put you on the path to romance. You’ll feel a love connection with someone who shares your interest in art, hobbies and sports. The Full Moon on the 26th brings the successful conclusion to a bureaucratic situation. After getting a license or official permission, you’ll be able to move forward with a career plan.

LIBRA (September 24th-October 23rd) On the 11th, a Solar Eclipse will be a welcome time to join a club, team or organisation. There is power in numbers. Joining forces with a group that is dedicated to making the world a better place is strongly favoured. The Full Moon on the 26th marks the end of an important job. Once you hand in this assignment, you’ll be free to spend more time at home.

TAURUS (April 21st-May 21st) Making changes to your domestic situation will pay off handsomely on the 11th, thanks to a supportive Solar Eclipse. Selling a property, buying a new place or moving to a more supportive environment are among the possibilities. On the 26th, the Full Moon marks an important turning point in a relationship. You could get engaged, married or divorced.

SCORPIO (October 24th-November 22nd) An exciting job offer will arrive on or around the 11th, courtesy of a favourable Solar Eclipse. Accepting changed responsibilities will cause you to discover some hidden talents. Although you’re private by nature, you have tremendous star power. On the 26th, the Full Moon will inspire you to finish a creative project or formalise a romantic relationship.

GEMINI (May 22nd-June 21st) Launching a blog, podcast or webpage is strongly favoured for the 11th. That’s when a Solar Eclipse will showcase your impressive communication skills. If you’ve always wanted to write a book, this is the time to begin. Words will pour from you like a mighty river. The Full Moon on the 26th shines the spotlight on you. Getting a prize or award for your contributions at work will be gratifying.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23rd-December 21st) On the 11th, you’ll get an opportunity to travel, write or study. Expanding your horizons will make you more optimistic. You’re an adventurous person who feels hemmed in by daily responsibilities. By breaking away from an old routine, you’ll realise you have more options than you thought.

The Full Moon on the 26th will prompt you to relocate or change your home environment.

CANCER (June 22nd-July 23rd) An exciting moneymaking opportunity will arrive on the 11th, when a Solar Eclipse showcases your leadership ability. Don’t be surprised when you are put in charge of a creative division. If you’re not satisfied with the salary that is initially offered, negotiate a better one. The Full Moon on the 26th will find you returning from a trip or finishing a writing project.

CAPRICORN (December 22nd-January 20th) Money from an inheritance, refund or royalty cheque will arrive on or around the 11th. That’s when a Solar Eclipse will bolster your financial prospects.

Use this windfall to take a pleasant holiday. You work hard, but your enthusiasm for work will fade without a reward. On the 26th, the Full Moon will prompt you to turn your attention to creating a sensible daily routine.

LEO (July 24th-August 23rd) The Solar Eclipse on the 11th marks the beginning of an exciting journey for you. You’ll be able to make a name in your desired industry. Word of mouth will quickly spread of your superior talent. Soon, you’ll have more job offers than you can handle. On the 26th, the Full Moon finds you wrapping up a financial deal that affects you and your partner.

AQUARIUS (January 21st-February 19th) A close relationship will burst into flower on the 11th, thanks to a powerful Solar Eclipse. Two heads are definitely better than one during mid-August. If you are having difficulty reaching your professional goals, think about hiring an agent or talent representative. On the 26th, the Full Moon will mark a career milestone. Getting an award or bonus for your performance will be gratifying.

VIRGO (August 24th-September 23rd) Retreating from public view is a good way to observe the Solar Eclipse on the 11th. Recently, you’ve been busy making the round of parties. Now you have an opportunity to rest and recuperate. Take this opportunity to catch up on your reading, update your diary and commune with nature. The Full Moon on the 26th finds you signing a contract, making a pledge or exchanging vows.

Page 130 NWM 2018

PISCES (February 20th-March 20th) An exciting job offer will arrive on the 11th, thanks to an electrifying Solar Eclipse. Getting a regular income will give you an opportunity to indulge in creature comforts. Although you’re not especially materialistic, you do love well-crafted furniture, clothes and jewellery. The Full Moon on the 26th urges you to pamper yourself even further.

Llys Chatsworth

‌...the charm at Chatsworth.

Llys Chatsworth is an exclusive

development giving you luxury living with 2, 3 & 4 bedroom houses and apartments.

These stunning properties are ideally located within easy access of the A55 and in a sought after area of Prestatyn.

Set in a charming, tree lined avenue setting, they provide a unique opportunity for luxury living with far reaching views towards the coast.

Call us for details today on

.....quality in the making! www.pureresidentialandcommercial.co.uk

0845 6036746

or email us on

NWM 2018 Page 131 sales@purecommercial.co.uk

MAGAZINE

WWW. C LO GAU. C O.U K

Our heritage evolved in the hills of Snowdonia when gold was found in the Clogau St. David’s gold mine.

It was the largest and richest of its kind, but after many years of mining the gold veins became too difficult to find.

Welsh gold is undoubtedly one of the rarest and most sought-after golds in the world.

Every piece of Clogau jewellery contains rare Welsh gold, designed to be worn and treasured for a lifetime – the Gold of Royalty for over 100 years.

Page 132 NWM 2018