FEBRUARY 2019
! EE FR
MAGAZINE What’s only? Your monthcal guide to lo events
Town in Focus Discovering
Blaenau Ffestiniog
Burlesque Beauty CECE SINCLAIR – DANCING TO SUCCESS
Wonderful Weddings GETTING MARRIED IN BEAUTIFUL NORTH WALES INSIDE J Homes & interiors J WALKING J Food & drink
MAGAZINE
THE FOOD: Good, quality, fresh food is the reason for the existence of The Kinmel Arms. We live and breathe good food – itʼs about flavour combinations to challenge your taste buds; local produce that starts in our own poly tunnel; a dining experience to excite! THE ROOMS: We like to think we have the balance right here at The Kinmel Arms – relaxed luxury! Itʼs about being yourself, feeling at ease and enjoying the little luxurious extras. Luxury exudes all we do but itʼs not formal and intimidating. THE PANTRY: The Pantry is bursting at the seams with ideas for gifts for family, friends, clients or employees! Hampers, wines, port & cheese boxes, jams, chutneys, fudge, biscuits, pecans and the Kinmel Arms fruit cake. For the person that has everything we always have our Gift Vouchers, also now with the option of a lovely gift box, ribbon and tag.
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UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT
GATHERINGS & CELEBRATIONS: The Kinmel Arms is often described as a ʻhidden gemʼ but once discovered, you canʼt help but want to bring your friends and family. Shhhh! Donʼt tell the world…itʼs perfect place for gatherings and intimate celebrations! Whether you are planning for 80 guests, or a smaller intimate celebration then The Kinmel Arms, St George is the ideal boutique venue. With two rosettes and a whole host of foodie awards, we pride ourselves on only providing the best service and the best menu which always ensures the best atmosphere! So whether you are looking for a boutique and unique wedding venue; a christening or a party; or funeral celebration of a life, youʼll be sure of a tailored service which focuses on thoughtful details. More information on Celebrations at The Kinmel Arms to follow, however please feel free to contact us on 01745 832207 for more information in the meantime.
WWW.THEKINMELARMS.CO.UK THE KINMEL ARMS, THE VILLAGE, ST GEORGE, ABERGELE, CONWY. LL22 9BP
NWM 2019 Page 3
MAGAZINE
LUXURY OUTDOOR LIVING
Our new Olive Tree Coffee Rooms are now open from 9am-5pm Monday to Saturday, 10.00am-4.00pm 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.
Complete your garden with a quality furniture set and/or a Weber Barbecue Our experts are always on hand to find the perfect combination for each individual customer and there is something for everyone. Beat the Spring/Summer crowds and make the most of some fantastic early season deals, ensuring that every precious heatwave is appreciated to the full. Alongside our Weber range, we stock a variety of garden furniture suites from three fantastic companies: 4Seasons, Hartman and Lifestyle Garden.
Page 4 NWM 2019 Snowdonia Nurseries & Garden Centre, Glan Conwy 01492 580703 www.snowdonianurseries.co.uk
MAGAZINE
Dear Reader It’s the season of romance! With St
you want to get your heart rate up. We also
Dwynwen’s Day just behind us and
have some fabulous theatres, markets and
Valentine’s just around the corner, love is
historic sites that are all worth visiting – and
certainly in the air at this time of year.
our food and drink scene is improving by the day!
February is also an important juncture regarding which of your New Year’s
Here at North Wales Magazine HQ our New
resolutions have already been cast aside,
Year’s resolution was to get out and about
and which ones are looking like they will
and to appreciate our region as often as
stand the test of time. I suspect the ones
possible – a far easier commitment than
that are still going will be those that you feel
going to the gym! And we are certainly loving
some love for…
it – for where else in the world can you be in the mountains in the morning and on the
We are extremely lucky here in North
beach in the afternoon?
Wales, in that whatever your passion, you can undertake it in the region. Surfing, golf, paddleboarding, zip lining, horseriding, swimming, hiking, rock climbing and running are all popular local activities if
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 25,000 local readers every month then drop us a line. Prices start from just £70. sales@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk
J
In this issue...
We want to hear from you!
Don’t let rain stop play this February! As they say, there’s no such thing as bad weather – just bad clothing!
Front cover credit: A Portmeirion wedding courtesy of Louise Holgate Photography
NWM 2019 Page 5
MAGAZINE
Contents
Editor Kate Hamilton Publisher Grant Hamilton Sales & Marketing Manager Carly Redgers Art Director Simon Marriott
09 What’s on?
Your guide to the best events happening this February
16 The Big Picture
The early bird catches the (photographic) worm
16 29
19 Town in Focus
Exploring Blaenau Ffestiniog
25 The Ugly House
Don’t judge a house by its name…
Contact Us editorial @northwalesmagazine.co.uk sales @northwalesmagazine.co.uk subscribe@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk
29 Weddings Special Tying the knot in North Wales
47 Dancing Queen
How burlesque inspired Cece Sinclair
whatson @northwalesmagazine.co.uk
51 Food & Drink
The regions wining, dining and culinary scene
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.
67 Homes & Interiors
Get inspired by homes that are on the market
79 Walking
Hiking around Harlech
83 Community news
Contributors Stephen Gregory Alison Hough Tim Watson Cai Ross Julian Hughes Simon Smith Steve Goodier Lowri Llewelyn Sonia Goulding Caroline Roberts Janet Hill
47
A roundup of regional happenings
83 Loving the Hills
Sharing a passion for the countryside
87 In my opinion…
Our expert columnists share their thoughts
98 Horoscopes
Find out what February has in store!
67
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.com
NWM 2019 Page 7
MAGAZINE
‘THE BEST OF TIM RICE AND ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER’S MUSICALS’ THE EVENING NEWS
TUESDAY 26TH – SATURDAY 30TH MARCH BOX OFFICE 01745 33 00 00 BOOK ONLINE WWW.RHYLPAVILION.CO.UK
®
Bill Kenwright’s ‘Amazing’, ’Superb’, ‘Wonderful’ and ‘Brilliant’ production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s sparkling family musical comes to [VENUE]. Retelling the Biblical story of Joseph, his eleven brothers and the coat of many colours, this magical musical is full of unforgettable songs including Go, Go, Go Joseph, Any Dream Will Do, Jacob and Sons, Close Every Door To Me and many more. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat was the first of Lloyd Webber and Rice’s musicals to be performed publicly. Seen by an estimated 26 million people, and counting, Joseph continues to enthral audiences around the world.
Page 8 NWM 2019
BILL KENWRIGHT
BY ARRANGEMENT WITH THE REALLY USEFUL GROUP PRESENTS
Courtesy of the artist and Timothy Taylor, London/New York.
Contemporary Art Exhibit at Mostyn All month Josephine Meckseper melds the aesthetic language of modernism with the formal language of commercial display in this interesting exhibition at Oriel MOSTYN Gallery in Llandudno. Free admission
What’s on this...
February
2nd
Iwan Llewelyn-Jones – Chopin, The Great Romantic Iwan returns to the Ucheldre Centre to perform the second of his 2018-19 series of recitals exploring the captivating piano music of Frédéric Chopin. Specifically, the Nocturnes and Waltzes, timeless masterpieces brimming with beguiling
1st
charm and sparkling with. The show starts at 7:30pm
With such classic hits as, Sweets For My Sweet; Needles
4th
The Searchers Farewell Tour and Pins; Don’t Throw Your Love Away; Sugar and Spice and
The Kaiser Chiefs
When You Walk In The Room, The Searchers have contributed
Fronted by the charismatic Ricky Wilson, the band have had
enormously in establishing the UK as the world’s leading
a string of anthemic hits such as ‘Oh My God’, ‘I Predict A Riot’,
country in the music industry. Music starts at 7.30pm at Rhyl
‘Everyday I Love You Less and Less’, ‘Never Miss A Beat’ and
Pavilion Theatre
‘Hole In My Soul.’ The show starts at 7pm at Venue Cymru
4th
Supper Club at The Fat Boar Chef Jimmy Williams of Signatures will take over the kitchen at The Fat Boar in Mold for one night only to present some of his favourite dishes. Book soon as tickets are limited 1st
Weaving with Trevor Trevor has some very lovely
4th
weaved on looms and made
Sir Ranulph Fiennes: Living Dangerously
from wool. He will be busy
Both light-hearted and strikingly poignant,
working at the Afonwen Centre
Living Dangerously spans Sir Ranulph’s childhood to his goal to
today and is happy to stop and
become the first person in the world to cross both polar ice caps
chat about his wonderful craft
and climb the highest mountain on each of the seven continents.
scarves, which he has hand
Show starts at 7:30pm at Venue Cymru
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MAGAZINE
February
9th
The Opera Boys
As the largest touring tribute to Michael Jackson in
‘Michael’ starring Ben
7th
With beautiful vocal arrangements, spectacular close part
the UK today, this award-winning production features
harmony and a great line in humour, The Opera Boys have
an incredible live band, stunning costumes, iconic
been delighting audiences all over the world with their
dance routines and of course, the inimitable Ben. The
unique show combining beautiful, powerful and emotional
show promises to create the most authentic, lively and
music with funny, engaging and light-hearted entertainment
powerful re-creation of the iconic superstar you will
at the Rhyl Pavilion. Show starts at 7:30pm
ever experience. The production starts at 7:30pm at the Rhyl Pavilion
7th & 8th
Silver Jewellery by Sandra
10th
Sandra returns to the Afonwen Centre with her wonderful
Llandudno 10K
handmade eco silver jewellery, which she cuts, hammers
Now in it’s 27th year, the Nick Beer 10K race attracts over 750
and twists to create her unique pieces
people to Llandudno from all over the UK 11 – 16th
8th
‘Best of Queen’ Tour
Kinky Boots Winner of every major Best Musical award,
The Rhyl Pavilion invite you to join them in an evening
including the 2016 Olivier Award for Best
devoted to the music of the legendary British rock group
New Musical, ‘London’s hottest musical’
Queen. Tickets to the tribute are £18.50
(Smooth Radio) Kinky Boots comes to Venue Cymru! With songs by Grammy and Tony
8th & 9th
Bangor Music Festival
winning pop icon Cyndi Lauper, the musical celebrates a joyous story of Brit grit to high-
Explore the acoustics of
heeled hit, as it takes you from the factory
Pontio, learn more about
floor of Northampton to the glamorous
science in relation to music
catwalks of Milan. Tickets start at £27.50
and experience the latest in contemporary and experimental music during this two-day music event
8 – 9th
Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom From the makers of Peppa Pig comes this BAFTA award-winning television animation live on stage at Venue Cymru. Tickets start at £13.50
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FOOD & D RINK | C ONSES S IONS | EVENTS
LLANDUDNO’S PREMIER ATTRACTION Llandudno Pier is the premier attraction to visit whilst on holiday in Llandudno, a fantastic holiday venue in Wales. We are Wales’ longest Pier and offer superb views, concessions, a relaxing stroll and excellent food stalls. Relax, and enjoy the leisurely pace as you explore our friendly shops and stalls. Take a stroll and enjoy the beautiful views of Llandudno and the Irish Sea.
SCHOOLS / GROUPS WELCOME WITH PARKING NEARBY | DISABLED VISITOR ACCESS NORTH WALES NO.1 AMUSEMENT ARCADES | SUPERVISED CHILDRENS PLAY AREA SPECIALIST SHOPS
07768555257 | simonmason@llandudnopier.com Llandudno Pier, North Parade, Llandudno, Conwy LL30 2LP
NWM 2019 Page 11
MAGAZINE
February 13th & 27th
Young Butchers Club
14th
Comedy Club Bring laughter to your Valentine’s Day with a great line-up of comedians Jarred Christmas, Fox Dog Studios & Catherine Bohart at the studio Pontio Bangor. Show starts at 8pm
For ages 8+, learn a variety of skills from expert Butcher Simon at the 14th-23rd
Hawarden Estate. Sessions
Entertaining Angels
run from 4pm - 5pm
The Grove Park Theatre in Wrexham invites you to follow the journey of Grace as she 14th
embarks on a completely different life after
Valentine’s Day at
the death of her husband. Tickets are £8
Sheldon’s wine bar in Colwyn Bay is hosting a romantic evening for all you love birds this Valentine’s Day. Pop down to the “City bar in the Bay” where, for just £25, you
15th
can enjoy a baked brie, a chocolate sharing platter and
Kendal Mountain Festival UK Tour
two glasses of bubbly. There is also a 10% discount for
Celebrating exploration of some of the wildest places in the
any tables that pre book and the best tagged-selfie of the
UK, adventure enthusiasts will enjoy films and inspiring talks
evening will win a bottle of Prosecco!
at Galeri Caernarfon. Show starts at 7:30pm
Call 01492 339821 to book 16th
64th Cambrian Rally
14th
The Legends of American Country
Hosted by BTRDA Rally, enjoy the
This Valentine’s Day, enjoy a Country Music Extravaganza at
first round of the 2019 JORDAN
the Rhyl Pavilion, featuring four fantastic singers: Joe Moore,
Road Surfacing BTRDA Rally Series
James Mc Garrity, Rod and Tracey Mc Auley who perform
in Llandudno, one of the oldest and
the hit songs of icons like Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Kenny
most established rallies in the UK
Rogers, Patsy Cline, Tammy Wynette and Don Williams to name a few, which will take you to Nashville and back in one night! Toe tapping starts at 7:30pm
16th
Anglesey Sea Zoo Re-opens With over 40 tanks displaying the best of British marine wildlife, find fascinating creatures from around the coasts of the UK, such as octopus, lobsters, seahorses, cuttlefish and catsharks. Learn about British marine habitats and the research and conservation work which is helping to save them 16th
Valentine’s Pullman Afternoon Tea Special Join Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway on a romantic journey by steam train, through award-winning scenery to Beddgelert. Greeted with a glass of Bucks Fizz, nibble on elegantly cut sandwiches, cakes & scones during your return trip through the stunning Aberglaslyn Pass
Page 12 NWM 2019
19th
Writing Animals An Evening with Susanna Forrest Join Susanna Forrest, author of The Age of the Horse, as
23rd
she explores the challenges of doing animals justice in
Stand-up at the Seaside
contemporary non-fiction. Tickets are £15 or £25.95 with
The best in live comedy featuring Steve Shanyaski, Pete
dinner (a copy of her book included) at Gladstone’s Library
Phillipson plus Support and MC Dave Rothnie at the Station
in Hawarden
Pub in Colwyn Bay. Tickets cost just £12.50, show starts 8pm. To book email dcrothnie@gmail.com
19-20th
Sherlock Holmes: The Sign of Four Crammed full of adventure, romance, comedy and of course one or two rather brilliant deductions, The Sign of Four is Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s epic second Sherlock Holmes tale, a breath-taking yarn brought to life in this spectacular new stage adaptation at Venue Cymru
22nd
U20’s Six Nations Championships – Wales v England Some of the best rugby talent in the northern hemisphere will be on display at Stadiwm Zip World, Parc Eirias, Colwyn Bay with kick off at 7:05pm. Tickets can be bought from Venue Cymru 22nd
Sun Records Concert The label that brought you Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, Carl Perkins, Rufus 19th-22nd
Anweledig The Welsh-language production
Thomas and scores more rockin’ pioneers, comes to life live on stage at Venue Cymru. Show starts at 7:30pm
by Aled Jones Williams follows Glenda and her journey through depression. Times vary, tickets are £15 at Pontio Bangor
23rd
Rhyl 10 Mile This flat, fast course is sure to be a hit
19th-23rd
Between Noughts and Crosses
with runners chasing their 10-mile PB. Must be 17+ to participate. Cost is
This griping Romeo and Juliet story is a captivating drama
£24-26. A Fun Run is also available
of love, revolution and what it means to grow up in a divided
for families and costs £3 per person
world. Tickets start at £10 at Theatr Clwyd
NWM 2019 Page 13
MAGAZINE
February
The traditional pantomime returns to William Aston Hall as
Pen-blwydd Poenus Pete
25th
24th – 2nd March
Cinderella
it celebrates its 60th year performing. All profits go to local charities. Tickets are £9 for adults and £7 for children
23rd
winning playwright Gary Owen about a family and their
Live Superstars of Welsh Wrestling
mischievous cat Cadi. Tickets are £6-22 at Pontio Bangor
Experience the excitement
A sparkling and biting comedy for the whole family by award-
at the Rhyl Pavilion as big names in British wrestling battle it out in an evening of high impact wrestling action, suitable for all the family. Event starts at 7pm
25th- 2nd March
Rain Man
Based on the Oscar winning film which famously starred Tom Cruise and Dustin Hoffman. Starring Paul Nicholls (EastEnders; Bridget Jones: 23rd & 24th
The Edge of Reason) and Chris
Encaustic Art with Linda Morris
Fountain (Hollyoaks, Coronation Street, Dancing On Ice), see
Linda uses hot wax, alongside special paper, to create her
the show at Theatr Clwyd
fantasy pictures, bookmarks and more at the Afonwen Centre. All proceeds to Brain Tumour Trust and Walton Neurological Hospital
28th
The Fureys Legends of Irish music & song, The Fureys, renowned for
24th
Ruthin 5K & 10K Challenge yourself on a superb running course along
their hit songs I will Love You, When You Were Sweet 16 and The Green fields of France, return to the Rhyl Pavilion Theatre for one night only. Tickets are £21.50
the historic town of Ruthin. 5K runners must be 11+. Run starts at 9:30am
28th
St. David’s Day at The Fat Boar To celebrate the feast day of Saint David, The Fat Boar in Mold
24th
Musical Afternoon Teas at Bodnant Gardens
is putting together a delectable 5-course menu. Each course comes with a Welsh drink. £25 per person
Treat yourself to a musical Sunday afternoon at the Pavilion Tearoom from 2-4pm. Enjoy Bodnant’s special Gardener’s Ploughman Afternoon Tea while listening to Welsh harpist Dylan Cernyw perform. Cost is £14.94 per person
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Entries open for the stunning Jones Crisps Anglesey Half Marathon & 10km on the 3rd of March - THE most beautiful half marathon in the UK! Sign up today: www.alwaysaimhighevents.com
NWM 2019 Page 15
MAGAZINE
This photo was taken en route from Ffestiniog to Llyn Ogwen by Jack Woodhams. Both Jack and his Dad are avid hobbyist photographers, and they visit North Wales multiple times per year in order to photograph it. “Not only is North Wales fairly local to us, but each time we come we are absolutely amazed by the sheer beauty and wonder of the landscape,” explained Jack. “We took a little diversion to visit some lakes we passed the day before. We arrived at Llyn Dinas at around 9:30am and just 15 minutes before we arrived the mist in the area was clouding our entire view, so we were worried that we wouldn’t be able to get a good shot – we were thrilled when the whole area cleared up a few minutes later. The lake was completely still, which created the mirror like image, and the sun was rising to our left which helped to bring out the warm colours. Overall I’m really happy with this shot and hope that people enjoy it.” www.jackwoodhams.com @jackwoodhams
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MAGAZINE
HP Bod EIrwn house advert FINAL.pdf
1
25/01/2019
17:21
VIEWING BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
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Page 18 NWM 2019
Contact: bod.eirwen@gmail.com info@doorsteps.co.uk 0203 500 2547 to set up a viewing today!
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EXPLORING
blaenau ffestiniog Steve Goodier puts his adventurous cap on and visits Blaenau Ffestiniog…
TOWN IN FOCUS There is a hole in the centre of the designated area of Snowdonia National Park and in it you will find the once slate mining and quarry town of Blaenau Ffestiniog. It occupies a fairly central area within the National Park and was originally excluded from it allow the dwindling slate mining industry to be replaced by new light industry. But things have been changing fast in the place once known as ‘the town that roofed the world’. Blaenau has a new agenda now, and the steep surrounding hillsides are currently being put to new use as something of an adventure sports
to be included within Snowdonia National Park arguing that
mecca. Mountain bikers and zip line enthusiasts now head
‘Blaenau’s culture and heritage ought to be treasured and
to this elevated town to enjoy the new and impressive leisure
tourists encouraged to visit the town’. And it has a point.
facilities being developed above the old mining and quarrying
The problem is that Blaenau has a reputation for being a bit
areas, while in the caverns themselves the world’s largest
bleak with mist and rain being common – the town is known
subterranean trampoline centre is a big draw.
for having the highest rainfall in Wales – but to be fair, a lot of the Snowdonia National Park could be accused of having the
The Victorian Mine Tour at Llechwedd Slate Caverns has
same conditions!
been a long standing attraction here and I can remember my parents taking me over 40 years ago – but even this has
I have travelled through Blaenau Ffestiniog many times and
recently been revised and enhanced.
more so recently as my wife and I have driven from our current base between Llanrwst and Betws-y-Coed to various
Today Blaenau Ffestiniog is out to attract the tourists, the
mountain ranges to the west and south of Snowdonia National
adventure seekers, the bikers, the walkers and climbers to
Park. It has become a bit of stopping point for us on our return
the area, and exciting times seem to be not too far ahead for
journey as we pick up bits and pieces we need from the Spar
this once forgotten town. Recently a really well laid out caravan
or buy our tea from the nearby chip shop! We’ve also found a
site opened in the shadow of the slate heaps and, although it
café we rather like where we can get a decent bacon butty!
might once have been through strange to tow your caravan up
Before these last couple of summers we only stopped at the
here, the site is getting very popular.
town to climb the mountains around the nearby Crimea Pass (north of the town) which included Allt-Fawr, Moel Druman
For some time now the town council has been campaigning
and Ysgafell Wen. These proved to be quite challenging and
NWM 2019 Page 19
MAGAZINE
What to do
underground. Here, you will traverse, climb, zip and crawl
TRAVEL ON THE FFESTINIOG RAILWAY
legged friend along too, where they will be well looked after
The Ffestiniog Railway Company was established by an
at Pet Stop!
act of Parliament in 1832 and is the oldest independent
www.zipworld.co.uk
your way through a disused mine and rely on your own adventurous spirit to complete the course. Bring your four-
railway company in the world still operating trains. Originally constructed to service the slate mines and
MOUNTAIN BIKE AT ANTUR STINIOG
quarries of Blaenau Ffestiniog it is truly one of Wales’s
Another great attraction based around old slate quarries
great ‘little railways’. Running from a new platform at
and above a disused mine. Antur Stiriog offers seven
Harbour Side Station Porthmadog, the Ffestiniog Railway
different mountain bike courses ranging from Blue Trials
climbs 213 metres over 22km to reach Blaenau Ffestiniog.
to Black Trails. This means that all levels of mountain
www.festrail.co.uk
biking experience are catered for with novices being able to undertake the easier courses and experts making use of the
VISIT LLECHWEDD SLATE CAVERNS
higher grade trails.
A visit to LLechwedd Slate Caverns (just north of Blaenau
www.anturstiniog.com
Ffestiniog) gives the whole family an insight into what it was all about and how it was done. The Slate Mountain
FOLLOW THE POETRY TRAIL
Adventure Tour takes you on a fascinating journey around
Here’s a chance to work your way around the streets of
this 2,000 acre site. You travel in an ex-military truck to
Blaenau Ffestiniog and see what it has to offer in the way
visit many of Llechwedd’s historic sites before heading
of shops and facilities.. A wealth of original quarry terms,
underground on the U.K.’s steepest cable railway.
historical references and quotes from local artists have been
www.llechwedd-slate-caverns.co.uk
put on slate bands which follow a course around Blaenau. Also included are contemporary sayings as well as phrases
GET ADVENTUROUS AT ZIP WORLD SLATE CAVERNS
created in workshops held with pupils from local schools.
Nestled in the heart of this historical slate town is the action
www.blaenauffestiniog.org
adventure hub of Zip World. Zip World ‘Slate Caverns’ is one of three sites, all located in the Snowdonia Mountain range.
VISIT IT’S A SMALL WORLD
This particular site features the famous Bounce Below – the
One of the many hidden gems in Blaenau Ffestiniog is a
UK’s only subterranean bouncy net adventure of its kind.
visitor attraction called It’s a Small World. It offers an array
Enjoy layer upon layer of bouncy nets and lose yourself
of interactive indoor activities including a beautifully-
exploring each twist and turn. This one is a real crowd-
crafted World crazy golf course featuring the Eiffel Tower,
pleaser! High atop of Slate Mountain, you will also find Titan,
Ayres Rock and the customary windmill! Visitors can also
Europe’s largest four person zip wire adventure, where
experience the thrill of a six-lane Scalextric track, zoom
you can zip along at speeds of up to 75mph to stunning
round a Scalextric Rally circuit and even go down under into
views of Blaenau and beyond. Challenge your inner thrill-
a realistic fibreglass ‘pothole’.
seeker on Caverns, an adventure obstacle course set deep
www.itsasmallworld.org.uk
Page 20 NWM 2019
Where to stay
neutral and all energy used comes from renewable sources
GWESTY TY GORSAF HOTEL
www.ecoguesthouse.co.uk
and there are three electric car charging points.
A budget priced hotel located right in the centre of Blaenau Ffestiniog and very handy for all the town has to offer
MINERS COTTAGE
including the shops and pubs. Accommodation is offered on a
Miners Cottage is cosy house sleeping
bed and breakfast basis, so you will have to go out into town
three people in two bedrooms.
for an evening meal, but it does have a small bar and lounge.
Bedrooms are on the first floor with
All rooms have good views of either The Moelwyn Mountain
a living-dining room, kitchen, utility
range or the nearby Ffestiniog Railway.
and bathroom on the ground floor.
01766 238083
The owners are dog lovers (the house accepts 2 dogs) and there’s
CHAPEL HOUSE
private parking at the rear of the house. The perfect base for
If you are after self-catering
exploring Blaenau Ffestiniog and the surrounding area.
accommodation then Chapel House
www.northwalesholidaycottages.co.uk
could be the answer. This spacious Victorian House adjoins a former
QUARRY VIEW CARAVAN PARK
chapel, and is family and group
Quarry View Caravan Park is a fairly new caravan site located
friendly. Many original features
a short ten minute walk from Blaenau Ffestiniog town centre
remain such as slate floors, pretty fireplaces, and original pew
and is ideal for bringing a caravan, campervan or tent to and
seating for the dining table.
catering for yourself. The site is well landscaped and set
www.walescottageholidays.co.uk
below slate spoil heaps and is quite well sheltered. There are 15 pitches with the hard standing caravan and campervan
BRYN ELLTYD GUEST HOUSE
pitches being spacious with electric hook-ups. The site offers
Well located for exploring Blaenau Ffestiniog from, Bryn Elltyd
seven larger pitches for bigger units. There is a clean and tidy
Guest House offers bed and breakfast accommodation but can
toilet and shower block.
supply evening meals by arrangement. Bryn Elltyd is carbon
01766 830161
in reality, be climbed from the town too. These mountains, along with the recent tourist developments, are what the town is hoping will build up the visitor numbers they hope to capitalise on. The Chamber of Tourism and Commerce aims to keep pushing Blaenau Ffestiniog forward as a ‘premier outdoor centre’ for Wales and beyond. Geographically the town is well serviced by The A470 which runs north to Llandudno and south to Dolgellau, as well as connecting to the A487 giving a link to Porthmadog and beyond. The town has a railway station which is on the site of the former Great Western Railway Station and this is used by the wonderful narrow gauge Ffestiniog Railway which you can ride up here all the way from Porthmadog far below. The station is also used by The Conwy Valley Line which runs to the North a test of navigation skills – especially if the mist rolled in.
Wales Coast at Llandudno Junction where you can link with
And from the actual environs of the town itself we ascended
trains to Chester, Manchester and Holyhead.
Moel Penamen and the two tops of Manod Mawr. The mighty Moelwyn mountain range also rises west of the town
There are several reservoirs dotted around Blaenau with one
but is usually attempted from the village of Croesor but can,
of these supplying The Ffestiniog Hydro Power Station with
NWM 2019 Page 21
MAGAZINE
water. From the town you can see the Stwlan Dam in between
Ffestiniog Parish itself is older and goes back several
Moelwyn Bach and Moelwyn Mawr, two of the most famous
centuries. Before slate was discovered farming was the
peaks of the Moelwyn Range.
mainstay of the local economy. There is evidence that man has long occupied the area with many ancient Bronze Age and
And for waterfall lovers the nearby Ceunant Cynfal Gorge near
Iron Age remains dotted around. It is also probable that The
neighbouring Ffestiniog (often mistakenly thought to be the
Romans came here too.
same as Blaenau Ffestiniog) is very impressive and worth time seeking out and there are some superb falls contained within it.
But Blaenau Ffestiniog and slate workings and inseparable. The current population is somewhere around 5,000 but at the
Blaenau’s long main street has a good mix of shops, cafés and
peak of the slate industry it rose to nearer 12,000. As well as
traditional pubs as well as an arts centre and the town even
the mines the first quarry opened at Ceunant y Diphwys which
offers poetry walks.
was to the north east of the present town. The quarries really got going in the first half of the 19th Century with work force
Despite the fact that Blaenau Ffestiniog looks like an old Welsh
being imported from nearby surrounding areas.
location, it is a relatively new town that grew up around a valuable slate vein discovered in the area in the 18th Century
The slate industry really boomed between the 1860’s and the
(the town was actually created to support workers and their
1870’s and the town expanded rapidly so much so that it hosed
families from the local slate mines and quarries), however
the National Eisteddfod in 1898. Slate was literally in such demand that Blaenau struggled to keep up with the orders and huge amounts were sent around Wales and also to the coast (to
Eating and drinking
the likes of Porthmadog) where it was onward shipped all over
THE PENGWERN ARMS
However the industry went into decline during the recession
The Pengwern Arms was an old drovers Inn and is
of the 1890’s and never really recovered as new easily
located at LLan Ffestiniog. A friendly and welcoming inn
manufactured materials where discovered for making roof
that offers a good selection of traditional pub food and
tiles. During the First World War many of the miners and
plenty of choice in beers.
quarrymen join the armed forces and production fell further.
www.ypengwern.co.uk
The slate industry declined even more during the Second
the world.
World War and from 1950 onwards the industry more or less THE BRIDGE CAFÉ
died completely out.
Located near the train station on the main street in Blaenau Ffestiniog, The Bridge Café offers traditional
Today the biggest source of employment in the town is
café food and more substantial meals. It does nice
tourism, and it is great to see the push being made to make
breakfasts and is popular with bikers.
more of this and exploit the resources in the surrounding
01766 830083
areas. Hopefully for Blaenau Ffestiniog this will bring in more and more people to see what is now happening at what was
THE LAKESIDE CAFÉ
once an overlooked location. n
In a lakeside setting and close to a waterfall, The Lakeside Café is just off the A496 near to Blaenau Ffestiniog. Offers café fare and more substantial meals and is famous for its all day breakfasts. www.lakesidecafetanygrisiau.com CELLB CAFFI BAR An atmospheric café/restaurant that serves evening meals between 6 and 9pm on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday and offers daytime food most days. A good menu offering interesting food in comfortable surroundings. www.cellb.org
Page 22 NWM 2019
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 2019 Page 23
What’s in a name? Stephen Gregory visits The Ugly House in Betws-y-Coed, and questions the name of this historic landmark.
It goes without saying (but I’m going to say it anyway) that it’s perfectly fine and acceptable and even charming to compliment someone who is unusually handsome or beautiful, by actually naming them as such. What about Beau Brummel? Beau Geste? The actor Beau Bridges? And we know lots of ladies who have grown up with the name Belle or Bella or Isabelle or Isabella. What about naming someone for his or her ugliness? Well, you wouldn’t, would you? But if you’re driving one day along the enjoyably winding A5, between Betws-y-Coed and Capel Curig, you’ll pass an extraordinary house in the woodland which has been called the Ugly House for as long as anyone can remember. front of a blazing fire, on those precious weekend afternoons The Ugly House… slow down and take a look, or pull in and
when I was taken out of boarding-school for a few hours.
stop. And you’re bound to say, even if you’re the sweetest and kindest and most diplomatic person in world that, yes, it is
I remember marvelling at the house, the first time we went
pretty ugly.
there. For me, it was a perfect example of the kind of weird and slightly scary woodland cottage I already dreamed of
It’s a chaotic jumble of rocks. The rocks are all different
living in – odd and gnarled and eccentric, a fairy tale cottage
shapes and sizes and jammed together as though some
that might have belonged in the story of Red Riding Hood
ancient god of earthquakes and avalanches has made it. It’s
or Hansel & Gretel or Snow White… where a magician or a
a tremendous heap of rock, with a door and windows and a
sorcerer or even an ogre might have lived.
chimney… so yes, it’s a house. Was it built in the 15th Century, by robbers and highwaymen, I love it. And so do tens of thousands of people who’ve visited
‘ugly people’, as a den deep in the forest so they could lurk
the Ugly House over the last half a century. As for its history,
inside and then pounce on passers-by? Maybe.
well, it’s easy to be lazy and Google it, but quite hard to nail
Was it built as a ‘tŷ unnos’ – a house built extraordinarily
the facts. I used to go there with my Mum and Dad when I
quickly, and so accounting for its rudely irregular
was a little boy in the 1960s. It was already opened up as a
construction? Maybe. In olden times, there was a law which
tea-shop, and we would stop in for sandwiches and cakes in
said that, if you could build a house in one night – un nos – on
NWM 2019 Page 25
MAGAZINE
Ty Llugwy … the Ugly House … I learned by my own experience that you’ve got to be a bit careful with names. Many years ago, when I got out of teaching and went feral in Snowdonia, I rented an ugly cottage in the woods. Yes, as I said before, it was the weird and slightly scary cottage I’d always dreamed of living in. It was called Clogwyn Cellog, a reference to the caves in the hillside nearby. I was new in the valley and must’ve sounded very green and English in the village pub one autumn night, when I was telling a a piece of common land, and have it so completed that there
few of the local lads that I’d sometimes heard the cottage
would be smoke coming out of its chimney by dawn the next
referred to as Clogwyn Ceiliog… something about a cockerel,
morning, you were entitled to its ownership. I can only say
or cockerels?
that, if our Ugly House was built in one night, there must have been a team of the mightiest labourers imaginable, a team of
They humoured me by smiling and buying me another pint,
superheroes, who shifted and lifted tons of boulders in a few
and said they’d never heard anyone call it that before. A few
hours of moonlit darkness.
nights later, on Halloween, I was in my woodland hideaway and heard the scrabble of footsteps on the roof… and before I
In actual fact, there’s no real historic reference to the house
could jump up and hurry outside to see what was going on, a
until the late 1800s. So it’s possible – slightly disappointingly
black and manic creature fell screeching out of my chimney
possible – that it’s a relatively recent Victorian folly, built at
and into the fire, in a cloud of filthy billowing soot.
a time when the first tourists were visiting the picturesque mountains and valleys of Snowdonia. We know the name of
It was a cockerel. I pulled it out of the fire and threw it
its first permanent resident, a shepherd called John Roberts,
outside… where a group of lads were running away into the
who must have lived a simple life there, in its one room with
darkness, hooting with Halloween laughter and crowing like
an open fire, and probably a sleeping-loft in the timbers of
cockerels.
the roof. From 1928 to 1961, the Ugly House was home to Edward and Lillian Riley, who made a lot of improvements
So I’ve had my own experience of a misnamed Welsh cottage.
over the decades so that they were comfortably equipped
But mine was nothing like as endearing as our Ugly House,
with a bathroom and a kitchen as well. Indeed the Rileys can
along the A5 near Betws-y-Coed. Ty Llugwy would have
be credited with establishing the house as a truly unique
been a perfectly good and appropriate name for it, but for
home, and a place for people to visit – home also to their pet
a long time it’s been known as Tŷ Hyll… and so the English
cockatoo, which would greet people with a wide vocabulary
misnomer has well and truly stuck and even been validated
of oaths and insults. More importantly, the Rileys managed the
in Welsh.
woodland around their house, so that today it can be enjoyed by hundreds or maybe thousands of visitors as a priceless
Make sure you go there, and pause for a few moments
resource… alive with bees and birds and all kinds of wildlife, a
to decide if the house is ugly or not – but much more
natural reserve of myriad plants and flowers.
importantly, enjoy its unique beauty and the warmth of its welcome, and the loveliness and life of the woodland
So, back to that inescapably appropriate but unfortunate
around it.
n
name. Ugly? Well, yes, kind of, but appealing. But here’s the real explanation. More likely than just a blunt reference to its appearance, the house was probably first known as Ty Llugwy, because of its proximity to the river Llugwy gurgling and burbling nearby. And it was thereafter misnamed by the English tourists who came across it.
Page 26 NWM 2019
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 2019 2017 Page 27
MAGAZINE
TALHENBONT HALL - EXCLUSIVE DESTINATION WEDDING VENUE SET IN BEAUTIFUL NORTH WALES Talhenbont Hall Estate is a family run business nestled in the North Wales countryside on the Llyn Peninsula, just 2 miles from the sea set in an area of outstanding local beauty. Situated in 100 acres of private ancient woodland and gardens Talhenbont really is a stunning location for your exclusive wedding venue. From the moment you come through the wrought iron gates and drive down the mile driveway you will know you have arrived at a simply stunning location. Completely private, exclusive and a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, you and your guests will be totally relaxed at our beautiful country estate. We offer exclusivity for your wedding for the whole weekend, or longer if you wish! We have capacity for 150 day guests and 170 evening guests. For larger weddings a marquee can be placed in our grounds. Accommodation can be provided for 40 people onsite in the Main Hall and 5 charming cottages on the Estate (there is lots of other accommodation in the local area for other guests which we can recommend). Come and see for yourself at our next Wedding Open Day Sunday 24th February 2019 – from 12pm – 3pm Join us for a glass of bubbles, meet our team and fabulous suppliers to see what we can offer you for your wedding celebrations Attendance is FREE. Please register at our website.
Talhenbont Hall, Chwilog, Pwllheli, Gwynedd, LL53 6SZ. Tel 01766 810247, enquiries@talhenbonthall.co.uk Page 28 NWM 2019 www.talhenbonthall.co.uk
Wedding bells Whether you live in North Wales, or are coming to the region especially to tie the knot, you can rest assured that there are some stunning venues to choose from – and some fantastic suppliers to help your special day go off without a hitch...
NWM 2019 Page 29
MAGAZINE
Planning a wedding is no mean feat! The
people do you need the venue to hold?
dress, the hair, the rings, the speeches,
Do you want everybody to be able to
the gifts, the photographer, the cake – the
sleep under the same roof? Is there a wet
list goes on and on. But there is one thing
weather plan? (This is North Wales after
that all brides and grooms agree on –
all!) But perhaps the biggest consideration
choosing the right venue is the biggest
is that of location…
decision of them all. And so, it is with location in mind that The venue will set the backdrop of your
we bring you the below ten fabulous
day. It will appear in all of the photos,
venues. Whether you are looking near the
and will help create happy memories
border in North East Wales or down on
forever more. However, there are many
the Llŷn Peninsula there is a venue to suit
practicalities to consider too. How many
everybody.
The
Wedding fayre
Bouquet & Bells organises award-winning Wedding Fayres across Cheshire, Shropshire and North Wales. It works closely with a huge variety of fantastic venues to host incredible wedding shows. Bouquet & Bells Wedding Fayres are very unique, with a wide selection of quality exhibitors. The shows are a fun-filled day with lashings of inspiration for all brides, loved by both our visitors and wedding specialists. Bouquet & Bells is proud to be different to other wedding shows, by thinking outside of the box and creating fresh ideas. The company feels that the best way to start planning your wedding is to visit a selection of local fayres. You’ll be able to meet and chat to a whole range of suppliers, from photographers to magicians, cake makers to DJs. Plus they’re a great day out – and you may even grab a bargain! www.bouquetandbells.com
Page 30 NWM 2019
The
The hen & stag do’s
Highfield Hall
Highfield Hall is a family owned country house hotel in
If you’re looking for the ultimate Stag and
Northop that specialises in weddings.
Hen Party activity, look no further than GYG Karting in the heart of Snowdonia. Not only
It provides totally exclusive use for every wedding with
are they the largest outdoor Karting Circuit in
no other guests at the bar, restaurants, gardens or in any
the UK with the fastest corporate fleet in the
bedrooms.
country – they also offer hiking and eBiking adventures! The site has a café, Camping
As Highfield Hall concentrates on weddings, it has built up
Greenery, and is a perfect basecamp for all
a large range of wedding related items which are included
your epic adventures. If you’re looking for any
in all of its wedding packages such as chair sashes, table
type of outdoor activity the #teamgyg will find
centerpieces and twinkly curtains. A traditional wedding at
it for you.
Highfield Hall for 50 day and 100 evening guests typically
www.gygkarting.com
costs between £3,000 and £6,000 – depending on the time of year, day of the week and choice of food and drink package. The Hall offers many different styles of wedding such as
Highfield Hall has been owned and run by husband and wife
afternoon tea, pie & mash and BBQ – meaning that each
team Richard and Lorraine since 2012, and they are more than
wedding held there is as individual as the couple in question.
happy to show prospective couples what their fabulous venue
Highfield is licensed for a civil ceremony in the gardens as
has to offer…
well as in four inside rooms, each with a different style and character allowing couples to choose to have weddings inside,
Meanwhile, located a little bit deeper into North Wales, in Mold
or even to plan for outside and have a wonderful back-up
in fact, lies a wedding venue that The Guardian has called
room just in case the weather is not ideal.
“One of the hidden treasures of North Wales.”
NWM 2019 Page 31
MAGAZINE
Wedding Open Day on Saturday 23rd February, 12-4pm
Bron Eifion Hotel is located just outside Criccieth, on the Llyn Peninsula. It is one of the most stunning venues in North Wales with breath taking views of the sea from 5 acres of beautiful gardens and is only a 5-minute drive from the beach and Criccieth Castle. A wedding at Bron Eifion means that the entire hotel and grounds are only available on the day for the wedding guests, offering personal and exclusive service. All the food is created in-house using only the best local ingredients and menu choices are designed for the wedding couple to create their own menu. There are a host of options available, whether a bespoke wedding, offering flexibility, or a range of inclusive packages with additional extras to suit all budgets.
Page 32 NWM 2019
To find out more or request a brochure please contact: Mary Heenan at perfectday@broneifion.co.uk, 01766 522385
www.broneifion.co.uk
The
Photographer
Theatr Clwyd
Are you looking for a professional and talented photographer to capture your special day? Then meet Nathan Roberts of NR Imagery. Based in the North Wales & Cheshire area, Nathan offers a creative, modern, fun and relaxed experience at competitive rates to suit your budget. With a passion for Wedding Photography, Nathan’s style and approach is to capture the day as a visual journal, by photographing spontaneous moments of love and happiness within your beautiful surroundings. His rates are competitive and work is top notch. All fully edited images will be presented to you on a custom made USB pen, presented in a gift
Theatr Clwyd is one of the foremost producing theatres in Wales
box giving you the availability to print and
- a multi-award winning, beacon of excellence looking across the
share as many images with your family
unrivalled views of the Clwydian Hills. But it’s not just plays that are
and friends as you wish.
performed there…
www.nrimagery.com In 2015, Theatr Clwyd was voted the ‘Most Welcoming Theatre in Wales’ and has been shortlisted for The Stage’s ‘Regional Theatre of the Year Award’ for 2019. Theatr Clwyd is renowned for its world-class theatre, and now you can ‘tie the knot’ on the same stage that Sir Ian McKellen (among others) has tread. The event team at Theatr Clwyd can make your event personal to you, with your own creative flare. You can choose to get married on the main stage and have lights and props, or have an intimate ceremony in the studio space with your friends and family. Theatr Clwyd benefits from panoramic views of the Clwydian Hills, which provide a stunning backdrop to your perfect wedding. Its on-site caterers specialise in custom menus to suit your needs, and its worldclass theatre technicians will be on hand to provide you with all the technical resources you will need. You will be in comfort knowing that behind the scenes (get it?!) you’re being looked after by the best.
NWM 2019 Page 33
MAGAZINE
The
Marquee
Considering hosting your wedding in the beautiful landscapes of wonderful Wales? The Canvas Tent Co. offer exclusive marquee hire and open-air celebration solutions across North Wales and beyond. Expertly handcrafted, these original sailcloth tents stand to impress. With awe inspiring backdrops, the high reaching timber structures give way to grand interiors with limitless possibilities. With extensive experience in events, venue management, creative styling and a passion for providing unique events, The Canvas Tent Company will provide the perfect set up for your outdoor wedding. www.thecanvastentcompany.com
The
Caterer Whether you’re planning a laid-back barbecue in the garden, or a multicourse gourmet experience to really wow
St Georges Hotel
your guests, Outside’s wedding food is designed to perfectly complement the theme, atmosphere and budget of your
If it is a coastal wedding that you are dreaming of however,
big day. Established in 2003 and covering
then perhaps St Georges Hotel in Llandudno would suit your
North Wales, the North West, Cheshire and
needs. From the moment you arrive at St Georges, you will
Shropshire, this family-run catering company
recognise that this is indeed a very special wedding venue
is a partnership between Joanna Griffin,
with an individual style and character of its very own.
who oversees every stage, from tastings and planning to the big day itself; and executive
Whether it is a reception, wedding breakfast or
chef Toby Watson, who creates bespoke
spectacular civil ceremony that you are after, St Georges
menus using the finest ingredients. Choices
can accommodate up to 250 guests in its Grade II listed
range from delectable little canapés that
Wedgwood Suite. Or, for something smaller, the Terrace
make a big first impression, to exciting
Restaurant or one of the smaller function rooms provides an
late-night street-food including pizzas, tacos
intimate surrounding for family and close friends.
and noodle boxes. Whatever the vibe of your wedding, each gorgeous dish is made on-
You can also be assured, whatever your requirements, that
site by a professional chef and delivered by
the team at St Georges Hotel care as much as you do that
Outside’s friendly and experienced front-of-
your day runs smoothly and according to plan.
house team. www.outsidefood.co.uk
Page 34 NWM 2019
A Clogau wedding ring represents your eternal love and lifelong commitment to one another. Since 1923 the British Royal Family have been wearing wedding rings crafted from a single nugget of Clogau gold extracted from the Clogau St. David’s gold mine. This wonderful tradition was founded by The Queen Mother upon her marriage to King George VI. The tradition of Welsh gold wedding rings continues to this day with the recent wedding of Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex and Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex. Some of Clogau’s wedding rings can be engraved with your initials or wedding date for a lasting and personal The Quay Hotel
reminder of your special day. To discover your perfect Welsh gold wedding ring, visit their website or pop into a Clogau boutique
A short drive down the road and the Quay Hotel and Spa in Deganwy is another coastal venue that specialises in weddings.
in Bangor, Broughton or Llandudno. www.clogau.co.uk
The Quay is one of North Wales’ newer hotels, meaning that it offers a more contemporary feel compared to many other venues in the region. Despite being a large hotel, the Quay Hotel and Spa only provides one wedding service at a time – meaning that your wedding party is certain to feel special. Civil ceremonies can also be arranged, while wedding breakfasts and evening receptions are all provided by a passionate team of chefs that will ensure it is a
The
Ring
meal to delight you and your guests. This hotel offers great views of Conwy Castle and a fabulous waterside location should you need to stretch your legs during the preparations. It also has its own spa should you wish to treat yourself to a spot of pampering before the ceremony. The Quay also offers the special couple a few special touches that are sure to be appreciated, such as a red carpet arrival with a glass of bubbly and personalised pillow cases for the bride and groom.
NWM 2019 Page 35
Theatr Clwyd
‘One of the hidden treasures of North Wales’ - The Guardian
You can now ‘tie the knot’ on the same stage as the likes of Sir Ian McKellen has tread!
Cewch rŵan briodi ar yr un llwyfan ac mae Sir Ian McKellen a’i debyg wedi troedio arni!
Get married on the main stage with lights and props, or have an intimate ceremony in our studio theatre with your own creative flare
Priodwch ar y prif lwyfan gyda goleuadau a phrops, neu cewch seremoni glôs yn ein theatr stiwdio gyda’ch gwaith creadigol eich hun.
For information contact / am fanylion pellach cysylltwch â:
nathan.stewart@theatrclwyd.com 01352 701554
Caer Rhun Hall
Back inland and you’ll find Caer Rhun Hall nestled in the foothills of the Snowdonia mountains. This stunning venue has just been completely renovated and relaunched to the market as part of the WHISPER
The
Wedding planner
Hotels collection. From small intimate weddings to huge celebrations on the lawn, Caer Rhun Hall offers exclusive use and promises you and your guests a day to remember. With a sweeping driveway, manicured grounds and
It’s the biggest day of your lives and the last
characterful manor house, Caer Rhun Hall is the
thing you want to be doing is running around
perfect backdrop to any Welsh country wedding. The
chasing after suppliers, keeping a track on
oak panelled walls and roaring fires add warmth to
timings throughout the day, answering queries
any winter wedding, while the grounds and rooms full
and ushering guests around your venue… that’s
of natural light create the perfect spot for a summer
where Events by Caroline Louise can help. Hiring
party. The hotels luxury bedrooms and roll top baths
a wedding planner is the perfect addition to your
give couples the most romantic of settings to relax and
wedding day, they’re there to take away all the
reflect after a magical day.
stresses and strains leading up to the big day and on the day itself. Events by Caroline Louise
Caer Rhun Hall’s dedicated wedding team are on hand
takes full responsibility for every detail of your
at every step, from visiting a wedding preview evening
big day, so you can relax knowing all you need
or show around to welcoming you back on your first
to do is focus on enjoying every moment. They
anniversary, not a stone goes unturned in the planning
can help source suppliers and venues or be there
of your special day. The venue is fully licensed for
to run ideas past and provide advice however,
Civil Wedding Ceremonies and for couple looking for
the most popular option is on the day wedding
a traditional religious ceremony, St Mary’s Church is
coordination; you may already have your plans in
within walking distance and is accessible through the
place but let them do the running around for you.
hotels grounds.
www.eventsbycarolinelouise.com
NWM 2019 Page 37
MAGAZINE
Château Rhianfa
The
Masseuse
Are you looking for a professional masseuse to help reduce the stress before the big day? Maria, owner of Sports Massage in Llandudno, specialises in deep pressure, hot stones, reflexology and Indian Head massage to help you and your wedding party ease the tension before (or after!) the celebration. Maria is conveniently located in the heart of Llandudno and offers mobile home or hotel services within a ten-mile radius, making life easier and more relaxing for you during this busy time. 07440 785513
Further west again, overlooking the Menai Strait and Isle of Anglesey, Hugh Owen Hall is nestled between the mountains of Snowdonia and the sea. This historic Grade II listed venue has been sensitively restored offering plenty of character and the perfect venue for your special day.
On the other side of the water on the Isle of Anglesey, Château Rhianfa promises you a fairytale wedding. After all,
The Menai Suite can comfortably seat 100 guests for your Civil
you’re never too old to believe in fairytales – especially on
Ceremony with unrivaled views of the Menai Straits. Enjoy your
your wedding day! Believe in the magic of your childhood
wedding breakfast in Hugh Owen Hall where the high ceilings
dreams and let Château Rhianfa’s dedicated wedding
provide spectacular acoustics, plenty of room for a dance floor
planners turn them into reality. You may not see them
and breakout rooms for a casino, photo booth or a room to keep
waving a wand, but our experienced wedding planners have
the kids entertained! Hugh Owen Hall prides itself on being as
a few tricks of their own, and a little black book of gold dust
flexible as possible – our experienced events team is dedicated
suppliers nestled up their sleeve…
to working with you to create your own bespoke wedding package that is unique to you and your budget. The bridal suite
Romance is at the very heart of the Château Rhianfa story,
is their gift to the bride and groom, and there are another 55 en
and the hotel has earned a reputation as a premier wedding
suite bedrooms available for your guests.
destination with arrange of wedding packages on offer for couples looking to take advantage of the hotel’s fabulous
Hugh Owen Hall
setting on their special day. A wedding isn’t the only way to capture the heart, however – the on-site restaurant Le Dragon Rouge is beloved by foodies for its creative combination of Welsh ingredients, offering gourmet dishes with a hearty Welsh feel. And after the celebrations, a collection of 30 beautifully-designed rooms await you and your guests to enjoy a relaxing night’s sleep following the perfect wedding day at Château Rhianfa.
Page 38 NWM 2019
The
Stylist
Sienna Skye Boutique in Caernarfon is a family run boutique, the one stop shop for all your wedding accessories, beauty and clothing needs. Stylist Amanda, invites you in for a full day of hair, make-up and shopping. The trendy boutique offers unique jewelry, matching clutches and designer purses for bridesmaids as well as stunning diamante sandals that will keep your bridal party looking stylish and comfortable. Mother of the brides will enjoy perusing through gorgeous dresses for the big occasion in sizes 6-24 and with a stunning collection of world fashions they will have you set for all your honeymoon destinations too! www.siennaskyeboutique.com
Back on the mainland
Bron Eifion
Staying on the Llšn Peninsula and another venue that
and Bron Eifion is
is certainly worth checking out is Talhenbont Hall near
undoubtedly one of
Pwllheli. Talhenbont Hall Estate is a family run business
the most stunning
nestled in the North Wales countryside, just two miles from
venues in North Wales.
the sea, set in an area of outstanding local beauty. Situated
Located just a just
in 100 acres of private ancient woodland and gardens,
a five-minute drive
Talhenbont really is a stunning location for your exclusive
from the beach and
wedding venue.
Criccieth Castle, this AA Silver 4 Star Grade
As a family-run business, every care is taken in ensuring
II listed manor house
you have the best possible service and a personal feel to
sits in five acres of
your stay. From the moment you come through the wrought
beautiful gardens that boast breathtaking sea views.
iron gates and drive down the mile driveway you will know you have arrived at a simply stunning location. Completely
With two beautiful suites available for civil ceremonies and
private, exclusive and a million miles away from the hustle
celebrations, together with a license for outdoor ceremonies,
and bustle of daily life, you and your guests will be totally
Bron Eifion provides something for everyone. Whether
relaxed at this beautiful country estate.
a small intimate gathering for up to 24 guests or a large celebration for up to 150 people, the venue provides space,
Talhenbont Hall offers exclusivity for your wedding for the
luxurious surroundings and excellent service.
whole weekend, or longer if you wish! It has capacity for 140 day guests and 170 evening guests and, for larger weddings,
All the food prepared and served for your wedding is
a marquee can be placed in the grounds.
created in house and the head chef and his team create delicious menus using only the best local ingredients with
Accommodation can be provided for 40 people onsite in the
varied and interesting choices for day and evening fayre.
Main Hall and five charming cottages on the Estate, and there is lots of other great accommodation in the local area for other
Your personal wedding coordinator and her experienced
guests. All in all, Talhenbont is a venue not to be missed.
wedding team work closely from the first meeting up to and throughout your wedding day to ensure everything is perfect and the bride and groom can relax and enjoy every moment. If you are looking for a beautiful venue, with stunning views, great food and a friendly yet efficient team working with you every step of the way, then Bron Eifion is definitely worth a visit – you won’t be disappointed!
Talhenbont Hall
NWM 2019 Page 41
MAGAZINE
The
Wow factor
Chilly Cow is proud to have expanded its repertoire into the wedding sector with either our Moo Mobile or Moo Cart offering a personalised service for your big day. Including (but not limited to!) unlimited ice cream for all guests, a choice of at least 15 flavours (Prosecco and Raspberry is a favourite of many couples), personalised colour schemes and always service with a smile. Chilly Cow even has optional extras such as warm home made brownies. Its ice cream is made fresh for each event using the milk from their own brown Swiss cows on the family dairy farm, and it uses the best ingredients that it can – and can even on request develop bespoke flavours! So whatever the size of your event, you can always be sure of a seamless and worry free service from Chilly Cow. www.chillycow.co.uk
Portmeirion Village
Finally, and a bit further south, is the iconic Portmeirion Village. This enchanting Italianate village in the heart of rural Wales, is like no other. Apart from the colourful buildings and iconic architecture, you could spend your special day surrounded by acres of gardens and miles of sandy beaches. In fact, Portmeirion is the perfect backdrop for romance. It offers a variety of wedding packages to suit your individual requirements. From large celebrations to small ceremonies, to completely bespoke weddings, Portmeirion covers it all. Couples have the choice of exclusive use of Deudraeth Castle or celebrate in the Hotel Portmeirion with art deco elegance, estuary views and sumptuous dishes. Meanwhile, Portmeirion’s dedicated team of wedding planners offer a complimentary wedding planning service to help you create the
Dates for your diary
perfect day, ensuring that every element comes together with style
Macdonald Portal Hotel Wedding Fayre, Tarporley Sunday 17th February / 12pm - 4pm
So there you have it – a geographical tour of all of the best wedding
and efficiency.
venues in North Wales. The question is, in which one do you want to spend your first day as husband and wife? n
The Kinmel Open Evening, Abergele Thursday 7th March / 5.30pm – 8pm Pentrehobyn Estate Wedding Fayre, Mold Sun 17th March / 11am - 3pm Holt Lodge Wedding Fayre, Wrexham Sunday 24th March / 11am - 3pm
Venues Bron Eifion: www.broneifion.co.uk Caer Rhun Hall: www.whisperhotelscollection.com Château Rhianfa: chateaurhianfa.com Highfield Hall: www.highfieldhallhotel.co.uk Hugh Owen Hall: www.themanagementcentre.co.uk
The Kinmel Wedding Fayre, Abergele Sunday 24th March / 12pm – 4pm
Portmeirion: portmeirion.wales
Venue Cymru Wedding Fayre, Llandudno Sunday 7th April / 11am – 4pm
Talhenbont Hall: www.talhenbonthall.co.uk
Page 42 NWM 2019
Quay Hotel and Spa: www.quayhotel.co.uk St Georges Hotel: stgeorgeswales.co.uk Theatr Clwyd: www.theatrclwyd.com
NEUADD HANESYDDOL HUGH OWEN
HISTORIC HUGH OWEN HALL
Y N G N G H A L O N E RY R I G O G L E DD C YM RU
H E A RT OF SNOW D ON IA N O R T H WA L E S
LLEOLIAD UNIGRYW AR GYFER EICH SEREMONI A DATHLIAD PRIODAS
A UNIQUE VENUE FOR YOUR WEDDING CEREMONY & CELEBRATION
Neuadd Wledda | Swît Seremoni | 56 Ystafell Wely
Banqueting Hall | Ceremony Suite | 56 Guest
Hyd at 150 o Westeion | Bar Lolfa | Lleoliad ger y Fenai
Bedrooms | Up to 150 Guests | Bar Lounge
Seddi yn yr awyr agored
Waterside Location | Outdoor Seating
Lleolir Neuadd Hugh Owen rhwng mynyddoedd Eryri a’r môr gan edrych dros y Fenai. Mae’r adeilad rhestredig wedi cael ei adnewyddu’n sensitive gan gynnig digon o gymeriad a’r gefnlen berffaith ar gyfer eich diwrnod arbennig.
Overlooking the Menai Strait and Isle of Anglesey, Hugh Owen Hall is nestled between the mountains of Snowdonia and the sea. Our historic Grade II listed venue has been sensitively restored offering plenty of character and the perfect venue for your special day.
I drefnu arddangosiad cysylltwch â/ To book a show around please contact: events@themanagementcentre.co.uk The Management Centre, College Road, Bangor, Gwynedd, LL57 2DG
01248 365 912 www.themanagementcentre.co.uk
THE
MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT
We are ropening on the 5th February with an updated menu and we are now taking bookings for Valentines Day. Book now!
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
153 Mostyn Street Llandudno Gwynedd
All of our food is cooked in house from fresh ingredients and where possible we use local suppliers. Come and join us!
LL30 2PE Tel: 01492 860670 Email: cindy.atay@hotmail.co.uk
www.thenewmediterraneanrestaurant.co.uk
A MAGICAL LOCATION… FOR YOUR DREAM WEDDING EXCLUSIVELY YOURS
Book Chateau Rhianfa hotel for youR Event Celebrations
Corporate Events
Weddings
Leisure
CALL 01248 880 090 FOR MORE INFORMATION www.chateaurhianfa.com
Beaumaris Rd, Menai Bridge, Isle of Anglesey, Wales, LL59 5NS
Wedding Open Days & Evenings THURS 7TH FEB 5.30PM-8PM THURS 21ST FEB 5.30PM-8PM
Contact our Wedding Event Team on: 01492 422 060 or email: infocaerrhun@whisperhotels.uk.com Wedding Advert Landscape Advert.qxp_Layout 1 19/10/2018 14:59 Page 1 www.whisperhotelscollection.com/caerrhunhallweddings K13923 Waterfront press v2.indd 1
TWILIGHT WEDDING
THE TWILIGHT PACKAGE INCLUDES
FROM ONLY £4999 Book before 31st March 2019 to receive complimentary Ceremony Room hire
15/05/2017 11:4
WINTER WINTER TWILIGHT TWILIGHT WEDDING WEDDING PACKAGE
PACKAGE
Arrival drink Sparkling Rosé wine or a bottle of beer Selection of 3 canapés per person 3 Course set meal selected from our Wedding menu Tea & coffee with chocolate mints ½ bottle of house wine per person Sparkling Rosé toast drink for speeches Complimentary overnight stay in a luxury Penthouse Mr & Mrs Spa Day the day after your wedding Hot roast baps for your evening buffet
FROM ONLY £4999
Terms and conditions: Book before 31st March 2019 to receive complimentary Ceremony Room hire
Do you want a truly magical winter
wedding in a beautiful coastal venue with stunning views?
Imagine the sun setting against the breath-taking back drop of the Conwy Castle, the Estuary and the mountains beyond... We at the Quay Hotel and Spa are able to offer all this and more.
PLEASE CONTACT OUR EVENTS TEAM ON 01492 564100 TO BOOK YOUR SHOW ROUND Dates available: January, February, March, October and November 2019 & January, February and March 2020. Package is based on a minimum of 70 guests. Extra guests are charged at £70.00 per person and evening guests charged at £18.50. Please contact our Events team on 01492 564100 to book your show round. Please see our main wedding brochure for ceremony room hire charges. Wedding Tasters are not included in this package
Quay Hotel & Spa | Deganwy Quay | Deganwy | Conwy | LL31 9DJ Call us on 01492 564 100 | Email sales@quayhotel.co.uk | Visit www.quayhotel.co.uk Facebook Quay Hotel & Spa | Twitter @QuayHotelandSpa | Instagram Quay Hotel and Spa
Page 46 NWM 2019
Mark Lycett
THE RISE OF BANGOR’S
Following a dazzling weekend of theatrics at the fifth annual North Wales Burlesque & Cabaret Festival, it’s Lowri Llewelyn’s great pleasure to introduce one of our finest homegrown talents… “It’s like living the best dream ever – like when the Wizard of Oz movie transforms from black and white into colour!” says
Born and raised in Bangor, to watch her perform is truly a captivating experience. But despite projecting a boundless enthusiasm for her body and art, she wasn’t always this
Neil Kendall
Cece Sinclair of her career as a globetrotting showgirl.
self-assured. “My counsellor suggested that learning a skill and achieving something would help my confidence,” she explains. Whilst a performing arts student in Manchester, Cece’s love of the stage had dwindled when crippling depression and anxiety
golden era glamour with classic bump ‘n’ grind.
hit following the death of her father. “I started various classes: burlesque, pole, aerial hoop… but burlesque was the one I
Her perseverance soon paid off as she won award after award,
stuck to! It changed my view of myself – and life.”
alongside being voted one of the country’s top 20 acts by 21st Century Burlesque UK. However, the physical demands of
She cites music videos, musical theatre and dance
performance were taking their toll. “I have Crohn’s disease
sequences from old Hollywood films as influences,
and arthritis. But, I was living my dream, so just tried to get on
culminating in a high energy performance style that fuses
with it,” she says.
NWM 2019 Page 47
Neal Rylatt
Marc Lycett
MAGAZINE
Anyone who’s attended a burlesque show will
pageant from the 1940s or 50s where the
have been struck by the diversity on display.
women had dressed as liqueur bottles. One day,
“You see the world that ultimately we would
while listening to the song Push It by Salt-N-
all love to live in,” Cece says of this inclusive
Pepa, I remembered that photo and thought,
art form, which celebrates the human form
wouldn’t it be funny to dance to this but dressed
in all its glory. Alongside gracing the stage of
as human-sized salt and pepper shakers?
Liverpool’s disability arts festival DaDa Fest,
And then a few months later, there we
she’s appeared at The Cocoa Butter Club,
were...on stage... dressed as salt and pepper
London, which showcases and celebrates
shakers dancing to Push It by Salt-N-Pepa!”
performers of colour. “As long as you’re willing to work hard and make the ‘you’ that
So, what is it about the cabaret lifestyle she
you are presenting something that’s worthy
finds so alluring? “It’s a space for the weirdos,
of a hardworking audience’s money, then
the outcasts and the marginalised, and because
there is no reason you cannot go far.”
of that I feel right at home!’”
On the topic of inspiration, Cece insists:
However, there was a point when the
Page 48 NWM 2019
N
internet a photo of a beauty
ei l
For example, I had seen on the
Ke nd a
will grab anything from anywhere.
ll
“If you are a creative person, your mind
rhinestones and pizzazz were masking doubts. “I had this fear that I would spend my life having fun, then suddenly when I was not as physically capable I’d have no socially
Neil Kendall
For even more of a sneak peek into Cece’s exciting life, be sure to follow her on Instagram @cecesinclair. And, if your appetite for burlesque has been well and truly whet, you can help the scene continue to flourish by signing up to the North Wales Burlesque & Cabaret Festival mailing list for further 2019 events. places high on the list. “I never thought I would be a travelling performer,” she adds. “Germany is always a highlight; both the Berlin Burlesque Festival and Stuttgart Festival had possibly the biggest audiences I’ve performed to. Or maybe Vienna.” But above all, it’s the hard work she’ll look back on with pride. “My proudest moments are the ones I had to work the hardest for; they are the ones that taste extra sweet. Before, I let fear stop me. But the result was I never did anything. acceptable job on my CV,” Cece explains. “Society tells us we
Now I grab every opportunity I can, I push myself wherever
have to live our lives in certain ways to survive, but for some
possible, and it means I’m achieving great things every
people, that life makes them unhappy. Waking up and telling
day.”
jokes, dancing, gender bending or shoving nails up their nose is what will get them through.”
Five years into her career, Cece was voted one of the world’s 100 most influential burlesque performers – and it’s
As a result Cece began to pursue a teaching qualification but,
safe to say she has no regrets about following her dreams.
as the months progressed, so did her reservations. “I wouldn’t sleep the night before class. One day my tutor asked why I
“Hopefully people in North Wales are open to this art form
wanted to be a teacher and I essentially said: ‘So I have a job
and it will continue to grow,” she says of the local cabaret
when I’m old’. It was then that I realised – I don’t want to teach
scene. In fact, North Wales Burlesque & Cabaret Festival
moody hormonal teenagers! I don’t want to work for someone
founder Foxee Stole hosts her very own burlesque fitness
else! So I decided to be a poor but extremely happy stripper.”
class at the Conwy Comrades Club every Wednesdays from 19:30pm, if any aspiring showgirls or showmen fancy
As a performer, you have to constantly be switched on. How
a taster... n
does she push aside day-to-day problems and become Cece? “I AM CECE! She is me. Someone may behave differently in front of their gran to on a night out with friends, or with a lover; Cece is just an aspect of myself rather than a fictional character. Some friends call me Cece, some call me by my birth name. I answer to both because both are me.”
Lowri Llewelyn is a lover of all things wild and wonderful. She loves to write about the driven young people who inspire her.
On the topic of her biggest achievements, seeing the world
NWM 2019 Page 49
EST. 1986
A range of traditional and contemporary fires, fireplaces and stoves, exclusively from Colwyn Fireplace Centre. T: 01492 540033 www.colwynfireplacecentre.com
Page 50 NWM 2019
Colwyn Fireplace Centre Ltd Bron-y-Nant Road, Mochdre, Colwyn Bay, North Wales LL28 4YL
FOOD & DRINK INSIDE Cocktails Recipes Wine
NWM 2019 Page 51
MAGAZINE
The Bridge Inn, Rose Hill Street, Conwy, LL32 8LD 01492 572974
Open 7 days a week
129 Mostyn Street, Llandudno, LL30 2PE 01492 871813
www.jdoughspizzas.co.uk HP Cae Mor Hotel 2019 NEW.pdf
1
25/01/2019
17:18
Spring in Llandudno at Samphire Brasserie & Bar
What a great place to refresh the senses, both visually overlooking the stunning Llandudno Bay and through taste, enjoying the delicious menu that Chef Paul Clifford and his team have created. Join us in February for a Two Course Meal for ÂŁ25.00 or a Three Course Meal ÂŁ30.00 and quote that you saw this advert and receive a free glass of wine each with your meal. Page 52 NWM 2019 Must be booked direct on Tel: 01492 878101 to receive this offer.
We look forward to welcoming you in 2019!
CYMRU - CIDER COUNTRY!
Rosie’s Cider can be found in the rolling countryside of Llandegla
Sonia Goulding goes in search of local cider and discovers that, in North Wales, the apple certainly doesn’t fall far from the tree…
Although cider production might not be the first thing that
enough cider to see him through the year.
springs to mind when you consider what North Wales has to offer, among the soaring mountains, rolling hills and glittering
Unfortunately, the first year of pressing was missed due to
seascapes, that’s exactly what you’ll find – passionate, small-
Richard having an argument with a chisel when making his
scale producers extracting the sweet, golden juice of our
press, resulting in a three-day hospital stay and a prolonged
native fruit to produce their heady blend.
period of being unable to walk!
From ciders made from just one or two apple varieties, to
Things improved the following year though, and a bumper
those which are a blend of many, each one is lovingly crafted
crop resulted in over 350 litres being produced. Inspired by
using methods and techniques and, of course, fruit, peculiar
watching The Apprentice, Scott took some samples of their
to each artisan, ensuring that each one has its own distinct
cider to The Bluebell Inn, Halkyn (a winner of the CAMRA
personality.
Cider Pub of the Year), who agreed to stock them. This gave the pair the confidence to continue,
With all this in mind, I decided to
and they now deliver their cider and
discover a little more out the tradition of
perry (pear cider) to many hostelries
artisan cider producers here in North Wales…
and restaurants across North Wales Dee Ciders delivers to many pubs and restaurants across North Wales
and beyond, as well as to the trade.
Dee Ciders
Richard and Scott’s aim has always
Dee Ciders in Flintshire is run by father
been to produce the highest quality
and son team, Richard and Scott Johnson.
pure juice cider and perry, using fruit
On his retirement back in 2010, Richard
carefully picked and processed by
had a cherished dream of whiling away
hand with no water or concentrates
his quieter years with small-scale cider
added. Several years of hard work in
making, and planted some apple trees,
planting new orchards and bringing
choosing the varieties either by their
old ones to life have literally borne
vintage or the glorious silliness of their
fruit, and the amount of cider being
names – Broxwood Foxwhelp and Brown
produced continues to increase.
Snout, for instance! He planned to make himself a simple basket press and produce
Retirement – what retirement?!
NWM 2019 Page 53
MAGAZINE
Jaspels produces five craft ciders which it sells in their own shop in Amlwch, as well as through stockists across Anglesey and the rest of North Wales.
damson fruit cider and a mulled cider, which they serve at food festivals. The couple are particularly keen to graft from old and interesting Anglesey trees, and to establish many more orchards across the island, firmly believing that Anglesey
JASPELS
has the landscape and climate to become a prime cider
After spending many memorable weekends together on the
producing location. Jaspels produces five craft ciders which
beautiful island of Anglesey, there was only one choice for
it sells in their own shop in Amlwch, as well as through
husband and wife team, Janet and Ade, when they decided
stockists across Anglesey and the rest of North Wales.
to relocate for a change of lifestyle in 2013.
ROSIE’S CIDER However, they soon noticed that the fruit of many apple
Rosie’s Cider can be found in the rolling countryside of
trees on the island was largely going to waste, and having
Llandegla, and was founded 13 years ago by Steve Hughes,
previously produced cider on a small scale as a hobby, the
whose first serious attempt at cider making from his own
couple hit upon the idea of harvesting this fruit to produce a
crab apples blended with other locally sourced apples
commercial Anglesey craft cider.
gleaned a gold medal at his very first show, the CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) Bottled Cider Competition in Reading
They put out an appeal on social media for donations
back in 2006. There are three award-winning ciders in
of unwanted Anglesey apples and pears, and were
the Rosie’s stable: Triple D, Wicked Wasp and Black Bart,
overwhelmed by the response, with offers of fruit coming in
together with a perry cider – however, Steve finds it difficult
from all over the island, from single apple trees to orchards!
to find enough fruit to make much of this, so if you have a
They now have a growing network of ‘apple donors’, who in
productive perry pear tree, please let him know!
return receive samples of cider the following spring. Steve now grows 1,000 apple trees made up of 69 different Jaspels Cider is made
varieties, and all Rosie’s cider is made by pressing fruit with
from the freshly pressed
no concentrate, water or fruit flavours added, to give a 100%
juice of these apples and
full-juice cider, which is ‘super slow fermented’ over the
pears, extracted using a
winter months, and is usually ready by the end of May the
traditional-style hydraulic
following year.
press and allowed to
Page 54 NWM 2019
ferment before being
Rosie’s sell cider from their own farm shop, as well as to
blended to produce ‘a
local hostelries. They also attend local food fairs and country
true taste of the island’,
shows. I took myself off to the Bluebell Inn in Halkyn, which
in the words of Janet and
serves both Dee Ciders and Rosie’s, to conduct a taste test
Ade, who also produce a
and to chat to the friendly landlord, Gary Jones. It was a busy
Cider in Anglesey, who has recently won the Best Sustainable Business award at the Sustainable Academy Awards held in Cardiff. She told me that despite a slow start, when the rains finally came in August there was a surge in growth producing apples with a higher sugar content than in previous years, and although the harvest was three weeks early and the physical size of the fruit was smaller overall, the yield was greater. Jaspels enjoys a steady and plentiful supply of fruit from their donors and the business is continuing to grow, with 100 new donors coming forward in 2018 alone. Janet and Ade are continuing their search to pinpoint suitable sites for orchards across Anglesey, and they have been approached by local farmers, some of whom already donate their fruit, who would like to work with them. Janet was keen to point out that comparing craft cider to commercial cider is like comparing a house wine with a There are three aw ard-winning ciders in the Rosie’s stable: Triple D, Wi cked Wasp and Bla ck Bart
fine vintage, with commercial cider only having to contain 30% pure apple juice (the rest of the flavour coming from apple concentrates and syrups). This is compared to their cider, which is 100% pressure-pressed pure juice, and then fermented, like wine – definitely not brewed!
evening, but I managed a quick word with Gary, who took over the running of the pub 18 months ago and has carried on
Thankfully, with the advent of the slow food movement and
the tradition of selling only ciders from Wales, which, he tells
the public appetite for small batch artisan food and drink,
me, continue to be popular.
awareness of craft ciders is improving, and cider production is actually on the increase in North Wales. n
After perusing the ‘cider blackboard’, I plumped for the Dee Ciders Richard’s Dry. It was a different experience for me, as although I am partial to a cider, I’m used to the widely available carbonated varieties. However, although this cider
This article was first published on The Hills, the
has a more complex taste than I’m used to, I did enjoy it and
website that celebrates rural living
found it dangerously moreish!
www.lovingthehills.com
In the interests of avoiding a hangover I decided not to try any more, but was assured by one of the locals that Rosie’s Wicked Wasp is like ‘drinking nectar’ – in fact, he will only drink it while his wife is with him, as she keeps an eye on his intake! I was keen to find out how the extremely hot summer of
Sonia Goulding lives in rural North Wales with her partner and two dogs. She loves observing and writing about nature and wildlife, and is fascinated by rural crafts.
2018 affected cider fruit crops, and in turn, their business, so I managed an early morning chat with Janet from Jaspels
NWM 2019 Page 55
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MAGAZINE
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OF THE
Month
It’s February and Dry January is officially over! And what better way to celebrate than with a rather sophisticated cocktail? The Espresso Martini exudes elegance, in fact, the story goes that it was first made especially for a model in 1983 who asked barman Dick Bradsell at London’s Soho Brasserie for a drink that was going to “wake her up, and f**k her up”. Of course we don’t endorse drinking cocktails (no matter how tasty) for breakfast – but the Espresso Martini is the perfect accompaniment for those chilly evenings by the fire…
Espresso Martini Equipment - Martini glass, Boston shaker, Hawthorn strainer and sieve Ingredients - 1 shot Kahlua, 1 shot Vanilla Vodka, 2 shots of strong coffee and 2 dashes of Gomme Method - Chill Martini glass, pour ingredients into Boston shaker, add ice and shake well. Empty Martini glass, double strain mixture from Boston shaker into Martini glass and garnish with coffee beans.
IN THE MIX
Of course, if you’d rather sit back and relax while somebody mixed your ideal cocktail for you, then why not visit Sheldon’s in Colwyn Bay? From a Margarita to a Mojito, it has quite the cocktail selection and is quickly becoming the place to go for cocktails in North Wales. 01492 339821 www.sheldonsbar.co.uk
NWM 2019 Page 57
DINE AND STAY WITH US IN NORTH WALES
BOOK DIRECT TO ENSURE OUR VERY BEST RATES
Page 58 NWM 2019
Food
for thought
It’s February, and that can only mean one
of Dry January and the arrival of Valentine’s
thing: Dry January is OVER! How did you do?
Day, that annual festival of chocolate,
Made it all the way through without touching
Champagne, over-priced flowers and cynically
a drop, nary a moment of wavering and
rush-released compilation CDs top-heavy
now you feel superhuman? Or did you find
with Barries (White and Manilow).
yourself weeping and pressed like a child’s suction toy against an off-licence window by
Let’s stick with the chocolate, and bearing
January the 3rd?
in mind you no longer have to put your hand over your wine glass when you go out, why
I managed a heartily creditable two weeks
not throw caution to the wind and indulge in
of temperance, which I think is more than
a delightfully sinful double-whammy with a
sensible. I’ve always shared Dean Martin’s
local provenance?
pity for people that don’t drink, on the basis that when they wake up in the morning
If so, I heartily recommend that you take a trip
that’s as good as they’re going to feel all day.
to Baravelli’s the award-winning chocolatiers
Nonetheless, after a fortnight of denial and
in Conwy, who are now branching out into
a lashing or two of elderflower pressé, I felt
the hugely popular gin industry. They are
myself waking with an undeniable ‘can-do’
even doing special gin-making evenings,
Cai Ross is co-owner and
sensation that was sorely absent over the
where you can create your own bottle of gin,
Maitre d’ of the award-
festive period.
something like their own cocoa gin, perhaps?
winning Paysanne Bistro
The point, I suppose, is not so much to detox
Or if your month off the hooch has left you
been serving French
but to reboot and scale back the excess,
with a more permanent sense of wellness, you
country-style food to the
and then try and maintain a slightly more
can make your own chocolate truffles with
fine people of North Wales
respectable level of hedonism for the year
them instead. Abstinence, after all, has its
since 1988. He also writes
ahead. I have to say, this is getting easier
limits.
for Calibre Magazine, BBC
in Deganwy, which has
every year, now that my idea of ‘having a
Good Food, HeyUGuys.
good time’ largely involves watching reruns of
Anyway, here are a couple of very simple
com and The North Wales
Columbo and getting an early night.
recipes with which you can ease your way
Weekly News
into 2019 without straying too far from the Actually, February means two things: the end
denial-project you signed up to last month.
NWM 2019 Page 59
MAGAZINE
Recipes PRAWN 2019 COCKTAIL Serves 2
s ing prawn d peeled k an redded ed sh y ok el co J 150g ce, very fin u tt le g er l iceb onnaise J Handfu oons of may sp le b ta up o w JT mato ketch poons of to as te o e w T ic ju J mon squirt of le J Healthy co Tabas al!) J Dash of isky (option of malt wh n oo sp ea JT gh bread J Sourdou l oi J Olive o J 1 avocad o there are tw Now then, ns. si il ta k n Coc great Praw rved in se e b to as Firstly, it h .’ How ce ‘cocktail en H . ss la g a der en rr it is to su dispiriting er a d or d an aving to a retro cr e se it tail only to prawn cock ed onto n plate, spoo arrive on a ad. Nil re b -covered some salad take is to e other mis points! Th prawns drown the completely ating is . A light co in the sauce need. all that you gh the sourdou First, carve en fry th , small cubes are bread into ey ix all the th l ti ol. Then m y in oil un co tl to h g w li d lo al em th e and e prawns an wn. Set asid ghly. Add th ou or to th golden bro in er h ocado dients toget ot out the av ix sauce ingre oon and div p d gently m as an te s n a to e k ough crou rd stir. Then ta u so e th ally add the mix. Fin gether. to g the everythin until it fills cy glasses n fa til it n of u r ix ai p e prawn m ttuce into a 83’, 19 spoon in th ll ly Pack the le u p ‘F m o si g ter. Then u want to ar yo u q If . m ly to te bot media ss. Serve im top. fills the gla ka over the ri ap p of h as d a le sprink
OUT INBOW TR A R D E F F STU E NUTS WITH PIN Serves 2 llets ow trout fi J 4 Rainb f ea l of flat-l J Handfu parsley l of mint J Handfu nuts oon of pine J Tablesp of garlic J 2 cloves ttuce le ’s b J Lam o at m to f J Bee pepper d an t al S J J Olive oil a salt J Coarse se ts e trout fille ing sure th ak m of ss le ro gers ac the troub un your fin First, take g bones. R in n monger ai sh m fi re e have no y bones th an t as well ou ll u dp pliers work – in the flesh an ft le d pepper. accidentally with salt an ts might have lle fi e th g! Season as anythin y chop the (FAN). Finel ˚C 0 18 e to e oven rd, chop th Preheat th e same boa th oks on lo g en in th h es, til everyt n u garlic clov ts u n e int and pin parsley, m cut grass. ly h like fres aking ) across a b g (15-20 cm n n. ri ow st d of e s id iece top, skin-s on Lay four p t lle fi e t over th lace a trou ut/herb mix tray and p atter the n sc tie the four lly en fu th re Then ca llet on top, fi d n ts co se the the two fille flesh. Place , securing er ts. h lle et fi g o to g tw rin the other h it pieces of st w t ea lt, then kage. Rep arse sea sa into one pac e oil and co iv ol tes. u h it in w m for 20 Sprinkle uncovered en ov e th bake in sliced lettuce and ssed lamb’s re d y tl h g li Serve with o. beef tomat
Don’t fancy cooking? 01492 582079 @PaysanneDeganwy www.paysannedeganwy.co.uk
Page 60 NWM 2019
Love is in the air at Palé Hall Come at experience the romantic Valentines Week Package at the only five star hotel in North Wales Available Saturday 9th – Saturday 16th February The package includes: Glass of fizz on arrival ~ Plate of homemade chocolates in room on arrival ~ 10-course Valentines tasting menu ~ Luxury overnight accommodation with breakfast Classic room: £395.00 | Turret: £445.00 | Grand: £495.00 | Master: £545.00 | Superior: £595.00 Non-resident 10-course valentines menu £90.00 01678 530285 TRADE ONLY www.palehall.co.uk Page 61 NWM 2018 NWM 2019 Page 61 Trade Only
Page 62 NWM 2019
Raise your glass Welcome to 2019, and a hearty ‘Happy New Year’ from us all at The Grape to Glass Wine Shop. Where did the last year go? So, as an avid reader of North Wales Magazine, you’ll understand that we like to review wines the way most people taste them, with food. For those of us who try to eat seasonally, February seems a bit of a rubbish month – more cabbage soup
16th century. Grown by a large number of small farmers, the
anyone? At least we’ve got wine!
varietal ‘Pais’ has long been forgotten and undervalued. It’s a pale rose colour, with fine and persistent bubbles. Full aromas
Winter casseroles are reducing nicely in the slow cooker, the
of red fruits whilst the palate is fresh, lively. ‘Pais’, I love you!
weather seems endlessly grey and cold, the evenings dark: not suitable for light dishes or salads. We need wines that
A classic pairing to a warming casserole of mussels, tomatoes,
both comfort us like our foods and jazz up the palate.
potatoes and chorizo sausage, is a robust and hearty regional
Here are some highlights for February: a couple of winter
Spanish red such as……
reds, Valentine’s Day bubbles, and two delicious rich white wines to match…
Príncipe de Viana Edición Limitada, Navarra, Spain. This truly is a luxurious red: a wine that has captivated our
Kicking off with 2 delicious new white wines, if you have a
customers and wine critics alike. Made from a selection of the
good fishmonger, it’s a good month for a lot of shellfish, such
finest Merlot (50%), Tempranillo (25%) and Cabernet Sauvignon
as mussels and clams, as well as brown crabs and delicious
(25%) grapes. Say no more!
red mullet. And finally, get ready to be warmed up with one of our most Antonutti ‘Ribolla Gialla’ – a zesty and aromatic white wine
popular reds by a long mile… the amazing….
from Friuli, Italy. Ribolla Gialla is an ancient varietal and well worth trying. The acidity in the wine would be magic against
Dandelion Vineyards, ‘Lioness of the Barossa, Australia. I’m
deep fried seafood, lemon and caper veal, or mussels in a
putting the food pairing to one side, this is just wonderful
white wine garlic sauce.
alone, or not! It offers an impressive purity of fruit, showing lush scents of winter fruit pudding and a hint of cinnamon.
Pegões, Adega de Pegões ‘Selected Harvest White’, Península
Black cherries, damsons, mulberries and milk chocolate on
de Setúbal, Portugal. A full flavoured wine with fruity aromas
the palate. A captivating wine that’s generous, opulent and
of orange blossom and fresh fruits which work in harmony
very smooth.
with the oak spice. Rich and opulent creamy fish dishes with strong herb influences suit perfectly as the wine offers a
Warm and cosy enough now?
creamy vanilla spiced finish. Drop in to sample wines at our tasting counter, purchase wine Valentines day is an important day to show your love for
by the glass and discover an array of many other new wines
each other, and what better was to say ‘I LOVE YOU’ with a
to us this year.
Sparkler! Blwyddyn Newydd dda. Miguel Torres Estelado Sparkling ‘Pais’ Rose, Curicó, Chile. The ‘Pais’ grape varietal was the first to arrive in Chile in the
The Grape to Glass Wine Shop and Tasting Room
Tim and Mark
Tim Watson runs The Grape to Glass Wine Shop
8b Rhos Parade, Penrhyn Avenue, Rhos-on-Sea, LL29 7RE
and Tasting Room in Rhos-on-Sea which, as well as
Tel: 01492 545934
offering wine from far reaching lands, also stocks
www.thegrapetoglass.co.uk
locally produced beers, wines and spirits
NWM 2019 Page 63
✓ 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
MAGAZINE
Page 66 NWM 2019
HOMES & INTERIORS NWM 2019 Page 67
MAGAZINE
PROPERTY OF THE MONTH Situated on a recent Anwyl Homes development of similar quality properties, 52 Clos Belyn is centrally located in Llandudno Junction, making it ideal for access onto the A55 and into the neighbouring historic towns of Conwy and Llandudno. Situated on a recent Anwyl Homes development of
fitted kitchen, cloakroom and integral garage.
similar quality properties, 52 Clos Belyn is centrally
On the first floor you will find four bedrooms,
located in Llandudno Junction, making it ideal for
including a master with en suite shower room,
access onto the A55 and into the neighbouring
and a family bathroom.
historic towns of Conwy and Llandudno. Externally there are well-maintained gardens, Beautifully presented, this desirable family
including an enclosed rear garden laid to lawn with
home benefits from gas central heating and
patio seating area and a pergola with planting. To
double glazing throughout. Downstairs the
the front of the property there is off street parking
property boasts a lounge, dining room, modern
for two cars. n
Page 68 NWM 2019
J 52 Clos Belyn is currently on the market with Anthony Flint Estate Agents for ÂŁ269,950. For further information call 01492 877418 or visit www.anthonyflint.co.uk
NWM 2019 Page 69
MAGAZINE
Bathrooms/Interiors/Kitchens/Ensuites/Wetrooms/Tiles
Global Tiles Ltd Unit 4 Falcon Estate, Mochdre Business Park, Colwyn Bay, LL28 5HF Tel: 01492541540 Page 70 NWM 2019
abbie@globaltiles.ltd.uk
/ www.facebook.com/global.tiles.limited
sales & lettings beresfordadams.co.uk Rhyl | 01745 449344
Abergele | 01745 449349
Bangor | 01248 489318
Prestatyn | 01745 449339
Holyhead | 01407 799184
Menai Bridge | 01248 489323
Morfa Nefyn £350,000 • Unique and individually designed Oak framed residence. • Situated in the desirable location of Morfa Nefyn. • Higher than average Energy efficiency rating. • 3 Bedrooms - Master with En-suite shower room. • LPG fuelled under floor heating. • Lounge, kitchen, dining, Bi folding doors, Balcony. • Double Glazing throughout. • Low maintenance external areas.
EPC
Coed Hywel, Pontllyfni Offers in the region of £565,000
Ruthin | 01824 729139 Holywell | 01352 809410
Llanllechid, Bangor Offers over £450,000 • 4 Bed Victorian property full of charm and character • Lounge, Sitting Room, Dining Room, Conservatory • Kitchen, Utility Room, Cloak Room, Office, Bathroom • Out Buildings With Potential For Conversion
• Gas Central Heating, Double Garages, Paddock • Private Drive Providing Ample Parking • Own Private Grounds, Garden, Orchard • Viewing is highly recommended
F
Nyth Y Fran, Abersoch Offers over £675,000
• Substantial detached residence • Set within mature gardens which extends to approx. 2 acres • 4 bedrooms (one with en-suite)
• Detached 3 bedroom cottage • Viewing highly recommended • To be sold with no onward chain
• Tastefully refurbished 5 bed property • Private shared lane • Close to the village centre
• Expansive timber rear decking area • Set over 3 floors • Covered BBQ area
Colwyn Bay | 01492 849334
| 01492 Llandudno Keep up toConwy date with our849339 facebook and instagram page | 01492 849290 www.facebook.com/global.tiles.limited - instagram@global.tiles.limited
Caernarfon | 01286 829149
Porthmadog | 01766 569134
Pwllheli | 01758 649095
Abersoch | 01758 649090
Pelipal bathrooms
NWM 2019 Page 71
sales & lettings MAGAZINE
beresfordadams.co.uk Rhyl | 01745 449344 Bangor | 01248 489318
Abergele | 01745 449349
Prestatyn | 01745 449339
Holyhead | 01407 799184
Menai Bridge | 01248 489323
• 3 Bathrooms • Balcony • Garage • Viewing is a must
• Secluded location in popular village • Detached Property in its own grounds • Three Bedrooms
EPC
Menai Quay, Menai Bridge OIEO £375,000 • 3 bedrooms • Well presented • Views of The Menai Strait • Parking
Colwyn Bay | 01492 849334 Caernarfon | 01286 829149
Page 72 NWM 2019
Holywell | 01352 809410
Gorsedd, Flintshire Offers over £400,000
Llanddulas, Abergele, In the region of £450,000 • Individually Designed • Open plan Living • Panoramic views • 4 Bedrooms
Ruthin | 01824 729139
• Views over open Farmland and Clwydian Range • Views towards the Dees Estuary • Fantastic potential for a family home
F
Cemaes Bay, Sir Ynys Mon O.I.R.O. £650,000 • Popular Development Close To Town • Ideal Holiday Let • Impressive Kitchen/Diner
• Beachfront Location • Popular Tourist Spot • Four Bedrooms • Fantastic Potential
Conwy | 01492 849339 Porthmadog | 01766 569134
• Roof Terrace with fabulous Sea Views • Double Garage • Parking for Multiple Vehicles • Early Viewing Highly Recommended
Llandudno | 01492 849290 Pwllheli | 01758 649095
Abersoch | 01758 649090
sales & lettings beresfordadams.co.uk Rhyl | 01745 449344 Bangor | 01248 489318
Abergele | 01745 449349
Prestatyn | 01745 449339
Holyhead | 01407 799184
Menai Bridge | 01248 489323
• Three reception rooms • Large plot, landscaped gardens & ample parking • Full of character, original features and style • Viewings highly recommended
EPC
• Unique Property • Standing In Well Established Landscaped Gardens • Immense Charm & Character • Well Maintained Throughout
Colwyn Bay | 01492 849334 Caernarfon | 01286 829149
• 2 Acre Paddock With Room For Stables • Possible Annexe Accommodation • Double Garage, Substantial Parking & Turning Point • Stunning Panoramic Views
F
Nant Y Coed, Glanconwy Offers Over £340,000 • Immaculately presented detached family home • Four bedrooms • Three bathrooms • Two reception rooms
Holywell | 01352 809410
Conway Old Road, Penmaenmawr £685,000
Colwyn Bay £475,000 • Stunning sea and coastal views • Generous detached family home • Five to six bedrooms • Four bathrooms
Ruthin | 01824 729139
Tal Y Bont, Conwy £795,000 • Kitchen & Utility Room • Garage and off road parking • Stunning views of the Estuary/Snowdonia Mountains • Beautifully landscaped gardens
• Detached Property With Self Contained Cottage • Established Camping & Caravan Site • Acreage With Planning Approval For Holiday Lodges • Double Garage & Outbuilding
Conwy | 01492 849339 Porthmadog | 01766 569134
• Countryside & Hillside Views • Garden & Ample off Road Parking • Additional photos @ www.beresfordadams.co.uk • Site plans for the holiday lodges held in branch
Llandudno | 01492 849290 Pwllheli | 01758 649095
Abersoch | 01758 649090
NWM 2019 Page 73
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
PENMAENMAWR
PENMAENMAWR £410,000
£295,000
(potential to create a separate annex subject to planning consent) • Good size front garden & large south facing rear garden • Driveway parking
• Modern 4 bedroom detached home, superb views over Anglesey, Puffin Island & the mountains • Located on a good size corner plot with plenty of driveway parking, ideal for a boat, caravan or motor home • Extensive gardens & stunning sunsets! • Large tarmac driveway allowing ample off road parking leading to a detached double garage
• Attractive detached 5 bedroom home enjoying views over the sea, Anglesey, Puffin Island & the Gt.Orme • Superb family accommodation, interlinking sun room/conservatory, snooker room & w.c.
EPC
F
TAL Y BONT
CONWY MARINA £144,950
£235,000 • This 2 bedroom town house is situated on the highly desirable Conwy Marina • Beautifully presented & renovated (within the last 18 months) • Views over Conwy Mountain & is a stones throw from the Mulberry Pub & Restaurant, Marina & beach • Garage with additional driveway parking
• 2 bedroom stone built mid terrace cottage retaining lovely character features • Enjoys countryside views to the rear aspect & has easy access to a lovely pub & Surf Snowdonia • Small front garden area, rear garden with lean-to & workshop/storage • NO CHAIN
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
RHOS ON SEA
PENRHYNSIDE £345,000
£495,900
• Modern Ground Floor Two bedroom Apartment • Spectacular Curved Window Frontage • Enjoys Panoramic Views of the North Wales Coastline
• Fully Refurbished Four Bedroom Detached Bungalow • Large Lounge With Modern Log Burner • Enjoys Panoramic Coastline Views
EPC
F
RHOS ON SEA
ABERGELE £425,000
£360,000 • Characterful Three Bedroom Detached Cottage • Situated in a Rural Location with Fabulous Countryside Views
• New Build Three Bedroom Detached House • Situated Within An Exclusive Development • Air Sourced Heating System • Enjoying Sea 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
SS TC
£359,950
Walking
world
A HARLECH CIRCUIT Harlech is dominated by its imposing castle, the nearby Rhinog Mountains and the sea. It has a little bit of everything for walkers and general visitors alike and the route described below gives a superb, if strenuous, outing that climbs from the streets of the town up into the foothills of the mountains before returning back to lower levels again. Views are superb throughout with great mountain vistas,
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW J Distance: 1 miles/5.0 kilometres J Time: Allow 2.5 – 3 hours to give time to explore the castle too
J Start: Park in the main car park for
outstanding coastal scenery and Harlech Castle in view for a lot of the
Harlech in the town centre. This is off
walk. The English Monarch Edward 1 built this fortress in the 13th
the B4573 and is accessed from Bron-
Century as part of his ‘iron ring’ of castles around North Wales which
y-Craig Road. The car park is quite
was designed to prevent The Welsh from rising up and opposing him.
large and is pay and display. There
Perched on top of a great rock outcrop, Harlech Castle looks every bit
are also toilets here
as a castle should appear and is well worth a visit at the end of this walk. Leaving the castle to one side, Harlech and the surrounding area is a great place to explore and you will be surprised at the
J Grid Ref: SH 581309 J Nearest postcode: LL46 2YB J Ordnance Survey Map: Ordnance
variety of paths and tracks available to the walker as you complete
Survey OL Explorer 18 – Harlech,
this circuit. Choose a good day of clear bright weather and remember
Porthmadog and Bala
to take along your camera so you can get some really superb shots
J What to expect: This is quite a
of your outing. And if you fancy a bit more exercise before you head
strenuous walk that would grade at
home check out the beach below the town. Here you will find a huge
around Moderate to Difficult. There
expanse of sand and some dunes where you can walk for a long as
are some steep ascents and descents
you like or just find a cosy spot and sit down to soak it all in!
and a bit of rough going over the field sections and there is often no clear path to follow. Route finding can be
WALK DETAILS
difficult in places but if you follow the instructions you will be fine. The route includes some lane walking but
START
these are quiet and should present no
Exit the car park to go right along Harlech main street. Follow the road as
problems.
it winds a way past the church right and then curves right. At a crossroad
J Suitable for: All active walkers and
of roads go right to climb steeply past The Lion Hotel (if you glance to your
older children of around 7+ who won’t
left before you turn you get a good view of Harlech Castle). Continue uphill
mind the steep bits. Make sure you
on the quiet lane passing two footpaths right. Continue to rise passing The
supervise children carefully on the
Old Scottish Baptism Wall right. Continue on the lane as the angle eases and curve right past a house. Rise up the lane beyond taking time to glance behind for some spectacular views. Continue up to bend sharply left and a few paces beyond this reach a marked footpath and gate right..
lane sections.
J Dogs: OK on leads J Refreshments: Although there are no refreshment stops on the route itself, Harlech has shops, cafés and pubs
NWM 2019 Page 79
Lower Harlech
P MAGAZINE
CASTLE
GOLF
2
START/ FINISH
HARLECH
P 5
Points of interest on this section:
J The Old Scottish Baptism Well passed on this section is
Hotel
estimated to have been built around 1841.
3
J The small rocky and rugged hill you see rising above Porthmadog when you look behind as you rise up the lane is Moel y Gest. 2) Leave the lane to go right through the gate and take the footpath beyond rising towards a farm. Curve left as you reach
4
the buildings to gently curve right and cross a farm access drive to pass through a gate. Go right to pass besides farm buildings. After these take a track through a gate/opening and rise between walls. At the end of the walls pass through a gate
go right through a wall gap and go immediately left heading
and go immediately left uphill (unmarked) keeping a wall left.
downhill with a wall left. Pass through another gap to follow
There is little path to follow in this section but keep the wall left
the path beyond curving right towards a wall. Pass through
and cross a stream to curve left and pass through a wall gap.
gorse bushes to cross a stile in a wall following the arrow
Go right (still pathless) to walk besides a line of bushes with an
direction over the next field. The Path is vague but keeps a row
old wall in them. You get great sea vistas and views of Harlech
of houses below left and works a way through gorse bushes
Castle from this section. Gradually begin toA494 curve left away from (T)
roughly following a line of telegraph poles. Pass through a wall
the old wall heading to the right of two large boulders by a fence.
gap in an old wall and cut half left heading for a yellow marker
Aim for a yellow marker post when it comes into view. When
post. Pass through gorse bushes and continue in the general
you reach this continue ahead up the field aiming for another
direction of Harlech Castle. Descend through bushes to pass
marker post when it comes into view. When you reach this cross
through a kissing gate. Follow the path beyond to descend past
a stile and go ahead to pass through a gate by a footpath sign to
houses and curve left to road in Harlech.
Llanfair
reach a lane. 5) Go right on the road to go left at a road junction by a house Points of interest on this section
drive right. Descend towards the sea to go right at the next
J The views of Harlech Castle are dramatic from this section
junction. Follow the descending road to curve left and continue
and it looks even more impressive when viewed from above.
to a road junction in Harlech town centre. Go right and immediately left down a narrow lane between houses. As the
3) Go right down the lane and as you descend there are
lane bends left take steps ahead that cut half left and rise to
stunning views of both sea and mountain. Pass a footpath sign
Harlech Main Street again. You now have a choice – you can go
right shortly and continue on the descending lane. After a track
right and walk back to the car park or go left to go left shortly
right (marked as going to a reservoir on your map) continue to
at a crossroads and visit the castle.
descend. Just before a house over half right reach a footpath sign by a small gate right.
Points of interest on this section
J Harlech is a small town with a population of around 1,500. Points of interest on this section
It lies on Tremadog Bay and is within the boundaries of
J The views as you descend the lane take in The Rhinog
Snowdonia National Park.
Mountains to your left, Shell Island ahead and below and the sea ahead and right.
J Harlech Castle is open all year to visitors but check prices and seasonal opening times at www.cadw.gov.wales n
a telegraph pole by a wall. From the field corner go left taking
A WORD OF CAUTION Walking in the outdoors can be a strenuous activity and it is up to you to ensure that you are fit and healthy enough to undertake the route described and to approach the venture with caution and care. You should wear appropriate footwear and suitable clothing, take along food and drink plus carry the relevant map and a compass and be able to use it. The details given here are believed to be correct at the time of going to press. However, neither North Wales Magazine nor the author can accept responsibility for
a descending walled track. Just before the track ends at a field
inaccuracies encountered.
4) – Leave the lane and go right through the gate to take a path by the wall left. Shortly, at a wall gap left, go right uphill on trackless ground to pass left of a telegraph pole. Rise up the rough field heading half left and following the line of telegraph poles. Rise to the top left corner of the field to reach
Page 80 NWM 2019
Fires and Fireplaces The Fireplace Specialist You Can Trust...
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Surf Snowdonia reveals new brand Surf Snowdonia has revealed a new brand and a game-changing new adventure offer which will open to visitors in summer 2019. The worldfirst inland surf hub, which launched in 2015, is also in advanced discussions with Hilton to open a Hilton Garden Inn within the development. The new hotel would mark the brand’s first in Wales. Surf Snowdonia will rebrand to Adventure Parc Snowdonia to reflect its broader offer, which
New owners for The Kinmel Arms
it says will deliver a landmark visitor destination not just for North Wales, but for the UK and beyond. The 300-metre inland surf lagoon
The Kinmel Arms is under new
will remain a key part of the attraction. Investment in the development
management having recently been
will be in the region of £16 million and the new offer for 2019 will include
sold to The Tir Prince Leisure Group.
Adrenaline Indoors (a nature-inspired high-thrills climbing, artificial
Managing director of the Group,
caving adventure experience), Explore Outdoors (fresh-air family activities
Adam Williams, is a long-standing
including an off-road pump track, mountain bike trail, bouldering, fun
neighbour of the award winning pub
& fitness trail and adventure playground) and an Adventure Concierge
and restaurant, and so he has a vested
Service – to encourage visitors to explore exciting instructor-led activities
interest to ensure that the Kinmel
off-site and visit other leading attractions in the region. This expanded
Arms remains at the heart of the local
adventure offer will be followed in 2020 by the 106-bedroom lagoon-side
community. The Tir Prince Leisure
hotel, spa and conference facilities.
Group is a family run business which
www.surfsnowdonia.com
has been operating in North Wales for over 70 years. The Tir Prince Raceway, Llandudno Pier and the Paddocks Lodge Park are amongst its established businesses. “This was
Artists invited to demonstrate their talents
too big of an opportunity to let pass
A rundown former railway building on the walkway at Meliden,
for me, having lived in the village for
Prestatyn, is undergoing a revamp, transforming it into a community
half my life,” explains Adam. “The
hub with a café, heritage displays, bike hire facility and business units.
Kinmel Arms an iconic place – I would
And artists, photographers, craft makers, and food producers are being
like to assure everyone that we will
offered the chance to showcase their wares once the building – to be
strive to continue to achieve the very
called Y Shed – opens. Inside Y Shed will be space for artists, producers
high standards set by the previous
and craftspeople to display and sell their products with project leaders,
owners.” Good, quality, fresh food is
charitable housing association Grŵp Cynefin and Meliden Residents
the reason for the existence of The
Action Group, particularly keen to support local and upcoming
Kinmel Arms, and Adam and his team
contemporary talent. Y Shed’s gallery space will enable different artists
plan to ensure that the pub remains
and products to be displayed at different times, giving visitors something
a local drinking spot for the village as
new to see and experience each time they visit. Anyone interested in
well as continuing its high standards
displaying their work or selling their products at Y Shed can email:
for food.
yshed@grwpcynefin.org
www.thekinmelarms.co.uk
NWM 2019 Page 83
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Add your beautiful business to our community and join other rural makers, creators, crafters and brands in our directory.
A Love Letter to the
Countryside This Valentine’s Day, says Janet Hill, take a moment to express your feelings for our beautiful countryside.
Just like love, our beloved countryside is patient with those
in galleries and workshops across the land. Languishing in
that ramble along the pathways, exploring the endless
the peace and quiet of our rural communities, they enable the
horizons. It does not judge when we take a wrong turn, need
nature on their doorstep to spill on to pages, canvas and into
to consult the map or simply walk with no place to go. It soaks
other medium, to be loved and shared once more.
up our laughter, tears and shouts with no complaints; simply waiting, holding those memories for us to return to next time.
Want to profess your love affair with the hills this Valentine’s? Invest in the gorgeous businesses, people and organisations
With a view to take your breath away around every corner,
who care and create the culture and atmosphere we love so
love is also full of surprises. With every season brings a
well. Let the countryside be your beau, and treat yourself to
new wonder, changes that spring up with joyous abandon,
delicious chocolates from Baravelli’s of Conwy, or a bunch of
and yet like love, we return time after time. The Countryside
blooms from Blooming Gorgeous in Rhuddlan. If a romantic
and Rights of Way Act embodies our delirious romanticism
night away is on the cards, an escape to a hidden gem such
by enabling us, on those rare work-free days, to release the
as The Bell at Skenfrith may be what you need to reignite you
urban shackles and breathe in the fresh air, reinvigorating
lost spark for muddy boots and delicious local fare.
souls and refreshing minds with calm beauty. If you are already married to the rural lifestyle, you will know Just like love, our relationship with our rural landscapes
of the community bred out of such a love. Feel the pull of
takes many forms. Viewed from a window, pounded by
the local shop, school or café and hear stories passed down
hooves and feet, looked down on from great heights of air
by generations, knowing that just like you – the people are
and rock, and explored from mountain to sea; there’s no right
deeply in love with their lifestyle and invested in caring for
or wrong way of enjoying our darling countryside. It’s here
it for years to come. I encourage you not to flirt with the idea
that no matter how muddy, breathless or lost one gets, there
of the country, but to jump in with both feet, embrace your
is only one measure of exactly who loves the hills more – the
feelings and get ready for a long term coupling to take hold. It
size of your smile.
is rare that anyone who has courted the countryside has ever received a broken heart, so what are you waiting for? n
Just like love, the countryside is a constant source of inspiration. Take our renowned writers and artists for example, whose muse of moorland and vast hills created classics such as Wuthering Heights or All Creatures Great and Small and paintings by Constable and Turner. Only in the countryside, can one sit in a warm and cosy pub, while looking at the rolling hills, reading Pride and Prejudice and feel completely at home. Local artists can be found tucked away
Janet Hill lives at the foot of the beautiful Welsh Hills with her two children, six cats, six dogs and an assortment of wild ducks. She is the founder of The Hills, a new website that promotes the too-often unsung heroes and beauties of our British countryside. www.lovingthehills.com
NWM 2019 Page 85
OPEN MORNING Senior: Friday 26 April Prep: Saturday 27 April Both 9.30am start Boys & Girls • 2 ½ - 18 • www rydalpenrhos.com Stunning location on the North Wales coast in Colwyn Bay • GCSE, A-level and BTEC Senior Scholarships available for talented individuals Rydal Penrhos is a top 100 school (The Times League Table) Thriving co-curricular provision • RYA Accredited Sailing Centre To book your place at our Open Morning events, or for more information email admissions@rydalpenrhos.com or call 01492 530155
LEARNING BY HEART If we think back to our own childhood days, most of us
Yet, the members of select cliques still define what’s considered
would agree making good friends in primary school was not
normal or acceptable within this peer culture. In fact, being
always an easy task.
chosen as friends by those of equal or higher peer status can decrease the risk of peer victimisation.
Sometimes friendship occurred out of convenience or survival when there was a limited number of peers to choose from.
Given such complexity in friendship formation, it’s not
Sometimes friendship was a utility to be bought and sold via
surprising many parents are concerned with how their
lollies or other interesting lunchbox snacks.
children can make quality friendships in primary school. Particularly as research has found a positive link between
Sometimes friendship developed through shared interests
high-quality friendships and better academic results. They also
and extra-curricular activities. But the friendships found to
experience less stress from peer exclusion.
stand the test of time are those that work to enhance both lives through a mutual sense of humour, empathy, honesty, loyalty,
A magic formula doesn’t exist, but there are some general
trust and respect.
evidence-based strategies that have proven to assist in friendship formation without the risk of “bubble-wrapping”
From this perspective, the best type of friendship is not based
children.
on utility, pleasure or convenience which may dissolve over time, but rather the character or virtues of both people.
Looking for signs such as shyness can be a telling sign that
Such friendship needs to be given freely (rather than forced),
your child is having difficulty mixing with others, and staff at
reciprocal (rather than one-sided), and recognise the virtues
the school are trained to pick up on such things too so that you
both people contribute in getting to know each other and
are full award of your child’s social development on a day-to-
themselves more deeply.
day basis. The easiest thing to do is ask questions. Anything from who they socialised with during the day to their general
From a psychological perspective, there are five stages of social
feelings on school life can be another great support system and
competence that influence the formation of friendships:
one that will be mutually beneficial for both parties.
J Stage one (three to seven years) involves momentary friendship with whoever is in close proximity.
J Stage two (four to nine years) involves one-way friendship with someone who can help us achieve our own goals.
J Stage three (six to 12 years) involves reciprocal friendship,
Sometimes we’re lucky enough to maintain friendships as we transition from primary to secondary school (and beyond). Research has shown this may have a positive effect on academic performance and mental health.
but only under specific conditions.
J Stage four (11-15 years) involves mutually close and supportive friendship.
J Stage five (12 to adulthood) involves friendship which
But sometimes we grow out of friendships as we evolve in different directions and our values and interests change. There may be times when friendships need to be dissolved if
respects the autonomy of each individual even though they
they breach our trust and/or damage our well-being. Children
may share similar interests and deeper feelings.
as well as adults, need to know when and how to dissolve such friendships and how to work through any sense of loss that
From a sociological perspective, friendship is not a series of
may result. n
biologically determined hoops children are expected to jump through in sequential order. Children draw on social strategies to resist or create their own peer culture in ways that may
Alison Hind was appointed Head of
differ from adult expectations.
Rydal Penrhos Prep School last summer after a successful spell in the Acting
Making friends in schools with more cultural diversity can
Head role. Prior to this, she was Deputy
minimise the risk of peer victimisation.
Head under Roger McDuff and has two children at the school’s senior site.
NWM 2019 Page 87
MAGAZINE
Wrexham Glyndwr graduate named student of the year A Wrexham Glyndwr University student is celebrating after being named Student of the Year at a national award ceremony. Paul Jauncey graduated with First Class Honours from Wrexham Glyndwr University’s Complementary Therapy course last September. Shortly afterwards, he was a guest at the Federation of Holistic Therapists’ 2018 FHT Excellence Awards, where he was shortlisted from students across the UK for the Student of the Year award. “They had narrowed it down to two of us, but on the day itself I didn’t actually know until they had announced it!” he said. “The presenter of the awards was Janey Lee Grace off Radio Two, and it was quite an experience to hear her reading out my story.” After being injured in a freak accident when getting out of his car, former welder Paul decided to pursue a career in Complementary Therapy as a result of his own healing experiences. “I remember it was July when I started talking to lecturers at the university and I thought it was too late to apply – but it wasn’t,” he explains. “It was a big gamble for me, giving up welding and coming back to university – but it has been the best decision I ever made. Getting the recognition from the Federation of Holistic Therapists was huge – it has absolutely inspired me to keep on with what I’m doing. I want to start teaching what I have learnt to others; I’m already doing a lot of teaching hours – including right here at the complementary therapy clinic on campus. Maybe next time I’ll be nominated for Tutor of the Year!” www.glyndwr.ac.uk
EDUCATION NEWS Rydal Penrhos pupil shares brave story A former Rydal Penrhos pupil has shared her inspirational story as part of a promotional video for a leading Cancer charity. Sara Owen, who left the school in 2018, has starred in a video
Myddelton College receives bronze award from ERS
for CLIC Sargent where she details her experiences of having a brain tumour and subsequent operations and
Myddelton College, an independent co-educational school
treatment. This was devised to help others going through
in Denbigh for students aged nine to 18, has extended its
the same difficulties and to raise awareness for the charity’s
commitment to our Armed Forces and has received the
wristband campaign ahead of World Cancer Day. Despite
bronze award from the Defence Employer Recognition
her terrible ordeal, Sara rounded off a hugely successful
Scheme (ERS) having already pledged to align their values
12-year stint at Rydal Penrhos with an exceptional set of
with the Armed Forces Covenant. Myddelton College, the
A-level results, securing A* marks in Biology, Chemistry
second fastest growing independent school in the country,
and Mathematics, in addition to an A at AS level in Physics.
has been recognised for their commitment to support
This included an overall mark of 585 out of 600 in her
those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, and
Mathematics papers, and she is now at the prestigious
their families. Furthermore, Myddelton College will offer a
King’s College London studying Medicine. She praised the
20% discount on school fees to the sons and daughters of
work being done by CLIC Sargent during her ordeal, and
serving or retired members of the Armed Forces, a gesture
added: “I have my friends and my independence – and with
that aims to give something back to those who have
every clear scan I cry with relief. I am scared it will all be
served our country.
taken away but for now I am happy.”
www.myddeltoncollege.com
www.rydalpenrhos.com
Page 88 NWM 2019
NWM 2019 Page 89
K R A P TER
MAGAZINE
A W / WR
D C R A P
SC2Rhyl.co.uk
U T N A RTH
EN V D A R/
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AGOR GWANWYN 2019 OPEN 2019 Page 90 NWMSPRING 2019
T
E N O Z URE
SEA LIFE
Goose barnacles… neither bird nor mollusc! Fascinating facts about a freak of nature…
Goose barnacles, also known as gooseneck barnacles, come
The irksome appearance of one goose barnacle is a surprise
high on the list of the weirdest wonders of British marine
in itself but the discovery of a heaving mass of these beasties
life! These bizarre and eerie looking creatures are a perfect
washed up on the shore can be a truly unnerving experience
example of the extraordinary curiosities of nature which,
for the first timer! Probably not surprising then that such finds
although relatively common, are rarely seen and even less
have previously been mistaken for the entrails of something
generally recognised.
killed at sea or even alien beings accidentally dislodged from a spacecraft!
Their body has a shell which is a series of curved, triangular plates and a very absurd and ungainly long brown soft tube
Here at Anglesey Sea Zoo we specialise in educating and
connecting the shell to the anchor point, which is scientifically
enlightening our visitors about the bizarre and fantastic, and
referred to as the ‘peduncle’ and can grow to an impressive
often fairly common, British species which nobody usually sees
150mm long. Inside the shell are delicate feathery fronds
or knows about. As an all British aquarium we house such
called ‘cirri’ which comb through the water to filter out tiny
species when they get washed up and allow our visitors to
food particles.
observe and learn about them in a natural captive environment whilst also discovering more about these relatively unknown
Although their shells make them look like molluscs, these
quirky critters. We housed a large colony of goose barnacles
freaky looking dudes are in fact filter-feeding crustaceans,
on display here last winter for several weeks, which arrived in
most closely related to prawns, lobsters and crabs. One cool
rather a sorry state, having been washed up for some time on
fact that these little critters have under their shell is that they
dry land before they were brought in. As a result I can confirm
are able to fertilise themselves, making them what techie
that watching them feeding and moving close-up is absolutely
scientists call ‘hermaphrodites’. Their fertilised eggs hatch
fascinating although somewhat surreal!
into larvae which look like tiny shrimp and swim as members of zooplankton in the ocean, before permanently attaching
Surprisingly, despite their freakish appearance and the
themselves to form a large colony on rocks, ships, ropes or
fact that they are rarely found on shore, the stems of goose
flotsam floating or fixed out at sea. Each colony can be made
barnacles are edible and treated as an expensive treat in
up from thousands of individuals and they can live for up to
Spain and Portugal, where they are widely consumed as an
three years.
extravagant delicacy known as percebes. Shellfish anyone? n
Although goose barnacles are fairly common around much of the UK, they are rarely seen until they are washed ashore, occasionally on large, long established pieces of flotsam but most commonly when the fixing for their colony has been uprooted or dislodged by turbulence and stormy weather. A colony of these peculiar critters is a hefty weight so even when floating they may travel at a sluggish speed and be carried for
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
weeks at sea before finally being washed up on a beach.
NWM 2019 Page 91
INTELLIGENT ELECTRIC HEATING Tailored to suit your home & lifestyle
Three places to visit in February
Getting back
to Nature
There’s plenty of wildlife across the region in February, says Julian Hughes, if you know where to look.
Gresford Flash, Wrexham This old quarry is popular for dinghy sailing, but in winter, it’s mostly left to the birds. It’s a good place to see flocks of ducks and geese, with small numbers of grebes, and towards dusk, gulls gather
Loud ‘drumming’ in a woodland is a sure sign that spring is coming. Great Spotted Woodpeckers don’t sing to advertise their territory so they hammer dead trees in February and March, striking the wood up to ten times each second! It’s not drilling a hole, but using the wood as a
Credit: Jason Thompson
On drums… Mr Woodpecker
from surrounding fields to wash and roost. Access off the A5156 between Gresford and Borras. Newborough Forest, Anglesey
sounding board to echo across the woodland. Almost any other animal
The huge conifer forest was
would get a headache or brain haemorrhage, but a woodpecker’s skull is built to absorb
planted on part of the Warren,
shock, with strong bones and tiny air pockets rather like bubble wrap.
the shifting sand dunes, in the 1940s. The Cefni estuary on
Signs of Old Brock
the northern edge is fantastic
Even a light covering of snow provides an opportunity to
for waterbirds at high tide,
see who’s been out in the night. Find some clean snow (or
especially Pintails, while the
sticky mud) around woodlands and you’ll spot the tracks
forest is home to the biggest
of mammals such as foxes, voles and mice. Near water, you
Red Squirrel population on
can distinguish between duck, swan, coot and moorhen
the island and a large roost of
footprints. It’s a great family activity, and you can download
Credit: John Good
Ravens that gathers here each evening in winter.
a guide from the web (type ‘RSPB animal tracks’ into your favourite search engine). If you pass
Credit: Tiio Monto
a Badger sett, you may find winter bedding left
Aber Ogwen, near Bangor
outside the entrance, having been replaced by
The Ogwen estuary flows into
fresh vegetation ahead of the cubs being born
the Menai Strait, creating a
later in the month
rich food source as the tide flows in and out twice each day. Waders such as Black-
First flowers
tailed Godwits, Curlews and Froggit
Oystercatchers feed on the
A mild period will prompt Common Frogs
exposed mud at low tide, while
to leave their winter home among dead
high tide is best to see Eider
wood or a damp place such as a compost
ducks and Pale-bellied Brent
heap or under the garden decking.
Geese, which come here all the
They’ll head for the nearest waterbody,
way from Arctic Canada.
usually at night, to find a mate. Once Credit: Richard Bartz
While Snowdrops are January’s flower, and Daffodils appear in March, for me the first real springtime wild flower is Coltsfoot. Superficially like a Dandelion, the dull yellow flowers are common at roadsides and woodlands, and provide an important source of nectar for bumblebees early in the season. The leaves appear only after the flowers wither, and it’s from these that the English name is derived: each leaf is the shape of a horse’s foot.
mated, the females will lay her eggs in the water, but hard frost can wipe out the early spawn. Frogspawn is laid in clumps, whereas toadspawn is laid in strings.
Julian Hughes grew up in North Wales, which instilled a lifelong love of nature. He lives near Llandudno, manages the RSPB’s public affairs work in Wales, and writes about the region’s wildlife.
NWM 2019 Page 93
MAGAZINE
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TRADE ONLY
For the love of all things
vintage...
The confessions of a modern day Magpie Tatty, Chanel and the Duke of Westminster
Well here we are, and before you know it we are already a month into 2019. At TDHQ New Year plans are in firmly set in place and the diary is bursting with upcoming dates of auctions, exhibitions and international antique fairs. There is simply no time to sit back and let the grass grow, so #teamtatty let’s get this show on the road and take 2019 by storm making this year a year to remember! Seriously, I think a career in motivational speaking awaits... “So Tatty, what styles are going to be hot and trending in 2019?” I hear you holler. Well my dahlings, it thrills me to say it, and know a lot of you in Rhos-on-Sea never lost faith, CHINTZ IS BACK! Throw open those Sanderson Rose drapes, let the light flood in. May I even suggest wrapping them up in large tassel tie backs? (Now there’s something I never thought I’d say…) You go
purchase such a piece from the Eaton
for it Mrs Jones! For this year, bold vintage floral prints
Estate in Cheshire, the country seat of the Duke of
– be it lampshades, wallpaper or textiles are all going to
Westminster. An equestrian tack box once belonging to
be big news.
one of the wealthiest men in the world, who was also the enduring lover of Gabrielle (Coco) Chanel, Hugh
With politically uncertain times, it is fact that people
Grosvenor, 2nd Duke of Westminster (1879-1953). With
are drawn towards surroundings that evoke nostalgia,
beautiful timeworn paint and sign written name, it
comfort and emotion. Gone is the cold harsh starkness
would make a fabulous talking point come side table.
of the “industrial look”, it is now time to embrace the curve (Tatty’s certainly embracing her post Christmas
And talking of French Couturiers, this week I have bid
curves, it’s February and I’m still eating Christmas
au revoir to the most elegant Parisian 1930’s bias cut
cake). Curvaceous furniture and suites, think 1970’s
negligee, off to a leading vintage stylist who works
style minus the gaudy pattern; it’s all about the fabric
closely with Miss Kate Moss (Shh!) Oh readers, please
texture, feel and comfort.
bring me more beautiful vintage…
Other News: We are always thrilled to be offered
Love
decorative items, especially when they are of great historical interest. So we were super excited to
Tatty is constantly searching for new stock and would love to hear from you if you have any of the following for sale: fine vintage, decorative antiques, vintage textiles/quilts or Welsh blankets
Tatty X
Ali Hough (Tatty) is a dealer in fine vintage and antiques. Based at: Tatty HQ, No. 12 Ivy Street, Colwyn Bay. For all enquiries please contact 07940 730421 or email sales@tattydivine.co.uk
NWM 2019 Page 95
MAGAZINE
+PATROBAS
Mercher | Wednesday
01286 685 222 Page 96 NWM 2019 galericaernarfon.com
27.02.19
19:30 | £16 - £14
THE LAST LAUGH Ah… January. The New Years
Wetherspoons, provided it’s
Resolution. It’s the time of year when
still in business. I mean, at
the perennial struggle between my
least it’s a plan.
two selves – the person I think I’d like to be (reliable, fit, healthy) and the person I actually am – feckless, out of condition, deluded, breaks out into full-blown conflict.
The self-improvement industry began in 1859 with the publication by Samuel Smiles of ‘Self-help’, a book that embodied the times. For Smiles, it wasn’t about going gluten-free, or pulling
Deluded Me thinks he should go
your hamstring running along the
running, go Vegan, go to the gym
prom at 6am. It was about ‘conduct
and that it will result in
and perseverance.’
remarkable and enduring
He wrote: “Schools,
transformation. Actual Me
academies, and colleges,
thinks that sounds like a
give but the merest
waste of time and energy.
beginnings of culture in
While there’s something to be said for trying to shed bad
comparison with it. Far more influential is the life-education
habits, Actual Me always prevails. The issue I have is one
daily given in our homes, in the streets, behind counters, in
of timing. If you’re going to embark on some sort of horrific
workshops, at the loom and the plough, in counting-houses
Road to Damascus, with or without a smart watch, why do
and manufactories, and in the busy haunts of men.” I mean
it in January? It’s the coldest month of the year, and one of
he doesn’t mention women and sounds like Jacob Rees-Mogg
the longest. Surely, navigating January in itself is enough
but his central point remains valid – that determination is an
of an undertaking without needing to join the gym as well.
agent of social mobility.
And stop renaming months to make us feel guilty. Movember, Stoptober, Veganuary. Enoughalreadyember (I made that one
Smiles’ message has diverged into two schools of thought:
up). I fully support anyone’s right to self-improvement, but
those who pursue extreme sports that test them to the limit,
who thought it was a good idea to start rebranding months
such as the TV series I watched from the comfort of my sofa
as chores. We’ve got enough of those already. Spring cleaning
this week that featured fragile people who would struggle to
sounds like such a fun word. It’s not.
run a bath somehow think that climbing Everest with the SAS might be more manageable; and those who try to give up wine
My advice is to wait a bit. Surely February is crying out as
during the week. As with everything, there’s a middle ground.
the obvious candidate to ease yourself into the year. For those
Striking a balance is tricky enough, and it’s my constant aim.
on the nursery slopes of self-improvement it’s a mere 28 days
One day I might achieve it. Maybe next year. n
long, while for others who like to go the extra mile, there’s the Leap Year option and they can extend to day 29. It’s the only month with a mixed-ability schedule built in…
Dave Rothnie is resident compere of Stand-up at the
Perhaps we could all resolve to make February the month
Seaside, an acclaimed comedy
when we solve Brexit. And let’s not tie ourselves to some
night that takes place on the
impossible deadline. Do it my way. Try Brexit for say a week,
final Saturday of every month
and see how we feel? If it feels do-able, go for a month. Then
at The Station in Colwyn Bay.
maybe keep going until the food runs out and then when we’ve all lost half a stone, knock it on the head and go back to
NWM 2019 Page 97
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
February’s horoscopes brought to you by Russell Grant ARIES (March 21st-April 20th) The New Moon on the 4th invites you to expand your social network. Make it your mission to attend as many parties, casual get togethers and professional conferences as possible during the first two weeks of February. On the 19th, you’ll wrap up a job that has required a great deal of care and attention. This will lead to more lucrative work opportunities.
LIBRA (September 24th-October 23rd) The New Moon on the 4th will be highly romantic. If you’re single, you’ll meet a rebel who makes your pulse pound. It will be so refreshing to spend time with someone who has unique opinions and unusual tastes. On the 19th, the Full Moon will invite you to rest, relax and recharge your batteries. Colleagues will pressure you to do more than your fair share of work.
TAURUS (April 21st-May 21st) On the 4th, you’ll have a chance to land a high-profile job in a cuttingedge field. You have a talent for putting newcomers at ease with your soothing voice and down to earth approach to business. The Full Moon on the 19th is ideal for romance. If you’re looking for love, you’ll find it with an ardent admirer. It will be good for your ego to be pursued by someone determined to win your heart.
SCORPIO (October 24th-November 22nd) If you’ve been thinking of moving, the beginning of February presents an ideal opportunity to do so. You could find a beautiful place in an offbeat neighbourhood on the 4th, courtesy of the New Moon. Being surrounded by eccentrics brings out the best in you. The Full Moon on the 19th is ideal for throwing a party, bringing together your nearest and dearest.
GEMINI (May 22nd-June 21st) The opportunity to expand your horizons will arrive on or around the 4th, courtesy of an adventurous New Moon. This is an ideal time to visit a country that has fascinated you since childhood. On the 19th, the Full Moon will bring a domestic matter to its successful conclusion. If you’ve been trying to buy or sell a house, you’ll be able to seal a profitable deal. CANCER (June 22nd-July 23rd) On the 4th, the New Moon will attract a handsome windfall. Money from an inheritance, legal settlement or insurance refund will allow you to pay off debts and build savings. The Full Moon on the 19th brings fantastic news about work. It’s possible a new branch of your company will open close to your home, significantly reducing your commute. LEO (July 24th-August 23rd) The New Moon on the 4th injects life into a close relationship. Things will be looking up for you and your best friend, romantic partner or even someone you work with. It’s possible you’ll take a trip or relocate to an exciting part of the world together. The days surrounding the 19th will be lucrative. A handsome payment will land in your bank account, allowing you to indulge in a few luxuries. VIRGO (August 24th-September 23rd) The New Moon on the 4th is excellent for beginning a health regimen. It’s important to attend to your mental and spiritual wellbeing as well as your physical fitness. You could soon see good results from this practice as soon as the 19th, when the Full Moon has you feeling better than ever. Take this opportunity to treat yourself like royalty.
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SAGITTARIUS (November 23rd-December 21st) On the 4th, the New Moon presents an intriguing opportunity to communicate on a worldwide scale. Launching a blog, taping a podcast or sharing videos on social media can attract a loyal following. You’ll reach a career milestone on the 19th, thanks to a generous Full Moon. People do appreciate all the time and care you put into your work. CAPRICORN (December 22nd-January 20th) The New Moon on the 4th attracts an unusual moneymaking venture. Moving into a cutting-edge field will be highly profitable. You may decide to join an investment group that specialises in research and development. The Full Moon on the 19th may find you returning from a trip or concluding a course of study. Use everything you’ve learned to deepen your appreciation for life. AQUARIUS (January 21st-February 19th) On the 4th, the New Moon will inspire you to adopt a new look or assume another role. Making a fresh start will put a spring in your step and a sparkle in your eyes. The Full Moon on the 19th cultivates passion on the relationship front. A rendezvous with your amour will be highly enjoyable. Are you single? You could meet someone special in a classroom, book club or political group. PISCES (February 20th-March 20th) Solitary pleasures and pastimes are best for you at the beginning of February. The New Moon on the 4th will prompt you to read, write or commune with nature. Don’t let demanding loved ones invade your privacy. The Full Moon on the 19th presents an excellent opportunity to help a loved one. Ease their concerns by helping them keep a promise during the second half of the month.
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