North Wales Magazine – February 2018

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FEBRUARY 2018

MAGAZINE TOP

10

Roman t break ic s

Half term heroes!

Entertaining the kids this February

Grape expectations

DISCOVERING LOCAL WINES

WEDDINGs SPECIAL

Tying the knot in North Wales

INSIDE J Town in Focus J Homes & Interiors J Motoring

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WHAT TO EXPECT AND ENJOY • • • •

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MAGAZINE

Page 4 NWM 2017

MAGAZINE

Dear Reader

With St Dwynwen’s behind us and Valentines Day just around the corner, it’s no wonder that February is the most romantic month of the year.

So what better time to focus on weddings? If

Turn to page 19 for our Weddings Special to

you are planning on saying “I do” in the near

get a flavour of just what the region has to

future, then there is no better place to tie the

offer the future Mr & Mrs.

We want to hear from you!

Amazing scenery and a selection of fantastic

married in order to have a spot of romance!

venues make the region a great choice

Our Top 10 Romantic Breaks feature on page

in which to get married. It’s also easily

45 uncovers the best accommodation in

accessible from the rest of the UK, and from

North Wales if you fancy a little bit of rest and

the rest of the world, making life as easy as

relaxation in order to recharge your batteries.

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!

If you’ve got something to shout about then let’s shout louder, together.

And, if you’re celebrating Valentines at home,

whatson@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk

knot than in North Wales.

Of course, you don’t need to be getting

possible for your guests who need to travel in order to enjoy your big day.

then why not indulge in a local tipple? North And now organising your wedding couldn’t

Walian wines have burst onto the scene in

be easier. If you thought that you would

recent years and promise to do the region,

need to visit the big smoke to choose your

and your taste buds, proud.

dress, for example, then think again. There is an amazing wedding buzz happening in North Wales right now, and everything that you need to complete your big day can be organised here – right on your doorstep.

Kate Hamilton Founding Editor

J Keep in touch. North Wales Magazine might be a new publication, but we want you to see it as your publication. So send in your contributions, letters, photos and short stories (not forgetting your contact details!) and become part of the North Wales Magazine family. editorial@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk

In this issue...

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.

Uncovering the best of Bala

J

J

subscribe@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk

Spicing up the local wining and dining scene

NWM 2018 Page 5

MAGAZINE

Page 6 NWM 2017

Contents 09 What’s On?

Your guide to all of the best events, shows, festivals and days out taking place this October

The oldest lighthouse in Wales...

Art Director Simon Marriott

19 Weddings special

All you need to know for your big day

Exploring the royal town of Bala

19

35 Half Term Heroes

35

Keeping the kids busy this February

41 River Dance

From the source to the sea

Romantic Breaks

51 Food & Drink

The area’s wining, dining and culinary scene

68 Homes and Interiors

North Wales Magazine is new, independent, regional magazine. It is distributed through the door of households in Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Wrexham, Gwynedd and the Isle of Anglesey. It is also available as a FREE pick-up across the region at carefully selected outlets.

Peruse our property of the month and get inspired by our interiors pages

84 Community news

A roundup of regional happenings

Our expert columnists share their thoughts

95 Crossword

51

Get to grips with our brain teasing puzzle

95 Competition

Win dinner for two at Dylan’s in Llandudno

97 Competition!

Win a family trip on the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways

98 Horoscopes

See what the future holds with Portmeirion resident Russell Grant

Contributors Dave Rothnie Stephen Gregory Alison Hough Tim Watson Cai Ross Julian Hughes Simon Smith Steve Goodier Nick Embrey Luke Edwards Contact Us editorial @northwalesmagazine.co.uk sales @northwalesmagazine.co.uk subscribe@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk

45 Top 10…

87 In my opinion…

Editor Kate Hamilton Publisher Grant Hamilton

16 The Big Picture

30 Town in focus

MAGAZINE

69

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.

NWM 2018 Page 7

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Page 8 NWM 2018

Art Exhibition 1st – 28th The Association of Anglesey Art Groups biennial exhibition is running all month. Taking place at Oriel Ynys Môn in Llangefni, this exhibition showcases selected new works by professional and talented amateurs belonging to art groups across Anglesey

What’s on this...

February

Jewellery demonstration

Katherine Ryan live 3rd

1st & 2nd

Live Nation Presents Canadian comic Katherine

Sandra Roberts visits Afonwen with her handmade silver

Ryan at the newly

jewellery. Come and watch Sandra work as she twists silver

refurbished Rhyl Pavilion

wire, cuts silver sheet and hammers it and adds beads and

Theatre tonight

crystals to some for extra colour

Piano masterclass 2nd

Piano recital

Renowned contemporary pianist Zubin Kanga will give

3rd

a masterclass and an introduction to extended piano

Join Iwan Llewelyn-Jones at the Ucheldre Centre for the

techniques at Bangor’s Mathias Hall, School of Music

second of his recitals. Iwan enters the beguiling world of

at 4pm today. This masterclass is in collaboration with

children to explore some of the most colourful and captivating

Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias, Gwasanaeth Cerdd

piano music ever composed. With Claude Debussy’s

Ysgolion Gwynedd a Môn and Bangor University.

‘Children’s Corner’ and Robert Schumann ‘Scenes from Childhood’ plus contributions from two child prodigies – Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Felix Mendelssohn. Tickets cost £12 and the recital starts at 7.30pm

Madama Butterfly 3rd Madama Butterfly is Puccini’s popular tale which the hit West End musical ‘Miss Saigon’ is based upon. The classical opera is on at Venue Cymru tonight

Print exhibition Levellers on tour

3rd Printmaker Estella Scholes will be showing framed and

2nd

un-framed prints and artist books in her exhibition that

Brighton folk-punk band

starts today as part of Mostyn Gallery’s series of exhibitions

Levellers are playing at

celebrating contemporary printmaking. Many of Estella’s

Wrexham’s William Aston

references are gathered from direct observation while

Hall tonight

wandering along the shorelines of North Wales, in particular the Llŷn Peninsula, where evidence of an almost vanished industrial past can be found. Broken bits of old jetties, rusted metal and other manmade debris linger amongst the stones and more familiar beach treasures.

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February Hearth festival 3rd & 4th Gladstone’s Library is hosting its spring micro-festival,

Environmental production

Hearth, which takes this weekend. This intimate literary

6th

festival offers keen writers the opportunity to pick up hints

Come to Pontio Bangor today to see 2071 – a production

and tips, and ask questions of published authors about their

outlining some of the environmental issues of the

experiences. It also encourages anyone interested in the world

day - air pollution, plastic waste, loss of species,

of books to find out more about the writing and publishing

deforestation, loss of bees and of course climate

process.

change. A Welsh language show with songs, spoken word, music and video. Aimed at year 8 and above

Classical concert 7th Rhyl Music Club’s North Wales International Concert Series kicks off this month with highly acclaimed saxophonist Jonathan Radford and Kaoli Ono from the Conservatoire de Lyon taking the audience on a musical journey from Norway

Story time for young ones

and the USA to France, Spain and Italy. The concert begins at 7.30pm at Rhyl Town Hall

4th Come to RSPB Conwy at 11am this morning for One Snowy Night story time and activities for three to six year olds.

Brendan Cole on tour

Wildlife Explorers £3, non-members £4, £2 for accompanying

8th

non-member adults. Booking essential

Strictly Come Dancing’s Brendan Cole

Fitness challenge

takes to the stage at Rhyl Pavilion Theatre to wow audiences with his

4th

latest spectacular production, All Night

Join the EXPEDercise Fitness Challenge in Caernarfon today.

Long tonight

This 2.4 km run takes place on the first Sunday of each month. The course is on level ground and on a good running surface (2 laps of the village within Carmel - Start & Finish @ The Old School), including one up hill and one down hill. It is

Creative writing workshop 9th A creative writing workshop with Fiona Owen takes place at the Ucheldre Centre between 1 and 3pm today.

Come and explore realist and non-realist fictional characters in worlds to believe in, where setting can work as backdrop, metaphor, mood and more.

Page 10 NWM 2018

Guitar concert

Fairy house hunt

9th

10th

Come to Worthenbury Village Hall in Wrexham at 8.30pm

Follow the ribbons to find the fairy houses at Bodnant

this evening to see Sunjay – a master folk and blues guitarist,

Gardens today – how many will you spot?

who has crafted his show to perfection

Aladdin 10th – 16th Wrexham and District Pantomime Company presents Aladdin at William Aston Hall this week

Race meet 9th

Build a nestbox

Come to Bangor-on-Dee

11th

Racecourse today for its

Build a Nestbox at RSPB Conwy for

February meeting. A range

National Nestbox Week and take

of hospitality packages

it home with you. All materials

are available, from private

and tools are provided. Put

dining to fish and chips in

up when you get home and then wait

the Paddock Enclosure

to see who moves in! Just make sure

it

you book first

Snowdrop planting

Working artist

12th

9th

Come to Penrhyn Castle today and help make the

Local artist Gillian Benjamin will be painting at Afonwen today

garden come alive with a flurry of alabaster

using watercolours and acrylics. She takes her inspiration

flowers in readiness for next year. Join the

from our rural landscapes and North Wales coastlines.

garden team and our volunteers to help them plant the bulbs ready for 2019’s display.

Treasure hunt

Mud week!

10th

12th

‘Show the Love’

Mud, mud glorious

Treasure hunt takes

mud! Join the Wild

place at RSPB South

Elements team at Plas

Stack today

Newydd on the Isle of Anglesey for a week of muddy activities.

Activities take place from 12-3pm all working week

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MAGAZINE

February Lego workshop

Bill Bailey at Venue Cymru

13th Does your child like Lego? Is your child a

14th & 15th

budding animator? This Lego workshop

Larks in Transit is a compendium of

at RSPB Conwy will consist of recreating

travellers’ tales and the general shenanigans

wildlife creatures, making an animated video

of 20 years as a travelling comedian. With

using iPads, and an exploration of one of the

musical virtuosity, surreal tangents and

reserve’s habitats. Organised in partnership

trademark intelligence, Bill Bailey tackles

with G2G Communities Lego Education.

politics, philosophy and the pursuit of

Booking required

BAFTA showcase

happiness at Venue Cymru tonight

Fun Play Friday 16th It’s Fun Play Friday at RSPB Conwy! This is a free event

Children’s television presenter Katie Thistleton (CBBC) hosts a

for children aged between three and eight, but standard

showcase of the films, television and games nominated at the

reserve entry charges apply if you are going round the trails.

BAFTA Children’s Awards at Galeri Caernarfon today. A fun mix

There will be loads of stuff to play with – den building, chalk

of behind-the-scenes films, audience Q&As, challenges and a

drawings, bubbles, hoops and badge making. Please note that

drawing competition, this event is aimed at 7-12 year olds

this event is weather dependent!

14 th

13th

Crafty Sisters

Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour 16th The Banff Mountain

Crafty sisters. Returning

Film Festival World

to Afonwen for the

Tour is returning to

first time this year the

Venue Cymru tonight,

ladies have a wonderful

featuring two different

and varied collection

collections of brand

of hand made cards,

new adventure films,

fused and braided and

starring the world’s top explorers on mind-blowing

resin jewellery and felt

journeys in wild and remote parts of the globe

brooches

Sophie Willan live

Voice workshop 17th

14th

Visit the Ucheldre Centre from 10am today to take part in a

Sophie Willan is performing at Pontio Bangor tonight. Expect

voice workshop with Marian Bryfdir and Kiefer Jones. Aimed

a raucous hour like no other from this unapologetic young

at developing your voice whether your interest lies in jazz,

comedienne who is fresh from a total sell out run at the

folk, opera or choral music. Come along and try it. All ages and

Edinburgh Fringe

levels of experience and interest are welcome

Page 12 NWM 2018

Antiques fair

Piano concert

17th

21st

A small and friendly antiques fair takes place in Llandudno

21 year-old pianist Isata Kanneh-Mason from the Royal

Town Hall today. Selling a wide variety of goods with prices to

Academy of Music will be joined at the Rhyl Music Club’s

suit everybody. China, glass, jewellery (both costume and fine)

famed Boesendorfer concert grand by two of her younger

books, paintings and prints, silver, small pieces of furniture

siblings, Konya and Jeneba, to play works by classical and

and vintage fashion etc. No dateline but preferably no new

romantic composers. The concert begins at 7.30pm at Rhyl

goods on sale.

Town Hall

Pullman Afternoon Tea

Stargazing

17th

21st

Join the Ffestiniog and Welsh

Stargaze with Cadw at Criccieth Castle from 6pm tonight.

Highland Railway for a Valentine’s

Sessions are suitable for those aged 12 and above

Day Pullman Afternoon Tea Special this afternoon. On arrival

Rebecca Ferguson live

at Porthmadog you will be escorted to your reserved first

22nd

class Pullman seats, where you will be greeted with a glass of

Rebecca Ferguson is

Bucks Fizz, before your departure to Beddgelert.

performing at William Aston

Painting on Canvas with Thelma Evans

Hall tonight. The soulful singer from Liverpool was

7th & 18th

the runner up of X Factor in

Painting on Canvas with Thelma Evans. Come along to

2010 (beaten by Matt Cardle,

Afonwen and watch Thelma painting on canvas. She has a

but one place ahead of One

super collection of pictures, mainly landscapes and floral work

Direction!)

along with some prints that are taken from her original works

RSPB guided walk

Birds of Bodnant

18th

23rd

Join the warden for a guided walk to discover the variety of

Find out about the birds of Bodnant Gardens today on a

wildfowl species and other birds which spend the winter at

walk led by a local expert

RSPB Conwy reserve. Please book prior to the event, which runs between 10am and 12.30pm

The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde

Sarah Millican on tour 23rd & 24th Sarah Millican is not a control freak, she’s

20th & 21st

a control enthusiast. She even controls her own insults,

A thrilling

see? Do you arrange the nights out? Are you in charge

adaptation of

of passports on holiday? Then so are you! Funny, frank

Robert Louis

and unapologetically filthy she is live at Venue Cymru this

Stevenson’s dark

weekend

psychological fantasy, The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde immerses you in the myth and mystery of 19th Century London’s fog-bound streets where love, betrayal and murder lurk at every chilling twist and turn. Gripping, stylish and thought provoking, this is unmissable theatre right on your doorstep at Venue Cymru

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MAGAZINE

February Voice workshop 24th The Rhyl 10 mile takes place in, you guessed it, Rhyl, today.

This flat, fast course is sure to be a hit with runners chasing

Crazy For You

their ten-mile personal best

28th

Mark Steel live

Strictly Come Dancing winner Tom Chambers and West End & TV Star Claire Sweeney appear in Crazy For You at Venue

24th

Cymru this week. High energy, high kicking and gloriously

Mark Steel brings his show “Every Little Thing’s Gonna Be

glamorous, “Crazy For You” is the ultimate feel-good musical

Alright” to Pontio Bangor tonight

with a fabulous score from the Gershwin brothers’ songbook

Writing masterclass

The Winter’s Tale

24th

28th

Come to Gladstone’s Library today for a masterclass

Christopher Wheeldon, Artistic

with February Writer in Residence, Polly Atkin. Using

Associate of The Royal Ballet,

examples of writing about bodies in different scenarios,

created his adaptation of

pen a creative piece of work of your own!

Shakespeare’s great romance The Winter’s Tale for The Royal Ballet in 2014. Acclaimed by critics and audiences alike for its intelligent,

distinctive and emotionally powerful

story, told through exquisite dance. It is now widely judged to be a modern ballet classic and it can be seen at the Ucheldre Centre at 7.15pm tonight

Farmers market 28th Come and enjoy this local produce market at RSPB Conwy this morning. There will be fresh vegetables, local meats and cheeses, jams and pickles and lots more!

Music performance 25th Come to Galeri Caernarfon this afternoon to listen to students from Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias Music Centre perform a varied programme.

Page 14 NWM 2018

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

NWM 2018 Page 15

MAGAZINE

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The Big Picture The Point of Ayr Lighthouse, also known as Talacre Lighthouse, is a Grade II Listed building situated on the Point of Ayr (funnily enough). The oldest lighthouse in Wales, it was built in 1776 by a Trust of the Major, Recorder and Aldermen of Chester to warn ships entering between the Dee and the Mersey Estuary. After over a century of service it eventually fell into disuse and was decommissioned in 1884. While it is now privately owned, the Point of Ayr Lighthouse remains a commanding figure on peaceful Talacre beach. But, if you’re visiting, make sure to keep your wits about you as it is said that the Point of Ayr Lighthouse is one of the most haunted structures in North Wales‌

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LOVE

&

MARRIAGE Whether you live locally, or are coming to the region just to tie the knot, you can rest assured that North Wales has everything you need to make your big day as special as it should be. Nick Embrey reveals some of the jewels in the crown…

I remember well my own preparations for the big day, which, at times, made my wife and I feel like we were pushing a truck up hill, then at other times, like we were sitting in its cab and hurtling down hill without a brake. In short, a lot of effort and sometimes not too much control. One flashback I do have however from the planning stages, more vivid and focused than any other, was the feeling of sheer joy and

The

Stationary

elation that washed over us both when we got the venue organised. It’s a bit like buying long-haul flights without a holiday itinerary in mind – you know there’s still a lot to do but you’ve at least got the framework in place. Only this time it is not for my own benefit that I find myself embroiled in the everyday nomenclature of holy matrimony. Instead, on this occasion, I shall be getting to grips sorting, sifting and suggesting a range of sumptuous and dreamy North Walian wedding venues for someone else’s big day – yours.

Where finer place to start than Château Rhianfa, proudly standing guard over the gates of Anglesey and cutting a seriously imposing dash as it surveys the banks of the Menai Straits.

Built in 1849 and inspired by architecture from the Loire Valley, its commanding

Château Rhianfa

You only get one chance to make a first impression and so it’s important that your wedding invitations should set the scene of the proceedings to come. Whether that be through the colour scheme or a specific theme, local wedding stationers Lilly Bear has incorporated everything into its invitations from childhood photographs to little 3D teepees for a bohemian, outdoor wedding. Make sure that your ‘save the dates’ and official invites are a reflection of your big day and are truly personal. www.lillybear.co.uk

views and backdrops are so

NWM 2018 Page 19

MAGAZINE

Tre-Ysgawen Hall

and only outdoor wedding venue in Anglesey. It has a total of four suites that are licensed for civil ceremonies, the Capel Coch Room, the Britannia Room, the Conservatory, Anglesey Suite and the Pavilion.

The role of the wedding team at Tre-Ysgawen Hall Country House Hotel & Spa is to help and assist you in the organisation of your day and, as it only caters for one wedding per day, you can rest assured that this venue is fully committed to making your day as special as possible.

On the other side of the Menai Straight lies Hugh Owen Hall at The Management Centre, which is nestled between the powerful that might even opt for an outside wedding, as the

mountains of Snowdonia and the sea. It’s historic Grade II

Dove Cot is now fully licensed for civil ceremonies. Château

listed venue has been restored sensitively offering plenty of

Rhianfa can offer its clients a team of experienced wedding

character and the all-encompassing perfect venue for your

planners with a “few tricks” up their sleeves including a

special day.

priceless “little black book of gold dust suppliers” to help you source the best suppliers for your special day.

As well as spectacular views this venue offers a range of

In the kitchen, where that all important wedding breakfast is being rustled up, Château Rhianfa’s chef “has the menus covered, created with passion to tantalise your tastebuds” while your special day will not be spoilt at midnight with Cinderella-esque challenges. Instead, platters of bacon sandwiches will help fuel flagging revellers and when the partying does finally end, the

The

Rings

venue offers “a collection of 30 beautifully-designed rooms.” For those savvy brides determined to soak up the atmosphere of the place without the nerves and distractions of the wedding day, the hotel provides ‘Hen Do’ packages also. Château Rhianfa also has a proud clutch of industry awards. Most recently, and for a second time, the hotel claimed ‘Best Wedding Venue in North Wales’ as well as ‘Best Wedding Venue in Wales’ for 2017.

Also located on the beautiful Isle of Anglesey is TreYsgawen Hall, where the tranquil and beautifully maintained gardens provide the perfect backdrop for those memorable wedding day photographs.

Tre-Ysgawen offers complete wedding packages where you and your guests can stay overnight. You can choose your preferred suite out of the four available for the wedding service and reception, depending on whether you want a small and intimate ceremony or something larger.

And, if you prefer to hold your wedding at an outdoor venue, then Tre-Ysgawen Hall is proud to have the first

Page 20 NWM 2018

For centuries wedding rings have been used to symbolise commitment, devotion and loyalty to a loved one. Yes, your big day is important, but remember that you will both be wearing your wedding bands for the rest of your lives – so it is vital to choose carefully and prioritise accordingly. Clogau understands the importance of finding the perfect wedding ring, so why not celebrate your romantic love story with a Compose

by Clogau wedding ring that is as beautiful as you are.

All of Clogau’s wedding rings contain rare Welsh gold, as favoured by some members of the British Royal Family. Some members of the British Royal Family have used pure Welsh gold to create their wedding rings, and this tradition was carried into its 88th year during the most recent royal wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on 29th April, 2011. www.clogau.co.uk

The

Dress

Caer Rhun Hall

It could be quite easy to think that if you wanted to find THE perfect dress then you need to travel to the big city. Wrong. In fact, your search for ‘the dress’ does not need to be a far thrown journey as North Wales has a flourishing wedding scene – and some of the biggest designers are stocking with boutiques right here. The Silk Loft in Y Felinheli believes in celebrating individual style, and that every bride should wear a dress that makes them feel confident, beautiful and, above all, like themselves. “It is so important to find a style that you wear and not a style that wears you,” is the greatest piece of advice that owner Katie gives to her brides. A bride can not only browse collections from designers

offering “a perfect destination for weddings.” Located in 14 acres of gardens, the Hall reopens again next month following a successful million pound refurbishment programme which, in particular, boasts the transformation of all 23 in house bedrooms and suites into the most elegant rooms to stay in including the bridal suite that has its own roll top bath and views over the garden.

At Caer Rhun, a sumptuous wedding breakfast can be taken in the Grand Hall in front of a roaring open fire if the weather

who cater to modern, stylish brides in The Silk Loft, but they have exclusivity while they do. The latch is down and they can relax and enjoy an experience that puts them at the centre. They can also bring along their bride squad while they are guided through the dresses with

The

Flowers

care attention – and rather a lot of fun. www.thesilkloft.co.uk Nothing quite says “wedding” as well as decedent floral displays. Lunaflower in Rhos-on-Sea is an awarding wedding options. Hugh Owen Hall itself has a capacity of 120

winning florist, having recently scooped Best Wedding

guests banqueting style to 150 (informal), while the Menai

Florist in Wales at the Welsh National Wedding Awards

Suite is ideal for civil ceremonies of up to 100 guests. 56 en

2017. Specialising in bespoke wedding flowers the team

suite bedrooms mean that all of your guests can sleep in

at Lunaflower love to create the ultimate in wedding

comfort, and the beautifully appointed lounge bar and outside

flowers and venue decoration. “No two weddings that

seating areas all offer waterside views.

we create are ever the same, and this is because they are individually designed to reflect the couple and

The dedicated events and catering team have years of

the venue perfectly,” says proprietor Andrea Jones,

experience in the wedding industry, and will be on hand

who recommends doing your floral research before

to guide you throughout all of the planning. They pride

committing to a florist. “Ask for a basic price list,”

themselves on being as flexible as possible working closely

she advises. “This may help you with planning and

with you to create your own bespoke wedding package that is

budgeting for your flowers. Many people do not know

unique to you and your budget. In addition the newly married

how much flowers will cost for a big event like a

couple receive a complimentary stay in The Bridal Suite on

wedding. Also go and meet a few florists to see which

the night of the wedding while guests can take advantage of

ones you have a rapport with. You’ll be working with

preferential bed and breakfast rates during their stay.

them closely to plan your special wedding day together, so it’s always easier if you get on well – and you get a

A bit further inland, nestled deep in the Conwy Valley, lies

new friend too!”

Caer Rhun Hall – a stately home steeped in history, and one

sales@luna-flower.com

NWM 2018 Page 21

MAGAZINE

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

Page 22 NWM 2018

Imperial hotel

The

Cake befits the occasion. Similarly, in warmer months, you may wish to hold your ceremony in the garden room overlooking the fabulously landscaped grounds or under canvass in a hired marquee amongst the gardens themselves. Caer Rhun Hall offers a set of three

Let’s be honest, your wedding cake is the

different wedding packages, civil ceremonies and a host of venue

centrepiece of your day. Once your guests

choices and, as you’d expect, an expert team of wedding organisers

have had a good look at your gorgeous

are on hand to handle your enquiries and help ensure your day is as

dress, the next big moment is to check

magnificent and magical as the scenery that surrounds you.

out the cake. Judith Bond is a bespoke cake maker from North Wales – here are

By way of superb contrast, Quay Hotel and Spa offers a more

her top tips on how to choose a wedding

contemporary feel for its guests while still boasting all the usual suspects

cake that’s impressive, delicious and

that clients might expect from their wedding experience. Adopting

memorable.

the motto, “the Quay to Unlock the Unforgettable,” those selecting this

J Find a recommended (and registered)

venue for their special day will be its sole focus, as the Quay Hotel and Spa only provides one wedding service at a time. Civil ceremonies are also arranged, while wedding breakfasts and evening receptions are all provided by a passionate team of chefs that will ensure it is a meal to delight you and your guests.

cake maker J Gather your design ideas – photos, colour swatches and your invitation J Be as original as you like – from naked sponge with fresh flowers to sugar paste stack with handmade

Returning to that all-important wedding breakfast, those who pick Quay Hotel can choose from a menu of over half a dozen delicious options for each course. This hotel and spa offers great views of Conwy castle and a

decorations. Your cake should reflect your personality J Make sure you have plenty of cake

fabulous waterside location should you need to stretch your legs during

to serve your guests – you can

the preparations.

supplement with cupcakes or an additional cutting cake

Extending the waterside theme, the Imperial Hotel again offers newly

J A good cake maker will offer you a

engaged couples the luxury of a beachfront view, only this time

‘tasting’ with a range of flavours to

you’ll also be getting the beautifully elegant and flowing curvature of

try. Why not have each tier a different

Llandudno’s famous Victorian promenade to tempt your photographer with. A ceremony at this venue promises elegant function suites in their

flavour?

J Get the details of your order in

Victorian splendour, award winning cuisine and a first class service, not

writing so that payment and delivery

to mention another ‘one wedding per day’ pledge, ensuring each couple

arrangements are clear. Your cake

has the staff’s undivided attention throughout their special day.

maker should be fully insured so best to check this out before signing off

As its website proudly points out, the hotel “boasts three fantastic banqueting suites, all licensed for civil ceremonies and civil partnerships,

your deposit J Expect to pay a deposit to secure

and the ability to cater for 120 guests at a wedding breakfast, and 140

your order, usually up to 50%, and the

guests for evening receptions.” In a nod to the future that contrasts neatly

balance a few weeks before delivery

with The Imperial’s Victorian past, the hotel’s team provide a ‘planning

www.judithbondcakes.co.uk

NWM 2018 Page 23

MAGAZINE

Lake Vyrnwy Hotel Deganwy Quay

your wedding blog’ which might well be a useful substitute for your usual bedtime reading during the planning stages!

The Mother of the bride

Another superb waterfront location is Lake Vyrnwy Hotel and Spa, which offers a stunning location for a Welsh lakeside wedding. Complete with spectacular views across breathtaking countryside, the Lake Vyrnwy team has the experience to create your perfect day no matter how large or small your wedding, and no matter how simple, extravagant or unusual your plans. It has a choice of elegant lake view function rooms for you to choose from, and options to suit every style and budget.

The wedding of a son or daughter is a very special occasion, so Mum needs

Lake Vyrnwy will make your wedding day as unique and

almost as much VIP treatment as

personal to you, and with the lake in the background of all of

the bride! But did you know that it’s

its function suites, your guests will be mesmerised from the

etiquette for the mother of the bride to be

minute they walk through the door.

given first choice of colour for her outfit?

Charlotte James Boutique in Broughton

Moving westwards along Wales’ stunning Llŷn Peninsula,

recommends a colour that compliments

our next featured romantic destination is Talhenbont Hall, a

(but does not match) the bridesmaids’

stout and sturdy national treasure of a building dating back to

dresses – otherwise Mum may fade

1607. Once described as being packed full of “history, folk-lore

into the background of photographs.

and fascinating detail,” the ancient Hall was used by Oliver

It’s a good idea for both mothers to put

Cromwell as a military garrison and simply oozes heritage from

their heads together, as creating that

every pore. This venue would ideally suit those with an eye

fabulous, timeless, wedding photograph

for the personal family touch as well as something beyond the

requires a good balance of colours. “We

ordinary – for the Hall is proud of its ghostly residents.

also suggest you make the step up to designer clothing rather than buy an

Talhenbont is run as a family business in its second generation.

outfit from high street retailers,” adds

The current owners are in fact due to tie the knot there

owner Debbie Kellett. “It may cost a little

themselves in the summer which I would interpret as a serious

more but saves the embarrassment of a

stamp of approval. It stands proudly amongst a 70-acre estate,

guest turning up in the same outfit. Since

which should provide more than ample options for the most

most men will hire their morning suits,

roving of wedding photographers. The owners certainly want

it may be more cost effective for Mum to

Talhenbont to help put the Llyn Peninsula on the map too.

hire her designer outfit too!”

Amongst others, Bear Grylls has used the venue for on location

www.charlottejamesboutique.com

Page 24 NWM 2018

Talhenbont

Hugh Owen Hall

filming as well as it being selected for a feature in February’s edition of Vogue magazine. As you’d expect, personal touches abound here as well and the owners are keen to stress that those who select Talhenbont for their big day will be assured exclusive use of

The

Photos

the whole 70-acre site. And if all the history doesn’t grab you, its location, being only two miles from some excellent beaches and just a short drive from Mount Snowdon, certainly will.

A good photographer is a vital component to your day. After all, you will be looking at these photos for years to come. To

If, as I was, you are a love bird desperate to secure

choose the right one, look at the websites of five or six local

their betrothed in holy wedlock before they find

photographers and ask yourself whose style do you like

a better offer, St Georges Hotel in Llandudno is

best? Can you imagine yourself in those photos? When you

advertising a range of discounts for weddings

have a shortlist, arrange to meet them. That might be at a

booked before April. Rightly boasting the accolade of

wedding show, at your venue, or at your house – wherever

being the ‘AA Hotel of the Year for Wales,’ this hotel,

you feel comfortable. Ask to see a range of wedding albums

like the Imperial, provides that grand old frontage

with different weddings over a period of time – is their

of the Victorian sea front together with the equally

quality of photography and style consistent? But, says

eye catching local landmark, the Great Orme. Inside,

Diana Golding of Golding Photography, there is a much more

the venue promises lots of space and a variety of

important consideration. “ Make sure you like them!” she

rooms to accommodate your guests and celebrate in

says. “Do they make you feel comfortable and make you

style. In particular, wedding suites have a cool and

smile? Your photographers will be with you from early in the

contemporary feel while retaining an air of opulence.

morning until after your first dance – it’s important that you get on!” Also ask to see some recommendations from previous

The hotel’s Grade II listed Wedgewood suite will

brides and grooms, and ask about things like insurance.

comfortably accommodate a 200 strong party just as

Are they full-time wedding photographers, and how many

easily as a small gathering and, as is so often vital

weddings have they photographed? “And while it might

these days, St Georges can offer wedding planning

seem an odd question,” continues Diana, “make sure that

as well as wedding fayres that may be of use to those

they have the right equipment for the job – in all weather

couples having trouble making the all important

conditions and at all times of year. There’s no sun after 4pm

decisions. As you’d expect, the hotel offers clients a

on a winter’s day!”

variety of different wedding packages. Above all, they

goldingphotography.co.uk

NWM 2018 Page 25

OCCASION WEAR

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

OPENING TIMES:

Monday-Friday 10am-5.30pm | Monday-Friday 10am-5.30pm Evening appointments available 01248 372283 | email: carysd@tiscali.co.uk | info@sochicbangor.co.uk visit us at 154 High Street, Bangor, Gwynedd, LL57 1NU www.facebook.com/So-Chic-220203394756

www.sochicbangor.co.uk

HOTEL of the YEAR Awarding Winning Sea View Hotel From the moment you arrive at St George’s Hotel in Llandudno, you will recognise that this is indeed a very special wedding venue with an individual style and character of its very own.

Let us arrange a show round for you to discuss our 2018 and 2019 Packages, which includes our special Winter and Seasonal Wedding and Civil Partnership Promotions.

For more information call 01492 877544 or email events@stgeorgeswales.co.uk www.stgeorgeswales.co.uk

The

Wedding planner

St George’s Hotel

understand that your wedding reception is one of the most important events of your life, so it offers a professional wedding co-ordinator

People might assume that a wedding

with experience and courteous service, providing you with impeccable

planner is bit of an extravagance, but

standards, ensuring your day is a successful and memorable occasion,

they do more than meets the eye. “At

exceeding all your expectations.

Events by Caroline Louise our approach is simple, we work with you, because after

Completing this line-up of cupid’s calling, I give you Llanrhaeadr

all your wedding should be done, your

Springs Spa, a unique spa and wedding venue, complete with boutique

way,” explains wedding planner Caroline

accommodation and fine dining restaurant. Situated at the heart of North

Roberts. “We can assist in setting you

Wales’ Clwydian Range, Llanrhaeadr Springs promises to make your

off on the right track if you’ve just got

special day picture perfect. Bespoke wedding packages are offered, a

engaged, we can find specific suppliers

wedding planner is on hand to help you sort through the very best of

or venues and even come up with overall

hand-picked local suppliers while, as readers might expect, a luxurious

themes and ideas. However, our most

honeymoon suite is available to all couples getting hitched.

popular option is event management on the day. If you’re happy to plan the details

As well as playing host to your wedding reception, you can also arrange

yourself we can be on hand throughout the

the ceremony itself to be held on site at the venue. And don’t, as so many

day ensuring that all of those plans fall into

couples do, worry about numbers. For, in ‘The Coach House,’ Llanrhaeadr

place – without you having to worry about

Spa has a function room capable of comfortably housing 80 guests, while

a thing – meaning that you can relax, enjoy

those contemplating a larger gathering can count on a marquee instead,

and take in one of the most memorable

placed within its stunning grounds.

days of your lives.” www.eventsbycarolinelouise.com

Your

Makeup

It’s time for your close up! Or around 500

that having a rapport with your bride is

of them to be precise, so choose the right

paramount, after all, you will be closer to

makeup artist to ensure that you look

her on her big day more than anyone.” So

your absolute best. Take your time and do

look at portfolios, and read other brides

some research on what style of makeup

reviews. Read up on the artists training,

you want, be it dramatic glam or a soft,

which products they use and how much

vintage look. We all have our own styles

experience they have. “Remember that

so it’s important to choose an artist who

your makeup is something which you need

is right for you. “During my career as a

to last all day,” adds Keena. “And not only

makeup artist, I have had the pleasure of

must it look good in person but also in

making up hundreds of brides,” says bridal

your photos. Take your time in deciding on

makeup artist Keena Roberts. “One thing

the right makeup artist and you won’t be

they will all agree on is finding someone

disappointed.”

who listens and is easy to talk to. I feel

keenamakeup.co.uk

NWM 2018 Page 27

MAGAZINE

The

Entertianment

And finally – the music. A wedding just isn’t a wedding without a bit of Dad dancing after all!

As a result many couples are in a dilemma about whether to book a band or a DJ for their evening entertainment. So, consider your venue. You don’t want to be squeezing a ten-piece band onto a small stage or a solo singer in the middle of a field.

Llanrhaeadr Springs Spa

But, as always, there is even more to it than meets the eye. “Make sure that your venue doesn’t have a noise restriction, and check on any noise curfews,” advises Nicola Peskett of Red Rooster Discos who also has the following top tips: J Would you like a Ceilidh – a traditional Gaelic gathering with dancing to a live band – which appeals to all ages and can be a wonderful ice breaker?

J Plan ahead as most good DJs are not cheap and get booked up one to two years in advance J Check what the cost of your DJ covers.

Will they play over time if allowed, and

Given that it lends its name to the place, it would be remiss of me not to mention the Spa. With a pre-wedding treatment package available and advertised as being ideal for hen parties, I would imagine a luxurious ‘back, neck and shoulder massage’ being a pretty easy ‘sell’ to any bridal party struck down with pre-match butterflies. And for those grooms wanting to get in on a little pampering action, you will be relieved to know that there are ‘Bride and Groom’ packages as well as a ‘Groom the Groom’ offering. Just set your alarm folks, that’s all I ask, as I wouldn’t want you falling asleep, induced by the sheer decadent relaxation of the experience, and then missing the ceremony. n

how much will this cost? Are travel costs included? Quality DJs will have public liability insurance and should be able to give PAT test certification to your venue to show they hold safe equipment. Quality DJs charge £300£500 which usually covers about five hours of music, played through a decent system with good quality lighting J An experienced DJ will ‘read’ the dance floor and change the tempo of the music according to which, and how many, guests are dancing and also should be able to ‘build’ the evening accordingly J Make sure that you have a collection of songs, about 25-50 which mean something to you

Venues Caer Rhun Hall www.caerrhunhall.co.uk Château Rhianfa chateaurhianfa.com Hugh Owen Hall 01248 365912 Lake Vyrnwy Hotel and Spa www.lakevyrnwy.com Llanrhaeadr Springs Spa www.springs-spa.co.uk

Quay Hotel and Spa www.quayhotel.co.uk St Georges Hotel stgeorgeswales.co.uk Talhenbont Hall www.talhenbonthall.co.uk The Imperial www.theimperial.co.uk Tre-Ysgawen Hall Country House Hotel & Spa www.treysgawen-hall.co.uk

both, some top tunes you both like. Or you could ask your guests to request a song along with the wedding invitation to make for a truly memorable night! redroosterdiscos.co.uk

Page 28 NWM 2018

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

NWM 2018 Page 29

MAGAZINE

EXPLORING

Bala

Bala might well be a historic market town but, says Steve Goodier, it’s the lake that really steals the show…

I had discerning parents. They knew the benefits of heading

I got used to it being there.

into the southern regions of Snowdonia National Park and many of our summer camping weekends were spent on the

Bala is, in reality, a small market town with a population of

shores of beautiful Bala Lake exploring this lovely region to

just under 2,000 people. In the 18th Century it was known

the full. We fished, swam, walked along lake and nearby sea

for the manufacture of flannel, stockings, gloves and hosiery.

shores and climbed the hills and, whenever I visit this area

The town hosted The National Eisteddfod in 1967, 1997 and

today, the memories of those family times flood back.

2009. On 16th June 2016 Bala temporarily changed its name to ‘Bale’ in support of Real Madrid striker Gareth Bale and

The good news for today’s visitor is that little has changed

The Welsh football team as they progressed in UEFA’s Euro

in this charming and visually stunning playground. You can

2016 competition.

still enjoy much of what I did as a youngster as Bala is still a great place to visit today, and the surrounding road network

If you were in the town at this time you will have also noticed

is good enough to allow it to be used as a centre for touring

the prominent statue of MP Thomas Edward Ellis (1859 –

from while still giving yourself a wonderful retreat to return

1899) was adorned with a Welsh Football shirt too.

to at day’s end for a meal and glass of wine.

Historically it is believed The Romans were one of the first here with the 30ft high ‘Tower of Bala’ (‘Tomen y Bala’)

Bala (Y Bala) is a busy market town with plenty of charm

being a ‘moat hill’ which is thought to mark the site of a

and is centred around the long main wide street, Stryd

Roman Fort.

Fawr (The ‘High’ or ‘Great’ Street). There are plenty of places to eat ranging from cafés to pubs serving decent

You won’t spend much time in the town before you hear

food and the shops, although not large in number, still give

the tale of Mary Jones who, in 1800, set out from remote

enough variety to service the visitor and local alike. I often

Llanfihangel-y-Pennant (about 25 miles away) to walk to Bala

passed through the town on my way back from climbing

to buy a Welsh Bible she had saved six years for. She was

The Cadair Idris and Rhinog Mountains and was shocked

15 at the time and, being from a poor family, had no shoes,

one winters evening to see a ‘Subway’ had appeared on the

but this devout Welsh Protestant completed her journey and

main street. It seemed so out of place and character but I

bought her Bible from the Reverend Thomas Charles. Her

have to admit to stopping and using it many times once

actions inspired the founding of The British and Foreign

Page 30 NWM 2018

What to do MARY JONES WORLD Mary Jones World is a stare of the art visitor and education centre on the banks of Bala Lake and has its own picnic and children’s play area. The centre tells the story of 15-year-old Mary Jones and the Reverend Thomas Charles against the background of Bala and Llanfihangel-y-Pennant. The centre relives the tale of how, in 1800, Mary walked 26 miles barefoot from her home to buy a copy of The Bible in Welsh from The Reverend Thomas Charles with money it had taken her six years to save. Her actions inspired the founding of The British and Foreign Bible Society. At Mary Jones World you can follow the journey through multimedia and interactive displays, exhibits and activities in a redeveloped Grade II listed building. www.bydmaryjonesworld.org.uk THE NATIONAL WHITE WATER CENTRE Here’s one for the adventurous who might never have done anything as serious as white water rafting or kayaking before but would love to have a go. Based on The River Tywern, The National White Water Sports Centre is unique and offers novices the chance to have a go at White Water Rafting on their ‘Taster Sessions’ under the supervision of an experienced guide. For those who have done it before there are longer rafting sessions and river safaris. The centre also offers kayaking instruction and takes canyoning expeditions out. The National White Water Sports Centre opened officially in July 1995 but had been a popular destination for white water sports long before this. The River Tywern’s flow rate is controlled by the water released from the dam at Llyn Celyn above it. www.nationalwhitewatercentre.co.uk VISIT BALA LAKE Bala lake (‘Llyn Tegid’ which translates as ‘Lake of Serenity) is the largest natural body of water in Wales and is four miles long and a mile wide with a maximum depth of 130ft. Its existence is due to the geological Bala Fault line on which it lies. The lake has numerous lay-bys and several car parks and picnic sites. The best known of these is at the northern end of the lake where you get stunning views of the towering Arran Mountains down the water. There is plenty of parking here and a café and you can hire various sorts of boats and water sports accessories so you can go and enjoy being out on the water. The lake is much loved by kayakers, canoeists and yachters but gives just as much fun to those who hire pedalos and rowing boats and stay near the shore.

BALA LAKE RAILWAY Bala Lake Railway (Rheiffordd Llyn Tegid) offers a delightful and scenic nine mile return journey alongside the stunning waters of Bala Lake. The journey takes you through the mountains and woodlands of Southern Snowdonia and starts at the little village of Llanuwchylln. Once you reach the end of the line at Bala you can walk into the town from the station in around ten minutes. A round trip on the railway takes about an hour and could be done from Bala Town if you preferred it that way. The Narrow gauge line makes a superb morning or afternoon out and is very popular with visitors to the area. The railway follows a section of the former standard gauge Ruabon to Barmouth GWR line that closed in 1965. www.bala-lake-railway.co.uk CAERAU UCHAF GARDENS Caerau Uchaf Gardens where opened in 1994 when Toby and Stephanie Hickish bought a derelict farmhouse near Bala and moved from Wiltshire. Located a little north east of Bala this is a great family friendly attraction with a café and pretty gardens to look around. For children there is a large sunken trampoline and a fort and zip wire in the woods. The woodland will particularly appeal to youngsters and gives them plenty of chances to run off all that excessive energy and get creative too. The gardens are open from Easter until the end of September. Toby and Stephanie also operate Gorwelion near to Bala and here you will find a café, a gift shop and soft play barn. www.caerau-gardens.co.k

NWM 2018 Page 31

MAGAZINE

Where to stay THE WHITE LION ROYAL HOTEL A historic coaching Inn on Bala High Street built in 1752. The author George Borrow stayed here on his walking tour of Wales which he recorded in this classic book, ‘Wild Wales’. The Inn has 20 comfortable rooms of various sizes that should cover most people’s needs. As well as that there is a cosy bar with a real fire in cold weather and a large restaurant with a good and varied menu. The White Lion Royal Hotel is

Bible Society and her home and memorial can still

set right in the heart of the town and central for just about everything.

be visited in Llanfihangel -y-Pennant today. If you

01678 520314

look on the walls of Barclays Bank on Bala High Street you can see a plaque that commemorates

THE PLAS COCH HOTEL

the fact that this building was the one where

The Plas Coch Hotel is another of Bala’s historic coaching inns and

she finally received her Bible. On the outskirts of

dates from around 1780. The hotel has a large meeting room and serves

Bala there is now a ‘Mary Jones World’ that tells

bar meals from an extensive and varied menu with locally sourced

Mary’s fascinating story.

produce being used wherever possible. The Plas Coch Hotel has eight bedrooms in total with two of them being singles. To the rear of the

In 1854 the writer George Borrow visited Bala on

hotel there is a large car park for visitors to use.

his walking tour of Wales which he recorded in

www.yplascoch.co.uk

his famous book ‘Wild Wales’. He stayed at the White Lion Hotel and was enchanted by Bala

FRON DDERW COUNTRY HOUSE

Lake which is still the reason most people visit

Fron Dderw Country House provides bed and breakfast style

this area today.

accommodation and offers four double rooms, one twin room, one single room and one triple room. Breakfast is a large affair and

The lake (‘Llyn Tegid’ which translates as ‘Lake

locally sourced Welsh produce is used as much as possible. Fron

of Serenity) is Wales’s largest natural body of

Dderw has good mountain and lake views and is a short eight

water and is four miles long and a mile wide. Its

minute walk away from Bala. The house dates back to the 17th

existence is due to the geological Bala Fault line

Century and guests can relax in the elegant lounge, cosy library

on which it lies. The River Dee runs through

or music room. Afternoon tea can be taken on the terrace with

it and the lake has its own fish, The Gwyniad,

spectacular views weather permitting.

which is unique to its waters and was trapped

www.frondderwhouse.co.uk

here at the end of the last Ice Age some 10,000 years ago. The Gwyniad is a member of the

PLAS YN DRE HOTEL

whitefish family and some of the fishes eggs

Plas Yn Dre Hotel has been a family run hotel and restaurant since

were transferred to nearby Llyn Arenig Fawr

1990 but has recently undergone a refurbishment which saw the

between 2003 and 2007 as a conservation

addition of a further nine bedrooms. Plas Yn Dre is conveniently

measure as they were being eaten by The Ruffe

located on Bala High Street so is central for town itself. There are

(a fish introduced to Bala Lake in the late 1980’s).

plenty of rooms available and a varied menu is served in both the

Local legend has it that the lake is inhabited by a

restaurant and the bar of the hotel. Plas Yn Dre Hotel is quite an

monster known as ‘Teggie’ and it is said that on

historic building and alterations have been done carefully to retain as

moonlit nights the palace and buildings of King

many of the original features as possible.

Tegid can be seen underneath the waters!

www.plasyndre.co.uk

In severe winters the lake completely freezes over and the last times this happened were in

THE BRYNTIRION INN

1947 and 1963.

The Bryntirion Inn is located about four miles east of Bala in a lovely Dee Valley setting. The Inn only has two rooms for guests to stay in so

But for most visitors Bala Lake simply means

you would be well advised to book in advance if you are coming here.

unbelievable scenery, lakeside picnics, fishing

The Inn serves a varied and good menu in the bar and even the car

(the lake has large stocks of pike, perch, brown

park is attractive and is surrounded by a wood and pretty gardens.

trout and eels) and water sports. Kayaking,

The Bryntirion Inn is a relaxing, welcoming place to stay and short car

canoeing, yachting and windsurfing can

journey sees you in Bala or by Bala Lake. www.bryntirioninn.co.uk

Page 32 NWM 2018

be enjoyed and all types of boats can be hired to enjoy

Eating and drinking

everything from a simple paddle around to a serious session

GORWELION

out on the lake itself. For many visitors it will be enough to

Located on the outskirts of Baa on the pretty Rhiwlas

simply sit on the beach areas of Bala Lake enjoying an ice

Estate. Gorwelion is a family friendly attraction that has

cream or coffee as they gaze down the length of the lake to

a pleasant café serving a reasonable menu of café style

the awesome Arran Mountains that tower majestically in the

platters.

distance rising to 14 separate summits over 2,000ft.

www.gorwelion.co.uk

These is just one range that can be explored by experienced

THE LOCH CAFE

hill walkers here. To the north west of the lake you will find

Set on the outskirts of Bala with a fantastic view of the

the Arenig summits (13 tops over 2,000ft) too, but be warned,

lake. The Loch café offers indoor and outdoor eating from a

these are remote and tough ranges to walk on and you

café style menu.

need to be sure of your map reading and compass skills as

01678 520226

a sudden mist could soon see you very lost. On clear sunny days these mountains offer superb walking where other

YR EAGLES LLANUWCHYLLLN

walkers are few and you feel as though you are simply in the

Located just a few short miles from Bala, Yr Eagles is a

middle of nowhere.

lovely stone built inn. It is an authentic low-beamed pub that has a good reputation for high quality home cooked

Bala Lake forms part of the aptly named ‘Welsh Lake District’

food.

which also includes nearby Lake Vyrnwy (Llyn Efyrnwy),

www.yr-eagles.co.uk

Llyn Celyn, Lyn Brenig, The Cregennen Lakes and Tal y Llyn, all of which are well worth a visit - if you really wanted to

BALA SPICE

you could enjoy a tour of all of them in a day and still be back

Popular Indian Restaurant located centrally for the town

in Bala in time for an early supper!

of Bala. Good food and an extensive menu. Bring your own

For extreme water sports enthusiasts The River Tryweryn

wine and beer.

running between Llyn Celyn and Bala offers ‘white water

01678 521935

sports’ and is home to the ‘National White Water Centre for Wales’ where you can take lessons in kayaking or enjoy an hour or two of white water rafting sessions under the supervision of an experienced guide.

And, finally, mention must be made of The Bala Lake Railway.

This superb narrow gauge steam line runs along the southern shores of the lake from the village of Llanuwchllyn to the town of Bala and both kids and adults will love a trip on it. It is a great way to see Bala Lake and the surrounding countryside and will undoubtedly be a highlight to most

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.

people’s visit to the town and surrounding area. n

NWM 2018 Page 33

MAGAZINE

Buyer of luxury brands, vintage and antiques Best prices paid

Ali Hough: Mobile 07940 730421 email sales@tattydivine.co.uk Page 34 NWM 2018

Inside

information

February half term is a notoriously difficult time in which to keep the kids entertained thanks to the good old Welsh weather. Fear not, however, as North Wales Magazine has tracked down the best days out where you can stay warm and dry…

Keeping children warm and cosy is vital to a pleasant day out. As soon as a wellington boot gets filled with icy cold water (why are kids wellies so short?) then you have got about a five-minute window to get home before the screaming starts.

In my experience at least.

So, this half term I have vowed to only embark on days out that don’t require wellies. And, it turns out, there is no need to stay cooped up indoors as North Wales still has an abundance of exciting – indoor – activities.

Having been closed for two months to complete some necessary maintenance work, Anglesey Sea Zoo will be re-opening for the Year of the Sea freshly spruced up this half term. The Sea Zoo has lots of exciting events planned for the year, and is kicking off during the half term week with the RSPB exhibiting on site on the 15th and 17th of February.

But, of course, it’s fish not flight that the Sea Zoo

Top: Beacon Climbing Centre is an exciting all weather venue Above: There are plenty of events taking place under cover at Greenwood Forest Park this half term

is famed for. Would you like to know all about British seas and the kind of creatures that live in

NWM 2017 2018 Page 35

MAGAZINE

Bounce Below now offers four new industrial slides, the height of two double decker buses and six new levels of bouncing fun

The Enchanted Wood Barn at Greenwood Forest Park means that rain won’t stop play

them? Want to see sharks, seahorses, octopus, lobsters

doggy items to decorate, and a chance to write in Chinese if so

and other exciting and elusive British marine animals up

desired! Fortune cookies will be available for each painter too.

close? Want to learn about captive breeding and research programmes for some of our most endangered British

There are also lots of Easter items ready to paint at the studio,

native species? Then this is the place for you.

the very popular unicorn range, fairy doors and even skulls!

There are over 60 different pieces to choose from so there

At Anglesey Sea Zoo you can meet amazing invertebrates

really is something for everybody.

in the No Bone Zone, see the wolf fish lair and creep through the Seven Sisters shipwreck to spot a conger

The workshop is free to attend, with budding artists just

eel. Learn all about the zoo’s research and conservation

paying for what they have painted. Prices range from

work, including its British seahorse breeding programme

£5 – £25, but make sure that you book in advance as the

and the Lobster Hatchery of Wales. Visit a kelp forest full

workshops do fill up quickly.

of huge fish and a moon jellyfish display, talk to expert marine biologists, watch a diving display, or join one of our

Back on the mainland and Beacon Climbing Centre in

hands on interactive sessions.

Caernarfon is an exciting all weather venue, with fun activities suitable for the whole family. This indoor attraction

As well as daily interactive talks and feeds, there are

is great fun for kids, whether they are on the main climbing

also a few outdoor activities in case the sun does make

wall or in the dedicated CrazyClimb section that features a

an appearance, including crazy golf, an adventure

series of wacky climbing challenges.

playground and a giant bouncy castle and slide. But, if it does happen to be raining on the day of your visit, and

Adults and children alike can attempt to conquer Beacon’s

you didn’t get the chance to explore all of our fun outdoor

high roped walls for an unbeatable sense of achievement or

activities, then don’t worry as admission tickets are

experience the freedom of climbing without using a rope in

valid for seven days from the day of purchase, so you can

the low-level bouldering areas. No previous experience is

return as many times as you like during the week, for

required and anyone can have a go. Spectators can watch

outdoor activities or to revisit the aquarium, and catch

for free, there is a good café on site and free wifi is available

any talks you might have missed.

throughout the centre. There is also a toddler area so that the littlest members of your family can have a jolly good play while

Also on Anglesey is the Mad Hatter pottery painting studio.

their older siblings learn something new.

This relative new comer to the island will be open on Thursday 15th and Friday 16th February in addition to the

And while you can climb up in Caernarfon, you can Bounce

regular Saturdays and Sundays between 10am and 4pm.

Below in Ffestiniog. Thrill seekers aged seven and over can get a shot of pure, unadulterated fun in this spectacular

There is a scheduled family workshop on Friday 16th at

setting deep underground. The breath-taking site, in a former

11am to celebrate Chinese New Year, a great opportunity

slate mine in Blaenau Ffestiniog, lets you play, slide, jump and

to celebrate the Year of the Dog. There will be plenty of

bounce from net to net in a cavern the size of a cathedral.

Page 36 NWM 2018

Quarry Explorer promises an off-road adventure into the heart of Llechwedd’s Mountains

Anglesey Sea Zoo is reopening just in time for the half term holidays

There are nine different styles of mugs ready for painting at the Mad Hatter Studio

Following a massive refurbishment in 2016, the Bounce Below experience now offers four new industrial slides, the height of two double decker buses and six new levels of bouncing fun, giving underground adventurers 400 additional square metres to explore.

Visitors enter a network of enormous caverns hidden underground, once home to a working Victorian mine, and now brought back to life as the only subterranean playground of its kind, offering a unique adventure in a beautiful and historic location.

Also making the most of a disused slate mine is the Quarry Explorer. If you fancy exploring formidable slate mountains with a thrilling guided adventure in a 4 x 4 military truck, then this is the outing for you. Strap yourself in, hold on and brace yourselves for a 1.5-hour journey that will take you to the top of our man-made summits – an extreme landscape

The Mad Hatter Studio is the only dedicated pottery painting studio on Anglesey

1,400ft above sea level.

NWM 2018 Page 37

MAGAZINE

Contacts Anglesey Sea Zoo www.angleseyseazoo.co.uk Beacon Climbing Centre www.beaconclimbing.com Bounce Below www.zipworld.co.uk Beacon Climbing Centre is suitable for the whole family

“And while you can climb up in Caernarfon, you can Bounce Below in Ffestiniog”

GreenWood Forest Park www.greenwoodforestpark.co.uk The Mad Hatter Studio 07807 775787 The Quarry Explorer www.llechwedd-slate-caverns.co.uk

Llechwedd’s mountains are completely unique: the towering summits were built by hand and hard graft – by the incredible men and boys who worked in the local mines. What is truly extraordinary is that an incredible 90% of the rock blasted out of the mines was unusable! The men heaved it to the surface using pulleys and carts, and now vast heaps of those discarded slate spoils tower above us.

Suitable for children aged five and above, the Quarry Explorer enables you to take in views of North Wales like no other and have the opportunity to snap some great photographs. And, while this is an outside excursion, you can rest assured that you will be undercover in the truck.

Finally, GreenWood Forest Park is known for being North

Above: Kids aged seven and over get a shot of pure, unadulterated fun at Bounce

Wales’ leading family adventure park – but it has plenty of wet weather activities too. The park is opening as usual for February half term and, while the Green Dragon Roller Coaster and the SolarSplash are still hibernating until they open for the main season, there endless forest fun and indoor play available.

For those rainy days, head inside the Enchanted Wood Barn full of the latest soft play. While the children let of a bit of steam, parents can enjoy the GreenOak Café, which serves a wide variety of tasty hot meals and snacks. Take a seat next to the cosy log burner and enjoy a coffee. Now that beats soggy socks any day. n

Page 38 NWM 2018

Right: Daily interactive talks and feeds will be taking place this half term at Anglesey Sea Zoo

zipworld.co.uk

this

half term

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A river runs through it Small is beautiful says author Stephen Gregory. Take the river Gwyrfai for example, which runs from the source to the sea through North Wales.

Rivers? I’m writing this within earshot of a rumbling, roaring,

streams coming off Y Garn and filtering through the bogs

swollen river. No, not the Gwyrfai, which starts its life in Llyn

of spiky grasses and into the lake… raising the level of the

y Gadair, near the village of Rhyd ddu high up in Snowdonia.

water around the craggy heap of rock which gives a name to

I’m in France right now, in the first week of this New Year,

the lake, as one of King Arthur’s seats. My cottage was a few

and the river Vienne has burst its banks into fields and farms

hundred yards downstream of the lake, a terraced house with

and gardens. And it’s still rising, an enormous, writhing mass

an overgrown back garden and a stream at the bottom. Yes, this

of water.

was the very beginning of the Gwyrfai river, and I would lie awake at night in my bedroom, listening to the gurgle and hiss

The Gwyrfai? I used to live in Rhyd ddu and walk nearly every

as it accelerated away from the lake and past my house and set

day around Llyn y Gadair. In the winter, there were countless

off on its short but eventful journey towards the sea.

NWM 2018 Page 41

MAGAZINE

“I didn’t lie awake for long, because I might have spent a few hours in the nearby Cwellyn Arms and swallowed two or three pints of their beer in front of their blazing log fire”

I didn’t lie awake for long, because I might have spent a few

early 80s – no lights, no power, only a few simple houses and

hours in the nearby Cwellyn Arms and swallowed two or

a school… a dazzle of sun in the daytime and starry nights

three pints of their beer in front of their blazing log fire. And

unspoilt by electricity. I discovered a man in the village with

all of this time, while I was drinking and chatting in the pub

an illegal stash of beer. And every night I would brave the

or falling asleep afterwards, I could hear the Gwyrfai tumbling

pack of raggedy stray dogs which roamed the marketplace

nearby. Go to the Cwellyn Arms, enjoy the warmest of

and I’d buy beer from his shack and drink beneath a palm

welcomes from hosts Graham and Julie Bamber, savour their

tree. A huge black river. Millions of stars, throwing their light

beers and outstanding choices of food and their fire… but don’t

into the water. Warm beer. My night-time solace on the banks

forget, afterwards, to lean over the bridge outside the pub

of the Nile.

and admire the river forcing its way through – the Gwyrfai, starting a bubbling and foaming journey from the foothills of

And the Gwyrfai? From Betws Garmon it meanders gently

Snowdon to the sea.

towards Waunfawr. But deceptively powerful… one autumn morning, after a night of heavy rain, it lifted my car off the

No actually, not always bubbling and foaming. The stream of

edge of a shallow concrete ford and dumped me firmly into

the Gwyrfai runs into Llyn Cwellyn, one of the biggest lakes

a bed of shingle. The water was racing and churning, but

in Snowdonia and maybe the deepest. Who know what dark

only a foot deep. I thought I could easily drive through it. I

and mysterious currents are murmuring through the lake?

was wrong. It swiped me and my car off the road in a single

But then the river emerges at the other end, shakes itself in a

mischievous second.

sparkle of spray and sets off again, hurrying between chasms of rock towards the village of Betws Garmon where, after

Mischievous, yes, and moody, changing its moods within a

forcing itself impossibly through the man-made confines of a

few short miles. But not the most mysterious or dangerous

tiny stone bridge, it slows and relaxes into wider meadows.

of rivers. I was a traveller in South America 30 years ago,

I’ve seen the Gwyrfai at Betws Garmon in many different

persuading a boatman to take me up the Rio Yasuni a

moods: in a terrifying January spate, churning with ice and a

tributary of the Amazon, in Ecuador. He was understandably

foam of grey snow, and in a balmy summer, when a kingfisher

reluctant. Only a fortnight earlier, the Waorani tribesmen I

might speed downstream like a blue and orange jewel and

wanted to visit had murdered a bishop and two nuns on the

there are moorhen pottering through a curtain of buttercups

riverbank, with their long wooden spears. We nosed our

and cow parsley.

canoe upstream. The river was shrinking to a trickle, the rainforest loomed around us like a green and black tunnel.

The Gwyrfai… not the mightiest or longest of rivers. As a

At last we could smell the campfires of the Waorani. My

young teacher I worked in a village called Ed Debba, on the

boatman could hardly wait to drop me off and turn around and

banks of the Nile in northern Sudan. Desolate, back in the

disappear again. Fortunately, I found these tribesmen to be

Page 42 NWM 2018

Right: Halloween is always a truly frightful affair at Penrhyn Castle

“Mischievous, yes, and moody, changing its moods within a few short miles. But not the most mysterious or dangerous of rivers”

familiar every day. A wide estuary and always the distant sound of the open sea. Marvellous for birds, for the bubbling cries of curlew, the croak of raven… all kinds of waders and visiting duck and geese. A sense of peace. This is where the Gwyrfai emerges, after all its turbulent twists and turns, from the mountains and lakes of Snowdonia.

Small is indeed beautiful. The Nile may be brimming with

gentle and calm. They let me stay with them for a week, until

centuries of ancient history, the Yasuni is a serpent coiled

the rains came and the river swelled and my boatman had the

into a heart of darkness – but the Gwyrfai is a charming

courage to come and get me. The Yasuni is at once threatening

miniature, rich and ever-changing in its journey, and

and beautiful, where a secret world is threatened by the

satisfying in the quietness of its destination. n

encroachment of the modern day.

Unlike the Gwyrfai, which tumbles beneath the bridge at Waunfawr and heads across country towards Bontnewydd, a few miles south of Caernarfon. It noses through farmland, hardly disturbing either the grazing sheep or the visitors in their manicured caravan parks. On my own journey, following this magical river from source to the sea, I was intrigued to find exactly what mood I would meet as it reached the sea. Was I disappointed? No, not at all, but I was

Stephen Gregory’s first novel, THE CORMORANT, was set in the mountains of Snowdonia and in Caernarfon town. Acclaimed in UK and USA and translated into different languages, the book won the Somerset Maugham Award and was made into a film starring Ralph Fiennes. Visit Stephen Gregory books on Amazon for all his novels.

surprised by what I found. Go there for yourself, to one of the loveliest of all places and perhaps my favourite haunt in my

North Wales Magazine would like to thank Nick Phillips for use of

years in North Wales… go to the Foryd estuary, and you will

his photography. Nick offers courses in digital photography and

enjoy somewhere truly special.

diving in North Wales – please visit www.snowdoniascuba.co.uk for further information

A huge sky. A landscape which is different and yet oddly

NWM 2018 Page 43

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Top

10

Romantic retreats

It’s February, the month of romance… as if you needed an excuse to get away from it all! North Wales has some amazing places which are ideal for a romantic break – here are ten of the best.

Palé Hall Hotel

2

The only five star hotel in North Wales, Palé Hall is the ideal destination for a romantic retreat, thanks to its idyllic woodland garden which rolls down to the banks of the River Dee. Guests can also expect to enjoy exceptional standards of service in a friendly, informal and relaxing atmosphere in 18 luxurious, individually styled bedrooms with

1

sumptuous décor – each with a beautifully appointed bathroom. This recently refurbished high Victorian mansion also promises culinary indulgence. Its fine dining restaurant has been created in association with Michelin-star chef Michael Caines, with signature dishes realised by head chef Gareth Stevenson, and promises both quality and excellence – as well as a touch of romance. www.palehall.co.uk

The Quay Hotel & Spa

with the hotel’s signature Mr and Mrs spa

Meticulously designed throughout, the Quay

package. After your treatments, walk over to

Hotel & Spa in Deganwy epitomizes cool

the tranquil relaxation room before enjoying

sophistication. The moment you enter the four

a glass of champagne out on the terrace bar

star hotel in Deganwy Quay you are welcomed

overlooking Conwy Castle beneath stars. Then

into a world of comfort and a sense of

dine in on a candle lit table with panoramic

belonging. Set on the idyllic Conwy Estuary, the

views of the Conwy valley at our restaurant

Quay Hotel and Spa commands awe-inspiring

serving up a host of luscious dishes and

views of the most magical scenery in North

desserts to share!

Wales. Relax and rejuvinate in the Marina Spa

www.quayhotel.co.uk

NWM 2017 2018 Page 45

MAGAZINE

Bryn Refail Bach Nothing quite says romance like a quaint country cottage. Bryn Refail Bach is a traditional stone character cottage located on the Llŷn Peninsula, which

3

has been tastefully refurbished. Featuring a cosy living room with an inglenook fireplace, fabulous sea views from the garden and the added luxury of an outdoor six-seater hot tub and bar you just need to remember to pack the wine. www.abersochholidayhomes.co.uk

Belmont Llandudno

4

Occupying a fantastic location overlooking both the Promenade and Pier – Belmont Llandudno is tailored for those seeking an indulgent escape in boutique surroundings. It is the perfect destination for a chic and romantic escape for couples. Sink beneath the duvet, sip on champagne cocktails or relax on the terrace looking out over the bay. www.belmontllandudno.com

5

Lake Vyrnwy Hotel & Spa Secluded, romantic and luxurious – Lake Vyrnwy is the ideal location to spend quality time with someone special. With the beautiful view of Lake Vyrnwy, you can get away and enjoy the tranquil and peaceful surroundings with a loved one in this super romantic spot. Enjoy delicious food, luxurious accommodation and exceptional service to get away from all the hustle and bustle of everyday life to truly bring that spark back to your relationship. North Wales Magazine recommends getting a lake view room with a terrace – the perfect place to watch the sun set. www.lakevyrnwy.com

Page 46 NWM 2017 2018

Portmeirion Hotel

6

If you like the idea of strolling hand in hand with your loved one through wonderful woodlands or sitting on a private beach watching the sun rise across the Dwyryd Estuary, then Portmeirion is the perfect place for you. Set in a brightly coloured Italianate Village in Snowdonia, with stunning seascapes and 60 acres of gardens, Portmeirion Hotel is one of the most spectacularly situated hotels in the country. But to be honest, all the estate’s 71 individually designed rooms are awesome, especially The Watch House, a cliff top cottage complete with floating bed and breath-taking views. www.portmeirion-village.com

The Elm Tree The Elm Tree in Llandudno has prides itself on exceptional attention to guest service needs. As a romantic getaway it provides the ideal choice as a small intimate boutique hotel, ideally located alongside Llandudno’s iconic pier on North Parade. The Elm Tree offers the choice of 14 luxury bedrooms, premier suites and sea facing rooms, with sweeping views of the Llandudno Bay and Promenade. What could be more romantic moment than relaxing in the comfort of your own beautifully appointed room with their enormous bay windows, a bottle of Prosecco for two, and simply watching the changing scene right in front of you? www.elmtreehotel.co.uk

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NWM 2018 Page 47

MAGAZINE

8

Plas Dinas

Plas Dinas is an award winning historic Country House set in the heart of Snowdonia. Whether you take a stroll round its 15 acres in the summer, or sit by the roaring log fire in the drawing room on a cold winter’s day, you’ll relax the minute you arrive. Plas Dinas is also home to The Gun Room – Caernarfon’s newest, and trendiest, dining experience. Just make sure that you arrive half an hour before your dinner reservation to enjoy a pre-dinner drink and nibbles in either in the intimate Gun Room Bar, which features a selection of trendy cocktails and delectable gins as well as other spirits and wines. www.plasdinas.co.uk

Melin Byrdir

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Melin Byrdir is a converted barn which enjoys some of the best views in North Wales. This cosy one-bedroomed holiday cottage is located on a working farm just outside the village of Dyffryn Ardudwy, about a mile from the coast. If you visit in springtime you can expect your neighbours to include a fair few frolicking lambs.And if romantic sunsets are your thing, then you’ll probably want to head for the wood-burning hot tub in the private garden. The backdrop of Snowdonia’s rugged Rhinog Mountains lies to the east, with the magnificent seascape of Cardigan Bay and the Llŷn Peninsula to the west. You’d be hard-pushed to find a better place to enjoy the setting sun. http://dioni.co.uk

Escape Boutique B&B

Escape both in body and in mind in this unique Victorian Villa located in the heart of Llandudno. All nine double bedrooms have been individually designed with a different contemporary theme, yet they all feature flat screen TVs, Bose iPod docks, blu ray disc players and have free wireless broadband access.

Escape for a deserved weekend break, escape the kids or escape from your conventional corporate business accommodation offering. Why not escape with your friends and book the whole villa for your very own house party? So whether you are more at home in the Retro Red room, the Urban Cool bedroom or The Boudoir – just take time some time out and completely relax for the duration of your stay. www.escapebandb.co.uk

Page 48 NWM 2018

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Lake Vyrnwy Hotel & Spa

. Glorious Food . Luxurious Acommodation . . Spectacular Scenery . Pure Relaxation .

Llanwddyn . Powys . SY10 0LY 01691 870692 info@lakevyrnwyhotel.co.uk

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NWM 2017 2018 Page 49

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NWM 2018 Page 51

MAGAZINE

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spice

The

of life

Local produce, good service, excellent food and a fine dining ambiance aren’t the attributes you usually associate with an Indian meal. Nick Embrey discovers what makes Jaya stand out from the crowd.

It is surely not by accident that the curry is, and for some

From a young age, executive chef and owner Sunita

time has been, the nation’s favourite dish. Shaking bland

confesses to having “food in the blood three generations

old Britain from her rather staid and unadventurous

deep,” with her granddad owning hotels and restaurants

culinary stupor, the shockwave of spice and colour

in Nairobi that have helped provide the East-African twist

arriving from Asia, Africa and the Caribbean must have

to her Indian dishes, dishes that include Pili Pili Boga, a

been truly exhilarating for those folks around at the time

popular tempura style starter and a traditional dish of

to witness. One downside to the popularity of such foods

delicious Aloo Anday curry, comprising boiled eggs and

might, however, be the ability of businesses to stay on top,

potatoes in a rich North Indian sauce. Where the latter’s

remain fresh, and ensure that they are still able to stand

concerned, don’t take my word for it either, as praise for

out in a crowded market.

the plate comes from the Observer’s restaurant critic Jay Rayner, who described it as being one of two stand out

This seems like less of a problem however for Sunita and

dishes on offer. Bringing the timeline a generation closer

Bobby Katoch, owners of the Jaya restaurant in Llandudno

to home, Sunita’s parents opened their own restaurant in

and producers of the “only truly authentic home cooked

the 1980s and as any restaurateur will tell you, there’s no

Indian food in North Wales,” a boast that has earned the

place in the business for the work shy. Barely a teenager,

restaurant a slot in last year’s Sunday Times’ top 20 secret

she and her brother would leave the comfort of a warm

restaurants that foodies love. That’s not the only accolade

bed with her Dad at two or three in the morning to stock

bestowed upon the restaurant either, as Jaya has featured

up on freshly baked bread rolls, before making the trek

in The Good Food Guide for four years running. High

from London to Southampton to sell breakfast to the local

praise indeed, but where did it all begin?

market holders.

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MAGAZINE

Beyond ‘off the menu dining,’ visitors to and residents of Llandudno can count on Jaya offering them occasional taster menus. Past events have included a Maharaja themed evening, Kenyan taster nights and Valentines Day inspired cuisine Though bitten at an early age by the food bug, Sunita’s journey into the professional kitchen did not happen straight from school, her first career path taking her into primary education.

Getting back to that unique element, the magic fix that all

Bringing the story into the new millennium, she and husband

good restaurants need in order to stand out in a crowd,

Bobby took the bold step to abandon their London base in

Sunita and Bobby have done well to exploit every angle. For

favour of majestic Llandudno, arriving in 2007 just in time for

starters, they chose Llandudno, the Queen of Welsh Resorts.

the credit crunch, but that’s another story. Following two years

Not any old town, but one with a thriving and healthy tourist

of renovation to the building – including developing not just a

trade of hungry diners, all shuttling back and forth along

restaurant but a hotel above – Jaya got its tape cutting moment

the A55, eager to hunt out the best of what North Wales has

in June 2009 and hasn’t looked back.

to offer. Then there’s Jaya’s insistence on sourcing the finest local ingredients. With eggs coming from Anglesey, and

Before stepping inside the restaurant as it were, readers might

Llandudno based duo Poynton’s butchers and Mermaid’s

be interested to know that Sunita has put her teaching skills

fishmongers wrapping up the protein side of the menu, the

to good use beyond junior school, having run adult cookery

food miles can me counted on two hands or less.

classes at Bodnant Welsh Food Centre and, latterly, bespoke sessions in house at the restaurant, inexplicably finding time

Once inside, Jaya’s patrons will soon notice that their choice

to do this as well as having children and developing other

of venue for Indian cuisine is offering something a little

businesses. With such a demanding professional and family

different. For starters, you’ll be settled in the reception area

life, it is little wonder that Sunita and Bobby have a trusted

and fixed a drink or two while Bobby talks you through the

head chef in Steven Bloor, a rock solid member of the team and

menu. On that point alone, it’s not difficult to spot differences

someone who knows every inch of the Jaya kitchen from top

with your average Indian restaurant. For whilst familiar

to bottom, having started, the way all great chefs do, washing

favourites like Lamb Masala or Chicken Tikka adorn the

pots and climbing the ladder rapidly.

‘A La Carte’ menu, I can imagine Bobby whipping up an

Page 54 NWM 2018

excited frenzy of anticipation in his guests as he discusses

attributes to “people’s desire for the better things in life,

rarer platters like Tamatar Chicken or the aforementioned

like wanting excellent food, good produce, great service

Alloo Anday curry.

and a fine dining experience.” Paying further homage to the region, Sunita suggests that the rise in customer

Beyond ‘off the menu dining,’ visitors to and residents of

expectations has been driven further still by the arrival

Llandudno can count on Jaya offering them occasional taster

of other high-class eateries such as Dylan’s, which she

menus. Past events have included a Maharaja themed

believes will imbue the same vibe.

evening, Kenyan taster nights and Valentines Day inspired cuisine – and those interested in sampling such delights will

It would seem that Jaya, with its established team of

need to follow the restaurant’s website hawkishly for the next

dedicated staff, has worked hard to make a success of itself

event. Showing yet more contrast with your average Indian

in a corner of the country renowned for fierce culinary

restaurant, Sunita and Bobby decided to operate a ‘yours for

competition. So what comes next? Sunita wants to ensure

the night’ policy, offering guests the luxury of having their

Jaya grows into a “dead funky place that brings a slice

table as long as they want it. Time to relax into the evening,

of London” to the area. Typically, that’s not her only focus

to draw deeply from a drink and appreciate the meal without

mind, as you’ll find her cooking on BBC’s ‘The Hill Farm

fear of a clock watching maître d’ or a menacing queue of

with Gareth Wynne,’ which airs this spring. That is, if her

hungry and doubtless windswept people, all staring daggers

secret, three generations old Garam Masala recipe hasn’t

from the doorway as you get acquainted with your plateful. In

gone global and elevated her to Lloyd Grossman or Paul

fact, given the relaxed nature of the place and the personal

Newman-esque heights. I suggest you get yourselves down

attention offered to guests from the moment they enter, it is

to Llandudno sharpish to find out. n

little wonder that more time is required to ease your first gin and tonic down, or digest the menu after a tough day at work.

Jaya www.jayarestaurant.co.uk

The fact that Jaya operates from out of the same stables as the hotel upstairs helps it offer something extra too, with around 40% of the restaurant’s footfall coming from tourists staying with them in the hotel. As well as this feature, Sunita sees her business locally as the “only Indian restaurant that is a little bit different” striving as it does to offer more of a “fine dining feel” to it. Of the diners themselves, she suggests that Jaya attracts

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

“a niche crowd that is growing pretty big now,” a growth she

NWM 2018 Page 55

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BUSINESS

ON THE GRAPEVINE North Wales vineyards are producing some unexpected, award-winning pleasures as Dave Rothnie discovered.

Well, somebody had to do it…

This image: Gwinllan Conwy prunes its vines now, and harvests them in September and October Left: Charlotte and Colin Bennett of Gwinllan Conwy Middle: The Grape to Glass Wine and Tasting Room in Rhos-on-Sea Right: Gwinllan Conwy currently

With January over you can now swap the gym for the

bottles each year and plan to expand that to 12,000 in the

grape again and, if you’re looking to reboot 2018 with a

next two years.

resolution that’s fun and easy to keep, you can start by visiting your local vineyard. Walking among the vines is a

Vines thrive in dry soil, so how did they grow so well in

great way to get exercise… OK that may be pushing it but

North Wales? “Our vines grow on a shale bed which is

there are tastings and tours to enjoy among a crop of up

fast draining,” explains Charlotte. Location helps too – the

and coming wines – all on your doorstep.

south-facing vineyard sits along the Creuddyn Peninsula, a temperate part of the valley that is sheltered by the

North Wales is not a region usually associated with

mountains and stretches between Abergwyngregin,

winemaking, but tucked away in the Conwy Valley is a

Bodnant Garden and Rhos-on-Sea. “The grapes we grow

thriving vineyard producing award-winning wines.

are Eastern European hybrid, cool climate grapes, ideally suited to these conditions,” explains Charlotte.

Charlotte and Colin Bennett began growing grapes in 2012 purely as a hobby but after yielding a bumper crop

Charlotte and Colin prune the vines in January and

they decided to go into business and Gwinllan Conwy was

February then harvest them in September and October.

formed. They now have 2,000 vines that produce 6,000

Gwinllan currently produces five wines which include

NWM 2018 Page 57

MAGAZINE

The Rondo from Gwinllan Conwy

Above and right: Gwinllan Conwy grows Eastern European hybrid, cool climate grapes

Gwinllan Conwy’s wines can be found in a range of independent wine shops throughout the region

“

We always want to ensure there is wine here for customers to taste, and we sell out every year

”

two whites (Solaris and Pydew), a red (Rondo), a rosé and

As well as wine tasting, Gwinllan Conwy also offers vineyard

a sparkling wine (Pefriog) which has already attracted

tours, group lunches and afternoon tea with homemade

global acclaim. Pefriog was awarded a silver award at the

scones and bara brith.

prestigious International Wine Challenge, while Solaris was awarded a bronze medal.

Further inland, the Pant Du Vineyard and Orchard has been planted on the south facing glacial slopes of Nantlle Valley

As well as growing the grapes locally, Gwinllan Conwy also

near Caernarfon. Pant Du is a family run business with a

provides specific recommendations for pairing the wines with

café and shop on site affording spectacular views of the

different local foods on the back of each bottle. “We recommend

magnificent Snowdonia mountain range can to the North East,

the Solaris with Conwy Mussels, which are the best in the

and panoramic views of the sea to the West. Since producing

world,” says Charlotte. The Pydew is best enjoyed with goats

the first bottle of wine in 2010 the company now offers red,

cheese made across the valley at a Glanwydden farm.

white and rosé using the Rondo grape. The Pant Du Rondo rosé 2012 vintage won the Welsh Vineyards Association wine

A year ago, Gwinllan Conwy opened a tasting room on-site, a

competition in 2013.

move that has proved highly popular. “People are looking for something different and a tasting tour provides that.”

Meanwhile, over on Dwyran on Anglesey, Tŷ Croes Farm has established a vineyard covering two and a half acres of vines

Your correspondent wanted a cheeky glass, but the sun was

that have now been turned into delicious Welsh wines ready

barely over the yard arm and besides, such is the demand

for you to sample. Producing white wines from Phoenix and

that the goods were in short supply. “We always want to

Seyval Blanc, and Rondo which is red, you can pop in for a

ensure there is wine here for customers to taste, and we sell

tour of the vineyard and you can have a tipple tasting too.

out every year.” The wines are stocked at independent sellers Vinomondo in Conwy and Grape to Glass in Rhos-on-Sea,

But you don’t need to travel to the vineyards themselves to

and are available at the highly-acclaimed Kinmel Arms in St

sample great North Wales wines as there are a growing number

Geroge near Abergele and the Erskine Arms in Conwy.

of independent shops offering a wide selection of wines.

Page 58 NWM 2018

Where to buy it

THE GRAPE TO GLASS, RHOS-ON-SEA Established in 2016 by Tim Watson, The Grape to Glass has rapidly established itself as a go-to destination in Rhos-on-Sea. As well as stocking Gwillan Conwy, it has 600 other wines. Private tastings are available www.thegrapetoglass.co.uk

Tim’s top picks: WHITE: GRAN CERDO BLANCO - Rioja/Spain Blend of Viura and half a dozen other grapes from an experimental vineyard in Rioja. Clean lemony flavours buttressed by a hint of butter from the lees. Organic/Vegan/Low Suplhur. £10.99 RED: CIU CIU, ROSSO PICENO “BACCHUS” Delightful nose of strawberry, morello cherry and liquorice root.

The wine has an uncomplicated juiciness that begs for a second and third glass. It can even be merrily chilled. £12.99 “As an approved stockist of Gwinllan wines

ROSE: CHATEAU GABRIEL, PROVENCE, FRANCE

I’m a strong believer in natural low sulphate

This stunning rosé really captures the red berry fruit of

wines with a low carbon footprint,” said Tim

Provence, with delicate apricot and floral nuances. Dry yet

Watson owner of Grape to Glass Wine and

generous, it shows excellent balance and texture, whatever the

Tasting Room in Rhos-on-Sea.

weather! £13.99

Gwinllan’s range is just one of more than 600 wines that Watson stocks since launching

VINOMONDO, CONWY

Grape to Glass in 2016, and he is on a

Established almost ten years ago, Vinomondo is currently the Welsh

one-man mission to help everyone – from

independent off licence of the year. The shop stocks more than

connoisseurs to first-timers to find the right

300 wines and in November 2017 opened a bar on the premises.

grape to suit their taste and budget.

Vinomondo also runs twice-monthly tasting events. https://vinomondo.co.uk

“People are often misled when it comes to wine selection, and ‘the world of wine’ often evolves with new techniques, new styles, and

Where to taste it Gwinllan Conwy

new approaches to enjoying wine,” explains

Gwinllan Conwy is open all year and offers a range of guided vineyard

Watson. “That’s why we offer advice and offer

tours and wine tastings that start from £15 per person. Afternoon tea

customers the chance to try wines before

and Welsh cheese and wine evenings are also available

they buy them so they know what to expect.”

https://gwinllanconwy.co.uk

What better reason to venture out and chase away the winter blues? n

Tŷ Croes Tŷ Croes Vineyard is situated in the southern corner of Anglesey on a north-south alignment. Vineyard tours are available and you are

Dave Rothnie is a freelance journalist who has a passion for all things North Wales and comedy.

He lives in Colwyn Bay with his family

welcome to enjoy wine tasting and light refreshments in the vine arbors www.tycroesvineyard.co.uk Pant Du Pant Du is a family run vineyard and orchard situated on the stunning slopes of the Nantlle Valley. The vineyard opens its doors again in April along with anew café www.pantdu.co.uk

NWM 2018 Page 59

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Food for thought

Once the bell has tolled for New Year’s Day, the Christmassy sentiments of songs like Let It Snow, once so warm and assuring, suddenly take on a darker, frostier hue. Take away the tinsel, the Quality Street binges and the Baileys hangovers and, all of a sudden, the world seems instantly, impossibly bleak.

Not only have your bathroom scales started making insulting claims about your weight, but your friends have all decided to join gyms and stop drinking, so there is no respite from all this wintery emptiness.

Well, as they used to say in The Goon Show, ‘It’s all in the mind, you know.’ Winter in North Wales can still produce the magic, even if your mates are too sober and healthy to realise it. In fact, February can pull the finest walking days of the year out of the bag. I’d trade a hundred baking summer nights for one winter walk in the Conwy Valley with the frosty air, bright sunshine and icy crunching underfoot combined with a snugly hat-coat-gloves-scarf combo.

And if there’s drizzle in the air? Was it not chief Goon Spike Milligan who said that there’s no such thing as bad weather, only the wrong clothes?

Food-wise, winter is the season of stomach-pacifying winter warmers. Lovely hot water

Cai Ross is co-owner and

bottle meals like the Scottish haddock chowder, “Cullen Skink” or bowls of steaming soup

Maitre d’ of the award-

held in both hands for two minutes to help with the circulation before tucking in.

winning Paysanne Bistro in Deganwy, which has

It is also the season where the spoils of the game season are presented to the world.

been serving French

Game can divide audiences a little, not just along ethical lines but for people who find the

country-style food to the

traditional ‘Gamey’ taste overpowering. I’m a devotee, especially of venison which always

fine people of North Wales

makes me feel like a side-whiskered character from a Walter Scott novel when I eat it –

since 1988. He also writes

such are the occasional perks of an eccentric mind.

for Calibre Magazine, BBC Good Food, HeyUGuys.

Here are a couple of great winter dishes with a Caledonian edge, that will help you put the

com and The North Wales

Wonderland back into winter. n

Weekly News

NWM 2018 Page 61

MAGAZINE

Recipes

ITH VENISON W Y SAUCE R BLACKBER

KINK CULLEN S

Serves 4

looks e stuff that dyed, not th n (u k oc d ed had 500g smok ray tan) n given a sp ee b like it’s Butter ely chopped 1 onion, fin ly diced oes, rough 1 leek, sliced white potat d le ee p e, 2 larg fat milk 500ml full ives Chopped ch d bring to ld water an co h it the w sh e fi the pan off an, cover th s then take te tly u en in In a deep p g m d o tw utter an immer for d knob of b oo g the boil. S a t . n el w m den bro other pan, ntil just gol heat. In an d onions u an s ek le e soften th with lots of ions, season on d an ater s ek gh of the w ato to the le dle in enou la a Add the pot en to th p , lt oes. Dro d a little sa r the potat ve pepper an co to an addock-p 5 minutes. from the h e it for 12-1 av le en th es. simmer for any bon and check k half of oc d ce la ad P h g bowl. in off the in sk ix e m a th e ilk in Tak d place ir in the m it all up an oes, then st at ot eat. p h e e Then flake th with pping th to the pan l before dro oi b a to the fish in g thin the whole dand bring p with a han erything u ev ealthy h k a is h g w in n ste, then owls, spoo b ot h with in n Season to ta Serve scatteri g til smooth. centre and e th in blender un k doc leftover had pile of the . es iv chopped ch

Page 62 NWM 2018

Serves 4

k cut into 12 nison stea ve d oo g g 600 each about 50g olive oil s 2 good tb of butter ob n Good k

medallions

uce) (For the sa mic vinegar 1 tbs Balsa currant jelly 4 tsps Red zen is fine) berries (fro 170g black f stock 300ml bee our fl 1tsp plain shed garlic u cr es 2 clov g then fry butter goin d an l oi e utes each et the oliv First you g for two min high heat a er to rest. Add ov m t the mea here war ew m so Then em g th the butter. side, leavin d stir into an ar an p eg e in th samic v the flour to add the bal u . yo ts n as ie d g n re uce ing keep stirri st of the sa re e th y b followed e the en. Arrang erries soft b ck the la r b e ou th tes and p Cook until serving pla e th on s medallion d. sauce roun

Don’t fancy cooking?

01492 582079 @PaysanneDeganwy www.paysannedeganwy.co.uk

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Paysanne has been a Deganwy fixture since 1988. Over three decades, we have been presenting our guests with a permanently fashionable combination of classic, tummy-pleasing French country-style food, personally-sourced wines and warm, generous service.

You can build up quite a hunger exploring all that beautiful north Wales has to offer, so let us deal with that for you. Take a look at what we have to offer at our website, Facebook page and all that other terribly modern stuff.

We look forward to seeing you soon.

Photos Š Jamie Stevens

Page 64 NWM 2018

01492 582079 www.paysannedeganwy.co.uk @PaysanneDeganwy

Raise your glass Personally sourcing great tasting wines

Happy February everyone. After a dry January here’s some surprising news!

I’ve been waiting for the right opportunity to promote ‘natural’ wines at The Grape to Glass, and that time is now!

Wines that are expressive of their homeland, wines made by hand with minimal chemical intervention and where the winemaking shows maximum respect for the environment.

it’s reported, but I’ve have found some stellar examples from Italy, Spain and Australia which are currently in stock.

There’s been a couple of natural wines in stock since we opened in October 2016, but this year brings many more to the

The natural wine movement is a relatively new phenomenon.

ever expanding range.

Anecdotal evidence suggests that natural wines induce fewer side effects, I certainly see a difference, but it may differ for

I believe in the importance of ‘terroir’, indigenous grapes,

others. I am in no way suggesting you’ll “never get a hangover”

diversity and organic viticulture. Above all, wines of character

but… remember this, natural wines themselves have existed

and distinction!

since time immemorial.

I have always championed small, independent winemakers,

When wine was first made 8,000 years ago, it was not made

the hardy souls who put their love and life’s work into

using packets of yeasts, vitamins, enzymes, reverse osmosis,

producing outstanding somewhat different wines that deliver

cryoextraction or powdered tannins – (are you still with

a unique and inspiring product.

me?), just some of the many additives and processes used in winemaking worldwide as production and interest expands in

That goes for most of the range, but there are some real gems

the wine world.

in this wine world that must be shown, exhibited ¬– and tried!

The wines of these bygone days before ‘world wine There’s a buzz around natural wines at the moment, which

domination’ were always natural; they were made from

isn’t surprising given similar movements in the current ‘food

crushed grapes that fermented into wine, Simples!

world’. Natural wine, at its most basic, is fermented grape juice with nothing added or nothing taken away.

I am a total convert and happy to dabble into ‘expect something different’, getting under the skin of the grape.

There are about 400 natural wine producers in France alone so Fine, natural wines are vibrant and alive, and show excitingly diverse characteristics that are full of emotion and, utmost, PERSONALITY!

Tim Watson runs

Enough said, you’re just going to have to pop in and have a

The Grape to Glass

look at what’s new – naturally. Although pictured is a sneak

Wine Shop and

peek, with some cool labels to boot…

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

Iechyd da!

also stocks locally produced beers, wines and spirits

Tim

NWM 2018 Page 65

MAGAZINE

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info@conwyvalleywindows.co.uk www.conwyvalleywindows.co.uk NWM 2018 Page 67

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New Year,

beautiful

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Ideally located between Llaingoch and Holyhead, with easy access to the A55, the Port of Holyhead and Holyhead train station, Tyddyn Bach is perfect for those who want to enjoy the beautiful Welsh landscape.

Find us here:

Tyddyn Bach, South Stack Road, Holyhead, LL65 1NU. Anwyl homes also available throughout North Wales, Cheshire, Shropshire & Lancashire Page 68 NWM 2018 www.anwylhomes.co.uk

call: 03300 415 307

everything considered.

HOMES & INTERIORS INSIDE Property of the month property roundup interiors

NWM 2018 Page 69

N

EW The Sycamores, 35 Pwllycrochan Avenue, Colwyn Bay LL29 7BW

* * * *

Prices Starting From ÂŁ188,000 12 X 3 Bedroom Luxury Apartments Award Winning Local House Builders Smart Home Control Module And Integrated Music System Superb Location Close To Promenade, Beach, Shops And Amenities Reference Number: RP1625

PROPERTY of the month

This well presented and spacious four-bedroom detached family home has the added bonus of a separate twobedroom annexe.

Located in the picturesque village of Rowen, the property is within the Snowdonia National Park and near to the historic walled town of Conwy. The exciting attraction of Surf Snowdonia is also within easy reach.

Both the main house and the additional detached bungalow have been renovated to an extremely high standard throughout. Both properties have been recently modernised, having double glazing, underfloor heating in the majority

NWM 2018 Page 71

MAGAZINE

of rooms, new kitchens and bathrooms as well as their own

opportunity to entertain family and friends alike.

patio areas and private gardens. Both houses are K-rendered, making for easier maintenance. Services include mains water

The first floor consists of four large double bed bedrooms,

and electricity, and both gas and drainage are connected to

two having en suite facilities, and additional family

the properties.

bathroom.

The ground floor comprises of two reception rooms and a

Outside, and the front of the property has a private drive

large, open plan kitchen diner with tri-folding doors leading

with slate chippings which can fit several cars. The

to the side of the property. The sitting room has beautiful

garden at the rear of the house offers plenty of space for

bay windows with an aspect to the rear garden with an

entertaining around the outdoor style kitchen area which

Italian sandstone fireplace with an inset gas fire. The second

includes a built-in barbeque, pizza oven and seating. The

sitting room (off the kitchen area) benefits from the multi-

garden is further enhanced by a large enclosed vegetable

fuel fireplace. The kitchen and dining room dominates the

garden with cold frames. There are two brick built sheds,

ground floor and is the heart of the home, offering plenty of

one of which is currently used as a workshop. n

Page 72 NWM 2018

This four-bedroom family home is on the market with Beresford Adams for ÂŁ685,000. Visit beresfordadams.co.uk for further information

NWM 2018 Page 73

A Place to call Home MAGAZINE

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The Cottage, St Asaph

close proximity to the

This Grade II listed semi-detached residence occupies 0.65

A55. The property is

of an acre of land, and is part of a small group of prestigious

accessed via a path to

properties located in a semi-rural area on the outskirts of

the front, and to the side of the property there is a gravelled

St Asaph. The property would benefit from modernisation

driveway providing off road parking for multiple vehicles. To

works internally and offers huge potential as a beautiful

the rear of the property there is a woodland area and lawned

family home or for investment and development. The Cottage

gardens with mature trees and shrubs throughout. The rear

contains many lovely period features, and enjoys frontal

is bounded by hedging and fencing. The Cottage is on the

views of open fields and countryside, but is within easy

market for £325,000 with Williams Estates.

access of local shops, schools and amenities, as well as having

www.williamsestates.com

Property

roundup Meadow Gardens, Craig y Don This semi detached family house has been beautifully transformed by a professional interior designer, tastefully blending existing period features with a modern finish.

Pleasantly positioned in a highly sought after location overlooking the meadow green with views towards both the Great and Little Orme’s. The whole property has been fitted with new PVCu windows, and the superbly proportioned ground floor accommodation includes an open plan fully fitted high gloss kitchen with incorporated breakfast bar and brand new integrated Bosch appliances. The kitchen/dining room is ideally placed for socialising and entertaining guests. This open space flows beautifully into the lounge and also adjoins the bright and airy sun room with French doors which lead

Efrydfa, Llanfairfechan

seamlessly onto the newly built timber deck and landscaped gardens. The property is on the market for £339,950, and

This detached Arts and Crafts style property has been

viewings can be arranged via Fletcher & Poole.

improved, extended and upgraded over recent years but

www.fletcherpoole.com

has still managed to retain many of its original features.

The extremely well presented accommodation comprises three reception rooms, three bedrooms, one with an en suite WC, family bathroom, large kitchen, pretty gardens and a detached double garage. Mature gardens laid mainly to lawn with shrub borders, established mature trees including copper beech, horse chestnut and cherry trees complete the package. It is available with Accent Properties for £320,000. www.accentproperties.co.uk

NWM 2018 Page 75

MAGAZINE

The Old School, Ruthin The Old School is a beautifully presented, four-bedroom, period country residence set within very private and mature landscaped gardens extending to approximately 0.5 acres. The property, which is located in the highly desirable parish of Llanychan, also includes an additional residence which is in need of refurbishment. Nestled in the heart of The Vale of Clwyd, the converted Old School and School House boast many character features including vaulted

C

M

beamed ceilings, stone fireplaces and splendid stone and galvanized windows. Both properties benefit from countryside

Y

views across open fields, towards The Clwydian Mountain Range and Moel Famau. The additional residence provides an

CM

extra three bedrooms, two reception rooms, kitchen, utility room and bathroom and offers great potential to either extend

MY

the main house, retain as an independent annex or develop as a separate holiday let, which could provide a generous income. Viewing can be arranged via Williams Estates, and the two properties are available for £575,000. www.williamsestates.com

K

Parc Moel Lus, Penmaenmawr This four-bedroom detached family home is located in a elevated position in a popular residential area of the coastal village of Penmaenmawr. The property sits on a good size plot and has exceptional views across the Menai Strait towards Anglesey and Puffin Island and over to Penmaenmawr mountain. The property benefits from gas central heating, PVCu double glazing, generous room sizes, en suite shower room and off road parking leading to a double garage. A raised decked patio area offering exceptional views completes the package.

The property is on the market with Accent Properties for £289,950. www.accentproperties.co.uk

Whitehall Road, Rhos-on-Sea This immaculately presented three-bedroom detached house is close to the local amenities of Rhos-on-Sea and a short walk to the promenade and beach. Beautifully maintained and with light and spacious rooms the property has been extended by the current owners to create a lovely open plan kitchen/dining room. Outside there is a driveway with ample off road parking, a detached garage and workshop. The rear garden has been landscaped with decked seating areas and lawn. The property is on the market for £375,000, and viewings can be arranged via Fletcher & Poole. www.fletcherpoole.com

Page 76 NWM 2018

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‘New’ package now available to help you move, ahead of your own house sale.

Adlington House also offers: • A thriving bistro, comfortable communal lounges and gym • An on-site Care & Support Team

Find out more today: 01492 880 200 sales@mha.org.uk Adlington House, Abbey Road, Rhos-on-Sea, Conwy LL28 4PU All details correct at the time of press. Images are MHA representative only.

MAGAZINE

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

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www.snowdoniawindows.co.uk Page 78 NWM 2018

PART OF THE WALL-LAG GROUP OF COMPANIES

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

Paving the way If you are thinking of starting a garden project this month so that you are ready and waiting for spring, then consider Riverwashed Limestone Paving from Bradstone. These paving slabs are the ideal accompaniment for creating a stunning traditional garden design that has an edge of individuality. Achieve a picture perfect patio with the stylish Steel Grey paving.

The slabs feature a naturally split and partially rubbed surface with sawn edges, giving it a clean and even finish. Riverwashed Limestone Paving is available in a patio pack that features four different sizes and prices start from £35 for 40 square metres. www.bradstone.com

Full circle The Ravello shelf unit from MY Furniture is certainly one way to make storage look stylish. Its frame has been hand crafted from steel with a brass electro plated finish, while the distinctive shelves have been finished with diamond pattern walnut veneer. Inspired by mid-century Italian design, and priced at just £420, the Ravello promises to be the focal point of any room. www.my-furniture.co.uk

On tap With rising demand for high-function kitchen appliances wrapped up in cutting-edge design, Zip Water UK – the brand behind the world’s most advanced drinking water appliances – has responded with a new HydroTap launch that promises the very best in style and substance. The new HydroTap All-in-One Celsius Arc instantly dispenses five different water types from a single tap, including filtered boiling, chilled and sparkling water, plus unfiltered hot and cold water for washing up. Available in 12 colours, the HydroTap dispenses water that’s 25 times more filtered than a water filter jug, and it not only eliminates the need for a kettle and an additional mixer tap, but also stocks of still and sparkling bottled water; working to de-clutter the kitchen sink area, and free up much needed storage and fridge space. www.zipwater.co.uk

NWM 2018 Page 79

MAGAZINE

Scandi style Brighten up any room of the house with Nordic fabric from ILIV. Inspired by distinctive Scandi style, Nordic boasts rich colours in retro designs to create an impactful decor. Nordic is available in six colourways, including Ochre, Scarlet, Tangerine, Capri, Kiwi and Noir. Prices start from £21.00 per metre. www.i-liv.co.uk

Size matters The latest ‘Bathrooms to Love’ Collection from PJH now includes an extended range of space-saving sanitary ware within the design-led CEDARWOOD bathroom suite. Curvaceous and slimline, the new Cedarwood ceramic designs are perfect for small bathrooms, cloakrooms and en suites.

Satisfying the consistent demand for compact and cleverly designed sanitaryware, two Cedarwood WC designs include a back-to-wall model with a short projection of just 495mm and a close coupled model at 600mm – both featuring a finely designed slim seat with soft close action that lifts off for easy cleaning. www.bathroomstolove.co.uk

On fire!

DRU has released a new addition to its Maestro collection of contemporary gas fires. The Maestro 75XTU is an eye-catching three-sided gas fire that can be installed with a false chimneybreast and stone hearth or as part of a room-dividing wall. It features the DRU dynamic burner system, which generates exceptionally high and dense flames, together with the exclusive DRU Eco Wave app, allowing the owner to control the flame pattern and gas consumption from a tablet or smartphone. The balanced flue system of Maestro 75XTU means that it can be located anywhere in proximity to an outside facing wall, making it one of the most versatile gas fires in the DRU range. www.drufire.com

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Take a seat The Knightsbridge sofa by Sofas by Saxon has a traditional deep-buttoned Chesterfield appearance, but with a slightly higher back and two cushion finish. The scroll arm facings are finished with a line of hand tacked metal studs. There is also a choice of feet styles and studs, and customers can choose their covering from a huge selection of leathers and fabrics – or are welcome to supply their own. www.sofasbysaxon.com

Page 80 NWM 2018

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MAGAZINE

Page 82 NWM 2018

NWM 2018 Page 83

Charity climb Ever fancied climbing up Snowdon in the middle of the night? Well now you can – an all in the name

Charming new addition

Clogau has announced

of a good cause. The Alzheimer’s Society is holding

a new addition to

two midnight events, one on Friday 18th May and

its ‘Milestone’ bead

the other on Friday 8th June. The trek is a real

collection. The limited

challenge by night, but standing at the summit by

edition Dog Lover’s

moonlight will be an unforgettable experience. You

Dream Milestones bead

also get to celebrate your huge achievement with

charm and Valentines

a slap-up breakfast! The registration fee is £49

Day gift has been

with a commitment to raising £400 in sponsorship

launched in conjunction

per person. Visit www.alzheimers.org.uk for more

with local author Natalie

information.

Pritchard’s latest book of poems – A Dog Lover’s Dream. It is available to order now. www.clogau.co.uk

The sky’s the limit St David’s Hospice is on a nationwide search for daredevils who want the experience of a lifetime while raising money for a fantastic cause. On Friday June 1st you could be standing at the edge of an open doorway in aircraft flying 10,000 feet over Tilstock Airway in Whitchurch.

With the sound of the engines and the wind ringing in your ears you will lean out of the doorway and fly into the clouds, freefalling at over 120mph in support of Llandudno based St David’s Hospice. Community fundraiser James Wilde said: “To take part in this unique opportunity all we ask you raise a minimum of £500 in sponsorship money with a non-refundable deposit of £70 due by Friday March 23rd 2018 and the remaining £430 due by Friday May 11th 2018, I will take care of the rest.” www.stdavidshospice.org.uk

Page 84 NWM 2018

Fine dining If you are keen to support a local charity but would rather do it in a more sedate manner, then come and join Ty Gobaith Children’s Hospice for a charity dinner on Saturday 19th May. Held at the at the Quay Hotel in Deganwy at 7pm, the evening will include a three-course dinner with half a bottle of wine per person and dancing till late, all for £50 each.For further information please email fundraising@tygobaith.org.uk

Calling Mr & Mrs Jones!l

An appeal has gone out to people called Jones living in North Wales to take part in a bid to break a world record. They are being invited to join the largest collection of runners called Jones, just before the start of the Jones Crisps Anglesey Half Marathon. Already more than 800 athletes have signed up for the race on Sunday 4th March – with almost ten per cent of them called Jones.

Race organisers Always Aim High from Llangefni are expecting around 2,500 runners to take part in the three races on the day: the half marathon, Ynys Mȏn 10k run and one-mile children’s race. Together with Jones Crisps, they want to set a world record, by getting as many people with the surname Jones gathered together on the start line at Menai Bridge. Visit http://alwaysaimhighevents.com to register.

NWM 2018 Page 85

Learning by heart At the time of writing this article (mid-January) conversations

Reserve, off the A55, from there you run towards the castle then

usually turn to whether one has kept one’s New Year’s

back towards the Quay Hotel and then back to the start all along

resolution – though I suspect most of my pupils didn’t make any

the banks of the river Conwy. It’s relatively flat and pushchair

in the first place. I wouldn’t be surprised if they hadn’t. Too often

and wheelchair friendly. More importantly it’s just friendly!

such resolutions involving doing less of something you enjoy

Around 300 runners joined us – a mix of ages and a mix of

or more of something you suspect you won’t enjoy. I try to stay

fitness levels, plus the odd dog, but all incredibly supportive of

away from resolutions which encourage you to eat or drink less,

each other.

for example, though I do welcome the recent media concerns regarding teenagers’ over-consumption of so-called energy

Fancy dress outfits are not unusual and nor are complementary

drinks. I was also pleased to see Waitrose recently decide to

encouraging comments as you work your way around the

desist from selling them to under 16s. I do wonder, however,

course from the volunteer marshals to the participants (not

how many teenagers frequent that particularly supermarket for

competitors). At the end of the run you can have your time

their fizzy drinks. I hope other supermarket chains follow suit

officially recorded with a view to perhaps improving it next

and ban selling drinks with such high sugar and caffeine levels

time; I’m determined to beat my Director of Sport. On this first

to children.

occasion it happened to be Conwy’s 3rd anniversary as a parkrun and cameras from S4C were in attendance too as were

I am far more in favour of those resolutions which are about

free cakes at the finish to add to the sense of occasion.

doing something more or doing something differently. I hope my pupils might have considered, for example, reading more – 12

All our pupils finished and everywhere I looked I happened

books in a year perhaps – or working harder in mathematics

to see other members of staff from the school or other familiar

or spending more time practising the piano. Being more active

members of the community. It was, for an early start on a

or “getting fit” is a common resolution but almost always leads

January Saturday morning, an utterly joyful experience and

to expensive short-lived gym membership and being inactive

not just because I happen to be a keen runner but because it

is not a problem for the majority of my pupils, though cries of a

restored my faith in community and peoples’ commitment to

national obesity crisis may suggest that all our teenagers could

improvement in addition to the pupils’ sense of achievement on

be moving more.

the minibus as we travelled home with our packed breakfasts.

It was reported last month that 38% of 14 year olds in Wales

I would encourage anyone reading this article to try the

were overweight and many studies have made the link between

Conwy parkrun just once and take your children too; it won’t

physical fitness and academic improvement. The New York

be your last! At a time when I have to worry about my pupils

Times reported: “children who are more active are better able to

and all teenagers’ wellbeing, both physical and mental, such

focus their attention, are quicker to perform simple tasks, and

organisations and events give me hope and restore my faith in

have better working memories and problem solving skills than

the human spirit.

less-active children. They also perform better on standardized academic tests”. It was partly against this backdrop that I went

When you have that who needs New Year’s resolutions to make

with 14 of my pupils to our first Conwy Parkrun last Saturday

you feel better about yourself? n

and, despite the cold wind blowing off the water, it was one of the most uplifting and positive experiences of my recent life.

For those who aren’t familiar with park runs they are organised

Simon Smith is the headmaster of Rydal

5km timed runs in safe, often beautiful, parts of the country and

Penrhos in Colwyn Bay. He is married

are completely free.

with two teenage children and has a passion for rugby

The beautiful Conwy parkrun starts by the RSPB Nature

NWM 2018 Page 87

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UC Beds, 2 Mostyn Street Llandudo North Wales LL302PS

Three places to visit in February The Spinnies/Aber Ogwen, near Penrhyn Castle This North Wales Wildlife

Getting back

to Nature

There’s plenty of wildlife across the region in February, says Julian Hughes, if you know where to look.

Credit: Benjamin Gimmel

Trust reserve is a reedfringed pool where Kingfisher and Little Egret feed, and Greenshanks overwinter.

One of the viewing hides overlooks the Ogwen estuary, where a rising tide is best to see birds that have been feeding on the adjacent Traeth Lafan, including Wigeons, Oystercatchers and Red-

Snowdrop: first sign of spring

breasted Mergansers.

If, like me, you herald the first Snowdrops as a sign that spring is on its way, you may be surprised to know

RSPB Cors Ddyga, near

that this little white flower is not even native to Britain.

Gaerwen

Snowdrops were introduced here from continental

A large area of the Cefni valley

Europe, probably in the 16th Century. Ours is one of

has been restored to wetland

around 20 Snowdrop species, most of which are found

over the last 20 years and it’s

around the Black Sea and at risk of extinction. Look in woodlands for carpets of Snowdrops,

rapidly becoming one of the

although many have been planted in churchyards and gardens too, such as at Chirk Castle.

best places to see wildlife on Anglesey. In winter, birds are

Throwing shapes before bedtime

the main attraction, especially

A murmuration of Starlings, once witnessed, is not forgotten. Millions of Starlings spend the

at dawn and in late afternoon

winter in Britain, escaping the frozen conditions of Russia and Scandinavia. They feed on

when Hen Harriers, Marsh

sheepfields across North Wales during the day, then gather to roost, usually at reedbeds

Harriers and Merlins hunt

such as RSPB Conwy, Dolgarrog in the Conwy Valley and RSPB Cors Ddyga on Anglesey.

over the reeds, Starlings roost

Starlings also roost on buildings, such as Colwyn Bay Pier. The best viewing conditions are

here and you may hear the

calm, clear afternoons, from an hour before dusk. The favourite roost sites move during the

local herd of Whooper Swans.

winter, so use social media to find out the latest news, or visit starlingsintheuk.co.uk

Early nesters

Behold, the Queen

The first warm days of February will see insects emerge for the first time.

Bees, covered in thousands of tiny hairs, are better able to cope with cooler Credit: : Ivar Leidus temperatures than other insects, and it will be the large Queens that fly first. After feeding on early pollen, such as Willow flowers and crocus, bumblebees are looking for a place to nest, so leave an untidy grassy corner in the garden to give them a home. A spell of sunshine may also bring out the first ladybirds and butterflies, especially species such as Red Admirals and Small Tortoiseshells that may have hibernated in garden sheds.

Dee estuary, near Shotton Hundreds of thousands of

For most birds, the breeding season is

waterbirds spend the winter in

still many weeks away, although a spell of

the Dee estuary, making it one

mild weather may encourage Blackbirds,

of the most important sites in

Thrushes and Pigeons to start nesting

the UK. Access is limited, but

in gardens. There are a couple of birds

you can reach the foreshore at

that always build their nest in February

Flint Castle, Shotwick Fields

because they have a long incubation and

and the RSPB’s Burton Mere

nestling period. Ravens and Grey Herons

Wetlands nature reserve. Look

use traditional nest sites, the latter in

for large flocks of Wigeons and

colonies in mature trees usually close to

up to 9000 Pink-footed Geese

water. The British Trust for Ornithology

which will start their migration

(BTO) began its annual Heronries Census

to Iceland in a few weeks. A

in 1928, and on the 90th anniversary the

small flock of Whooper Swans,

Trust is asking for help in counting every

up to 30 birds, graze regularly

known colony in the UK.

on fields around Shotwick.

Julian Hughes grew up in North Wales, which instilled a lifelong love of nature. He lives near Llandudno, manages the RSPB’s Conwy nature reserve, and writes about the region’s wildlife.

NWM 2018 Page 89

MAGAZINE

AS PLLYN-YW G EDD W

Canolfan Gelfyddydau

PLAS GLYN-Y-WEDDW Arts Centre

CELF • CAFFI • CREFFTAU • THEATR • LLWYBRAU ART • CAFE • CRAFTS • THEATRE • WOODLAND Full list of events and tickets available on our website Plas Glyn-y-Weddw, Llanbedrog, Pwllheli, LL53 7TT 01758 740763 . enquiry@oriel.org.uk . www.oriel.org.uk Page 90 NWM 2018

d dia / e n My ddim m a Free ry Ent

For the love of all things

vintage...

The confessions of a modern day Magpie 2018 is already trending as a busy year ahead for Tatty and an exciting new business venture is afoot…

A shout out to all my ladies! Cupids bow is about to be drawn back and fired, for February 14th will soon be upon us. Now, if you don’t want a bunch of forecourt flowers, best start sowing the seed right now and put a stop to him joining the orderly man queue outside Pandora. May I obviously suggest a fantabulous piece of vintage jewellery, or a beautiful vintage handbag, a gift with meaning at a fraction of the price. Through experience (a glitter ball. I’ll say no more) Tatty does not believe in leaving affairs of the heart to chance and has already taken a Valentine’s Day pre-emptive strike by purchasing herself a luxe-luxe 1930’s dress ring. Sterling

for me, to finally see the lead character carrying the birdcage

silver with a huge cornflower blue step cut stone. In material

that I had supplied to the BBC!

terms, it really is nothing fancy and at £20 from a vintage fair, extremely inexpensive. But to me it is priceless. It is super art

Although I find the majority of my stock close to home, this

deco stylish, totally individual (you couldn’t fail to notice it) and

year Tatty has made it her New Year’s resolution to travel

a memento of my day at the fair.

further afield, to unearth hidden gems. In preparation, I have diarised a full six months of vintage and antiques fairs to

News Flash! Those of you local to Colwyn Bay may have

visit, starting early February with my very first Flea Fair in

noticed an eye-catching and vibrant shop window display

Malvern. I will report back in next month’s issue. n

at the long established French Polishing Emporium on Abergele Road (pictured). Well… Tatty is pleased to announce

Love

a collaboration with Emporium owner Alex Webster. Drawing

Tatty xx

upon Alex’s 25 years of experience within Historic Houses and the Antiques trade, together we aim to source unique pieces of furniture and decorative items from across the

Tatty is constantly searching for new stock and would

country. Restoration and re-use is foremost in the way we

love to hear from you if you have any of the following

think today as we are no longer a throw away generation.

for sale: quality vintage costume jewellery/handbags,

Our collective aim is to create a fresh twist on an established look. The best of our finds will be showcased at the Emporium

antique quilts or Welsh blankets. 1920/1930’s ladies clothing and shawls. Please call 07940 730421

workshop alongside a full stock inventory listed on tattydivine. co.uk. As we will always be in need of fresh and interesting stock, please do call in at the workshop if you have anything

Ali Hough is a specialist vintage

that we may be interested in buying or contact me directly

dealer with a passion for decorative

(details below).

antiques and a flair for interiors, based in Old Colwyn, North Wales

By the way, did any observant readers watch “The Miniaturist” over the Christmas holidays? What a thrill it was

NWM 2018 Page 91

T H A T D O E S A C T U A L LY HELP THE SKY I M P R O V E D F U E L E C O N O M Y. LOWER CO2 EMISSIONS. WE’VE CHANGED EVERYTHING. EXCEPT THE NAME.

THE NEW HONDA CIVIC

NORTH WALES HONDA

Mostyn Broadway, Llandudno, Conwy LL30 1YR Call 01492 875991 or visit www.northwales-honda.co.uk

Page 92 NWM 2018

On the road Luke Edwards takes a drive in the sportiest Civic ever…

slows down gently ahead of time. It’ll also automatically change your speed as it detects limit signs. Blind-spot warning tech and a reversing camera are added if you decide on the upper-middle trim option.

Inside the Civic, the main instrument cluster consists of a TFT screen with a half-moon tacho wrapping around a digital speedo and lots of selectable information. The graphics are lovely and clear. On either side are bar-graph fuel and temp gauges.

The main central touch screen measures seven inches on upper spec versions, and five on the lowest. The bigger screen The Honda Civic has always been known as a reliable, smooth

features Honda Connect, linking you to web-based apps and

driving, comfortable car ¬– and that’s still the case after its

traffic, and enabling Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Response

recent overhaul. The new 10th generation Civic is sleeker,

time and touch smoothness of the screen are first rate.

longer and lower than previous models, making for more

The central spine of the Civic is vastly accommodating. A two-

passenger room and a more connected feel for the driver.

level tray happily holds phones. A conduit helpfully takes a USB cable from the low-mounted slot to the upper-level tray. The

Quick steering and a taut chassis make the Civic at home on

upper tray also works as a wireless charger if your phone is

the Welsh B-roads. That doesn’t mean it’s not sophisticated

compatible. Behind that is a large armrest and cubby with cup

enough to perform as a family hatchback – it’s a smooth cruiser,

holder, making family trips just that little bit easier.

and ride comfort around town is perfectly judged.

With its longer 5-door wheelbase, the back seat in the Civic Engine wise there’s the ultra-economical 1.0 VTEC petrol

has good legroom. The boot is big, and can be made deeper if

three-cylinder turbo, with its unique sound and 129bhp; ideal

you can live without the optional spare wheel. There is also a

for families looking for a cost effective model. If you want more

roller blind that goes side to side instead of a rigid boot cover.

grunt there’s a 1.5 four-cylinder turbo with 182bhp or a 1.6

It’s the size of an umbrella when rolled up and easily stored.

diesel. All feature the choice of 6 speed manual-transmission,

Honda has a history of strong reliability and residuals, so a

with well-chosen ratios, or a 7 speed CVT automatic box.

Civic really is a safe buy. Honda estimates 83% of Civics will go to retail – actual people spending their own money, not

If you want even more power there’s the Honda Civic

company fleet buyers. That says a lot about Honda and the fact

Type-R (pictured), which ticks all the boxes a Japanese

people on the street know they are a great purchase. The Civic

hot hatch should.

range starts from £18,890 for the SE and goes up to £32,995 for the Type R GT. n

Safety is a key aspect for Honda and it fits an active safety suite to every single Civic model. This includes collision warning and auto city braking

Freelance motoring journalist Luke Edwards is a

with pedestrian recognition, and active lane

member of the British Guild of Motoring Writers and

keeping. The system uses the same cameras and

is a motoring specialist for BBC Local Radio. He can

radar for its cruise control, which doesn’t just adapt

be found as a competitor in the occasional Hill Climb

to the speed of the car in front, but also tries to

competition too – but in his car rather than on his feet.

predict when someone will cut in ahead of you and

NWM 2018 2017 Page 93

GHL Kitchens & Bathrooms Design | Supply | Fit

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Key Features • Welsh speaking staff • Use of free van when you move into BOCS • Secure and accessible indoor storage • Undercover loading bay • Short and long term rental • Trolleys & trucks on site Talk to our trained staff who will advise and support you through the storing process making sure you only pay for the space you need.

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The Last Word Across 1 E.g. a ketch (3-6) 6 Copper and zinc alloy (5) 9 Item (7) 10 Not friendly (7) 11 Nail-like fastener (5) 12 Carry (9) 13 Bony structures (9) 15 Burning gas (5) 16 Forbiddingly (5) 18 Environmental fouling agent (9) 20 Deadlock (9) 23 Lukewarm (5) 25 Arabian Nights hero (3,4) 26 Mythical creature (7) 27 Expel (5) 28 Northern Canadian island (9) Down 1 Melts (5) 2 Exterior (7) 3 Satan (9) 4 Larceny (5) 5 Practice session (9) 6 Defeats (5) 7 Grand Canyon state (7) 8 Confection (9) 13 In good order (9) 14 Home for abandoned children (9) 15 Ornamental water jets (9) 17 Conceive (7) 19 Sanction (7) 21 Make law (5) 22 Peer (5) 24 Move rhythmically (5)

Down: 1 Thaws, 2 Outside, 3 Archenemy, 4 Theft, 5 Rehearsal, 6 Bests, 7 Arizona, 8 Sweetmeat, 13 Shipshape, 14 Orphanage, 15 Fountains, 17 Imagine, 19 Approve, 21 Enact, 22 Equal, 24 Dance.

Across: 1 Two-master, 6 Brass, 9 Article, 10 Hostile, 11 Spike, 12 Transport, 13 Skeletons, 15 Flame, 16 Icily, 18 Pollutant, 20 Stalemate, 23 Tepid, 25 Ali Baba, 26 Unicorn, 27 Eject, 28 Ellesmere.

NWM 2018 Page 95

MAGAZINE

AND THE

IS...

Huge congratulations go to the winner of December’s Portmeirion competition.

Emma Carnell From Talybont Is the winner of a day out in the Italianate village – including a luxury back massage for two with bubbles at the Mermaid Spa

Page 96 NWM 2018

COMPETITION

Win

A family full return ticket on either the Ffestiniog or Welsh Highland Railway

To Enter For your chance to win this fabulous journey for a family of four, simply send your name and address to competition@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk by Friday 16th February – making sure that you put Railways in the subject line. Good luck!

Terms and conditions • Ticket valid until 3rd November 2018 • Return ticket valid for a family standard Class return on either the Ffestiniog or Welsh Highland Railways • Ticket not valid on special event days or Halloween trains

Outstanding scenery, comfortable carriages and historic steam engines await you at Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways. Stretching 40 miles through the glorious Snowdonia National Park, experience magnificent scenery in comfort while savouring the romance of gleaming steam engines and carriages. Noted as one of the top 25 railway journeys in the world, it’s guaranteed to be a journey to remember. Even a short trip on the railways will help you unwind – so much so, you’ll want to do it all over again...

The prize A Family Return Ticket (2 x Adults and 2 x Children) standard class on the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways

NWM 2018 Page 97

MAGAZINE

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

IN THE STARS...

February’s horoscopes brought to you by Russell Grant

ARIES (March 21st-April 20th) A friendly relationship could turn romantic on Valentine’s Day when someone you’ve known for years confesses a crush on you. This could be the beginning of a beautiful partnership. Mid-February could mark big changes on the social front for you, thanks to a Solar Eclipse on the 15th.

It’s possible you will gain admission to an exclusive society.

LIBRA (September 24th-October 23rd) Valentine’s Day will be especially romantic for you. Whether you’re single or attached, you’re sure to have a lovely time with someone who greatly admires you. If you’ve had difficulty meeting interesting people, that could change after accepting an online request for a date. The Solar Eclipse on the 15th could bring surprising news of an engagement, marriage or pregnancy.

TAURUS (April 21st-May 21st) Don’t turn down an invitation to attend a glamorous Valentine’s Day party.

If you’re single, you’ll have your choice of admirers. Are you already in a serious relationship? Your partner will be proud to show you off. Wear something eye catching that enhances your natural good looks. On the 15th, a Solar Eclipse marks an exciting career opportunity.

SCORPIO (October 24th-November 22nd) Treat yourself like royalty on Valentine’s Day. Getting a spa treatment, splashing out on creature comforts and enjoying a gourmet meal will make this one of the happiest days of the year. This is a golden opportunity to break out of a rut. On the 15th, a Solar Eclipse could mark an unexpected change in your home life.

GEMINI (May 22nd-June 21st) You’ll have a lovely Valentine’s Day. If you’re footloose and fancy free, go out and have a good time with friends. Celebrating the love in your life will lift your spirits. Are you in a relationship? Your amour will encourage you to go after a cherished dream. The Solar Eclipse on the 15th could find you taking a trip that changes the course of your life.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23rd-December 21st) Valentine’s Day will be fun and flirtatious. Going to a lively nightclub will put you in the mood for love. Are you single? You’ll meet someone special on a group outing with friends. Play hard to get with someone who tries catching your eye. Being pursued is good for your ego. A Solar Eclipse on the 15th marks a big change in your daily routine.

CANCER (June 22nd-July 23rd) Valentine’s Day presents a wonderful opportunity to get up close and personal with your amour. There’s a good chance you’ll get engaged or exchange vows at this magical time. If you’ve already made a commitment, you may decide to undergo a radical lifestyle change together. The Solar Eclipse on the 15th could mark a handsome windfall.

CAPRICORN (December 22nd-January 20th) Don’t be surprised when this Valentine’s Day is especially fulfilling.

Someone who understands your deep desire to have a vibrant family life will make your dream come true. If you’re happy and single, take this opportunity to throw a festive party for friends. On the 15th, a Solar Eclipse will attract an unexpected moneymaking opportunity.

LEO (July 24th-August 23rd) A wildly romantic Valentine’s Day is in the cards for you. If you’re dating someone special, there’s a good chance you’ll get engaged or married.

Are you single? You could meet someone special at a religious, cultural or educational event. On the 15th, a Solar Eclipse marks an exciting turning point in a partnership.

AQUARIUS (January 21st-February 19th) You’ll have no trouble attracting admirers this Valentine’s Day. If you’re single, go on a date with someone who challenges your assumptions.

Lively, spirited debates make you excited about the future. Are you already in a relationship? Your amour will have thrilling news. On the 15th, a Solar Eclipse will prompt you to revamp your appearance.

VIRGO (August 24th-September 23rd) You’ll be looking especially nice on Valentine’s Day. Don’t be surprised when your amour finds it impossible to keep their hands off you. Are you single? You could meet someone special through your job. Keep your eyes open for someone with a friendly demeanour. On the 15th, a Solar Eclipse will inspire you to adopt a new health regime.

PISCES (February 20th-March 20th) Instead of having a lavish Valentine’s Day at a public place, you will prefer a candlelit dinner for two at a quiet little restaurant. Are you single? You could meet someone special at a charitable organisation or spiritual group. Keep your eyes open for someone who is unusual and independent.

The Solar Eclipse on the 15th is ideal for listening to your intuition.

Page 98 NWM 2018

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MAGAZINE