North Wales Magazine - March 2019 by North Wales Magazine

MARCH 2019

! EE FR

MAGAZINE What’s only? Your monthcal guide to lo events

Mum’s the word Make an impression this Mother’s Day

The Quay to Success UNLOCKING THE SECRETS OF THIS FANTASTIC HOTEL

Take a break!

HOLIDAYING IN NORTH WALES

INSIDE J Homes & Interiors J Food & Drink J Interview

MAGAZINE

LUXURY OUTDOOR LIVING

Our new Olive Tree Coffee Rooms are now open from 9am-5pm Monday to Saturday, 10.00am-4.00pm Sundays; to give plenty of time for sampling our delicious breakfast menu (9am-11.30pm). Please call 01492 580665 for all reservations and enquiries.

Complete your garden with a quality furniture set and/or a Weber Barbecue Our experts are always on hand to find the perfect combination for each individual customer and there is something for everyone. Beat the Spring/Summer crowds and make the most of some fantastic early season deals, ensuring that every precious heatwave is appreciated to the full. Alongside our Weber range, we stock a variety of garden furniture suites from three fantastic companies: 4Seasons, Hartman and Lifestyle Garden.

Page 2 NWM 2019 Snowdonia Nurseries & Garden Centre, Glan Conwy 01492 580703 www.snowdonianurseries.co.uk

MAGAZINE

Dear Reader March is a funny old month really, as there

Well, I’ll tell you what – how about the official

isn’t one particular event that stands out

start to spring? This year the season begins

from the crowd. However, there are plenty

on Wednesday 20th March, and the warmer

of smaller dates for your diary that, when

weather is bound to put a spring in your step

combined, make for a pretty eventful

– if you’ll excuse the pun.

month indeed.

We want to hear from you! J Are you organising or taking part in an event that should be covered in our what’s on listings? Then make sure you tell us! whatson@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk

Finally, Mothering Sunday rounds the month St David’s Day kicks the month off, and

off nicely, providing you with a good excuse

what a way to start! As soon as Friday 1st

to spend some quality time with your mum.

March arrives, with everyone sporting their

We feel a brisk beach walk and a hearty

obligatory daffodils, then I think that the

roast dinner coming on to celebrate…

entire country cheers up.

J Keep in touch. Send in your contributions, letters, photos and press releases and become part of the North Wales Magazine family. editorial@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk

And, this year, Shrove Tuesday is hot on the heels of St David’s Day – meaning that you can literally hop, skip and jump from cheery spring flowers to a pancake feast! What more could you want?

Kate Hamilton Founding Editor

J Advertise. If you own a business in North Wales and want to get your message in front of 25,000 local readers every month then drop us a line. Prices start from just £70. sales@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk

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. subscribe@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk

With so much going on this March, you’ll want to celebrate!

Front cover credit: The Quay Hotel & Spa, Deganwy

NWM 2019 Page 3

MAGAZINE

Contents

Editor Kate Hamilton Publisher Grant Hamilton

07 What’s On?

Your guide to the best events taking place this March

Sales & Marketing Manager Carly Redgers

14 The Big Picture

Art Director Simon Marriott

Spring has officially sprung!

17 Town in Focus

Exploring the historic town of Denbigh

25 Interview with… Local musician Martyn Peters

25 43

29 Holidaying at Home

North Wales is the best place to spend your leisure time

39 International Women’s Day

Celebrating women in rural business

43 Top Ten

Ways to celebrate Mother’s Day

49 Two Bridges

whatson @northwalesmagazine.co.uk

Crossing over onto Anglesey

53 Food & Drink

North Wales Magazine is an independent, regional monthly magazine produced by KSG Publishing. It is available to pick up from a wide range of independent outlets throughout Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Wrexham, Gwynedd and the Isle of Anglesey.

The regions wining, dining and culinary scene

67 Homes & Interiors

Get inspired by homes that are on the market

89 Walking

Take a stroll around Greenfield Valley

93 Competitions You’ve got to be in to win!

95 Crossword

Get to grips with our brain teasing puzzle

97 Community news

A roundup of regional happenings

101 In my opinion…

Are expert columnists share their thoughts

114 Horoscopes

Find out what March has in store

Contributors Stephen Gregory Alison Hough Tim Watson Cai Ross Julian Hughes Simon Smith Steve Goodier Lowri Llewelyn Sonia Goulding Caroline Roberts Janet Hill

Disclaimer: All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part (electronically or in print) without written permission is strictly prohibited. Every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of published content, and any views or opinions presented are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of North Wales Magazine. The publishers assume no responsibility for any damage, loss or injury arising from participation in, or as a result of, any offer, competition, information or advertisement contained within the magazine. North Wales Magazine does not endorse any of the advertisements featured. All words and images remain the property of their respective owners and all copyrights are observed. North Wales Magazine is not associated with any newspaper group. Privacy Notice. You can read North Wales Magazine’s Privacy Notice in full at www.northwalesmagazine.com

NWM 2019 Page 5

Saturday 9th March

Sunday 10th March

Swyddfa Docynnau / Box Office: 01745 330000

Friday 22nd March

Saturday 6th April

Archebwch ar-lein / Online: www.rhylpavilion.co.uk

Thursday 18th - Friday 19th April

Page 6 NWM 2019

Friday 15th March

Banff Mountain Film Festival 1st The World tour stops off at Venue Cymru for one night only to bring an evening of inspirational adventure films to the people of North Wales

What’s on this...

March

2nd

Met Opera Live: La Fille du Régiment Tenor Javier Camarena and soprano Pretty Yende team up for a feast of bel canto vocal fireworks—including the show-stopping tenor aria Ah! Mes amis. Broadcast starts at 5:55pm at the Ucheldre

1st

Footlights Book Club

Chat with fellow book enthusiasts at the Venue Cymru’s café bar at noon on the first Friday of each month. For more information about the book club email: info@venuecymru.co.uk 1st

Gwyl Dewi Sant St. Kentigern Hospice has teamed up with a variety of Welsh voices to create a fabulous evening of spectacular home3rd

grown talent to enchant all at the Rhyl Pavilion. Music starts at 7:30pm

Jones Crisps Anglesey Half Marathon & 10km

2nd

Providing the perfect pre-

Charlotte’s Country Commissions

London and Conwy Marathon

Charlotte will be running another of her

preparation, this beautiful

painting workshops at the Afonwen Centre.

undulating course with

Bring a small item of your own furniture

stunning scenery is perfect for

and learn how to pain with chalk paint.

an early season Personal Best. To find out more, visit www. alwaysaimhighevents.com

3rd

Llangollen Canal Walk Shake off those winter blues and stride into spring with sponsored ten-mile walk along the Llangollen Canal in aid of the Hope House 2nd

Greatest Showman Sing Along

Children’s Hospices. Register on Eventbrite

Sing out loud and proud with the all soul-stirring musical numbers of The Greatest Showman. Show starts at 2:30pm at the Theatr Colwyn

NWM 2019 Page 7

6th

MAGAZINE

Billy Ocean Following his sold-out tour last year, British Soul icon Billy Ocean will perform his greatest hits and favourite tracks at Venue Cymru. Tickets start at £24

March

3rd & 5th

Paintings by Gillian Benjamin Gillian will display her range of paintings of animals, wildlife and landscapes at the Afonwen Centre

5th

Mike and the Mechanics The 2019 nationwide ‘Looking Back 6th

Over My Shoulder Tour’ will take

Water colouring with John Morris

stage at Venue Cymru as part of their 24-stop UK tour. Tickets start at £34

John is a wonderful artist, who has travelled the world and paints 6th

from his experiences. Check out his

Free Vintage Matinee: Carry on Nurse

collection at the Afonwen Centre

The Denbigh Film Club invite you to a free screening of the 1959 classic, Carry on Nurse

7th

at 1.30pm. Screening will be at

Wizard of Oz (Dementia Friendly Showing)

the Theatr Tym o’r Nant

The classic Hollywood musical starring Judy Garland as Dorothy Gale, who is transported to a magical world after a tornado sweeps her family home away. Featuring the songs like Somewhere Over The Rainbow. This Theatr Colwyn screening for people with dementia, memory loss and their family, friends and carers but is open to the general public. Movie starts at 2pm

8th

Vegan Tasting at Chateau Rhianfa Chateau Rhianfa welcomes spring by hosting a Vegan Tasting Menu, with all dishes freshly prepared by their new head chef, Paul Smith. Sample delicious canapés accompanied by an aperitif in the lounges, before a 6-course meal, celebrating the best of local produce. Tickets are £65 per person

Page 8 NWM 2019

COOKE

EF UN

& SCIEN RY

You’ll Enjoy - African Drumming • Samba • Tuned Percussion Clog Dancing • Fun Fair • Donkey Rides • Plus MUCH MORE...

B U B BL

BOAT AND LEISURE SHOW 30 May/Mai - 1June/Mehefin 2019

CIR CUS

....................... 3 Days of Jam-packed Events keep the kids entertained during the school holidays dip in & out as you wish 4 Nights camping Glamping (optional) Explore the Isle of Anglesey! .......................

K MUSIC OL MPETIT & O

CE DANNS IO

ALL WALES

SKI S LL

THEATRE

Outdoor s

DANCE, MUSI

Family Festival

Anglesey Showground LL65 4RW | 10am - 5pm

ivities act

BOOK YOUR TICKETS TODAY

PRICES: Adult £145 • Child £50 • Under 4’s FREE

Amlwch Holyhead

Includes camping, parking, festival entry with priority access to activities

SHOWGROUND

Day Tickets: £10 Adult • £5 Kids (priority access not included)

Gwalchmai, LL65 4RW Main entrance oﬀ A5 A5

Llangefni A55

Bangor A55

Caernarfon

.............

(disability concessions and accessibility available)

ANGLESEY SHOWGROUND

•

.............

LL65 4RW

Entry: £10 Adults, £5 Children, Under 4’s Free (children must be accompanied by an adult)

www.festivalofdiscovery.wales www.allwalesboatshow.com

boatshowwales @WalesBoatShow

NWM 2019 Page 9

MAGAZINE

March 9th

Thank ABBA For The Music

15th-16th

Fiddler on the Roof The brainchild of Broadway legends Jerry Bock, Sheldon Harnick and Joseph Stein, Fiddler on the Roof has been touching audiences worldwide since its debut in 1964. The popular musical will take stage at Theatr Colwyn for two nights. Curtains up at 7pm

Grab your platforms and flares for a journey back in time to when ABBA

16th

dominated the charts and

An Evening with the Hairy Bikers

ruled the airwaves! Thank

All round to The Hairy Bikers’ for a night of cooking

ABBA For The Music

conversation with Si King and Dave Myers. Duo grace the

is a two-hour theatre

Venue Cymru stage at 7:30pm

spectacular that captures all of the magic and excitement of one of pop

19th

history’s most successful and entertaining live bands. Show

Solid Silver 60s Tour

starts at 7:30pm at Rhyl Pavilion theatre

Peter Noone, Brian Poole and Dave Berry return for the 34th year to Venue Cymru. Get tickets to the most successful multi artist tour in history. Show starts at 7:30 pm

14th-15th

Guys and Dolls entertainment featuring a cast of one hundred students plus a

Jazz Concert with Tina May

live orchestra. Show starts at 7pm

Acclaimed jazz vocalist Tina

Venue Cymru invites you for unforgettable evening of

May will perform the music of Ella Fitzgerald and Oscar 15th

A Beautiful Noise: Music of Neil Diamond

Peterson: ‘Celebrating Ella & Oscar’ at Theatr Clwyd. Show

Award winning Fisher Stevens celebrates the music of Neil

starts at 8pm, tickets are £12,

Diamond, one of the world’s greatest ever singer songwriters

and £5 for under 18s

in A Beautiful Noise with the biggest hits including Love On The Rocks, Sweet Caroline, Forever In Blue Jeans, Song Sung Blue. Music starts at 7:30pm at the Rhyl Pavilion 20th

Colwyn Bay Floral Art Club The friendly Floral Art Club invite you to smell the flowers and be inspired as you watch Diane Fair create magic with flowers. The club meets at the Methodist Church in Rhos-on-Sea at 7.30pm

Page 10 NWM 2019

21st

FLASHBACK – Rhyl & Rhuddlan Flashback is the culmination of a partnership project involving Rhyl High School and 4 local primary schools;

22nd

Ysgol Christchurch, Ysgol Emanuel, Ysgol Llywelyn & Ysgol Y

Nirvana Tribute Live

Castell. Developed with more than 250 pupils aged 9-15 years

To kick off the live band nights, the Ucheldre Centre

old; the performance explores the heritage of the local area.

welcomes the world’s only International touring Nirvana

The production takes place on Rhyl promenade today

tribute at 7:30pm

22nd

Join the incredibly talented Welsh lad Gruffydd Wyn at the

Theatr Tym o’r Nant in Denbigh invites you to a screening of

Rhyl Pavilion for an evening of the most popular classical

Bohemian Rapsody. Tickets are £4, movie starts at 7:30pm

Gruffydd Wyn – Welsh Tour

Bohemian Rapsody Screening

music, delivered with vocal panache! See first-hand why ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ contestant from Anglesey has been hailed as ‘Epic, phenomenal and outrageously good’! Performance starts at 7:30pm

23rd

Great Orme Giant Walk Get your friends and family together for this fun-filled 10and 20-mile fun walk around the fabulous Great Orme in Llandudno

23rd-24th

Northern Ballet: Three Little Pigs Northern Ballet’s Three Little Pigs hits the big screen at the Ucheldre as part of their fantastic season of interactive ballets for children, narrated by Anita Rani. With playful characters and spellbinding music, this adorable ballet is sure to have your little ones dancing all the way home with excitement! Show starts at 3:30pm

23rd-24th

Peppa Pig at Llangollen Railway Come take a picture with everyone’s favourite little 22nd

Writing Workshop with Fiona Owen

piggy at the Llangollen Station before setting off on a journey from Corwen to Carrog to see a magic show

A creative writing workshop drawing on Paul Deaton’s recent collection of

23rd-24th

poems A Watchful Astronomy and

Bing Live!

various other examples of poetry and

Bing and his friends are going on tour in the first ever Bing

fiction, the ‘Art and Craft of Imagery’

stage show! Join CBeebies favourites, Bing, Sula, Coco and

workshop will explore ways to enrich

Pando at Venue Cymru as they learn how to tell stories by

your writing (poetry and prose) by

pretending, dressing-up and singing songs. Bing Live! is the

using imagery. Workshop is at the

perfect first theatre trip for pre-schoolers and their families.

Ucheldre Centre between 1-3pm

Show starts at 1pm

NWM 2019 Page 11

MAGAZINE

March 26th

Conwy Seed Fair

30th-31st

Encaustic Art by Linda Morris Linda creates fantasy pictures, bookmarks and more using hot wax and irons which she runs over special paper. All proceeds she makes at the Afonwen Centre will go to the Walton Neurological Hospital

Head to Conwy High Street from 9am-4pm to experience the 700-year

30th-31st

with seed and plant stalls,

Mother’s Day with Pottery Painting & Afternoon Tea

local crafts, farmers’

Enjoy Mother’s Day with a pottery painting session and

market stalls and honey.

afternoon tea at Eat Drink Create at Let’s Paint Pottery in

Free admission

Prestatyn

old Royal Charter Fair

26th-27th

Much Ado about Textiles by Nia Watch Nia create wonderful work made using silk and textiles at the Afonwen Centre

26th-30th

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Full of life and colour, the magical musical features

31st

unforgettable and timeless songs including Go, Go, Go Joseph,

Denbighshire Race Series)

Any Dream Will Do, Jacob and Sons and Close Every Door To

The hugely popular 5K take you

Me. Tickets range from £15-31 at the Rhyl Pavilion Theatre

on and off-road, on a journey through tracks and footpaths of

30th

Vocal Workshop

Denbighshire. The 10K will take you on a journey on road up to

Meet music professionals Marian Bryfdir

where the scenery is outstanding.

and Kiefer Jones who will be at the Ucheldre

Must be 11+ to run in the 5k &

Centre between 10am and 2:30pm. Improve

15+ to run in the 10k. Runners

your singing voice and sing along to classic,

will meet at the Denbigh Leisure

opera, folk, pop and songs from musicals

Centre at 9:30am

30th

Met Opera Live: Die Walküre In what is expected to be a Wagnerian event for the ages, soprano Christine Goerke plays Brünnhilde, Wotan’s wilful warrior daughter, who loses her immortality in opera’s most famous act of filial defiance. Show starts at 4pm at the Ucheldre Centre

Page 12 NWM 2019

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 2019 Page 13

MAGAZINE

Page 14 NWM 2019

Well spring officially begins this month, on Wednesday 20th March to be precise. A season full of promises and opportunity, spring is the perfect time to dust off your walking boots and get out in the glorious North Walian countryside. For many people, whether they are just visiting North Wales or are lucky enough to live here, one of the highlights of the weekend is a brisk country walk followed by either a hearty pub lunch or a spot of afternoon tea. Of course, if you walk far enough, you could even justify having both!

NWM 2019 Page 15

costellos ﬂoral design

THE GLASS ONION CAFÉ A small friendly café, offering a place to meet, eat, relax & watch the world go by!! Enjoy tasty home cooked food, prepared & created daily using fresh locally sourced produce. We try to cater for a wide range of dietary requirements including: vegetarian, vegan, gluten & dairy free options…our menu caters for Healthy Diets too!!!

For our 'Younger Guests' - choose a smaller portion from our menu - or make your own 'Picnic Plate': includes a drink, crisps & a ‘sweet treat’ CY (Highchair & booster seat available) CMY A warm welcome to all...including dogs in our outside eating area.

Treat mum to a beautiful bouquet this Mother's Day

Visit Costello's Floral Design at 5 Vale Street, Denbigh LL163LB

Outside Catering: From a platter of freshly made sandwiches to something more elaborate, we would love to assist you with any catering requirements you may have at your home, venue or office.

Tel: 01745 818726

Pick up the ‘Keys’ to unlock & explore the ‘Denbigh Town Wall Walks’; The ‘Keys’ are available during opening hours.

Find us on Facebook @CostellosDenbigh

Glass Onion Café, Back Row, Denbigh, LL16 3TE. Tel: 07715545564. www.glassonioncafe.co.uk QP Visage March copy.pdf

17/02/2019

09:50

Also find us on Tripadvisor & Facebook

Norwath-Mag-Ad.pdf 1 2/9/2019 10:34:15 AM

NOW AT VISAGE

‘WELL BEING CLINIC’ HYPNOTHERAPY De Stress & Deep Relaxation Packages Massage – Reflexology – Reiki – Anti Ageing Facials Make Up Lessons For Over 40’s & Confidence Boosting Makeup Foot Care Clinic We Have Treatments To Help With Menopause, PMT, Stress, Anxiety, Tension, Insomnia, Depression, Phobias, Weight Issues, Relaxation, Bad Habits, Positive Thinking,Confidence Building, Teenage Anxiety, Exam Nerves & Stress Visage, Rhyl Road, Denbigh, LL165TH 01745812215 / Text 07825314302 All information discussed with your therapist remains STRICTLY confidential. Visage Is By Appointment Only.

CMY

EXPLORING

Denbigh

Steve Goodier visits Denbigh and discovers that this ancient town has quite the history…

TOWN IN FOCUS

Denbigh is a busy town that is beautifully located in the

Having defeated and subdued the Welsh people, King

dramatic and breathtaking Vale of Clwyd at a strategic point.

Edward 1 set about keeping them from rebelling back

It has a long and varied history and is a great place to base

against him by undertaking a long series of castle building

yourself to explore the likes of stunning Llyn Brenig Reservoir

projects to help him in this matter. Denbigh Castle was one

and the Denbigh Moors that surround it. It is also well

of these and it was given (along with The Lordship) to Henry

positioned for enjoying walking in The Clwydian Hills Area of

de Lacy, the Earl of Lincoln who was one of The Kings most

Outstanding Natural Beauty that dramatically fills the skyline

successful military leaders. It was de Lacy who, along with

easterly above the town.

master mason James St. George, designed the castle as we see it today. The castle was built in two phases along with

Denbigh always brings to mind warm sunny spring days

over half a mile of town walls. The first phase saw the rapid

when I think of it with white fluffy clouds drifting in a blue

building of the outer defences principally along the southern

sky above the aforementioned Clwydian Hills. This is perhaps

and western sides, and it was during this initial period that

because on the occasions I have caravanned in the locality it

the town walls came into existence too. The second building

has usually been during April or May and I’ve usually been

phase continued into the 14th Century and saw the majority

very lucky with the weather!

of the inner buildings being constructed. Between the two building periods the castle was captured during a rebellion

At one time Denbigh was the County town of Denbighshire

led by Madog ap Llywelyn who overran it in November 1294.

and its name (when translated from the Welsh) simply means

The castle was recaptured by Edward 1 in December of the

‘Little Fortress’ which refers to a stronghold that the Welsh

same year.

princes held here previous to the castle. The town of Denbigh, although growing up around the castle, The town of Denbigh literally grew up around the castle

had an equally turbulent history and was burnt to the ground

which dates from 1282 when construction on it began by

in 1400 during the revolt of Owain Glyndwr.

order of King Edward 1. The site for the fortification was well chosen on a rocky and grassy mound that is elevated

It was largely destroyed again during the Wars of The Roses

above the surrounding land and so was very easy to

between 1455 -1487 and as a result of this, it moved from the

defend. Edward’s architects may have had some help here

position it had occupied around the castle to be more centred

as it is highly likely that there were previous forts and

on what is the present town market.

structures on the mound that dated back many centuries before construction of the castle took place. It is certain, for

During the English Civil War Denbigh was a refuge for a

instance, that the Welsh had a fortification here as early as

Royalist garrison which surrendered in 1646 after which the

the start of the 13th Century.

castle and walls slowly fell into ruins.

NWM 2019 Page 17

MAGAZINE

What to do

set in 25 hectares of grounds on a working farm. Once you have

VISIT DENBIGH CASTLE AND TOWN WALLS

www.50smuseum.uk

explored the museum you can stroll around the woodland and farmland that surround it.

A visit to one of Edward 1st’s dramatically situated Denbigh Castle is a must. Set in an elevated position on a rocky and

GO ON A GUIDED TOUR

grassy mound overlooking the lovely Vale of Clwyd, the castle

Denbigh Town Council has a group of wonderful volunteers

makes a great morning or afternoon out. Although a ruin it is

who give guided tours to the public on Saturday and Sunday

still very impressive and was built in two separate phases with

mornings at 10.30am between April and the end of September.

the first being started in 1282 when the external defences

The meeting point is outside Denbigh Library at the top of the

were put up. The second phase ran into the 14th Century and

High Street.

saw the construction of a lot of the internal buildings. The

www.denbightowncouncil.gov.uk

castle has a turbulent history and eventually began to fall into ruin after the end of The English Civil War. The town walls can

GO TO THE WIRELESS IN WALES MUSUEM

also be visited by borrowing a key from the castle or the town

The Wireless in Wales Museum is another unusual and unique

library. A small refundable deposit is required.

attraction you will find in Denbigh. Gwefr Heb Wifrau (Wireless

www.cadw.gov.wales

in Wales) is a small popular radio museum owned by the charitable trust of the same name. If you come here you will

TAKE A DRIVE TO LLYN BRENIG RESERVOIR AND AROUND THE

learn about broadcasting in Wales and the Welsh contribution

DENBIGH MOORS

to the development of wireless technology as we know it

Llyn Brenig Reservoir is a beautiful location situated amidst

today. There are collections of old radio equipment and books

the wild Denbigh Moors. It is a short drive from Denbigh and

along with educational and informative displays. The museum

you can make a nice circuit of moorland roads (if you use your

has wheelchair access throughout and is based around the

road map) to reach the spacious car park and visitor centre

collection of the late David Evan Jones and was opened a

near Llyn Brenig reservoir dam. Llyn Brenig is a huge expanse

few weeks after his death in 2008. The Museum is open on

of water set beautifully amidst forest and rolling moorland and

Mondays from 11am to 3pm and on the first Saturday of every

is very popular with water sports enthusiasts, trout fishermen,

month at the same times.

bikers and walkers. Families love to picnic here and follow

www.gwefrhebwifrau.org.uk

the good lakeshore paths for strolls with great views. There is a visitor centre with a walk through exhibition, a restaurant

GO WALKING IN THE CLWDIAN HILLS

with views out over the water, a picnic area and a children’s

Moel Ffamau is the highest mountain in The Clwydian Range

adventure playground. Choose a nice sunny day to come here.

(an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) of hills and it rises to

www.llyn-brenig.co.uk

1,844ft/562 metres. It is to be found between Ruthin and Mold off the A494 road near to Loggerheads and is visible from

SPEND TIME AT THE CAE DAI 50’S MUSEUM

Denbigh. The peak lies within The Moel Ffamau Country Park

The Cae Dai 50’s museum is a great and nostalgic family day

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

out whether you can remember that decade or not. It is the

tracks. But there are plenty of other tops to climb as you explore

main source of income for The Cae Dau Trust which was set up

this elevated ridge. The long distance footpath Offa’s Dyke

in 1992 by Sparrow Harrison to offer temporary accommodation

follows the crest of the Clwydian Hills on its long 177 mile/285

for those in need. The museum burnt down in 2008 but was

km journey from Chepstow in South Wales to Prestatyn in the

rebuilt and is a popular day out. It has unique displays that

north. Wear boots and sensible clothing if you come walking

would have been commonplace in the 1950’s and these include

here and take along Ordnance Survey Map Explorer 265 The

sections on sport, music, crime, classic cars and several

Clwydian Range.

reconstructed rooms dating from that decade. The museum is

www.visitclwydianrange.co.uk

Page 18 NWM 2019

Double Crown Hair & Beauty Salon We are a well established hair dressing salon in Denbigh offering all aspects of hair and beauty treatments including hair extensions, manicures, micro blading, dermo ďŹ llers and more. *New* Now offering Prowess Cosmetics services We love making our clients look & feel amazing! Book your beauty treatment today: 01745 816888 21 Bridge Street, Denbigh, LL163TF *New for 2019, Tracey also offers clients Nia dance classes. Follow QP Bridge Park Candle.pdf 1 19/02/2019 15:41 @SerenityNiaHealthandHealing on Facebook.

QP WWinwales copy.pdf

15/02/2019

16:52

BRIDGE PARK CANDLE CO

A Range of 100% Natural, Vegan Friendly, Soy Wax Candles, Wax Melts & Soy Based Reed Diffusers HAND MADE IN THE HEART OF DENBIGH

Gwefr Heb Wifrau Wireless in Wales

Available to order at: www.bridgeparkcandlecompany.co.uk Orders placed on the website may be collected from my workshop on Middle Lane, Denbigh. Contact me for details 07974439842

CMY

For details of local events I will be attending, where you can purchase my products direct, please follow my facebook page or have a look at my website. Contact me: Email: carol@bridgeparkcandlecompany.co.uk Facebook: @bridgeparkcandlecompany Instagram: bridgepark_candles

A charitable trust, Wireless in Wales is a small radio museum that celebrates the contribution of the Welsh to the development of wireless technology. The museum has been officially re-accredited by the Museums, Archives and Libraries Division of the Welsh Government in May 2018. Enjoy: Free entry / 100+ vintage radios / 150 valves / Gramophone records / World's rarest loudspeaker Please see the "Wireless in Wales" website for opening times, talks and other events. To book a private tour for visitors or groups such as the Rotary club email: info@wirelessinwales.org.uk.

Stop by and see us at Canolfan Iaith Clwyd, Bridge St, Denbigh LL16 3LF.

MAGAZINE

At Kazoku Cycles we offer: - Bicycle servicing, repairs and maintenance - Authorized dealer of Evil and Marin bikes

CMY

- Bike parts and accessories

Situated in the medieval town of Denbigh, Con Amici is a family owned modern Italian restaurant and bar run by Joe Lynch and his son Ryan. Serving craft cocktails, a great selection of Italian wines, beers, pizza, pasta, steaks and seafood - Con Amici is the perfect spot to enjoy a romantic night out, family and group gatherings.

- Refreshment corner with proper coffee and homemade cakes - Shop social rides and maintenance classes - Friendly local advice

Open 7 days a week.

Please do drop in and say hello. Have a brew and a slice of something tasty, chat about bikes with us, demo your dream machine or join a shop ride... You're always welcome in our family.

Every Tuesday: 2 For 1 Takeaway Pizzas

Kazoku Cycles Limited, 8 Bridge Street, Denbigh, LL16 3TF

Make your reservation with us today: 01745 814444 Con Amici Italian Bar and Kitchen, 1 21/02/2019 Rhyl Road, Denbigh, LL16 3DS

1 20/02/2019 10:31 www.kazokucycles.com

QP brookhouse MArch2019 copy.pdf

QP Den B choc FINAL.pdf

13:28

DENBIGH

Chocolate Shop

Wales' most fabulous chocolate, treats and coffee shop

CMY

Brookhouse Mill has a warm and welcoming atmosphere in a restored 17th-century flour mill, the exposed beams, original iron wheels, cogs and grinding stones feature in the intimate dining rooms and bar area. The varied menu offers traditional dishes using Welsh produce where possible with imagination and expertise, with an extensive wine list complementing the menu. Established in 1981, this family-run restaurant is open for lunch and dinner service Monday to Friday and open all day Saturday and Sunday. Brookhouse Mill’s traditional Sunday lunch with all the trimmings is in high demand so booking in advance is advised.

Deep in the heart of the Vale of Clwyd, we invite you to try our amazing cakes, coffees, hot chocolate, tea and light lunches. We also cater to Birthday Parties. Call 01745814864 or visit: www.denbighchocolateshop.com

The restaurant can also accommodate private family parties of up to 30 people in the inviting conservatory which has stunning views over the river. To book a table contact us on 01745 813377 or email info@brookhousemill.co.uk

Brookhouse Mill • Ruthin Road • Denbigh • LL16 4RD

Where to stay THE GOLDEN LION INN

THE GUILDHALL TAVERN HOTEL

The Golden Lion Inn is four miles from Denbigh and nestles

The Guildhall Tavern Hotel is located centrally in Denbigh

beneath the wonderful Clwydian Hills. There are two bed

and offers bed and breakfast accommodation in 11 eleven

and breakfast rooms for you to book – The Carneddau

separate bedrooms. The inn is very historic and is

Room which is the largest and has an en suite Jacuzzi

traditionally believed to have been the headquarters of the

bath and the smaller Clwydian Room which has an en suite

Parliamentary Generals Mytton and Myddleton during the

with shower. The inn has a cosy bar and the restaurant

English Civil War when Denbigh Castle was under siege.

area serves a traditional pub menu for visitors and guests

Evening meals are available in the bar Monday to Saturday

alike. And on top of this The Golden Lion Inn has its own

but are not served on Sundays or Bank Holiday Mondays.

campsite if you fancy bringing your tent instead.

Meals are from a traditional pub food menu and the tavern

www.thegoldenlioninn.com

is very popular. www.guildhalltavernhotel.co.uk

CASTLE HOUSE BED AND BREAKFAST Castle House Bed and Breakfast is located centrally in

TYN YR EITHIN CARAVAN AND CAMPING PARK

Denbigh and the old town walls actually form part of the

Tyn Yr Eithin Caravan and Camping Park takes caravans,

buildings gardens. Accommodation is offered on a bed

campervans and tents on a mixture of hard standing and

and breakfast basis and you will find yourself extremely

grass pitches with electric hook-ups available for those

well positioned for exploring the town of Denbigh if you

who need them. The field is fairly flat and the views from

stay here. There are three rooms for you to book – The Gee

it of the Clwydian hill range are stunning. Open low white

Room, The Stanley Room and The Dudley Room which is

fencing surround the camping areas and a good access

done in a romantic Elizabethan style with a four-poster

track gets you to the correct pitch. The site has a clean

bed. There is a garden terrace for eating an alfresco

and tidy toilet and shower block. The site is very close

breakfast in fine weather.

to Denbigh.

www.castlehousebandb.co.uk

www.tynyreithin.co.uk

There is more to the history of Denbigh than just battle and war and down the centuries it has been an important location for the agricultural trade. As well as this the textile industry became a mainstay of employment in the 1600’s with many specialist weavers, glovers, shoemakers, saddlers, furriers and tanners living and working here. As a mark of the importance Denbigh was held in a Church was begun in 1579 by Robert Dudley the 1st Earl of Leicester and Baron of Denbigh. This Church was planned as a Cathedral and it was intended the title of ‘city’ be transferred from Today Denbigh Castle is a popular tourist attraction and is a

neighbouring St. Asaph to the town. The project was never

steep climb from the environs of the town itself. You can wile

completed as it simply ran out of money.

a good morning away there and marvel at the famous triple towered ‘great gatehouse’ which is often referred to as one

Modern day Denbigh is a pleasant location to spend time

of ‘the seven wonders of Wales’. And to extend the day you

around and has a good selection of independent shops and

can explore the line of the old town walls too as a visit to them

a modern feel to it. There is a lively arts scene and plenty of

merely involves borrowing a key from the castle or the town

pubs, restaurants and cafes where locals and visitors alike rub

library. A small refundable deposit is required but the views

shoulders. The old town square is a great place to begin your

are great although there are a few slippery steep steps and

explorations and a pleasant location to simply sit quietly and

places to be negotiated.

watch the hustle and bustle of the world go by.

NWM 2019 Page 21

MAGAZINE

There are secret gardens to discover and more listed buildings than any other town in Wales. A day spent exploring the castle followed by a nosey around the streets of the town is time well spent with new surprises appearing around most corners turned.

Eating and drinking

There are two designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest

THE BROOKHOUSE MILL

Quarry which is where you will find an endangered and

The Brookhouse Mill is located a short mile drive from

ancient deciduous woodland. Geographically Denbigh is well

Denbigh on the A525. Set in an old and atmospheric

connected to surrounding areas by the A525, the A543, the

mill a traditional pub menu is offered in very pleasant

B5382 and the B4501. There has been no rail connection to

surroundings.

the town since 1962.

to seek out – Crest Mawr Wood which is adjoining Denbigh Golf Club to the north west of the town and the Tarmac

01745 813377 Probably the most famous person born in the town was the THE KINMEL ARMS INN

Welsh journalist and explorer Sir Henry Morton Stanley

The Kinmel Arms is located at Llandyrnog about

(in 1841). He was best known for his African search for the

half way between Ruthin and Denbigh and below

missionary and explorer David Livingstone and his famous

the Clwydian Hills. The Kinmel Arms Inn is a lovely

quote when he found him: “Dr. Livingstone I presume?”

country pub serving traditional pub grub in pleasant surroundings.

Denbigh is often viewed as town simply passed through on

www.kinmelarms.com

the way to Ruthin and maybe Wrexham beyond or somewhere glimpsed as you head for St. Asaph and perhaps the coast

CON AMICI

around Rhyl or Prestatyn further on.

Con Amici is a traditional family owned Italian restaurant located in Denbigh and run by a father and

This is a shame as the town is well worth at least day of

son team. The menu is varied and the restaurant is very

your time – you’ll be surprised as what you find there if you

popular.

decide to make it your destination next weekend! For the

www.con-amici.co.uk

general tourist and lover of history it’s a great place to spend time and for the mountain biker or walker it’s not a bad

THE HOPE AND ANCHOR INN

place to base yourself either – there’s plenty of footpaths, hill

The Hope and Anchor Inn dates back to the 16th

country and quiet lanes all around to go and explore to your

Century and is located near to the centre of Denbigh

heart’s content. n

and is popular with both visitors and locals alike. A good traditional pub menu is offered. www.hopeandanchordenbigh.co.uk THE GLASS ONION CAFÉ The Glass Onion Café is located on Denbigh High Street and offers traditional café fare ranging from coffee and tea to full meals. Food is home cooked and the café is very popular with locals and tourists alike. www.glassonioncafe.co.uk

Page 22 NWM 2019

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

Abersoch Holiday Homes

S TAY I N S T Y L E O N T H E L L Ŷ N

NEW THE SUMMER

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

8 TAI DYFFRYN, ABERSOCH Set over four floors and boasting a superb contemporary interior, this luxurious property sits close to The Boatyard in Abersoch and harbour beach and features two balconies to the front and fabulous bi-fold doors opening on to a large patio.

HOUSE, ABERSOCH

THE CORNER HOUSE, ABERSOCH The Corner House is an imposing period property just a stone's throw from Abersoch's main beach and amenities, this detached property oozes elegance and boasts high ceilings, period features, attractive furnishings and beautifully tended gardens.

S TAY I N S T Y L E O N T H E L L Ŷ N With style, elegance and space in abundance, this superior property is impeccably presented and boasts fabulous gardens and patio from which to enjoy the incredible far-reaching sea views. Positioned beautifully at the end of a private drive and close to the village of Abersoch, the main beach and the golf course, The Summer House sits in a beautiful half acre garden with wonderful views to the sea. It is hard to believe that a haven as quiet as this is only a 5 minute walk away from all the shops and restaurants of the village. The long sandy Abersoch beach with cafe is close at hand and with a beach hut available, it is a beachcombers' dream. 16

52 CRUGAN, LLANBEDROG A modern and spacious lodge, enviably located on the family friendly Crugan Holiday Park in Llanbedrog, walking distance to the village's National Trust beach, convenience store, art gallery and restaurants. Access to The Warren's leisure facilities including pool and tennis courts.

THE SHIPPONS, ABERSOCH

Take a look at our full collection -

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

The Shippons is beautifully renovated with a contemporary kitchen and smart bathrooms, this pretty single storey cottage features fabulous vaulted ceilings and charming antique touches, within walking distance of a good pub and just over a mile from the town of Abersoch.

NWM 2019 Page 23

MAGAZINE

Food for thought

OPEN MORNING

FOR OUR NURSERY AND RECEPTION CLASSES AND NURSERY PLUS PROVISION SATURDAY 16TH MARCH 10.00 – 11.30AM

Fishmongers. Even the word sounds like something out of Camberwick Green; something we used to have on our high streets but haven’t seen for years, like an apothecary or a video rentals shop. Nonetheless it would be depressingly oxymoronic for a thriving coastal town like Llandudno to admit that fresh fish is hard to come by, excepting the battered version beloved of tourists and attacking seagulls alike. Thank heavens then for Mermaid Seafoods. It might be as hard to find as the centre of a labyrinth but, for fish fans, it’s the equivalent of discovering a buried chest of Saxon gold. An encyclopaedic wall-chart of aquatic species are laid out over ice for

PLEASE COME ALONG AND EXPERIENCE OUR UNIQUE Seabass and plaice are evergreens inENVIRONMENT north Wales waters, but with the changing LEARNING seasons come grey mullet, brill and turbot. When summer comes, the sea-trout FOR YOURSELVES! (sewin) makes its annual appearance and Conwy mussels mark the arrival of your delectation, and all can be prepped to your lik-ing by the trained staff there with their ninja-like knife skills.

winter. (Mermaid also stocks a wide variety of game during the shooting season.)

APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN FOR SEPTEMBER 2019. it has been passed down from one generation to the next. It sup-plies many of the We’ve been using Mermaid since we first opened in 1988, in which time, like us, restaurants and hotels in the area, but it is also open to the public, and is often identifiable by the queue of fans making their weekly fish pilgrimage. As a result, it is also expanding to a larger premises this year. Head down to the Builder Street trading estate, at the train station end of town and you’ll find Mermaid Seafoods tucked behind the Jaguar Garage. Anybody asks, tell ‘em you’ve gone fishin’.

Cai Ross is co-owner and Maitre d’ of the awardwinning Paysanne Bistro in Deganwy, which has been serving French country-style food to the fine people of North Wales since 1988. He also writes for Calibre Magazine, BBC Good Food, HeyUGuys.com and The North Wales Weekly News

Tel: 01492 531260

Page 24 NWM 2017

www.ysgolpenybryn.com

NWM 2017 Page 24 NWM 2019 2017 Page 24

In the same vein Local musician Martyn Peters has got music in his blood. He talks to Carly Redgers about life, music â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and living in North Wales.

North Wales native song writer and multi-instrumentalist, Martyn Peters, recently wowed us over during a private performance at The Rocks luxury hostel in Capel Curig. When he is not busy promoting his debut album Veins, Martyn likes to spend his time writing new songs and exploring beautiful North Wales. Featuring ten original tracks written and arranged by

In 2017 he won Best Male at the Radio Wigwam Awards.

Martyn, the album Veins follows themes of love, loss,

Our correspondent, Carly, sat down with the talented artist

optimism, friendship, social interactions and relationships.

over a cuppa to ask a him a few questionsâ&#x20AC;Ś

Since its release in 2017 Martyn has been played on BBC 6Music by Steve Lamacq, BBC Radio Wales by Adam

How has living in North Wales inspired your music?

Walton and numerous international, national and local radio

Living in North Wales has inspired me in so many ways.

stations such as Radio Caroline, Radio Wigwam, Ridge

Growing up in Denbigh and attending a Welsh language

Radio, Radio Wandsworth, Radio Deeside, Quasar Radio, U

school I would regularly perform at the Eisteddfod, so

and I Radio and Shoreditch Radio.

singing and performing featured very early on! Then as I reached 18, I attended the plug and play nights at the Hope

Martyn was chosen as the support act for Amy Wadge (Ed

and Anchor in Denbigh. The wealth of musical talent in

Sheeran - Thinking Out Loud), performed on the main stage

Denbigh is amazing and as I was growing up I took in as

at the FOCUS Wales festival supporting Bill Ryder-Jones

much of it as I could!

and Boy Azooga, supported Tommy Scott (SPACE - Female of the Species) and has performed at some of the most iconic

Do you have a favourite spot to write music?

music venues in London such as The Half Moon in Putney,

For many years, my family had a caravan in Rhosneigr

The Camden Assembly, The Bedford and the Dublin Castle.

and I would spend days there with a note book and my

NWM 2019 Page 25

MAGAZINE

Martyn Peters with Amy Wadge

Favourite pub? The Cross Foxes in Erbistock near Wrexham has the most wonderful garden overlooking the Dee river. On a hot sunny day, it is absolutely beautiful there. Who would you like to sing for? I would love to sing for the band Rudimental. They manage to effortlessly mix so many different styles and create great guitar just working on songs. It was an ideal place to work

tracks. Their songs have a collaborative feel as well with

– quiet, peaceful and a place where I could be on my own

most of their tracks featuring guest artists, so I’d love the

to concentrate on song writing. I think around four tracks

chance to work with those guys.

from the album were written there. Best advice you’ve ever been given: Where do you go to listen to other local talent?

I’m lucky to have come from a very musical family. My dad

There are some wonderful open mic nights around and

and Taid both played a lot, so I’ve always been able to chat

I think they are great places to hear a real mix of music.

to them and get advice about playing. I think the best bit of

From people just starting out to seasoned veterans! But a

advice is to just go for it, whatever it might be, if you’re good

great place to listen to local acts on a bigger stage is the

at something and enjoy it, just go for it.

FOCUS Wales festival in Wrexham. It’s a great festival which not only hosts international and national artists, but

To purchase Martyn’s album Veins, view his tour schedule

really supports artists from Wales and the local area. I’ll be

or simply have a chat with the friendly musician, visit

performing there on the 18th of May this year.

http://martynpeters.com

Page 26 NWM 2019

iv a

len

t to

r £ 5 5 6 f o a fa mil y of

in g

Own a Holiday Home from e

it y

gr a

ila

b il

Fr e

£69,995 des

a v ail a

b le w it h

ed l i m it

ava

TIME TO D I S C OVE R

LUXURY HOL IDAY H O M E OWNERSH I P O N THE ST UN N I N G ISL E OF ANGL E SE Y

5-Star holiday park in North Wales 12-Month holiday season Country Club & Manor House lounge & bar 5-Star spa facilities & treatment rooms at The Serenity Spa

Plas Coch offers you the perfect base from which to discover North Wales or relax and catch your breath. Whether you’re seeking to make the most of some down time in the indulgent spa and hydro pools or pay a visit to The Serenity Spa for a range of treatments, you’ll feel perfectly pampered and well rested. If you’re looking to be more active, there’s a state-of-the-art gym and swimming pool free for our owners and, what’s more, all of this is set within a beautiful, 450 year-old Elizabethan manor house.

Marine club & private boat storage Kids’ club entertainment Children’s adventure play park Pet-friendly – the whole family’s welcome

TO B OOK YO U R A P P O I N T M E N T Email us opendays@parkleisure.co.uk or call

0808 271 9014

www.parkleisure.co.uk/plas-coch Plas Coch Coastal & Country Retreat, Llanedwen, Llanfairpwll, Anglesey, LL61 6EJ

If you can tear yourself away from the park’s facilities, you’ll have access to a wide variety of watersports and outdoor activities with The Marine Club membership as standard. The park is situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, boasting stunning views of Snowdonia, and it has its own privately-owned slipway right onto the Menai Strait. What are you waiting for, book your appointment today.

Holidaying

Plas Coch boasts state-ofthe-art facilities

at home

If last year is anything to go by, we could be lucky enough to have a sizzling summer once again. And, if the sun does come out to play, then there is no better place on earth to spend your holidays than in North Wales… When the sun is shining in North Wales there is no better place on this earth. The fabulous summer that we had last year meant that many people decided to holiday at home –

Plas Coch Coastal & Country Retreat on the Isle of Anglesey

why queue for hours at the airport only to land somewhere that isn’t anywhere as beautiful as what you’ve left behind? For many people this revelation has meant buying the holiday home of their dreams, right in their back yard. The attraction of emptying the fridge and sticking the dog in the boot is so appealing for many – and you can be on holiday in as little as 20 minutes! For over 20 years, Park Leisure has been operating five-star holiday parks in stunning coastal and country locations across the UK, including here in beautiful North Wales. Offering a

all year round and provide holidaymakers with their perfect

superb range of lodges and holiday homes, the parks are open

home from home. One of Park Leisure’s 12 parks sits beside the rolling green hills and crystal-clear waters of the Isle of Anglesey. Nestled amongst 60 acres of untouched parkland, you will discover Plas Coch Coastal & Country Retreat, the perfect place to create incredible memories with the ones you love on the magnificent Isle. Combining five-star service, luxurious accommodation and unspoilt views of Snowdon, the park provides an idyllic retreat for the whole family, including your four-legged friends. Set in the grounds of a spectacular 450-year-old Elizabethan Manor House, Plas Coch boasts state-of-the-art facilities allowing guests to enjoy the most sumptuous of breaks. Indulge and unwind at the park’s award-winning spa, complete with hydrotherapy bath and cleansing dry

Abersoch Garden Centre offers the latest garden furniture that is ideal for your holiday home

NWM 2017 Page 29

MAGAZINE

No holiday home is complete without a BBQ! Heston Blumenthal’s Everdure range is available at Snowdonia Nurseries

salt chamber, feel the stresses of modern life melt away, or reward yourself with a luxurious treatment in one of the spa’s bespoke treatment rooms and take a dip in the modern indoor pool. For those not fond of sitting still Plas Coch is an adventurer’s paradise. From majestic mountain ranges to the unspoilt coastline, there are an abundance of activities to keep you busy morning till dusk. Enjoy the park’s on-site gym, with stunning views over the manor’s vast grounds, or relax with a chilled drink in the beautifully manicured gardens. With some of the best golf offerings in the UK on its doorstep, Plas Coch offers residents exclusive access to three premium golf venues, including the historic Carden Park.

Install a hot tub from UK Leisure Living to really make the best of your holiday home

But one of the main attractions of Plas Coch is the ability to sit out on your deck and soak up some sun – and those magnificent views. However, in order to do this justice you need the ideal garden furniture! Outdoor furniture is now a garden fashion item with more and more garden furniture designs launched each year. Abersoch Garden Centre offers the latest garden furniture styles in a range of materials and colours with cushions and parasols in matching fabrics to suit all tastes. You can see its fantastic range of Kettler outdoor furniture, which is of the finest quality, featuring both unusual and traditional styles and, most of its outdoor furniture is specifically chosen to withstand our coastal climate to boot. The next item on your shopping list should be a barbeque – here in North Wales, the sun only needs to shine for five minutes before somebody makes the excellent suggestion of dining al fresco. While a couple of sausages and a few burgers are all well and good, in today’s Masterchef culture sometimes we want a little bit more… Companies such as Weber and Everdure are at the forefront of this outdoor cooking

Page 30 NWM 2019

CamGas is a family run LPG business supplying LPG cylinders to holiday homes throughout North Wales

Bouquet & Bells organises award-winning Wedding Fayres across Cheshire, Shropshire and North Wales. It works closely with a huge variety of fantastic venues to host incredible wedding shows. Bouquet & Bells Wedding Fayres are very unique, with a wide selection of quality exhibitors. The shows are a fun-filled day with lashings of inspiration for all brides, loved by both our visitors and wedding specialists. Bouquet & Bells is proud to be different to other wedding shows, by thinking outside of the box and creating fresh ideas. The company feels that the best way to start planning your wedding is to visit a selection of local fayres. You’ll be able to meet and chat to a whole range of suppliers, from photographers to magicians, cake makers to DJs. Plus they’re a great day out – and you may even grab a bargain! www.bouquetandbells.com

NWM 2019 Page 31

Threeways Motorhome Hire FAENOL AVENUE, ABERGELE, CONWY, LL22 7HT A55 JUNCTION 24

Make an enquiry today... 01745 827607 OPEN: MON-SAT 10am-5.30pm / SUN 11am-5pm Email – j.nettleton@threewaysgarage.co.uk Web – www.threewaysmotorhomes.com HP Camgas FINAL.pdf 1 18/02/2019 11:32

Your first choice for commercial and domestic LPG

CamGas is a family run LPG business, supplying LPG cylinders and bulk to homes and businesses throughout Cheshire and North/Mid Wales for 30 years. Some LPG do’s and don’ts for future park residents: • Keep cylinders upright and switch off when not in use. • We recommend annual landlord gas safe inspections. • Inspect and replace gas hoses if required. • Ensure a Co2 alarm is fitted.

The bespoke personal service the team provide to the leisure parks has become our speciality. In Spring 2018 we introduced a cylinder telemetry system to all 42 lodges at Herons Lake Retreat. This eliminates the daily task of cylinder changing by the park staff as “CamGas do it all”. As and when the automatic gas changeover switches, it signals CamGas to make a delivery. Consequently, park staff are free to carry out other tasks. This trial has proved so successful CamGas offer this facility to other interested parks.

For more information contact CamGas head office on 01244 520551 Page 32 NWM 2019 www.camgas.co.uk

Glampio Coed is glamping at its best

Hot Springs, for example, has a 40-year history and offers a 20-year parts guarantee – meaning that your hot tub is guaranteed to still be running in 20 years time. If you go for a cheaper brand then getting parts can be a major problem.” UK Leisure Living recommends that hot tubs are placed on a concrete base, and can organise all aspects of installation. The question is, where do you put it? “Privacy is vital,” adds Gareth. “Otherwise it comes down to personal preference. Some people like to soak under a gazebo in order to keep out of the rain, while others like to be able to see the stars in the sky.” Once you have finished shopping for the fun stuff, it’s time to revolution, creating barbeques which pride themselves on

get practical. Static caravans and lodges are off grid, and so

standing the tests of time. In the past, gas models have offered

you will need to find an alternative gas supply. CamGas is a

temperature-controlled precision cooking while charcoal

family run LPG business supplying LPG cylinders to holiday

BBQS provided that unmistakable BBQ taste. With Heston

homes throughout North Wales for the past 30 years, and the

Blumenthal’s range for Everdure, budding chefs can now get

bespoke personal service the team provides to the leisure

the best of both worlds! At the press of a button, coals are

parks has become its speciality. CamGas offers the complete

heated to exactly the right temperature within the space of

solution for the parks LPGas needs.

just ten minutes. Meanwhile, the gas collection comes with all the gadgets to cook everything from a full English breakfast to

In Spring 2018 the company introduced a cylinder telemetry

a cake. If you would like an in-depth demonstration on how to

system to all 42 lodges at Herons Lake Retreat at Caerwys

get the best out of your BBQ then make sure you Snowdonia

– this eliminates the daily task of cylinder changing by the

Nurseries in Glan Conwy – they are barbeque masters!

park staff as “CamGas do it all”. As and when the automatic gas changeover switches, it signals CamGas to make a

Another item that would make your holiday home stand out

delivery. Consequently, park staff our free to carry out other

from the crowd is a hot tub, however you will need the park’s

tasks. This trial has proved so successful CamGas offer this

permission before you can site one. But, if agreed, it can add

facility to other interested parks.

another dimension to your holiday home. “Like everything in life, you get what you pay for with hot tubs,” explains

Of course, not everyone wants a home from home – some

Gareth of UK Leisure Living in Mochdre. “We are all about

people prefer to get as close to nature as possible when

quality. We only sell tubs from decent manufacturers that

planning their holiday. Glampio Coed is glamping at its best.

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

Situated in the Llŷn Peninsula, the site is in close proximity

The wooden pods at Glampio Coed are luxurious and spacious

NWM 2019 Page 33

MAGAZINE

North Wales Holiday Cottages has a range of cottages to suit you

to the beautiful Welsh coast, home to some of the best beaches in Wales, and the famous Ty Coch Inn – voted third best beach bar in the world. Glampio Coed opened in May 2018 by Alun and Nia Williams. Built entirely by Alun and his brother Sion, the wooden pods are luxurious, spacious cosy and perfect for a weekend away in Snowdonia. Named after Snowdonia’s sandy beaches; Porth Iago, Porth Ferin and Porthor, the pods comfortably

Wales Cottage Holidays has properties available to rent all over the region

are spacious perfect for a romantic getaway or can easily fit groups – up to a family of four. The luxury glamping pods is set on a two acre field, where you can sit, relax, unwind and enjoy the sounds of early birds in the

As a Visit Wales accredited agency all of its cottages are Visit

morning and at night – nature at its best!

Wales star graded, and are available to search, view and book online with lots of pictures, clear descriptions – and most of

Meanwhile Dyffryn Isaf Cottages and Glamping site is located

them have virtual tours so you can see exactly what they are

on the beautiful Isle of Anglesey in North Wales. Dyffryn is a

like before you book.

small farm set within 20 acres of farmland and buildings, with a motley crew of animals including the chickens who supply

Of course, one of the main advantages of holidaying at home

the site with fresh eggs!

is the vast array of activities on offer. With Mountain biking, walking, climbing Snowdon or Cadair Idris, zip-lining,

Dyffryn Isaf is surrounded by countryside and wildlife located

underground trampolining, sailing, canyoning and white

near Pentraeth and Red Wharf Bay it is just a short ten-

water rafting North Wales really is perfect for the more

minute drive from the beach. Set in a peaceful location with

active. Wales Cottage Holidays has properties available to

no noise or light pollution for miles. With two cottages, two 5

rent by all of the main attractions but, if you prefer to keep

metre bell tents and a larger 6 metre pop-up bell tent, Dyffryn

things a little more relaxed, they can accommodate you

Isaf has plenty of room for either individual bookings or for

accordingly. The area is rich in culture and history and is

larger groups. Dyffryn is a great place to visit for all the family

home to a wealth of castles, gardens and heritage railways.

especially if you are looking to get away from the hustle and

Other great days out include Portmeirion Italianate village,

bustle and switch off for a couple of days!

the Centre for Alternative Technology, Sygun Copper Mine, Llechwedd Slate Caverns and the National Slate Museum.

Back on the mainland and North Wales Holiday Cottages is a family business that’s been helping holiday cottage owners

Anglesey Holidays is another firm that offers luxury

let their properties for over 50 years. Based in Deganwy,

accommodation on the beautiful Isle of Anglesey. Both of its

but covering the whole of North Wales, from the border with

properties, Hyfryd Le and the Trefonen House offer the ideal

England to the Llyn Peninsula and from Anglesey to southern

place to stay – allowing you to enjoy precious time with family

Snowdonia, North Wales Holiday Cottages has a range of

and friends while celebrating and exploring Anglesey and

cottages to suit you.

North Wales.

Page 34 NWM 2019

AMERICAN STYLE

HOT TUBS

• We are the current reigning Spa Retailer of the Year at the UK Pool and Spa Awards • We are Approved by Which? • Our decking business is Approved by the Federation of Master Builders • We are members of the British and Irish Spa and Hot Tub Association • One of the UK’s fastest growing hot tubs companies • Owned by Global Award Winning Entrepreneur Gareth Jones

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

WWW.UKLEISURELIVING.CO.UK

DELIVERING FRESH BREAD TO YOUR BUSINESS DAILY

CMY

Dyffryn Isaf Cottages and Glamping site is located on the beautiful Isle of Anglesey in North Wales. Surrounded by countryside and wildlife, Dyffryn is a small farm set within 20 acres of farmland and buildings, with a motley crew of animals including the chickens who supply us with all our fresh eggs!

Henllan Bakery is committed to delivering freshly baked produce to your business daily in North and Mid Wales, Shropshire borders and Wirral. The Moore family opened their first bakery in 1908 and have been enjoying making their range of breads, morning goods and cakes for their customers ever since. So skip the frozen mass produced and order fresh and local with Henllan Bakery. Call 01745 812 671 or email info@henllanbread.co.uk and mention this ad when enquiring of your fresh bread delivery!

With two cottages, Dyffryn is a great place to visit for all the family especially if you are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle and switch off for a couple of days! visit www.dyffrynisaf.co.uk HP Anglesey 2Please copy.pdf 1 24/01/2019 14:59

or get in touch with Becky on 07864503758.

Page 36 NWM 2019

HENLLAN BREAD (UK) LIMITED, Colomendy Industrial Estate, Denbigh, Denbighshire, Wales,LL16 5TA

Anglesey Holidays is another firm that offers luxury accommodation on the beautiful Isle of Anglesey

Further

information Hire prices start from just £110 per night at Threeways Motorhomes

Abersoch Garden Centre www.abersochgardencentre.com Anglesey Holidays www.angleseyholidays.wales

The Hyfryd Le, which translates to ‘Lovely Place’ is located in the quiet village of Llanbedrgoch, just a few miles from Benllech and Red Wharf Bay, sleeps 16 and has an outdoor tub, children’s outdoor play area, games room, disabled access bedroom and wet room. The Trefonen House sleeps 18 and comes with an indoor BBQ hut, hot tub and play area for children. And for those of you that would rather spend their holiday on the move, Anglesey Holidays’ fleet of motorhomes offer the freedom to relax and explore the Island and coastlines to your hearts content. Likewise, Threeways Motorhomes offers a fleet of four new luxury, 4-5 berth motorhomes for hire, fully equipped and ready to go. Located just off the A55 by the beautiful town of Abergele, Threeways can give you the perfect start to your adventure around North Wales – and even the UK. Having the freedom of being in a motorhome you can explore the depths of Anglesey, the heights of Snowdonia, the northernmost tip of Prestatyn hills and the outstanding beauty of the Llŷn Peninsula. It is open seven days a week, and hire prices start from just £110 per night which includes insurance for two drivers, breakdown cover, VAT and unlimited mileage. So, as you can see, there is a huge selection of holidays to be had in North Wales. Now we just need to organise the

Cam Gas www.camgas.co.uk Dyffryn Isaf www.dyffrynisaf.co.uk Glampio Coed www.glampiocoed.com North Wales Holiday Cottages www.northwalesholidaycottages.co.uk Plas Coch www.parkleisure.co.uk/plas-coch Snowdonia Nurseries www.snowdonianurseries.co.uk Threeways Motorhomes threewaysmotorhomes.net UK Leisure Living www.hottubsnorthwales.biz Wales Cottage Holidays www.walescottageholidays.co.uk

weather! n

NWM 2019 Page 37

The Hills inspires, supports and promotes small businesses We are passionate about helping to connect rural businesses and entrepreneurs with the community around them and even more passionate about enabling people who live in the British countryside to support small local businesses in their area. BM Conwy A6 SM.pdf

www.lovingthehills.com

CMY

• •

Purchase your tickets online at www.llangollen-railway.co.uk

•

Add your beautiful16:06 business to our community 1 08/02/2019 and join other rural makers, creators, crafters and brands in our directory.

A WOMAN’S WORK International Women’s Day falls on 8th March this year. To celebrate, Janet Hill did a little digging and found that the work of local business women is imperitative to the success of the North Wales economy…

I’ve written before on The Hills about the role that women

8th March, I thought it time to sing the praises of these

have played – and continue to play – in rural enterprise.

inspirational women.

Women’s history within rural businesses, invariably headed up by their male superiors or relatives, is a proud one,

Let’s have a look at some facts. Women now head up a

despite the fact that many worked for decades within family

significant percentage of small and medium-sized rural

enterprises without pay or recognition. Thankfully times

enterprises, and the Young report acknowledged the valuable

are now more enlightened, and women’s contribution to the

injection of cash this brings to the countryside. The playing

rural economy is no longer unseen or underappreciated.

field has broadened, too – a ‘woman in rural enterprise’ is no

And, as we approach International Women’s Day on Friday

longer a fancy way of saying a ‘farmer’s wife’, but covers a

NWM 2019 Page 39

MAGAZINE

Neal Rylatt

More and more women are seeing self-employment as an attractive career option and are choosing to set up their own business

in these uncertain times. In practical terms, there are the long distances rural business owners have to travel and account huge number of fields: women who work in the arts, tourism,

for in their invoicing to reach suppliers and clients, or visit

the food industry, crafters, therapists and professional service

trade fairs and conferences, and there is also the ongoing

providers to name just a handful.

issue of rural broadband. Rural areas are also far more at risk of ‘brain drain’ i.e. talented youngsters moving out of the area

As I am curating the range of products to sell in our shop,

and heading for a nearby city to improve their employment

I frequently find myself in awe of the tenacity, dynamism

prospects, making recruitment difficult for all rural business

and creativity of women in rural enterprise. The Hills is an

owners whether male or female.

online platform to promote the very best of all creative rural businesses, but I have to admit that I regularly find myself

All of this in addition to the usual stereotyping and cultural,

cheerleading most loudly for the female entrepreneurs

systemic and institutional discrimination women can face

and creatives pushing themselves to the forefront of

in the workplace – oh, and a tiny smattering of political

diversification and innovation. Jewellers, photographers,

uncertainty at the time of writing – makes for a heady mix

florists, luxury clothes designers, potters, fine artists and more

of what we might optimistically call ‘challenges’. So how can

– you name it, we’re passionate about giving it some profile.

we support budding female creatives and entrepreneurs or increase our chances of meeting our goals if we are that

But of course, women in rural enterprise still face challenges,

struggling start-up? Well, we’ve got some ideas for your

especially those starting up businesses, creative or otherwise,

consideration...

Page 40 NWM 2019

“More and more women are seeing self-employment as an attractive career option and are choosing to set up their own business,” explains Sandra Donoghue, Membership Advisor for the Federation of Small Business, who is instrumental in championing the Women in Business network in North Wales. “In particular, social enterprise and rural business owners are predominantly led by women and creating the Women in Business network helps to bring them together to share their challenges, triumphs, innovations and ideas.”

J It goes without saying that the best way to support a

Similarly, Network She was founded in 2007 by Ruth

business is to use it. Head out on to your local high street and

Lloyd-Williams and has spent over ten years making

into your wider communities, seek out that passionate creative,

a difference, creating connections, opening doors and

shopkeeper or artisan an d get to know their business

supporting women as they develop both themselves and their business. Network She strives to continue to bring

J Cheerleaders are hugely valuable commodities to the

motivation, inspiration, opportunity and fun to the women

budding businessperson especially women, so how about

who mean business.

offering a skillshare, a mutual time-swap or mentoring session? If you’ve got skills and experience to share, do so – a

Sandra and Ruth both aim to create a network to help

dose of confidence and a reliable sounding-board can make

women achieve their goals by enabling them to access

all the difference to someone starting out. We can’t always

support that is tailored to their needs. Speaking to other

provide direct funding or buy products and services that we

business women at different stages of the entrepreneurial

don’t need, but advice and support are a great way to help any

journey, learning from role models and working with

fledgling business

mentors helps them to develop their business ideas and identify strategies for future growth.

J I’m an enthusiastic advocate of networking events which cover large rural areas. They offer a wealth of support

Choosing a working life of entrepreneurial innovation may

and inspiration to women in business and provide regular

have its downsides – uncertainty being one – but with the

opportunities to build relationships with other like-minded

help of a supportive community of like-minded women

entrepreneurs. Does the thought of networking fill you

around us, virtual or otherwise, some strong coffee and

with dread? For me, networking isn’t about delivering a

some thoughtful advice, I honestly believe we can achieve

pushy sales pitch, I avoid those encounters like the plague.

anything. Add a bit of cake into that mix and the world

It is very much however a chance to bounce ideas around,

really is our oyster! n

spark connections or even find a mentor with a wealth of experience in a related field. There are a wide number of business networks specifically for women, offering events, support, advice and more. They range from very broad memberships to those targeted at more specific audiences, such as Women in Rural Enterprise (WiRE), Women in Business Network, Network She and the Federation of Small Businesses’ newly launched initiative for women. Try a few and see what works for you!

Janet Hill lives at the foot of the beautiful Welsh Hills with her two children, six cats, six dogs and an assortment of wild ducks. She is the founder of The Hills, a new website that promotes the too-often unsung heroes and beauties of our British countryside. www.lovingthehills.com

NWM 2019 Page 41

Ten of the best

treats This year Mother’s Day falls on Sunday 31st March – you can thank us later for reminding you! So whether you are looking to treat your own mum, or drop hints on the rest of the family as to what you deserve yourself, then look no further as our Mother’s Day gift guide has all of the inspiration that you could possibly need…

Say it with flowers Buying your lovely mum a bouquet of flowers is one of the most traditional and, perhaps, still the best way of showing her that you care. There is a huge selection of flowers out there, from expensive floral displays to a pretty bunch that have been picked straight from your garden. Most people however tend to plump for something in between these two extremes, and there are numerous florists throughout North Wales that can cater for your precise requirements. Award-winning florists Luna Flower in Rhos-on-Sea, for example, is more than happy to design you a custom bouquet for mum. 01492 540530

Have a day out You can’t beat an afternoon pottering about with your mum. Rhug Estate has a wide variety of unique gifts and handmade cards available in its farm shop, while its Bistro is the perfect location to spoil the most important woman in your life. Rhug will have a special Mother’s Day menu available in its Bistro on Mothering Sunday, which will be served from 11.30am until 5pm. Booking isn’t essential on the Sunday, but all those who do book in advance will receive a free glass of Prosecco with their meal! However, if your mum doesn’t want all the bells and whistles this year, then the Rhug afternoon tea is available for those who pre-book from 2pm on Saturday 30th March. https://rhug.co.uk

NWM 2019 Page 43

MAGAZINE

Get brownie points! If you really want to get in your mum’s good books this year, then give her the gift of a decent tan! Shoned Owen (a mum herself of two beautiful girls) from Pwllheli decided to look into developing her own signature tan after becoming disillusioned with what was available in the tanning industry at the time. She began to explore the formulation of sunless tanning in 2013 and, determined to remove all the barriers that were normally associated with fake tanning, her focus came to reality in the creation of Tanya Whitebits – a fast-drying quality, non-sticky and odour free formula. Tanya Whitebits is vegan friendly, cruelty, paraben and alcohol free and all products contain natural and organic ingredients. www.tanyawhitebits.co.uk

Have a coffee Who doesn’t like sitting down and having a decent coffee and a good chat with their mum? Well now you can do that right at home with ethically sourced Carissa coffee. With their own organic farming roots, the team at Carissa take great care in sourcing from organic accredited and environmentally friendly sources and ensure that fellow organic farmers are paid a fair price for their produce. Our favourite is their medium roast blend of the finest Arabica beans from Central America, Ethiopia and Sumatra. With smooth chocolate tones and a sweet caramel syrupy mouthfeel, the blend is complimented by a light citrus acidity, plum and a long smooth finish. www.cariadcoffee.co.uk

Get everyone together Make Mother’s day a truly special occasion by treating mum to an unforgettable experience at Château Rhianfa. It’s the perfect opportunity to bring the family together, as you show mum how much she’s loved by everyone that matters. This fabulous Anglesey Château has a couple of options available for Mothering Sunday, from a full Sunday lunch that includes a three-course meal, coffee with chocolates and a gift for all of the mums, to a full afternoon tea (also with a gift) that is sure to be the toast of the town… 01248 880 099

Page 44 NWM 2019

Show some sparkle Nothing says I love you like gold jewellery‎ – even more so if it’s Welsh gold! The only set back is that splashing out on a sparkly set of jewellery might seem rather excessive for Mother’s Day… Here’s where North Walian brand Clogau can help. To be in with a chance of winning a beautiful Clogau Wildflower pendant and earrings set worth £900, simply place an order online at www.clogau.co.uk during the month of March and you will be automatically entered into the prize draw. Alternatively, you can enter online by going to www.clogau.co.uk/mothersday

Go for a stroll At the end of the day, all that your mum really wants for Mother’s Day is to spend time with you. Betws-y-Coed is the perfect place to spend some quality time together, with a short forest walk to the famous waterfall which runs through the magical Fairy Glen gorge bound to hit the spot. After you have stretched your legs (and put the world to rights) you can indulge in a scrumptious afternoon tea at the Conwy Falls Café. A delicious spread of cakes, scones and sandwiches accompanied by tea, coffee – or even gin or Prosecco – awaits her on her special day! And, if you mention “MUM2019” you will receive 10% off an afternoon tea at the café on Mothers Day. 01690 710336

NWM 2019 Page 45

MAGAZINE

Indulge in a sweet treat Let’s face it – chocolate is perhaps the most reliable Mother’s Day gift of them all! But that doesn’t mean than you can get away with a bar of Daily Milk – the thought is just as important as the treat itself. The Denbigh Chocolate Shop is Wales’ most fabulous chocolate, treats and coffee shop, and Annie and her team invite you to try their amazing cakes, coffees, hot chocolate, tea and light lunches deep in the heart of the Vale of Clwyd. And, once you have had your fill, you can leave with some rather special chocolate to enjoy together later – choose from chocolate Welsh dragons, chocolate love spoons and even chocolate pizzas. www.denbighchocolateshop.com

Pamper yourselves Why not treat your mum to a spot of pampering? And, if you’re sensible, you can treat yourself at the same time! For just £130 for two people, The Spa at Tre-Ysgawen Hall is offering a half-day pamper package to celebrate Mother’s Day. You will both receive an arrival drink, full use of the spa facilities (including the thermal suite), 45 minutes of Guinot Kiwi body scrub and lunch served with a glass of Prosecco. Tempting! www.treysgawen-hall.co.uk

Enjoy afternoon tea Snowdonia Nurseries in Glan Conwy has the ultimate afternoon tea available to enjoy this Mothering Sunday. They will be offering a special Prosecco Afternoon Tea during Mother’s Day weekend in their newly refurbished coffee rooms for just £19.95 for two – and you can plan your gardens at the same time! 01492 580665

Page 46 NWM 2019

HIRE BUY BESPOKE

Our designs are 100% British made, focused on quality, durability and comfort, whilst maximising the health benefits and enjoyment of a traditional sauna. They are all hand-made using the best materials: we supply the most energy efficient wood fired and electric heated saunas in the UK, and are designed to last. The majority of the timber we use is felled, milled and processed from a local, private woodland! www.heartwoodsaunas.com info@heartwoodsaunas.com, 07903116673

MAGAZINE

Page 48 NWM 2019

TO GET TO THE OTHER SIDE… Stephen Gregory ponders the two (or three) bridges across the Menai Strait.

It sounds like the beginning of a joke.

There are two bridges across the Menai Strait. No need to swim, or row, or trudge in treacherous mud. You can drive

Three men are walking one sunny day and they come to the

your car high above the swirling Swellies, or relax on the

bank of a wide river. What do they do? The first man is so hot

train.

that he can’t wait to throw off his clothes and go for a swim. The second man is hungry and he quickly starts fishing for

Work on Thomas Telford’s bridge – simply known as Menai

his supper. After a while they ask the third man what on

Bridge – was begun in 1818, and it was opened on the January

earth he’s doing, just standing and staring at the river and

30th 1826. It was the first iron suspension bridge of its kind

scratching his head.

in the world, some 153 feet above the waters and 1,388 feet long. It had to be built so high to allow tall-masted shipping

It’s human nature, it’s in Man’s essential character… he’s

to pass beneath it – in fact, it was constructed without any

thinking about a way to cross to the other side.

kind of scaffolding, because it was so important that shipping should not be impeded during the building of the bridge. The

For many centuries there were two or three ways of crossing

stone was quarried from Penmon, on the island itself, the

the Menai Strait, from the mainland of North Wales to the

same quarries from which the limestone of Caernarfon and

island of Anglesey. For more than a few centuries – ever since

Beaumaris castles was extracted in the 13th Century.

the strait was created by seismic activity 500 million years ago and carved out by glaciers 20,000 years ago.

And then there’s the Britannia Bridge, designed by Robert Stephenson. Engineering ran in his blood – his father was

A strong brave man, strong enough to brave the powerful

the legendary George Stephenson, whose steam-engine the

currents of the Swellies, could have swum across – and a

Rocket would be the very spark which ignited the Industrial

number of hardy souls still swim from the island across to

Revolution. Britannia Bridge was opened in 1850, and it

Caernarfon in an annual race.

carried the railway line which took trains from London as far as Holyhead on the northernmost coast of Anglesey. From

Or, of course, you could cross by boat.

Holyhead, travellers could take the boat to Ireland, so the new bridge provided an important economic rail link, from the

And, until fairly recent times, men have walked and even

south of England and across the Irish Sea.

herded their cattle across the strait at the lowest of tides, between Abergwyngregyn and Beaumaris – a crossing which

My wife reminds me that her great grandfather used to travel

needed an extraordinary knowledge of weather conditions

regularly along the coast of North Wales, on the train over

and the shifting sandbanks.

the Menai Strait and onwards to Holyhead and Ireland, to buy Irish bloodstock horses to bring to Lancashire in the 19th

But since the middle of the 19th Century, it’s been easier.

Century.

NWM 2019 2017 Page 49

MAGAZINE

ways of crossing the Menai Strait. You could swim or sail or even walk. And now we have two bridges. But what about, to be mischievous, we said two or three? Yes, there’s talk of building a third bridge. By 2021, at a cost of more than 135 million pounds, there might be another bridge. Once more, in the construction of Britannia Bridge, the

The planners say it would improve the flow of traffic, it would

quarries at Penmon were worked for their stone. To add

take pressure off the dual-purpose Britannia Bridge and the

grandeur to the project, the sculptor John Thomas of

original, rather narrow Menai Bridge. They reassure us that,

Gloucestershire was hired to build four colossal lions out of

in its concept and design, it would respect the older bridges

iron – two of them guarding the bridge on the mainland side

but still have a character of its own. And, in order to calm a

and two on the island. These mighty creatures weighed 80

wave of opposition, they have said that some of the funding

tons each and were lowered into place just a couple of years

might come from the electricity companies – the so-called

before the bridge was opened. John Thomas already had a

national grid – who were already planning a 100 million pound

few pretty impressive credits on his CV, he had designed

tunnel to take power lines under the strait but could run them

both the north and south faces of the Houses of Parliament in

through the new bridge instead, thus actually saving a lot of

Westminster, as well as the façade of Buckingham Palace – so

money and disruption.

building statues of lions on a railway bridge in faraway Wales was probably a bit of light relief for him.

Opposition? Do we need another bridge?

For 120 years the trains ran this way and that through their

I’ve seen local environmentalists boiling with indignation

tubular tunnel on the Britannia Bridge. As every good-goody

at the prospect of damage caused by the building of a third

schoolboy knows, disaster struck one infamous night in 1970,

bridge and by the impact of extra traffic on it – people who

when a pair of naughty schoolboys, maybe sneaky smokers,

are passionately protective of the biodiversity of such a

started a catastrophic fire which caused the line to be closed.

sensitive waterway, and who maintain that government

The railway was repaired. It had to be, swiftly and effectively,

should be working to reduce carbon emissions rather than

because the rail link was so important to business and

providing infrastructure for more road traffic.

tourism. And at the same time, someone had the idea to turn a setback into a substantial step forward, and a road

What to do? This is a big moment in the life of humankind

was built over and above the railway line – so that today we

and our lovely, fragile planet. We have choices.

motorists can enjoy the freedom of our double-barrelled A55 expressway, barely aware of the trains which are thundering

We stand on the bank of a wide river. Some of us will throw

along their line a few feet beneath us.

off our clothes and splash about in the water. Some will cast in their lines and busy themselves catching fish. Others will

One of the peripheral casualties of this rebuilding was the

take the responsibility of making bigger choices. Because it’s

visual impact of John Thomas’s iron lions. Since the rebuilding

human nature, it’s in Man’s essential character to tackle the

of the Britannia Bridge in the 1970s, these noble cats have

challenges of reaching the other side – whether to do it, how

been hidden among nettles and brambles beneath the new

to do it, and the possibilities and problems of trying to do so. n

railway line, only seen in all their solemn glory by the people who choose to ramble there. There’s a plan nowadays to raise the lions back into view – a marvellous idea, in my opinion, but of course there are gloomy grumps who think it will be too difficult to lift the 80 ton statues in the first place and then, if they were relocated beside the expressway, they might be dangerously distracting to motorists as well. I remember I said that, in olden days, there were two or three

Page 50 NWM 2019

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

DISCOVER ABERSOCH GARDEN CENTRE

Stylish Outdoor Furniture, Homeware & Gifts Premium Napoleon BBQ Certified Store FREE local delivery available Open seven days a week from 9:30am - 5:30pm

01758 713098 - LL53 7UD www.abersochgardencentre.com info@abersochgardencentre.com

• All Day Breakfasts • Lunches - Hot and Cold • Afternoon Teas • Homemade Cakes • Hot and Cold Drinks • Fine Wine and Beer

ABERSOCH GARDEN CENTRE’S MEDITERRANEAN STYLE LICENCED TEA ROOM Uniquely designed wedding cakes • Celebration cakes • Cup Cakes and Cake Pops • Handmade Luxury Belgian Chocolates

www.petalpot.co.uk 01758 713098 - LL53 7UD • info@petalpot.co.uk

NWM 2019 Page 51

TALHENBONT HALL - EXCLUSIVE DESTINATION WEDDING VENUE SET IN BEAUTIFUL NORTH WALES Talhenbont Hall Estate is a family run business nestled in the North Wales countryside on the Llyn Peninsula, just 2 miles from the sea set in an area of outstanding local beauty. Situated in 100 acres of private ancient woodland and gardens Talhenbont really is a stunning location for your exclusive wedding venue. From the moment you come through the wrought iron gates and drive down the mile driveway you will know you have arrived at a simply stunning location. Completely private, exclusive and a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, you and your guests will be totally relaxed at our beautiful country estate. We offer exclusivity for your wedding for the whole weekend, or longer if you wish! We have capacity for 150 day guests and 170 evening guests. For larger weddings a marquee can be placed in our grounds. Accommodation can be provided for 40 people onsite in the Main Hall and 5 charming cottages on the Estate (there is lots of other accommodation in the local area for other guests which we can recommend).

Talhenbont Hall, Chwilog, Pwllheli, Gwynedd, LL53 6SZ. Tel 01766 810247, enquiries@talhenbonthall.co.uk Page 52 NWM 2019 www.talhenbonthall.co.uk

Signatures Restaurant Supports local & fresh

FOOD & DRINK NWM 2019 Page 53

The Bridge Inn, Rose Hill Street, Conwy, LL32 8LD 01492 572974

Open 7 days a week

129 Mostyn Street, Llandudno, LL30 2PE 01492 871813

www.jdoughspizzas.co.uk HP Cae Mor Hotel 2019 March v2.pdf

21/02/2019

08:42

Make Mothers Day @ Samphire, Seafood Brasserie & Bar What a great place to refresh the senses, both visually overlooking the stunning Llandudno Bay and through taste, while enjoying the delicious menu that 'Paul Clifford' and his team have created. ÂŁ25.00 per person, ÂŁ15.00 Children under 12 / Serving lunch and dinner. Glass of Prosecco on Arrival & a free gift for every Mother. Situated @ The Cae Mor Hotel, Overlooking the sea, Free Car Park, Next door to Venue Cymru. 31st March 2019

Call: 01492 878101 to make a reservation

OF THE

Month

According to recent research the Pornstar Martini is now the most popular cocktail in the UK – knocking the minty Mojito off its perch. Created by Douglas Ankrah – who is a legend in the bartending world – this fruity cocktail was originally named the Maverick Martini after a dodgy club in Cape Town. However today’s popular moniker of Pornstar Martini is simply down to the usage of passion fruit in the cocktail. But, as far as we are concerned, any drink that comes with a shot of Prosecco on the side has got to be a winner!

Pornstar Martini Equipment: Martini glass, shot glass, Boston shaker, hawthorne strainer and a sieve Ingredients: 1 shot vanilla vodka, 1 shot Passoa, 2 shots passion fruit purée, 2 dashes gomme and 1 Prosecco shot (served separately) Method: Chill Martini glass. Pour ingredients into Boston shaker. Add ice and shake well. Empty Martini glass and double strain mixture and pour into Martini glass To serve: Garnish with a halved passion fruit and serve with a shot of Prosecco on the side

IN THE MIX

Of course, if you’d rather sit back and relax while somebody mixed your ideal cocktail for you, then why not visit Sheldon’s in Colwyn Bay? From a Margarita to a Mojito, it has quite the cocktail selection and is quickly becoming the place to go for cocktails in North Wales. 01492 339821 www.sheldonsbar.co.uk

NWM 2019 Page 55

A TREAT FOR YOUR TASTE BUDS NOT YOUR AVERAGE WINE BAR

We pay close attention to our food menu, we are no average wine bar. Our Seasonal Menu has been carefully designed and implemented by our creative and skillful team here at Snooze; we have a passion for serving fresh and tasteful food using locally sourced produce to support local businesses.

THE MAIN BAR AREA

Themed after the ingenious works of controversial welsh poet Dylan Thomas, Snooze has strived to provide a touch of elegance and splendour to Victorian Llandudnoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s scenic seaside views. From our extensive selection of aromatic reds, crisp whites and divine bubbly to our traditional cask ales, ever changing draft lager and vast selection of premium whisky and spirits; at Snooze we strive to provide the perfect drink to suit your taste.

SNOOZE ROOMS

WITH OUR SNOOZE ROOMS, WE HAVE GONE THE EXTRA MILE TO ENSURE YOUR SNOOZE EXPERIENCE IS NOTHING SHORT OF EXCEPTIONAL. Snooze Rooms are tasteful, modern and spacious; each with their own 50 inch Flat Screen Smart TV, Wardrobes, Vanity Unit, Iron and Ironing Boards, Hairdryers, Full length Mirrors, Coffee Table and comfortable chairs to overlook gorgeous seaside and scenic views of the Promenade and Great Orme. We have four luxurious Double/Twin bedrooms with a Continental and hearty Full Welsh Breakfast included in with your stay, as well as Complimentary Prosecco on arrival! Each room has an en-suite, Free WiFi, King Size Beds, Duck Down Duvets as well as Complimentary Loose Leaf Herbal Tea and Joe Black Coffee.

Page 56 NWM 2019 Snooze Wine Bar, 3 Church Walks, Llandudno LL30 2HD info@snoozewinebar.com +44 0 1492 868221

Food

for thought

Denial seems to be all the rage these days,

the names of every fighter plane that ever

especially in the months following Christmas.

flew in the Second World War.

Dry January has become very much a ‘thing’ along with ‘Veganuary’ and preceded by

He used to collect and restore old classic cars.

Stoptober, all of which has coincided with a

He even arrived at Paysanne a few times in

huge spike in adverts depicting very trim

a vintage three litre Bentley, much like the

people peddling away furiously on exercise

one Patrick Macnee used to drive in The

bikes looking terribly happy with themselves.

Avengers with the brake-handle outside the driver’s door – to the delight of any diners sat

With middle age approaching as fast as my

in the window.

metabolism is slowing down, I am as keen as anyone to prevent a Marlon Brando-type

One of the things I remember about him most

ballooning incident, but isn’t there something

is that he always gave up wine for Lent, and

a little bit dementedly intense and smug

never cheated. His trick was always to have

about all this posturing about who can be the

an especially fantastic bottle ready to open on

most abstemious?

Easter Sunday, the image of which would see him through forty days of temperance like a

Like most things these days, it’s really

beacon guiding him in the darkness.

nothing new. To old-schoolers like me, giving

Cai Ross is co-owner and Maitre d’ of the award-

things up to test one’s self-control (or discover

He was spirited away far too soon alas, but I

winning Paysanne Bistro

one’s complete lack of it) means Lent.

always think of him when Lent approaches

in Deganwy, which has

and suddenly, the idea of going without a

been serving French

I like Lent. It reminds me of a lovely

drop for a few weeks seems like a proper,

country-style food to the

gentleman who used to dine with us a lot

old-school adventure.

fine people of North Wales

at Paysanne called Mr Westaway. He was

since 1988. He also writes

unflappably kind and courteous; a marvellous

Speaking of ‘old-school’, here are a couple of

for Calibre Magazine, BBC

raconteur and a bon vivant. Always dressed

recipes that have been around for ages but

Good Food, HeyUGuys.

in tweed, he was the kind of fellow who

deserve to be dusted off and given another

com and The North Wales

would build engines in his shed and knew

day in the sun.

Weekly News

NWM 2019 Page 57

MAGAZINE

Recipes

ITH BREAST W K C U D T S ROA AUCE CHERRY S Serves 2

READ BANANA B

ee) tiere of coff a nice cafe h it w g n , alo (Serves 4-6

in flour J 250g pla g powder n of bakin oo J 1 teasp gar scovado su J 75g mu ar g er su J 75g cast er tt u b g 0 J 10 r) s g eg 2 er the bette J (the brown as y) an ax an al b G J 2 big t with a ar (we wen b e at ol oc J 1 ch J Salt it was old son and ase y five-yearm AN) and gre h (F it ˚C w 0 is 17 to en ov I made th t the fun. Prehea enormous (900g). in -t af lo of a the inside into a inch of salt der and a p ow in the p l g el w in leave a our, bak gars, then Sieve the fl t the su el h M ot l. b el in l. Stir in the w em th r ou mixing bow p o. and e well to t the eggs that into th centre. Bea then pour , an p l al sm butter in a that to the rk and add fo a h it w ananas table so it e peeled b against the ar b e mpty at ol Mash up th choc ind you!). E smash the wrapper, m e th e g d bowl. Then in si h (in everyt to little bits l. Now mix e shatters in to the bow in ture into th ts ix n m te n e th co . Spoon me it ed ti the choccy in h b ic m h w co l y utes, b ntil it’s al 45-50 min together u e for about ak b r. u en lo th , co loaf tin den brown a lovely gol should be it’s cold. g it out once in rn tu , ck oling ra e tin on a co Leave in th

Page 58 NWM 2019

on reasts, skin J 2 duck b eerries, d J 200g ch ed ston on stick J 1 cinnam eel J Lemon p . J 2 cloves d wine J 250ml re teaspoon 0ml water J 1 heaped irred into 10 cornflour st epper J Salt & p and the fridge asts out of re b t the ea ck h u d the ature. Pre First, take om temper ro e an p ar a ey to th ries in leave until ut the cher leave to ˚C (FAN). P 0 18 e boil and to th en to ov g n ri B . er at with w en drain. and cover minutes th ve fi r fo er simm ith salt season it w e duck and place the th of lly fu in re sk an and ca Score the p g n out yi fr a . Heat there for ab and pepper own. Leave d e e id on -s r fo in ts sk p frying duck breas er and kee en on en turn ov th s, into the ov te ts u as in re b 4m ck u d te. Put the more minu inutes. ay for 15 m tr a baking and e cherries ine over th w e er. h th r as m ou p h a potato Meanwhile, gether wit d to oo g g a in l, h yt mon pee crush ever stick, the le l, on oi b am e n n th ci to Add the oves. Bring for 15 lt and the cl to simmer e av le pinch of sa d an , ix m r ou rnfl add the co s. te u in m to rest and leave ck breasts u utes. d in e m th e e v Remov least fi at r fo m the duck, ar ew pan. Slice er h somewher ot an lashings of sauce into salad and p Strain the is cr a s, noodle serve with . ce u sa cherry

Don’t fancy cooking? 01492 582079 @PaysanneDeganwy www.paysannedeganwy.co.uk

TRADE ONLY

MAGAZINE

TURNING TIDES The refurbished restaurant at the Quay Hotel has been aptly named Ebb and Flow, in honour of the stunning estuary that it overlooksâ&#x20AC;Ś

The luxurious Quay Hotel and Spa in Deganwy has just

will prove to be a perfect setting for a romantic meal for

completed a first-rate refurbishment of its bar and restaurant

two, a dinner party celebration or even an afternoon tea.

that has been inspired by the beautiful Conwy estuary. With outstanding views over Conwy Mountain and the world

The design of the restaurant now complements a menu

heritage site Conwy Castle, it is no surprise that design

which expresses the very essence of North Wales in terms

agency Style Matters wanted to harmonise with the river,

of its great simple produce, cooked really well. Rich with

mountains and marina with which the Quay is synonymous

seasonal sea food and local meats, Ebb and Flow serves Conwy mussels, Edwards of Conwy steaks, and Welsh lamb

Inspired by the Quayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beautiful surroundings, both The

and beef to a world standard.

Cove bar and the Ebb and Flow restaurant have been sympathetically and stylishly designed. Ropes and shingles

For the start of spring the kitchen brigade have prepared a

festoon the Ebb and Flow like the rigging of a Brigantine,

new seasonal menu, boasting dishes such as Conwy mussels,

while rich weaves and textures ensure the furniture is

lemongrass, turmeric, coconut and chilli (served with toasted

as luxurious as any that you are likely to find in exclusive

sour dough) or the handpicked crab, katsu curry sauce,

restaurants the world over. Atmospherically lit, the restaurant

mango wild rice and coriander. If you are a dessert lover you

Page 60 NWM 2019

lounge-style bar menu including favourites such as fish and chips, Anglesey burgers and seafood linguine. Naturally, The Cove is further enhanced by the typically welcoming atmosphere of the Quay family, as well, of course, as the stunning vista. In teals, silvers and soft rusts and accessorised with velvet, coral and glass, The Cove is of such quality that it will be thrilled by the toasted marshmallow Alaska with

will truly stand out in North Wales as one of its most stylish,

lemon and almond or possibly the classic warm sticky toffee

modern – and yet comfortable – bars ever. The Cove is open

pudding, hot fudge sauce and vanilla ice cream.

for food from 12pm to 9pm daily.

Wines have been carefully selected to match the dishes

“We are thrilled at the beautiful new facilities, they provide

and the team are already prepared to excite guests over

both a wonderful place for guests to relax and entertain

the new menu and setting. The restaurant is open from

as well as being such a lovely environment to work in,”

6pm to 9pm daily.

commented a member of the senior management team. “Investment in the hotel really emphasises how much we

The Cove bar has also been redesigned with the help of an

believe in what we do here at the Quay and how we want to

investment that reaches over the half a million mark. The

stay at the forefront of the hospitality sector.”

Cove now provides a “room with a view” to sit in comfort and style and enjoy delicious food and drinks from the relaxed,

The Quay are very proud of its continuing close relationship with the Welsh Rugby Union and the Football Association of Wales and look forward to welcoming the Curtis cup teams in 2020. They have a proven track record with large conference and event agencies both locally and nationally, who now return on an annual basis, knowing their clients high standards and expectations are exceeded each time. Furthermore, the Quay has a great reputation in North Wales for hosting weddings which benefit from the views, the spa and leisure facilities and accommodation – not to mention great food, drink and service. It’s certainly a hotel that has all of the ingredients to unlock a perfect stay whatever the occasion.

NWM 2019 Page 61

IT'S A CELEBRATION!

It's time to Reward the Excellence of Hotels across Wales!!!

Could your hotel be Spa Resort of the Year? or Family Hotel of the Year, or even the Wedding Venue of the Year? Could your team be harbouring the Restaurant Manager of the Year? or the Housekeeing Team of the Year? Entries are now OPEN to all hotels across Wales. With the winners announced at the Gala Dinner Ceremony on 22nd October 2019. For more details call the awards team on 028 9099 1826 or send us an email info@miraborgroup.com @WelshHotel @welshhotelawards Page 62 NWM 2019

www.welshhotelawards.com

Raise your glass Here we come bounding into March already! With the freezing temperatures behind us and the lighter nights upon us, be rest assured that weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve prepared some new wines to lead us into the warmer months.

vineyards planted on stony and clay-limestone soils. The wine is aged for 18 months in barrels of French and American oak before aging in the bottle for 12 months. Aromas of violets, cocoa, cinnamon, clove and nutmeg over a complex background of liquorice, leather, coffee and balsam. Stunning! â&#x20AC;&#x2DC; Svengaliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Cabernet Sauvignon â&#x20AC;&#x201C; MARGARET RIVER/

January and February are good months for independent wine

AUSTRALIA

merchants to source new wines, and here are just a few to

Time to inject a bit of magic into March. This is a beautifully

tantalise your taste-buds.

deep, almost purple coloured wine with aromas of blackberry,

We can still savour rich and hearty dishes, but also treat

violets and mocha. The palate is full of intense tart

ourselves to lighter wines to suit lighter and healthier plates.

blackcurrant, cassis, crunchy cherry notes and toasty, cedar notes from 14-16 months in French oak. It is well structured,

In the white corner we haveâ&#x20AC;Ś

full bodied with chewy tannins. Pair with a thick rib eye steak,

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;La Rifraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Lugana â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ITALY

roast lamb or cheese.

This white wine is totally produced with â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Trebbiano di Luganaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

*Be warned, this wine is known to

grapes. This single varietal has a unique characteristic, aroma

disappear before your very eyes!

and taste, with the particularity of an early ripening, which requires an early harvest, compared to other grape qualities. Served fresh, it has an aroma of citrus and flowers, and is ideal

And finally, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first come, first served for the first batch of this new and stunningly produced gin from Merywen. (with pic)

as an aperitif, with appetizers and fish dishes. If you love crisp, dry and fruity

Matt specialises in hand-craft fine

whites, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a must try.

spirits produced in extremely small â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;U-TURNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Chardonnay/Saint Jeannet â&#x20AC;&#x201C;

batches of less than 30 bottles, and

MENDOZA/ARGENTINA

we love having his products as part

Another great new white which is

of the range of locally produced gins.

unlike any other Chardonnay on our list, using 75% and blended with 25% of Saint

This small batch Rhubarb and Ginger gin is truly

Jeannet. Flinty, tropical, mellow and dry

delightful. Having had the opportunity to taste it during

all at once, this superb wine could turn

its production, I can tell you that this lip-smacking gin

any A.B.C (Anything But Chardonnay) wine

is leaning more heavily to the ginger as a botanical, with slight

lover back to this noble varietal. No oak, no chips, no beams,

sweet glints of rhubarb on the finish.

no nothing, just a pure expression of what the Valle de Uco is Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have a great selection of wines open this month so be

about. Just brilliant!

sure to drop by. Sit back, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Taste, Share, and Enjoyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and always drink responsibly. n

Over to the redsâ&#x20AC;Ś â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Seleccion de Autorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; RIOJA â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SPAIN This wine is made from three typical varieties of La Rioja:

Iechyd da!

Tempranillo (80%), Grenache (10%) and Graciano (10%) with the

Tim and Markđ&#x;&#x2DC;&#x160;

The Grape to Glass Wine Shop and Tasting Room

Tim Watson runs The Grape to Glass Wine Shop

8b Rhos Parade, Penrhyn Avenue, Rhos-on-Sea, LL29 7RE

and Tasting Room in Rhos-on-Sea which, as well as

Tel: 01492 545934

offering wine from far reaching lands, also stocks

www.thegrapetoglass.co.uk

locally produced beers, wines and spirits

NWM 2019 Page 63

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

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

Call today for a free, no obligation quote

01492 543 317 info@conwyvalleywindows.co.uk

www.conwyvalleywindows.co.uk

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

WINDOWS . DOORS . CONSERVATORIES EXTENSIONS . ORANGERIES . LANTERNS TILED CONSERVATORY ROOF SYSTEM Our sales team, workmanship and aftercare are first rate, but don’t just take our word for it, this is what our customers have to say... “Every workman was on time, knowledgeable and friendly. The workmanship is of a very high standard. I must say a special ‘Thank You’ to Andy, the Surveyor. He has been very approachable and nothing has been too much trouble. I highly recommend Conwy Valley Windows.” - S.Lloyd “Provided sound, practical and budget-friendly advice on the best ways to double glaze The fitters were polite, knowledgable and experienced... The windows and doors are of excellent quality, and heating bills have reduced since fitting. Sound-proofing is top notch. Finally, this was an on-going project over 18 months; we used Conwy Valley Windows for all the work because we were confident and happy they would provide the best service. - S. Gow “We are more than happy to continue to work with Conwy Valley because the support was honest, authentic and the price was so fair, and to top if off the quality of the work was absolutely superb.” - I. Urbat

MAGAZINE

Page 66 NWM 2019

HOMES & INTERIORS NWM 2019 Page 67

MAGAZINE

Bathrooms/Interiors/Kitchens/Ensuites/Wetrooms/Tiles

Global Tiles Ltd Unit 4 Falcon Estate, Mochdre Business Park, Colwyn Bay, LL28 5HF Tel: 01492541540 Page 68 NWM 2019

abbie@globaltiles.ltd.uk

/ www.facebook.com/global.tiles.limited

Colour

me happy

Spring is in the air, and with it brings a new sense of vigour – so what better time to spruce up your home than in the month of March?

Albany has a wide range of colours available

The first step is get inspired and, nowadays, you don’t even need to leave the house in order to get a good idea or two

Decorating can be daunting, but don’t be phased as it is actually one of the quickest, easiest – and possibly even the cheapest! – ways to give your home a brand new look. If you do your research and purchase your materials in advance there is no reason why you can’t have a brand new room over the course of a single weekend! The first step is get inspired and, nowadays, you don’t

even need to leave the house in order to get a good idea or

Anyway, the internet is a great starting point as Brewers

two. Our favourite website to get ideas off is Houzz (www.

Decorator Centres, of which there are two in North Wales,

houzz.co.uk) as it is packed full of inspirational photos of

agrees. It suggests deciding on a general colour scheme

every room in the house – we just can’t work out how to

and then searching online for inspirational pictures of

pronounce it…

finished rooms in similar shades, making sure that you save the images for future reference. Brewers also suggests going back to basics by trawling through glossy magazines (fabulous idea!! Ed) and then cutting out a range of images and sticking them to a noticeboard in order to create a moodboard. You can pick up your free colour cards or peruse wallpaper pattern books at Brewers too to help you on your journey.

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

NWM 2019 Page 69

MAGAZINE

Brewers stocks a range of Albany paint testers

Step two is to collect samples, whether it be wallpaper,

prior to painting or wallpapering you will get back ten fold

paint or fabrics. You can get order wallpaper samples

in terms of the quality of finish. So, strip any old wallpaper

and purchase your paint testers at your local Brewers

off as best as you can and then get out the Polyfilla and fill

Decorators Centres – you’ll find all the main brands there

those cracks before sanding, sanding and sanding again!

including Dulux, Crown, Little Greene, Farrow & Ball and Albany.

Everything you need to prepare your room is available at decorating centres throughout the region. Brewers not

However, be aware that it is essential to try paint before

only sells decorating materials, but it is a great resource

you buy. Brewers recommends painting some lining paper

for guidance and advice. If you’re unsure what preparation

(or a large piece of paper) and putting it up in the room

you need to do, or if you’re not sure which finish you should

and viewing across the day – light can change a colour

choose then just ask a member of staff. Plus, if you pick up

dramatically so you’ll want to be sure that it’s right for your

a free Brewers card in store, you can get 20% off your first

particular room.

and second purchases!

The third stage is preparation – as is the fourth and fifth!

So, get your overalls on and your paintbrushes out and

Any time that you spend preparing your room for decoration

create a home you love with confidence this spring…

Your local Brewers Decorator Centres can be found in Bangor, Chester and Wrexham. brewers.co.uk

Page 70 NWM 2019

Retro Flower from the Arthouse Retro House Wallpaper Collection

Your choice for paint and wallpaper

and the very best in free advice

Over 170 stores nationwide. Visit your local branch in Bangor, Chester and Wrexham D E C O R AT I N G H O M E S S I N C E 1 9 0 4

NWM 2019 Page 71

MAGAZINE

PROPERTY OF THE MONTH This elegant duplex apartment is like nothing else currently on the market. Designed with flair and individuality, this three-bedroom home overlooks Deganwy Marina and offers stunning views of Conwy Castle and the Conwy Valley. This prestigious apartment boasts plenty of spacious accommodation over two floors. On the main level you will find two bedrooms, one with an en suite shower room, a family bathroom, two individual reception rooms and a fantastic kitchen diner which leads on to the large south-west facing balcony. Climb a feature spiral staircase and once upstairs you will find the master bedroom, a fabulous en suite, utility room and buckets of storage. A lift to your front door, security intercom system, private storage room, two parking spaces and attractive communal landscaped gardens complete the package. This impressive apartment is certainly one not to be missedâ&#x20AC;Ś. n

Page 72 NWM 2019

J This beautiful apartment on Ty Mawr Road in Deganwy is currently on the market with Coast & Marina Properties for ÂŁ595,000. For further information call 01492 580500 or visit www.coastmarinaproperties.co.uk

NWM 2019 Page 73

MAGAZINE

The Selling & Letting Agents

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

email: rhos@fletcherpoole.com

website: www.fletcherpoole.com

CRAIGSIDE

CONWY £345,000

£475,000

• Beautifully presented 4 bedroom Victorian semi-detached home • Close to the marina, beach, secondary school, A55 & within easy walking distance to the town • Fantastic views to both front & rear taking in the mountains, estuary, Deganwy & the Vardre • Lovingly refurbished & restored the property retaining many of the original features

• Bryn y Bia Heights is an exclusive gated development of luxury apartments • Located on the ground floor & with its own west facing garden • 2 bedroom apartment has a private entrance & is immaculately presented throughout • The allocated parking space sits alongside & to the rear there is a good size storage shed

EPC

CRAIG Y DON

LLANDUDNO £295,000

£345,000 • Light & spacious detached 3/4 bedroom split level home situated in a highly sought after area • Easy access to the towns amenities; beach, promenade & the Gt. Orme • Gated driveway parking, garage with integral door into the kitchen • Landscaped low maintenance front & rear gardens with a summer house, greenhouse & shed

• Beautifully presented 3 bedroom semi-detached home with a 1 bedroom self contained apartment below • Close to the shops, amenities, promenade in Craig y Don & the local Primary School • Driveway parking, front flagged seating area & steps down to the garden with access into the garage • Enjoys far reaching views over Llandudno & the Gt. Orme.

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

INDEPENDENT ESTATE AGENTS

Page 74 NWM 2019

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

The Selling & Letting Agents

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

email: rhos@fletcherpoole.com

website: www.fletcherpoole.com

UPPER COLWYN BAY

PENRHYN BAY £299,950

£399,950

• Bespoke Three Bedroom Detached House • Newly Fitted Modern Two Tone Kitchen with Integrated Appliances • Enjoying Panoramic Views Over the Golf Course

• Four Bedroom Detached House • Upside Down With Main Living Accommodation to the First Floor • Situated in a Sought After Location

EPC

PENRHYNSIDE

LLANDDULAS £745,000

£565,000 • Exceptionally Spacious Five Bedroom Detached Family Home Situated on a Small Private Development • Enjoys Superb Panoramic Sea and CoastLine Views

• Six Bedroom Detached House Set Within 8 Acres of Land • Planning Permission Granted for Three Bedroom Detached Holiday Cottage • Enjoys Panoramic Coastal Views

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

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

NWM 2019 Page 75

sales & lettings beresfordadams.co.uk Rhyl | 01745 449344 Bangor | 01248 489318

Abergele | 01745 449349

Prestatyn | 01745 449339

Holyhead | 01407 799184

Menai Bridge | 01248 489323

• Modern fitted kitchen/diner • Rear utility room & modern shower room. • Double glazed throughout & gas central heating.

EPC

• 3 Bedroom Marina Town House • Beautiful Views Of The Menai Strait • Lounge With Off Balcony, Kitchen-Diner

Foxfields, Marion Trelawnyd £625,000

• Character Filled With Inglenook Fireplace and Exposed Beams • Four Bedroom Detached • Generous Gardens • Former Stable Block

Caernarfon | 01286 829149

• 2 En-Suite Shower Rooms, Family Bathroom • Private Drive And Garden • Gas Central Heating, Double Glazing

Glascoed £350,000

Colwyn Bay | 01492 849334

Holywell | 01352 809410

Y Felinheli £350,000

Rhyl £168,000 • 3 bedroom detached bungalow • Recently refurbished & extended • L-shaped lounge

Ruthin | 01824 729139

• Adjoining One Acre Paddock • Modern Kitchen With Integrated Appliances • Garage With Workshop • Easy Access to the A55 Expressway

• Beautiful family sized detached property • Just under three acres of land, 3 paddocks • Outbuildings, stables, 2 garages & hay barn. • Lounge with exposed brick fire place

Conwy | 01492 849339 Porthmadog | 01766 569134

• Large kitchen with dining area & conservatory. • Three bedrooms, with en-suite shower & bathroom. • 2 attic rooms which are used as two further bedrooms • Double garage is converted into a 1 bed annex

Llandudno | 01492 849290 Pwllheli | 01758 649095

Abersoch | 01758 649090

sales & lettings beresfordadams.co.uk Rhyl | 01745 449344 Bangor | 01248 489318

Abergele | 01745 449349

Prestatyn | 01745 449339

Holyhead | 01407 799184

Menai Bridge | 01248 489323

• Outbuilding • Two and a half Acre paddock • Cattery

• Sea Front Position With Sea And Coastal Views • Self-Contained Basement Level Accommodation • Ready Made Successful Investment Opportunity • 11 Bedrooms With En-Suite (Potential For A 12th) • 4 Storey Sea Front Terraced Town House • Guest Dining Room With Bay & Lounge • Grade II Listed Offering Much Character • Tasteful Décor & Modernised Throughout

EPC

Bryn Fednant, Pwllheli Open to Offers £230,000 • Detached Stone Cottage • Costal location • Off Road Parking and Garage • Garden with Marina Views

Colwyn Bay | 01492 849334 Caernarfon | 01286 829149

Holywell | 01352 809410

Promenad B&B, Llandudno £550,000

Clwt, Dolwen £420,000 • Former Farmhouse • 4 Bedrooms • Conservatory • Stable

Ruthin | 01824 729139

Bethel Offers Over £745,000 • Large Inglenook fireplace • 3 bedrooms and 2 reception rooms • Immaculate condition • Master Bathroom and en-suite bathroom.

• 5 bedroom detached farmhouse • 2 detached holiday cottages • Full of character and charm • Established holiday let business

Conwy | 01492 849339 Porthmadog | 01766 569134

• Set in approximately 9 acres of land • Several outbuildings • Courtyard offering ample off road parking • Viewing highly recommended

Llandudno | 01492 849290 Pwllheli | 01758 649095

Abersoch | 01758 649090

sales & lettings beresfordadams.co.uk Rhyl | 01745 449344 Bangor | 01248 489318

Abergele | 01745 449349

Prestatyn | 01745 449339

Holyhead | 01407 799184

Menai Bridge | 01248 489323

• Sea Front Property • Ideal Holiday Let • Good Income Potential • Viewing Highly Recommended

• Immaculately presented family home • Detached with stunning countryside views • Quiet cul-de-sac location, desirable area • Garage and driveway

EPC

Abersoch £750,000 • Detached period residence • Many original character features retained • 3 Bedrooms in main house • 1 bedroom annex attached

Colwyn Bay | 01492 849334 Caernarfon | 01286 829149

Holywell | 01352 809410

Llanrhos, Llandudno £315,000

Red Wharf Bay OIEO £425,000 • 1st Floor Apartment • 4 Bedrooms • 2 Receptions • 3 Bathrooms

Ruthin | 01824 729139

• Kitchen diner, utility and lounge • Main bathroom/en-suite/wc • Gas central heating and double glazing • New to market

Gorsedd, Holywell £425,000 • Close to the village centre • Large private gardens • Paddock available by separate negotiation • Good parking for cars and boats

• Lovely Village location • Deceptively Spacious Accommodation • Set in approximately 0.62acres of landscaped gardens

Conwy | 01492 849339 Porthmadog | 01766 569134

• Viewing Highly recommended • Double Garage • Open Outlook

Llandudno | 01492 849290 Pwllheli | 01758 649095

Abersoch | 01758 649090

sales & lettings beresfordadams.co.uk Rhyl | 01745 449344 Bangor | 01248 489318

Abergele | 01745 449349

Prestatyn | 01745 449339

Holyhead | 01407 799184

Menai Bridge | 01248 489323

• Lounge, kitchen/diner, utility, dining room, office • Four double bedrooms, 1 ensuite • Four piece family bathroom • Off road parking & integral garage

EPC

Melin Cadnant, Llandegfan £450,000 • Private country residence or holiday let • Detached House • 5 Bedrooms • Large Reception Room

Holywell | 01352 809410

Yr Hen Ysgol, Trofarth £550,000

Maes Megan, Gwespyr £365,000 • Immaculate detached family home • Offers far reaching views of the coast • Spacious accommodation throughout • Entrance hall and galleried landing

Ruthin | 01824 729139

• Converted Victorian School • 4 Bedrooms • 3 Reception Rooms

• Rural setting • Plenty of character and charm • Viewing recommended

Glan Y Coed Park, Penmaenmawr £545,000 • Set In Over 4 Acres • Woodland And Waterfall • Balcony And Views • In Need Of Modernising

• Two Detached Dwellings (2 Beds & 3 Beds) • Main Property Modernised Circa Five Years Ago • Adapted For Wheelchair Friendly Living • Set Within Approx 1Acre Of Mature Grounds

• 3 Receptions, Two Kitchens & Kitchenette • 2 Shower Rooms, Bathroom, En-Suite, Wet Room & WC • Fabulous Mountain Views • Cottage Previously Let For £650 PCM

Colwyn Bay | 01492 849334 Caernarfon | 01286 829149

Conwy | 01492 849339 Porthmadog | 01766 569134

Llandudno | 01492 849290 Pwllheli | 01758 649095

Abersoch | 01758 649090

Morgan Evans

MAGAZINE

ESTATE AGENTS, VALUERS, SURVEYORS & AUCTIONEERS info@morganevans.com

VISIT OUR NEW WEBSITE

www.morganevans.com Pengorffwysfa, Llaneilian

Llanddeusant

Brynteg

A tastefully renovated one bedroom cottage, double glazed and heated by a modern electric heating system with multi fuel stove to lounge with superb kitchen and double opening patio doors leading out into an enclosed rear garden laid to lawn with sitting area.

A detached bungalow residence pleasantly situated in an elevated position commanding breathtaking, uninterrupted views to the sea and Point Lynas from all principal rooms.

Offers in the Region of £110,000

Offers in the Region of £320,000

Bodffordd

Brynteg A detached 3 bedroom bungalow with attached garage occupying a spacious corner plot on a popular residential estate within the village.

Offers in the Region of £162,500

Groeslon, Nr Caernarfon

Brynteg A 14.5 acre smallholding together with a 3 bedroom traditional character property. The property is situated in a pleasant hillside location enjoying fine rural and coastal views towards the Isle of Anglesey.

Offers in the Region of £350,000

28/30 Church Street, Llangefni, Anglesey LL77 7DU Tel: 01248 723303 Fax: 01248 750146 Email: info@morganevans.com

Page 82 NWM 2019

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

Feeling free Masterclass Kitchens has unveiled a range of freestanding furniture that has been designed to compliment the kitchen units themselves. Catering for multi-functional family lifestyles and open-plan living, The Living Collection comprises a range of freestanding pieces, enabling the furniture to be chosen to suit individual requirements for a bespoke effect. Two styles options are offered: Classic Freestanding and Modern Freestanding. Classic enables this look to be extended into the living space, with a coffee table, side table, sideboard and dresser, while the Modern range consists of a coffee table and a sideboard, with 11 cabinet colour options and 26 painted colours. Each piece in the Living Collection comes in a choice of widths and in various door and drawer configurations, offering the consumer an almost tailor-made furniture range. www.masterclasskitchens.co.uk

Sloane Square Sofas by Saxon has launched the Sloane sofa, and its clean linear design proves that it isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t all about curves! With eyecatching high sides and a polished wooden frame underneath, the Sloane is hugely sophisticated, with a traditional, deep-buttoned design inviting you to jump on and crash out. This stylish piece of furniture is pictured in Concrete Leather in Brown Tail. www.sofasbysaxon.com

A place for everything Duravit AG has launched a range of bathroom products that have been designed purely with storage in mind. From vanity units with storage drawers to mirror cabinets, Duravit believes that a comfortable bathroom doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to be particularly spacious. Its organiser systems inside drawers not only keep things tidy, but they look great too. Mirror cabinets are a real eye-catcher and offer an additional light source and give the visual impression of a larger, more open room. They are also the perfect place for storing all manner of essential beauty accessories without dominating the room and as such are the ultimate all-rounder in the bathroom. www.duravit.co.uk

NWM 2019 Page 85

MAGAZINE

Family first

On display The Millbrook collection by The Painted Furniture Company includes a selection of brilliantly sized compact storage units. Each piece is built by craftsmen using solid hardwoods and painted in a wide selection of beautiful colours. Display units start at £869 and can be bespoke finished to your exact size, just call the Painted Furniture Company to discuss your requirements. www.paintedfurnitureco.co.uk

Sail away Ideal for a nautical or summery interior, this lamp features a wide base and an unusual sailboat design. With a shabby chic, rustic wooden hull and linen sales around the lamp’s stem, and a wine white linen shade, this unusual sailing boat lamp is priced at just £42 and is an ideal lamp for a coastal retreat and creates a beautiful focal point for any interior. www.dibor.co.uk

Page 86 NWM 2019

Indesit has launched a brand new range of slimline dishwashers to offer families a compact everyday solution to cleaning the dishes. The new Indesit slimline dishwashers, available as both freestanding and fully-integrated appliances, benefit from Push&Go, a new daily cycle that makes dishwashing a simpler, faster and fussfree operation. Push&Go is a single push, onebutton system that begins a dedicated cycle, without having to adjust any of the settings or pressing start. The dedicated Push&Go cycle offers exceptional results, without pre-washing, and takes less time than a standard cycle at just 85 minutes. What’s more, the Push&Go slimline dishwashers feature nine programmes including the dedicated BabyCare cycle, which is a unique programme that eliminates 99.9999 per cent of bacteria to ensure optimal cleaning and drying results of your baby items. www.indesit.co.uk

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

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

• Home surveys and made to measure bespoke service • Quality installation from start to finish - No outside contractors • Plasterwork, gas runs, load bearing lintels, chimney cowls, all rubbish removed from site Call: 01492 536 353 or Visit our showroom at:

Unit 1, Falcon Estate, Eagle Farm Road, Mochdre Business Park, Mochre, Ll28 5HF

Advert For Grant SM.pdf

14/02/2019

16:50

Mon – Fri: 10.00 - 5.00 and Sat 10.00 - 4.00 Sunday CLOSED • Customer car park • Wheelchair friendly

Walking

world

GREENFIELD VALLEY HERITAGE PARK Greenfield Valley Heritage Park is located on the A548 near Greenfield. It is to be found north east of Holywell and North West of Flint. The

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

reservoirs and ancient monuments and has a very interesting industrial

J Distance: 2.66 miles/4.28 kilometres J Time: Allow 2 hours but you will

history. The Heritage Park has long been a place of religious pilgrimage

need longer if you are going to visit

with the ruins of Basingwerk Abbey being found here and also St.

the historic sites and pay to see St.

Winefride’s Well (which gave the town of Holywell its name) which

Winefride’s Well and The Greenfield

is reputed to have healing properties. From the 16th Century onwards

Valley Museum

Heritage Park has a good wooded path network and is a collection of

this region became known as ‘The Lourdes of Wales’. Greenfield Valley

J Start: Park in the main car park for

Heritage Park owes a lot of its fame to water too and was renowned

Greenfield Valley Heritage Park near

as the cradle of the industrial revolution in North Wales due to the

to Greenfield and off The A548

various mills that existed there which relied on the parks running water and dammed reservoirs for power and recourses. This walk is very straightforward and uses good tracks and paths to work a pleasant way

J Grid Ref: SJ 196774 J Nearest postcode: CH8 7EL J Ordnance Survey Map: Ordnance

around The Heritage Park visiting the various religious and historic

Survey Explorer 265 – The Clwydian

mill sites before taking an ‘out and back’ trip to St. Winefrede’s well

Range

where a small charge is made to visit the actual site. You can also pay

J What to expect: A straightforward

to go into the Greenfield Valley Museum which is great for kids and has

and relatively easy walk following

farm animals, a maze and an adventure tree house as well as a Victorian

good paths and tracks through trees

schoolroom, a Tudor and Victorian farmhouse and a waterwheel. There

and past reservoirs. There are some

is also a visitor centre and café where you can get a copy of an excellent

gentle uphill sections and a bit of road

visitors guide to the park which has a map and lots of details about the

walking (there is a sidewalk) to visit

points of interest passed. This walk makes a great family day out and

St. Winefride’s Well

could be undertaken with push chairs too.

J Suitable for: The whole family and pushchairs could be taken around the route of the walk with little trouble.

WALK DETAILS

Take care with children near to the reservoirs and watch them carefully on the road section to St. Winefride’s

START From the car park take the path facing The A548 cutting up left past an information board to then cut right and pass under a wooden arch for ‘Greenfield Valley Heritage Park’. Follow the surfaced path beyond into the park. Pass the ruins of Basingwerk Abbey (right) and continue to the

Well

J Dogs: Fine on leads, but best left at home if you want to go into the museum or see St. Winefride’s Well

J Refreshments: There is a café near

Visitor Centre. From here a right turning takes you into the Abbey ruins so

the Heritage Park Visitor Centre and

you can have a look around.

one on the way to St. Winefride’s Well.

NWM 2019 Page 89

MAGAZINE

HOLYWELL/ TREFFYNNON

A548

START/ FINISH

Once you have seen them continue past the Visitor Centre to go left at a junction just before Spring Garden School. Pass between the school and The Visitor Centre passing The Greenfield Valley Museum and continuing to a play area. Stay ahead to reach houses and pass through a gate opening beyond them. Continue to a road and go left passing the land

maiden Winefrede for refusing his attentions. A healing spring

train stopping point. Rise with a large wall right. Pass by a

of water sprung from the ground where her head fell and

series of old mills continuing uphill. After Lower Cotton Mill

Winefrede was brought back to life by her uncle, St. Beuno

continue to a lake right which was for the use of Meadow Mill. 4) Take time to visit the well – there is a small charge. After Points of interest on this section

your visit it’s worth walking up the road to the side of the site

J Basingwerk Abbey ruins – home to anA494 order of Cistercian (T)

to get some different views of it. After this re-trace your steps

Monks for over 400 years until they were driven out by

back down the road to go right by The Factory Furniture Shop

Henry V111’s Dissolution Act

and continue by curving left uphill to pass through the kissing

J The mills passed on the way to the lake are: J Parys Mine Company Site – once a copper works J Abbey Wire Mill – copper and brass where made on this site J Lower Cotton Mill – the site of one of the many cotton mills found in this valley

gate again. Once through go ahead leaving your outbound route to rise to join a good track. Go left and descend to re-join your outbound route at the large signpost, path junction and a bin. Go ahead on your outbound route to descend and reach the large path junction with the steps right. Here leave your outbound route to go straight ahead descending through woods on a good

2) Stay ahead (don’t take the path by the lake) heading uphill

wide path. Continue past The Visitor Centre to reach a bridge

into trees. At junctions left (the middle one has steps) stay

with a squeeze stile.

ahead on the good wide track and pass by posts. At the next junction (a crossroad of paths) stay ahead past a bench and

5) Pass through the squeeze stile and cross the bridge. Follow

continue to stay ahead again at the next crossroads reached.

the path and when it becomes very narrow, curve left to

Rise in the woods staying ahead at a further junction right.

descend and re-join your outbound route again by the ruins

Rise to a large signpost, a path junction and a bin.

of Basingwerk Abbey. Go right to follow your outbound route under the wooden arch and back to the car park.

Points of interest on this section

J The mill (quite hidden) passed after the lake (through

Points of interest on this section

the trees below right) is Meadow Mill and opened in 1787 to

J Greenfield Valley Museum - before you return to your car its

produce rolled copper sheets

worth visiting The Greenfield Valley Museum near The Visitor Centre. There is a charge to go in but it makes for a great end

3) Cut right (signposted for ‘St. Winefrede’s Well’) and continue

to the walk and the whole family will love it n

to pass through a large kissing gate. Take the descending path

J St. Winefrede’s Well – the legend of the well dates from

A WORD OF CAUTION Walking in the outdoors can be a strenuous activity and it is up to you to ensure that you are fit and healthy enough to undertake the route described and to approach the venture with caution and care. You should wear appropriate footwear and suitable clothing, take along food and drink plus carry the relevant map and a compass and be able to use it. The details given here are believed to be correct at the time of going to press. However, neither North Wales Magazine nor the author can accept responsibility for

660AD when a local chieftain cut off the head of the young

inaccuracies encountered.

ahead and drop to curve right to reach a road by The Factory Furniture Shop. Go left using the sidewalk to pass ‘The Mill on the Hill Café’ and reach the entrance to St. Winefrede’s Well Points of interest on this section

Page 90 NWM 2019

PRESE N T S

31I05I2019

CONWY CASTLE

DOORS OPEN 7PM ENTRY £15 • LIMITED CAPACITY UNRESERVED SEATING BRING YOUR OWN CHAIR Don’t miss this unique opportunity to see some of the country’s up-and-coming comedians at this historic location in aid of St David’s Hospice.

Hosted by Dave Rothnie

Stand Up At The Seaside

BAR, BITES & GOOD LAUGHS

INTELLIGENT ELECTRIC HEATING Tailored to suit your home & lifestyle

Page 92 NWM 2019

Win North Wales Magazine has two absolutely amazing prizes to give away this month. Full prize descriptions can be found at www.northwalesmagazine.com/ win but, in order to enter, all you need to do is send your name and address to us at competition@northwalesmagazine.co.uk by Friday 29th March, making sure that you put the name of the competition that you are entering in the subject line. Of course, you could always enter both – good luck!

Win a garden makeover worth £500! What better time of the year could there possibly be to win this fabulous prize from Llwyn Landscapes? Spring has arrived, and Llwyn Landscapes is on hand to get your garden into tip-top shape ready for the summer. So, whether you just want to spend the £500 on a bit of a spruce up, or put it towards a far grander garden design, then this is certainly a chance not to be missed. www.llwynlandscapes.co.uk

Win a month’s spa membership The Spa at Treysgawen Hall Country House Hotel on Anglesey is offering one very lucky reader a month’s spa membership worth £99. This fabulous prize gives you unlimited spa access between 7am and 9pm Monday to Friday, 8am to 7.30pm on Saturday’s and between 8am and 5.30pm each Sunday for a whole month. The winner will also have full use of the spa facilities, including the thermal suite and up to five free fitness classes a week. A towel and robes will be provided each visit. www.treysgawen-hall.co.uk/spa

www.northwalesmagazine.com General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) Notice We collect your information when you enter our competitions, and store this information on our systems. We will use this information to contact you if you are the competition winner, and to contact you occasionally with details of relevant offers and items which may be of interest to you. If you win the competition, your name and the town where you live may be printed in a future edition of North Wales Magazine. We will also share your information with the competition provider, and they may contact you with details of relevant offers. Please see www.northwalesmagazine.com for our full Privacy Notice.

NWM 2019 Page 93

STOVES FROM

MAGAZINE

£399

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

Wood Burning Stoves

Natural Stone & Quartz Specialists, all products bespoke. Full measuring & installation services provided Call our friendly team for a quote, advice or just to talk through options Free No Obligation Quote

Fires & Fireplaces

Kitchens & Range Cookers

Bathrooms & Wetrooms Visit our inspirational showroom for the most important rooms in your home, with unique brands at competitive prices.

01745 582254 rnwilliams.co.uk Chester Street, St Asaph, LL17 0RE

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

TRADE ONLY

The Last Word Across 1 Shrink (5) 5 Iberian monarchy (5) 8 Second planet (5) 10 Atoll used for nuclear tests (6) 11 Foolish (6) 12 Brittle (5) 13 Open up (6) 14 Mistakes (6) 15 Tender (5) 17 Penniless person (6) 19 Applauds (6) 20 U S state famous for potatoes (5) 21 Greek goddess of wisdom (6) 23 Brawn (6) 25 Crawl (5) 26 Short cannon (6) 27 False (6) 29 Beginning (5) 31 Spongelike (6) 32 Adequate (6) 33 Throwing weapon (5) 34 Appears (5) 35 Inheritors (5) Down 2 Systematically arranged body of facts (7) 3 Capital of Egypt (5) 4 Against (4) 6 Incapable (9) 7 Underwriter (7) 8 Highest military decoration (8,5) 9 Powerful number cruncher (13) 16 Scale (5) 18 Sleeping accommodation which is only occasionally used (5,4) 22 Couple (7) 24 Recliner (7) 28 That group (5) 30 W W II sub-machine gun (4)

NWM 2019 Page 95

Down: 2 Science, 3 Cairo, 4 Anti, 6 Powerless, 7 Insurer, 8 Victoria Cross, 9 Supercomputer, 16 Flake, 18 Guest room, 22 Twosome, 24 Lounger, 28 Those, 30 Sten. Across: 1 Psych, 5 Spain, 8 Venus, 10 Bikini, 11 Unwise, 12 Crisp, 13 Unbolt, 14 Errors, 15 Offer, 17 Beggar, 19 Cheers, 20 Idaho, 21 Athena, 23 Muscle, 25 Creep, 26 Mortar, 27 Untrue, 29 Onset, 31 Porous, 32 Enough, 33 Spear, 34 Seems, 35 Heirs.

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

COME AND SEE

OUR NEW GARDEN ROOM AND ORANGERY AT OUR MOLD SHOWROOMS

PLEASE ASK FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTATION

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

TELEPHONE:

Mold: 01352 758812 Chester: 01244 879818

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

www.snowdoniawindows.co.uk

PART OF THE WALL-LAG GROUP OF COMPANIES

Signature’s celebrates anniversary An award-winning Conwy restaurant has released an exclusive ‘Signature’ Gin to celebrate ten years in the business. This year marks a worthy milestone for Signatures and, to honour the occasion, the team has released a special branded gin which is now available to drink and buy in their restaurant based at the Aberconwy Resort & Spa. The holiday resort restaurant has been owned and managed by husband and wife team, Jimmy and Louise Williams, since the summer of 2009. The duo have since been given a Michelin recommendation, two AA rosettes and were also crowned

Young Isabelle scoops art prize

winners of the Best Welsh Restaurant Award for two years running amongst a range of other prestigious awards. The brand new ‘Signatures Gin’ was formulated in a joint collaboration

Bodnant Craft Centre in Tal y Cafn

between Conwy Distillery, a new venture by chocolatier’s Mark and Emma

recently held an art competition for

Baravelli (pictured front) who currently own and run Baravelli’s in Conwy

local children from across Conwy

and Signature’s executive chef, Jimmy and business partner Louise

Borough. The theme was ‘Winter

(pictured rear). The Signatures Gin is a juniper forward dry gin with zesty

Wonderland’ and over 150 entries

citrus notes made in the traditional style of a Distilled London Dry Gin with

were received. Ten finalists were

no added sweetening agents. Signatures Gin is now available to buy in the

eventually chosen, and people were

restaurant for £23.

asked to vote for their favourite

www.darwinescapes.co.uk

design. Over 800 votes were counted, and the winning design was created by seven-year-old Isabelle Rivers. Isabelle, a pupil at Ysgol Bodafon prize of a large box of art materials

Forging ahead with recreational business opportunity

from Brian Alcock, managing director

Forge Property Consultants has

of Bodnant Garden Centre. “We were

been instructed to sell a stunning

overwhelmed by the quality of all the

holiday let complex on the

entries, but Isabelle’s design was

Horseshoe Pass in North Wales.

clearly the favourite and eventually

Fans of the great outdoors have

received over 250 votes,” commented

the chance to get their hands

Brian. “As well as receiving her prize,

on Pen-Y-Bryn, a 47-person

Isabelle’s artwork will also be printed

holiday let complex, comprising four buildings or seven units, close to

as our 2019 Christmas Card and sold

the picturesque town of Llangollen. “We feel privileged to have such

here at Bodnant with a donation going

a diverse and unique leisure opportunity currently on the market,”

towards our chosen local charity.”

commented director Charles Lawson. “This fabulous, part-historical,

Bodnant will be running more art

part-stone building complex in North Wales offers phenomenal scope for

competitions this year, as part of a

investors, entrepreneurs and outdoors enthusiasts.” Offers in the region

programme of events planned over the

of £1.3 million are being invited for Pen-Y-Bryn.

coming months at the centre.

www.forgeproperty.co.uk

School in Llandudno, received her

www.bodnant-craftcentre.co.uk

NWM 2019 Page 97

National Lottery funds to help local women ALocal charity WeMindTheGap has successfully bid for £1.1million of National Lottery

New Tree Trail at Portmeirion

Community Fund money, which will help them to replicate and grow the traineeships. “Our ambitions

Portmeirion is pleased to announce

are to increase the number of traineeships every year, so that even

the launch of the new Tree Trail. The

more young women can take advantage of our unique WeMindTheGap

Tree Trail is a guide to 80 trees in

opportunity,” commented founder Rachel Clacher (pictured). “Over the

the Portmeirion woodlands including

next five years, you will see traineeships growing in the North West as

57 Champion Trees, some of the

well as across North Wales, with the aim to have 16 up and running by

largest trees in Britain. A special Tree

2023. Crucially, we will grow our BeyondTheGap offering to all those

Trail Guidebook has been developed

past and present trainees to include a further six months of support, as

and is available to purchase from

they move from paid employment with us into the big wide world. And

the Portmeirion Welcome Centre.

that offering will also include a lifetime membership to the exclusive

Native and exotic trees line the

alumni that is our BeyondTheGap club. All of this means we have grown

main driveway to Portmeirion and

out of our Moneypenny home into our very own WeMindTheGap Hub

Castell Deudraeth including the

here in Wrexham, and are growing our amazing team to support the

Chilean Southern Beech, Indian

delivery of our traineeships.” This transformational grant for the charity

Horse chestnut and Californian Giant

will allow WeMindTheGap to do more, do better and help so many more

Redwood. The main village is home to

young women move from being prisoners of circumstances to being

Irish Yews, Austrian Black Pines and

pilots of their own lives.

Chinese Windmill Palms as well as a

https://wemindthegap.org.uk

Mediterranean Bay Tree (Champion Tree), North American Tulip Tree (Champion Tree) and Italian Cypress. Visitors will find a variety of native

Zip World to create 100 jobs

and exotic trees in the woodlands

Zip World, one of North Wales’ biggest adventure destinations, is to

including the Chinese Water Fir

create multiple jobs within the region this year, and is currently on

(Champion Tree), Japanese Flowering

the lookout for 100 enthusiastic and committed individuals to join its

Dogwood Tree (Champion Tree) and

large team of instructors across its three sites. As full training will

the Portmeirion Red Rhododendron

be provided, no previous experience is required for these adrenaline

known as the Gwyllt King (or Kind of

fuelled seasonal opportunities

the Wildwood). This beautiful rich red

– just a tonne of enthusiasm,

late flowering rhododendron was a

commitment and a sense of

hybrid raised at Portmeirion in 1938. A

adventure! “Having built a leading

series of three coloured routes ranging

brand in the adventure tourism

from an easy access one-hour trail to

sector, we are focused on scaling

the more challenging three-hour trail

up, so it’s important we find the

have been designed to enable visitors

best people to join our dedicated

to discover these trees and many more

team who are at the heart of all we do,” says Zip World Founder and CEO

during their visit to Portmeirion.

Sean Taylor. Zip World’s recruitment drive follows news that the award-

https://portmeirion.wales

winning business has secured a “significant” minority investment from leading mid-market private equity investor LDC, which will fuel the company’s ambitious plan to double in size by 2022. Founded five years ago, Zip World has grown rapidly and today has more than 400 employees, welcoming over 400,000 adventure seekers to its sites in Blaenau Ffestiniog, Betws-y-Coed and Bethesda each year. www.jobsinnorthwales.co.uk

Page 98 NWM 2019

SUBSCRIBE to North Wales Magazine and get the most out of your wonderful region If you enjoyed this issue of North Wales Magazine then why not subscribe? Packed full of interesting features, what’s on listings, food & drink articles, columns, interviews, homes & interiors and days out, North Wales Magazine is the ONLY glossy monthly publication dedicated to the region. You can pick one up from a range of independent retailers throughout North Wales – but when they’ve gone, they’ve gone! For just £2.99 (or the price of a cup of coffee) you can guarantee to have your own issue delivered straight to your door every month. We have a range of payment methods designed to make your life as easy as possible. Choose from a monthly standing order of just £2.99, or you can pay £32.89 annually by cheque, credit or debit card or via online banking – whichever method suits you best. Either fill in the form below or email subscribe@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk for further information. NORTH WALES

JULY 2017

MAGAZINE - JULY

Happy reading!

2017

E! FRE

MAGA

Name:

ZINE

What’s on?

Your monthly guide to local events

Address:

Safety fi

Postcode:

STAYING SA THIS SUMM FE ER INSIDE

Phone number:

J Hom J FOOD

es & Inte riors & DRINK ty of the mon

J Proper

Email address:

NWM

JUly 2017

cover and

spine.indd

rst

Scho s out for suoml’m er! How to kee p the kid

Make sure

s entert ained

It’s gin o ’clock your favo urite tip ple

is a loca

l one...

22/06/2017

Signed:

17:25

Date: Post this form to: North Wales Magazine, PO Box 142, Llandudno, LL30 9BL OR email your details to: subscribe@northwalesmagazine.co.uk

Never miss an issue again!

NWM 2019 Page 99

OPEN MORNING Senior: Friday 26 April Prep: Saturday 27 April Both 9.30am start Boys & Girls • 2 ½ - 18 • www rydalpenrhos.com Stunning location on the North Wales coast in Colwyn Bay • GCSE, A-level and BTEC Senior Scholarships available for talented individuals Rydal Penrhos is a top 100 school (The Times League Table) Thriving co-curricular provision • RYA Accredited Sailing Centre To book your place at our Open Morning events, or for more information email admissions@rydalpenrhos.com or call 01492 530155

LEARNING BY HEART Even though exam season may seem far away, there’s

be counterproductive as the brain becomes tired and you

never been a better time to get prepared. In fact, starting to

can easily lose focus, meaning you’re not actually revising

think about exams sooner rather than later can make all the

effectively. Instead aim for 30-45 minute sessions with short

difference when it comes to revision, and can have a positive

breaks in between and ideally no more than four hours of

effect on performance and grades.

study per day. This way you’ll have much more productive bursts of revision rather than trying to stay alert covering

Not only will you have more time to study but you’ll be able to

multiple subjects for hours on end.

adopt a more balanced approach to revision, set clear goals and plan out study sessions in advance. Here’s seven handy

5. Practice papers are your new best friend!

revision tips to help prepare for your GCSEs over the next few

One of the best revision tips to help you prepare for your GCSE

months.

exams is to do as many practice papers as you can. They will help you become familiar with the exam format, question style

1. Set goals

and time restraints, so when it comes to the real thing you’ll

Setting goals is a great place to start, as this will set the

already know what to expect. Completing old exam papers is

tone for the next few months. Start by writing down the

also a good way to test your current knowledge and help you

GCSE subjects you’re studying for and the grades you want

identify any areas you’re struggling with.

to achieve. Underneath each subject, write out the list of topics you’ll need to understand as well as question formats,

6. Work in study groups

techniques and the marking criteria the examiner will be

If you’re finding revision too much to tackle on your own,

using in the grade band you’re aiming for.

then working in a study group is a great way to find support. Collaborate with your classmates and create an after-school

2. Create a realistic revision timetable

study club or join a GCSE revision group online. Not only

Building a revision timetable will add structure to your

will it enrich your learning as you can explore the thoughts

studying and allows you to organise your time in the way that

and ideas of others, it will also help you improve your

best suits you and your schedule. As you will be mapping

communication and collaboration skills. You can quiz each

out study slots for each topic, if you identify a GCSE subject

other, share notes, discover new ways of memorising things

that you want to spend more time on, you can add these extra

and explain topics in new ways to each other that may be

sessions in. It’s also important to create a realistic schedule

easier to remember. Sharing knowledge is powerful.

and know there are limits to how much work can effectively be completed in a day. Balancing leisure and revision equally

7. Mix it up!

means you’ll be much more productive and motivated in the

Mixing up your study habits is a great way to stay

long run and be able to revise more effectively. Just plan your

motivated, inspired and keep your brain alert and active

study time out depending on what works best for you - so if

while revising for your GCSEs. Try alternative methods such

this is five out of seven days a week, or seven days a week

as listening to a podcast, watching videos or documentaries,

but an hour per day, that’s okay - everyone will be slightly

working in a group, creating revision posters, moving to a

different.

new study area or using different coloured paper for each set of revision notes.

3. Understand your learning style There isn’t a one size fits all way to study as everyone works in different ways. Understanding your learning style and whether you’re a visual, auditory or kinaesthetic learner will make revision so much easier. 4. Take regular breaks Taking regular study breaks is so important when it comes

Sally Ann Harding is Acting Head of Rydal Penrhos. She is about to embark on her 28th year at the school and her 40th in the teaching profession

to GCSE revision. Studying for long periods of time can

NWM 2019 Page 101

MAGAZINE

Open day inspires chemistry student

I went to college and got some

A student whose studies have inspired her to teach others

GCSEs there – and then came

about science has praised Wrexham Glyndwr University’s

to Glyndwr’s next Open Day to

Open Days for giving her a foothold in academia. Sandra

look into coming to university.”

Monica Ferreira Neves (pictured), from Penycae, decided

Having signed up for a BSc

to return to university after being passed over for a job in

in Chemistry with Green

industry one time too many. After being turned down for a

Nanotechnology after her Open

full-time job as a laboratory technician, she decided to build

Day visit, Sandra is now in her

up her skills to boost her chances in her chosen career – and

second year. She has credited the university with building

came to Glyndwr to find out more about its science-based

both her confidence – and her networks. “At the beginning,

courses at an Open Day. “I was working in a laboratory

I wanted to do a lab job once I graduated - like the one I had

for a short period a few years back, having got the job

been after,” she added. “However, recently I have realised

with an agency,” she explained. “They had promised me a

one of my skills is that I like dealing with people and that I’d

full time job, but it never seemed to happen – and that is

maybe like to do something like that – using my degree to

when I started thinking about making a change. From that

teach or to work in science education. I want to inspire the

starting point, I wanted come to university to develop my

next generation!”

qualifications and improve myself – I decided I had to do it.

www.wgu.ac.uk/open

EDUCATION NEWS Rydal pupils make charity donation Rydal Penrhos’ Sixth Form

Myddelton encourages resilience

Charity Committee has

Mark Roberts, headteacher of Myddelton

handed over their record-

College, has penned an open letter explaining

breaking fundraising

why resilience needs to be more than just a

total from the recent

buzz word in education. “Young people face

Christmas Market. The

very different pressures from the ones that

group organised a fantastic

our generation faced while growing up,” he explains. “Not only do

event on Friday 14th December, which has fast

they have to compete for the best jobs with people from all over

become one of the highlights of the academic

the world, they have to do this in a more challenging economic

year, with the market once again raising funds

environment and in a more dangerous world. Added to this is the

for Ty Gobaith Children’s Hospice in Conwy. A

social pressures brought on by social media and the ability and

packed sports hall enjoyed a host of different

demand to be in contact 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Our young

activities throughout the event, with Commando

people are living in demanding and highly pressurised times. This

X-Fit lending their inflatable assault course that

is why it is important to actually teach students how to cope in this

proved to be a popular addition. The event drew

new fast paced world. We need to equip them with the skills to

a fantastic response from the Rydal Penrhos

cope with setback and failure and bounce back stronger and more

community, raising a superb total of £1,827.14,

competitive. We need to train them to work, interact and socialise

which was handed over to fundraising manager

with real people and most importantly of all we need to teach them

Sarah Kearsley-Wooller by head boy Nick Fiorita

how to look after their mental health and wellbeing. At Myddelton

and Alexia Radu last month. “The continued

College I have set out to try and deliberately teach resilience.” The

support of Rydal Penrhos School is so very much

school has a well-established and growing ‘Learning Through

appreciated,” commented Sarah. “It is thanks

The Outdoors’ programme in which students take part in outdoor

to the hard work and enthusiasm of this year’s

activities such as hiking, climbing, kayaking and gorge walking,

Charity Committee that the excellent sum of

on a fortnightly basis, in order to build up their physical strength

£1,827.14 was raised. As the only children’s

and teach them skills such as team work and leadership in

hospice in North Wales, this generous support

challenging and unfamiliar environments. They are deliberately

will help us make the most of short and precious

placed in carefully managed risk environments to test and develop

lives.”

their physical and mental resilience.

www.rydalpenrhos.com

www.myddeltoncollege.com

Page 102 NWM 2019

NWM 2019 Page 103

K R A P TER

MAGAZINE

A W / WR

D C R A P

SC2Rhyl.co.uk

U T N A RTH

EN V D A R/

AGOR GWANWYN 2019 OPEN SPRING 2019 Page 104 NWM 2019

E N O Z URE

SEA LIFE Enigmatic and bizarre, angelsharks are possibly the most incredible of all our British shark species. Sadly, they are also the most endangered.

Angelsharks, also known as monkfish, are extraordinary

day when we lost Angela, and along with her our hopes of

and beautiful in every way, even their Latin name, Squatina

establishing a captive breeding and release programme

squatina, is quirky and memorable! Yet these amazing sharks

to boost the rapidly depleting local wild populations of her

which were once commonplace are now on the brink of

amazing species.

extinction. Angelsharks used to be common across the Atlantic and Angelsharks are mysterious and elusive critters, extremely

Mediterranean seas, but since the mid-20th Century, intense

efficient nocturnal ambush predators and often almost

commercial fishing has decimated their population through

impossible to spot on the seabed, where they bury themselves

bycatch. This means that they are not intentionally being

in the sediment and lie in wait for passing prey. Masters of

caught but since they lie on the bottom of the sea, they are

camouflage, they are far from heavenly to their victims, proving

often scooped up by fishing nets.

formidable if you’re unfortunate enough to be a passing fish, skate or invertebrate. Despite spending much of their time

By the year 2000 the last stronghold for Angelsharks in

buried and motionless, they can swim incredibly fast in small

the UK was here off the North Wales coast in the Irish Sea.

bursts, and the velocity at which they launch themselves

But in 2006 the species was declared extinct here and its

and snap shut their heavily toothed jaws like a booby trap

conservation status was raised to Critically Endangered with

around unsuspecting prey is impressive and unforgettable to

a declining population trend, meaning that these divine dudes

experience.

face an extremely high risk of extinction in the immediate future. Since 2008 Angelsharks have been protected under

Angelsharks have fins that resemble wings, as well as a

the Wildlife & Countryside Act so the law states that, if caught,

flattened body, which often results in them being mistaken

they must be returned to the sea. Sadly, the only population

for rays or flatfish. Adults can grow up to 2.4 m long – that’s

that is known to exist today is confined to a small area around

almost eight feet –which is pretty impressive size for an animal

Gran Canaria.

which remains elusive! Females only give birth to a maximum of 25 live pups every two years so this low reproductive rate,

However, there is a ray of hope. Some recent sightings of

coupled with the sharks consistently being caught in large

Angelsharks in Cardigan Bay and around Anglesey suggest

numbers before they are mature enough to reproduce, has

that these celestial critters may be making a comeback.

resulted in the species teetering on the brink of extinction.

The Angelshark History Roadshow is touring North Wales encouraging fishermen, divers and other marine users to look

Here at the Anglesey Sea Zoo we have fond memories of

out for them and report all sightings, which may yet provide

‘Angela’ our own Angelshark who was in residence for

clues to help save these charming cherubs from extinction. n

almost two decades. A feisty diva, with ninja capabilities and a voracious appetite, she was a favourite amongst staff and visitors alike and a wonderful ambassador for her little-known endangered counterparts in the wild. Having succeeded in breeding endangered British seahorses, we were desperate to source a mate for Angela before she was too long in the tooth, but with her species even more rare in captivity than in the wild, our attempts proved frustratingly fruitless. Sadly, our

Frankie Hobro is the owner and director of Anglesey Sea Zoo. She has always been a passionate advocate for conservation, and has a long history working on hands-on conservation projects with critically endangered species in difficult conditions abroad

concerns were not unfounded and it was a very melancholy

NWM 2019 Page 105

the

ORIEL

COUNTRY HOTEL & SPA In St.Asaph, North Wales

Set in a rural location overlooking theVale of Clwyd Outside Japanese garden weddings, marquee and wedding packages from £1350 10% discount off wedding packages for 2019 late availability, selected weekend dates still available Book a wedding show round with Weddings Manager Michelle Seddon, who has 25 years experience hosting & arranging weddings

Bron Eifion Hotel is located just outside Criccieth, on the Llyn Peninsula. It is one of the most stunning venues in North Wales with breath taking views of the sea from 5 acres of beautiful gardens and is only a 5-minute drive from the beach and Criccieth Castle. A wedding at Bron Eifion means that the entire hotel and grounds are only available on the day for the wedding guests, offering personal and exclusive service. All the food is created in-house using only the best local ingredients and menu choices are designed for the wedding couple to create their own menu.

Visit our wedding open day Sunday 17th March 12noon – 4pm

There are a host of options available, whether a bespoke wedding, offering flexibility, or a range of inclusive packages with additional extras to suit all budgets.

Tel: 01745 582 716 Email: mail@theorielhotel.com

To find out more or request a brochure please contact: Mary Heenan at: perfectday@broneifion.co.uk 01766 522385

www.theorielhotel.com

Wedding Advert Landscape Advert.qxp_Layout 1 19/10/2018 14:59 Page 1 www.broneifion.co.uk

TWILIGHT WEDDING

THE TWILIGHT PACKAGE INCLUDES

FROM ONLY £4999 Book before 31st March 2019 to receive complimentary Ceremony Room hire

WINTER WINTER TWILIGHT TWILIGHT WEDDING WEDDING PACKAGE

PACKAGE

Arrival drink Sparkling Rosé wine or a bottle of beer Selection of 3 canapés per person 3 Course set meal selected from our Wedding menu Tea & coffee with chocolate mints ½ bottle of house wine per person Sparkling Rosé toast drink for speeches Complimentary overnight stay in a luxury Penthouse Mr & Mrs Spa Day the day after your wedding Hot roast baps for your evening buffet

FROM ONLY £4999

Terms and conditions: Book before 31st March 2019 to receive complimentary Ceremony Room hire

Do you want a truly magical winter

wedding in a beautiful coastal venue with stunning views?

Imagine the sun setting against the breath-taking back drop of the Conwy Castle, the Estuary and the mountains beyond... We at the Quay Hotel and Spa are able to offer all this and more.

Page 106 NWM 2019

PLEASE CONTACT OUR EVENTS TEAM ON 01492 564100 TO BOOK YOUR SHOW ROUND Dates available: January, February, March, October and November 2019 & January, February and March 2020. Package is based on a minimum of 70 guests. Extra guests are charged at £70.00 per person and evening guests charged at £18.50. Please contact our Events team on 01492 564100 to book your show round. Please see our main wedding brochure for ceremony room hire charges. Wedding Tasters are not included in this package

THE

wedding planner

Can you believe it’s March already! It only feels like yesterday we were celebrating Christmas and drinking Champagne and Prosecco! For some of you, you may have set a goal to learn something new in 2019 and for others you’ll be busy planning one of the biggest days of your lives because this is the year, you’re getting married! Stay with me on this one, because instead of the monthly wedding focus on specific wedding planning areas, I thought I’d go off-piste slightly, well we have had some snow… This month’s article will be of interest to everyone, even if you’re not getting married, because when the question comes up on your local pub quiz and it’s the points you need to put your team ahead, remember what I’m about to tell you; you can thank me later! Do you know why the engagement ring and wedding rings are traditionally worn on the third finger of your left hand? Well it was once thought that the vein in this finger led directly to the heart, although it has since been proven not to be the case, the tradition still lives on! Tip for the ladies before you take your first steps down the aisle, place your engagement ring on your right hand until after the ceremony, as your wedding ring should be closest to your heart. As we’re talking about the aisle, did you know traditionally brides should stand to the left of the groom during the ceremony? This allows the groom to have his right hand free, ready to fight off other suitors and some believe, so they could draw a sword for their protection. After the ceremony it is tradition to invite your guests to join you for your ‘wedding breakfast’ but why is it called a wedding breakfast? Tradition has it, that couples would fast from the night before their wedding only breaking the fast after their vows. In modern day the majority of us probably won’t be fasting, but it will be your first meal

Get planning! Portmeirion Open Day Saturday 2nd March 12pm – 3pm The Kinmel Hotel & KinSpa Wedding Open Evening Thursday 7th March 5:30pm - 8pm Pentrehobyn Estate, Mold Wedding Fayre Sunday 17th March 11am – 3pm Holt Lodge, Wrexham Wedding Fayre Sunday 24th March 11am – 3pm The Kinmel Hotel & KinSpa Wedding Fayre Sunday 24th March 12pm - 4pm

together as a married couple and we also call the first meal of the day ‘breakfast’ so there you have it! And finally, you will have heard the traditional saying ‘Something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue’, but do you know what this actually means? It is believed these four items should be carried by the bride in some way on her wedding day to bring good luck. Did you also know there’s another part to the rhyme… ‘Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue and a silver sixpence for her shoe’ which is said to bring prosperity.

Caroline Roberts runs Events by Caroline Louise, an event management company that specialises in wedding

So, there you have it, a wedding article to suit

planning. She also owns Bella, the Prosecco Van and

everyone, because you never know when you might

provides happiness in a glass! For more information

need to recall this information! n

please visit www.eventsbycarolinelouise.com

NWM 2019 Page 107

Prestatyn Golf Club is an outstanding Championship Links 18-hole Course, you are also welcome to use our excellent practice facilities and enjoy the hospitality on oﬀer in our Clubhouse.

The club also boast being hosts to the Open Amateur Strokeplay Championship 2019. Whether you’re organising a game with friends or an oﬃcial event for your own club or company, non-members can visit us for a unique golﬁng experience and a challenge for all levels of player.

Join us in our clubhouse and enjoy the fabulous views whilst having a drink or indulge yourself with our popular afternoon tea and our newly launched Sunday Lunch ideal for all the family. Pre booking is advisable.

For more information please contact the General Manger: 01745 854320 email: manager@prestatyngolfclub.co.uk www.prestatyngolfclub.co.uk

HP LLWYN Landscapes Feb2019 copy.pdf

24/01/2019

08:37

LLWYN Landscapes LTD Landscape Design, Construction & Maintenance Contractors

LLWYN LANDSCAPES LTD

Quinten Hazell Enterprise Parc, Glan Y Wern Road, Colwyn Bay LL28 5BS Office: 01492 552521 Mobile: 07896 222702 Email: info@llwynlandscapes.co.uk

www.llwynlandscapes.co.uk

Commercial & Domestic: Driveways, Decking, Lighting, Paving, Brickwork, Turf Laying, Water Features, Artificial Grass, Fencing, Tree Work, Stump Grinding, Ground Maintenance

Three places to visit in March RSPB Valley Wetlands,

Getting back

Anglesey

to Nature

Adder Up Adders emerge from winter hibernation, but cold-blooded

this network of lakes and reedbeds hosts flocks of ducks, such as Pochards and Goldeneyes that will depart for their Russian breeding grounds this month. The first Sand Martins arrive from

Credit: Zdenek Fric

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

Adjacent to the RAF airbase,

Africa in March, desperate to feed on emerging insects, while you’ll hear Chiffchaffs in the surrounding trees and if

reptiles’ energy comes from the sun so they bask on ground

you’re lucky, the deep boom of

that warms quickly, such as a flat stone or a compact earth

a male Bittern from the reeds.

footpath. You might find one during an early morning walk on heathland or sandy soil, but keep your distance (and your dog on a lead) as Adders have a

Porthmadog Cob

venomous bite. Although present throughout North Wales, the Anglesey coast and moorland

The fields next to the Glaslyn

around Llandegla are hotspots.

estuary hosts a herd of Whooper Swans, which head

Alexanders are Great One of the first flowers of spring is the abundant Alexanders, an

Credit: Julio Reis

back to Iceland in March. Dunlin, Redshank and Teal

umbellifer similar to Parsley, that is widespread along the coast.

find refuge here on the high

With a thick central stem and tiny yellow-green flowers, it was

tide, but as warm weather

introduced to Britain by the Romans, who knew it as the ‘pot herb

seeps north, the first Sand

of Alexandria’. Every part is edible, and it was frequently grown in

Martins arrive, and perhaps a

abbey and castle gardens where it was used for soups and salads.

Garganey, a scarce duck from Africa. Llyn Bach is a favoured

Credit: Arian.Photo

After wintering on the coast, Greatcrested Grebes pair up on lakes and old gravel pits with one of nature’s most spectacular mating rituals. Potential partners are enticed by mutual head-shaking, showing off the ruff of head feathers and black ear ‘tippets’. Each bird dives to the lake bed, presenting a bill full of weed to the other amid furious paddling. In Victorian times, grebes were slaughtered in huge numbers for their soft pelts used in the fashion industry, bringing them to the brink of extinction as a breeding species in Britain. A campaign by women to ban ‘grebe fur’ became the foundation of the RSPB, celebrating its 130th anniversary this year, and enabled Great-crested Grebe numbers to recover.

Credit: Julian Hughes

Strictly… Weed-dancing

spot for Little Gulls migrating to Eastern Europe. Coed Parc Mawr, near Conwy This Coed Cadw nature reserve is a remnant of ancient woodland in the Conwy Valley,

Blackthorn Lifeline

close to Henryd. As spring progresses, Wood Anenomes,

Mild weather transforms a roadside

Wild Garlic and Bluebells cover

hedgerow from grey to bright green

the woodland floor, and birds

in a few days, but hedges containing

such as Marsh Tits and Great

Blackthorn will emerge first in a haze

Spotted Woodpeckers occupy

of white, since the flowers bloom before

nest holes in the older trees.

the leaves unfurl. Later in the year,

Former lead and zinc mines

Blackthorn will fruit with Sloes, beloved

now provide a roost for Lesser

of gin foragers, but for now it’s a lifeline

Horseshoe Bats.

for bees and flies that need nectar and pollen to survive.

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

NWM 2019 Page 109

MAGAZINE

We are recruiting! Are you a hard working media sales executive thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s looking for your next challenge? Or are you an established sales professional that is looking to move into the world of print advertising? Either way, we want to hear from you! North Wales Magazine is looking to expand its team with a full-time media sales executive. Since the magazine launched in 2017 it has gone from strength to strength â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and we are now looking for the right person to help take us to the next level. An attractive package is available for the right candidate. So, if you are a highly motivated self-starter that is used to managing your own accounts, then please email your CV to Grant (gh@northwalesmagazine.co.uk) along with details of what you can bring to the North Wales Magazine partyâ&#x20AC;Ś

For the love of all things

vintage...

The confessions of a modern day Magpie Tatty has never considered herself a Fashionista.

A slave to fashion, I am not. But what I do have, and this covers all genres, is a very strong, instinctive sense of style. That being said, I have always been an avid reader of Vogue and lifestyle magazines, so I am always abreast of what’s coming in and what’s going out on the ever-changing tides. For me it is always about style, quality, form and function. These four words are my approach when buying and form the basic philosophy that I apply to our business, be it vintage clothes, furniture or decorative antiques. Style and quality will always sell. One of the key components to the success of Tatty Divine is our online presence. Instagram and Twitter are

discovered and brought to us

fundamental tools in reaching out to our clients. More

by Matt, a local trader who knows what we like. Expertly

often than not stock doesn’t reach the website, such is

restored by Alex and quickly Instagrammed by me, it sold

the rapid response to our individually sourced items.

immediately within the trade, to an interior decorator. And

Through hard work and constant networking we are now

that is the cycle of our ever-evolving business…

(alongside our own requirements) specifically scouting for a number of London dealers, in both vintage and

In other news: Over at the French Polishing Emporium,

decorative antiques.

my business counterpart Alex has been busy filming away on location and in his Colwyn Bay workshop, for the

Another factor not to be overlooked is the importance of

much anticipated second instalment of Quest TV’s The

our strong local network; we have built relationships with

Restorers. Months and months of work and restorations

many local traders and restorers. I am forever zipping in

are currently being edited together, and I know I am

and out of local antique establishments… “Tatty, come in

not alone, excitedly waiting to see the magnificent

this afternoon, I have something in that you may like,” they

transformations on screen.

say. We buy from them, they buy from us. Alex restores for them, they restore for us. A happy antiques family.

Anyway dahlings must dash – London Fashion Week beckons and Tatty has a front row seat! *Puts on

This month’s star purchase was a late 19th Century gothic

oversized sunglasses… n

style, oak, ecclesiastical carving. Silvered and weathered with age, it had long been languishing outside. To be

Tatty is constantly searching for new stock and would love to hear from you if you have any of the

Tatty xx

Ali Hough (Tatty) is a dealer in fine

following for sale: fine vintage, decorative antiques,

vintage and antiques. Based at: Tatty

vintage textiles/quilts or Welsh blankets.

HQ, No. 12 Ivy Street, Colwyn Bay. For all

You can catch Tatty on Insta @tattydivine.co.uk

enquiries please contact 07940 730421

or Twitter @tatty_divine

or email sales@tattydivine.co.uk

NWM 2019 Page 111

Page 112 NWM 2019

THE LAST LAUGH Not enough of a fuss is made about March. It should be a time

“I’m sure it’s usually in February,” everyone agreed at the gate.

of rejoicing. The icy grip of winter has receded, spring is in

“That’s correct, but it’s on Tuesday 5th March this year,” said

the air and the clocks go forward. But this year there’s the

Linda, with the clear-eyed vision of someone who had just

added complication of tumbling out of the European Union

done boxercise and a pilates class back-to-back. “It’s to do

without a deal, triggering food shortages and traffic jams of

with Easter.”

up to eight minutes along the promenade in Rhos-on-Sea. And then, to cap it all, there’s Pancake Day.

“Remind me how they decide when Easter is again?” I ask and everyone shrugged. Then Linda started talking about the

To give it its posh name, Shrove Tuesday should be one of the

position of the moon and I glazed over. It’s a similar sensation

more straightforward days in the parenting calendar, provided

to when the BBC’s political editor Laura Kuenssberg explains

you’re prepared to forget about the looming obesity crisis.

the Irish backstop – I must have heard it a thousand times but

And, let’s face it, the supermarkets don’t give you any other

I’m still none the wiser.

option. Last year I needed a wheelbarrow and a Man with a

So rather than appreciating March for what it is – a life-

Van to transport the chocolate spread home, and I didn’t even

giving regeneration of nature and the soul, I spent much of it

buy the biggest one. Pancake Day is a crowd-pleasing sugar-

standing in front of the family calendar, trying to recalibrate

fest. It’s as close to a breeze as you can get, without actually

time and space, like Galileo with a wipe-free marker pen.

sticking your head out of your car window while driving.

Fast-forward to 5th March and my partner and I are staring at the planner.

But – and there’s always a ‘but’ – you have to remember when Pancake Day is and, this year, that has proved tricky. The “is it

“Right, so my parents are coming that week.”

me or is Pancake Day late this year?” conversation started in

“No, that’s the wrong week you idiot. Easter’s the week

our house when I discovered that this year, Pancake Day was

before.”

not in February. “I’m sure it’s always in February,” I said to no-

“Do you mean the week of Good Friday or the week with

one in particular, as I took the kids to school on February 11th

actual Easter in it.”

as usual. Then as I was heading back to the car I overheard

“Easter Monday. That week.”

Jasmine’s mum at the school gate say: “It’s pancake day.”

“I don’t know, I never went to church. So when’s spring?”

Simple as that.

“Don’t start on that” “Right OK. Let’s put that week in the diary.

Well, you can imagine the fallout. I immediately ran down the hill (completely forgetting the

“Stop! You’ve got completely the wrong month. You’re in March. We need to be in April.

car) and straight to Lidl, panic-buying eggs

Easter’s late this year.”

and flour. I was going to panic-buy water too

“Why? Oh hang on Linda told me about

but realised that would be insane. Then

this. It’s to do with the moon and the vernal

when I got home I made a schoolboy error. Rather than consulting the family

equinox.” “Can you smell burning? Oh no, the pancakes…” n

calendar to allay my fears, I stoked them by logging on to the year four parent information portal on Facebook. As expected,

Dave Rothnie is resident

word had got out and it was kicking off big

compere of Stand-up at the

time, the pancake equivalent of Donald Trump

Seaside, an acclaimed comedy

announcing he was going to build a wall

night that takes place on the

out of eggs and flour. Lots of angry-faced

final Saturday of every month

emojis and a couple of random comments

at The Station in Colwyn Bay.

about when World Book Day was followed before calm was restored at pick-up.

NWM 2019 Page 113

MAGAZINE

IN THE

STARS...

While everyone remembers Russell Grant from his Breakfast TV appearances in the 1980’s, most people don’t realise that Russell was the first astrologer in over 300 years to present a horoscope forecast to a member of the Royal Family (HRH Queen Mother). Now dubbed the “Royal Astrologer” Russell has appeared on numerous television shows, including Strictly Come Dancing. He divides his time between London and his North Wales home near Portmeirion. www.russellgrant.com

March’s horoscopes brought to you by Russell Grant ARIES (March 21st-April 20th) Embarking on a spiritual journey is advised for the beginning of March. The New Moon on the 6th urges you to turn your attention inward. If your current job or lifestyle makes you uncomfortable, it’s time to make a change. On the 21st, the Full Moon brings a relationship problem to light. Spending too much time on career concerns is creating resentment with your best friend or romantic partner. TAURUS (April 21st-May 21st) Joining a group or team will pay off handsomely during the first half of March. The New Moon on the 6th urges you to join forces with other creative people. On the 21st, the Full Moon will create some disappointment on the health front. It will be necessary to improve your eating and exercise habits. Instead of expecting overnight results, pace yourself slowly. GEMINI (May 22nd-June 21st) The New Moon on the 6th pulls an exciting career opportunity into your orbit. You could take on a new role with a charitable organisation, cultural institution or creative company. Your ability to work with people from all walks of life will fuel your success. The Full Moon on the 21st delivers disappointing news about love. A relationship that once looked promising could fall apart. CANCER (June 22nd-July 23rd) You’ll have a chance to expand your horizons at the beginning of March. That’s because the New Moon on the 6th will prompt you to improve your qualifications, take an overseas trip or develop a personal project. The Full Moon on the 21st puts strain on your family life. Relatives may be threatened by the transformation you are undergoing. Stop looking for other people’s approval. LEO (July 24th-August 23rd) Money from an inheritance, royalty payment or legal settlement will arrive on the 6th, just when you need it most. The New Moon is urging you to enjoy a quiet retreat. If you’re in a romantic relationship, you’ll have an especially good time with your amour. On the 21st, the Full Moon brings distressing news about work. There may be layoffs in the pipeline. VIRGO (August 24th-September 23rd) The New Moon on the 6th paves the way for a passionate encounter with your partner. Take this opportunity to enjoy a relaxing vacation with your amour. You’ll enjoy visiting restaurants, shops and sites of local interest together. On the 21st, you’ll be amount of a paycheque. Deductions may have been made for hidden expenses or additional taxes.

Page 114 NWM 2019

LIBRA (September 24th-October 23rd) Finding ways to rest and relax will cultivate renewed health at the beginning of March. Listen to what your body is telling you on or around the 6th. That’s when the New Moon will urge you to scale back your work schedule. The Full Moon on the 21st will put you in an uncomfortable position. It may be necessary to deliver painful truths to a delusional relative. SCORPIO (October 24th-November 22nd) On the 6th, the New Moon attracts romance like a flower draws bees. If you’re single, you’ll be surrounded by admires at the beginning of March. Choose the sensitive artist who brings out your protective side. This could be a love match for the ages. The Full Moon on the 21st brings a shocking secret to light. It’s important to be more discreet with people you don’t know very well. SAGITTARIUS (November 23rd-December 21st) The New Moon on the 6th marks a happy time at home. A pregnancy or a birth could be announced. It’s even possible you’ll sell or buy a piece of property; this deal will create both emotional and financial stability. The Full Moon on the 21st will mark some changes to your social circle. You’re tired of dealing with someone who enjoys raining on your parade. CAPRICORN (December 22nd-January 20th) Good news reaches your ears on the 6th. The New Moon has a powerful message for you. Be open to accepting signs from the spiritual realm. A strange coincidence, a chance encounter or a found object will affirm you are on the right path. On the 21st, the Full Moon will create some disappointment in the career arena. You may be blamed for something you didn’t do. AQUARIUS (January 21st-February 19th) On the 6th, the New Moon will attract a moneymaking opportunity. Getting paid to exercise your creative talent will be the answer to a prayer. If you’re not happy with your current job, you could accept a position with a charitable or religious organisation. The Full Moon on the 21st could create some legal trouble. A court decision could go against your interest, making you very upset. PISCES (February 20th-March 20th) The New Moon on the 6th invites you to dream big. Realising a cherished goal will make your soul sing. Whether you want to relocate, land a great job, complete a creative project or embark on a romance. If you can conceive it, you can achieve it. On the 21st, you may have an argument over a joint financial account. A partner has a very different attitude towards money.

Cae Topyn Denbigh

SHOW HOME OPENING SPRING 2019

A selection of housing within our exclusive development comprising 2, 3 & 4 bedroom homes on the outskirts of the historic town of Denbigh. Available now to reserve off plan (*)

All images used are for illustrative purposes. Please check with our Sales Adviser in respect of individual properties.

(*) subject to conditions.

.....quality in the making! www.pureresidentialandcommercial.co.uk

Call us for details today on

0845 6036746

or email us on

NWM 2019 Page 115 sales@purecommercial.co.uk

MAGAZINE

Celebrate our Welsh homeland where our story began, our true sense of place where hearts, minds and souls align. Celebrate our rich cultural heritage and our legacy of myth and legend, where fairies enchant childhood daydreams and dragons come alive through storytelling. Celebrate our breathtaking landscapes, their bygone memories held deeply within slate and stone, protected by dramatic mountaintops that fall steeply into our seas. 30 years of Clogau. Celebrate it with us.

www.clogau.co.uk

#30YearsofClogau

Page 116 NWM 2019

Lady Snowdon â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The Anniversary Collection