MAY 2017
! EE FR
MAGAZINE
? n o s ’ t a Wh hly guide t Your mon ents v to local e
Festival fever May brings music to your ears
TOP 10
Experiences for adrenalinE junkies
Lights, camera, action!
ON LOCATION IN NORTH WALES
INSIDE J INTERVIEW WITH MIKE PETERS J Homes & Interiors J FOOD & DRINK
WHY WAIT FOR
SUMMER? OWN YOUR OWN HOLIDAY HOME TODAY Imagine escaping whenever the mood takes you, and enjoying endless getaways, long weekends and full-on holidays as often as you wish. Discover a choice of wonderful holiday home parks in North Wales with beautiful countryside views and gorgeous coastal vistas. Experience exceptional leisure facilities, mind-boggling family fun activities, luxurious spa experiences and restaurants offering menus of tantalising and delicious dishes. With super stylish five-star comfort guaranteed, you and your family will want for nothing. Purchasing your very own Darwin Escapes holiday home has never been easier – or more affordable. With a number of options available, you can buy the holiday home of your dreams and start enjoying days full of fun, adventure, and relaxation.
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SITE FEES INCLUDED
*
UNTIL MARCH 2018
TALACRE BEACH AND NEW PINES
SEAVIEW
ABERCONWY
Holiday homes from
Holiday homes from
Holiday homes from
£15,995
£17,995
£34,995
Exceptional holiday homes in glorious surroundings
Explore Darwin Escapes’ exciting range of holiday homes and luxury lodges. Choose from 2 and 3 bedroom models providing remarkable comfort with contemporary fixtures and fittings, to luxuriously appointed lodges offering pure indulgence at every turn.
ABERCONWY
WHAT TO EXPECT AND ENJOY
Relaxing Indulgent Aspirational Join an exclusive club offering a world-class five-star lifestyle set in a beautiful coastal location. Pure luxury is offered as standard, but expectations are always exceeded.
• Beautiful coastal location • Award-winning ‘Signatures’ restaurant • Indoor heated swimming pool • Luxury spa treatments • Steam room • Jacuzzi • Air-conditioned gymnasium • Unisex hair salon
NEW PINES
WHAT TO EXPECT AND ENJOY
Captivating Revitalising Enjoyable New Pines offers the perfect blend of traditional holiday home ownership with a five-star country club atmosphere. Relax or be as active as you wish, all within a secure gated setting.
• • • • • • • • •
SEAVIEW
WHAT TO EXPECT AND ENJOY
Tranquil Breathtaking Unforgettable
• • • •
An intimate luxury five-star holiday park, situated in an unrivalled location. Either enjoy the peace and calm or use a range of facilities at Talacre Beach only a mile away.
Indoor heated swimming pool Steam room, sauna and jacuzzi Air-conditioned gymnasium All weather sports pitch Leisure activity programme Brasserie restaurant and bar Over 18’s lounge and family room Costa Coffee™ Evening entertainment
Breathtaking sea views Peaceful and relaxing location Close to sandy beaches Use of Talacre Beach’s facilities: Indoor heated swimming pool, steam room, sauna, spa pool, spa treatments, air-conditioned gymnasium, leisure and activities programme, bar, restaurant, entertainment lounge and evening entertainment
TALACRE BEACH
WHAT TO EXPECT AND ENJOY
Exciting Adventurous Entertaining
• • • • •
Indoor heated swimming pool Steam room, sauna and spa pool Spa treatments Air-conditioned gymnasium Leisure and activities programme • Bar and restaurant • Entertainment lounge • Evening entertainment
Just a stones throw from the beach, Talacre Beach is the perfect location to experience a fantastic range of five-star facilities and recreational activities the whole family will enjoy.
Aberconwy Resort & Spa Aberconwy Park, Conwy LL32 8GA
New Pines Holiday Home Park Dyserth Road, Nr Dyserth, Denbighshire LL18 4DY
Seaview Holiday Home Park Gwespyr, Nr. Holywell, Flintshire CH8 9JS
Talacre Beach Holiday Home Park Station Road, Talacre, Flintshire CH8 9RD
FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK YOUR EXCLUSIVE PARK TOUR, VISIT OUR WEBSITE AND LIVE CHAT WITH ONE OF OUR LOVELY TEAM OR TELEPHONE: 01745 858 010
www.darwinescapes.co.uk
For a lifetime of memories
*Applies to new customer purchases only on selected new and pre-owned models. No part exchange allowance can be used in conjunction with this offer.
MAGAZINE
More than just skin deep
Clever storage
Page 4 NWM 2017
is the key to a
Llandudno Junction Industrial Estate LL31 9SX
great kitchen
Open Mon-Fri 9:30 - 5 then Saturday 10-4
info@greentreekitchens.co.uk
www.greentreekitchens.co.uk
01492 585477
MAGAZINE
Dear Reader North Wales. What a place. Maybe, just maybe, I’m biased. But the recent accolade bestowed upon the region from the travel experts at Lonely Planet suggests that I’m not.
We want to hear from you!
Another month, another accolade for North
comparison website said that the locations
Wales. Well, three actually, but who’s
“represented some of the most magical
counting?
adventures in the UK”.
Firstly the views from Mount Snowdon have
And, finally, Llandudno Pier has been named
been named as the best in the UK, with the
one of the best in the UK for the second year
view of Llyn Llydaw from the mountain’s peak
running. Piped to the post by Hastings and
sailing through a competition of the nations
Worthing, it remains the best pier to visit in
best vistas. A panel of travel experts from
Wales according to members of the National
publications including Good Housekeeping,
Piers Society.
J Are you organising or taking part in an event that should be covered in our what’s-on listings? Then make sure you tell us! If you’ve got something to shout about then let’s shout louder, together.
Wanderlust came up with a shortlist of 15
Reason indeed to get out and about this
whatson@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk
locations (which included Westminster
May, and see all of these amazing places for
Bridge, Stonehenge and Loch Ness) which
yourself. Ah, spring in North Wales…
Rough Guides, Mr and Mrs Smith and
was then voted on by more than 2,500 people and saw Snowdon take the crown. Enjoy. Meanwhile Anglesey’s Parys Mountain and Zip World’s Bounce Below have been voted among some of the most magical places in the UK by Hundredrooms. The Holiday rental
In this issue...
Kate Hamilton Founding Editor
J Keep in touch. North Wales Magazine might be a new publication, but we want you to see it as your publication. So send in your contributions, letters, photos and short stories (not forgetting your contact details!) and become part of the North Wales Magazine family. editorial@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk
Raise your glass After a successful career in television working for some of the most admired television drama’s as a casting director, I have now turned my hand to wine. Can’t see the connection? Let’s think about it for a minute… wines, or grapes, have
At the heart of our business is passion, alongside a
their own personality, their own characteristics ¬– not
dedication to offering wines that people want. The core value
that far off from people when I would place actors and
principles that we employ are those which I inherited at the
the likes into leading television roles. Each person can
BBC – trust, value, diversity, knowledge and passion – and
read a part differently, and bring something different
they now apply for all things wine related.
For the love of all
It’s often that people are misled in choice when it comes
So, whether you are poaching, roasting, baking, spicing,
with new techniques, new styles and new approaches
to wine selection, and ‘the world of wine’ often evolves braising, stewing, grilling or barbequing, there’ll be a
to enjoying it. But here you can sit back and be advised
wine that The Grape to Glass stocks to ‘perfectly partner’
and, better still, try wines before you buy them so you
your culinary delights.
know what to expect when you get home.
The Grape to Glass Wine Shop and Tasting Room offers
Let The Grape to Glass take the world off your shoulders.
wines from all over the world, with a diverse range
Take a seat, and get ready for a journey getting ‘under
which you help in creating by sampling new wines,
the skin of the grape’. Some people may be connoisseurs,
ideas, and products that we offer. As well as offering
some may be new to the world, but we can assure you,
wine from far reaching lands, we also stock locally
you’ll be happy with your experience. (If you’re not, then
produced, award-winning wines – including those from
the first glass is on me!). n
the Gwinllan Conwy Vineyard in Llangwystenin.
Dates for your diary:
Wine of the Month:
April 17th Malbec Day April 24th Sauvignon Blanc Day
Neropasso, Originale Rosso, IGT Veneto, Italy A fine, blended wine from Veneto. Intense ruby red in colour, turning to garnet with barrel ageing. The bouquet is spicy with hints of Morello cherry, black cherry and plum compote. A fine and velvety palate, with soft tannins and a
Tim Watson runs The Grape to Glass
moreish finish.
Wine Shop and Tasting Room in RhosFood Matching: Pair this with pasta, white and
on-Sea which, as well as offering wine
red meats, fresh and aged cheeses, or alone with
from far reaching lands, also stocks
good company.
locally produced beers, wines and spirits
King Arthur: Legend of the Sword hits our screens this month. Look out for the stunning mountain landscapes of Snowdonia in the background!
J
J
NWM 2017 Page 63
things
vintage...
to the table… Well now I provide leading roles in wine choices for you to match with your food.
The confessions of
a modern day Magpi
e
Hooray!
I hear you all shout... Spring has finally and Tatty definitely sprung. Lambs has a spring in are leaping, buds her event, an event are bursting that occurs in almost step. For this season marks the start of a very it… spring cleaning! every household special across the country. Yes, you guessed That time of year
that people involuntarily decide to redecorate, dabble and handle the in some DIY, deep goods. Take photos clean the house cleanse their wardrobes. and on your phone if The desire to throw necessary (but out the old, always in with the new (or in my house ask permission out with the old, first). This the old) manifests in with allows you the time in nearly all of us, to go home and we just can’t help For a vintage buff, it. think things through, this is the most exciting of times. research boot sales, charity Car what items are shops and auction of interest and do houses are literally brimming with your homework people’s discarded on prices, all in items preparation for and, you know what the day of the sale. they say… “one man’s If you don’t, costly trash is another mistakes can be man’s treasure”. So get made, trust me! out there and get looking, you just never know what hidden gem you may find. For me, it is so important to be in permanent learning mode, to stay on The past month top of trends and for Tatty has been shifting tastes. A a trader once gave very busy one and me a great piece business is brisk. of advice and it’s simple: just flick A Hermes silk scarf and read through has been sent fashion and interior magazines, preferably from my North Wales HQ to a lady the high end ones. It trains the eye and tunes your living on 5th Avenue, brain into what’s New York. A hot and what’s not. Knowledge is power! pair of antique Designers often artist’s pallets, posted to an interior designer take inspiration from the past, and in London’s Eaton looks are recycled Square. But, for me, the very pinnacle over and over again, hence why of April has to be vintage and decorative a beautiful 1930’s brass birdcage antiques are so ever popular. which was carefully packaged and sent to the BBC, for a recently commissioned adaption of Jessie Burton’s Here’s hoping that award winning book, the sumptuous you all had a fabulous haunting period and Easter, and that all your eggs were thriller, The Miniaturist. Faberge. Similarly, a very pretty 1940’s ladies parasol has been hastily dispatched to Ealing studios Love for the filming of ITV’s The Durrells. Tatty x Buying has been big on the agenda and my local auction house Roger Jones’s in Colwyn Bay holds an excellent regular vintage Alison Hough is and collectables sale. a specialist The great vintage about auctions is thing dealer with a passion that you have time to make a rational for decorative judgement on items antiques and a you may be interested flair for interiors, in. Attend the viewing day, take based in Old Colwyn, your time, have a really good rummage North Wales
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
NWM 2017 Page 91
Read the latest from our expert columnists and find out why buying locally doesn’t mean compromising
Front cover image: Cliff camping in Anglesey with Gaia Adventures www.gaiaadventures.co.uk
NWM 2017 Page 5
MAGAZINE
Ali Hough: Mobile 07940 730421 email sales@tattydivine.co.uk Page 6 NWM 2017
MAGAZINE
Contents 09 What’s On?
Your comprehensive guide to all of the best events,
shows, days out and more in North Wales during May
16 The Big Picture Well a picture does tell a thousand words…
19 Interview with… Mike Peters Mike Peters, the front man of The Alarm, talks about his fight against cancer and subsequent fundraising
19 24
As King Arthur: Legend of the Sword hits the big screen this month, North Wales Magazine uncovers
Art Director Simon Marriott Sales Director Grant Hamilton Contributors Dave Rothnie Hilary Paschal Rupert Bates Alison Hough Belinda Mortell Tim Watson Cai Ross Julian Hughes Simon Smith With thanks to Desh Kapur Photography
campaign
24 Film locations
Editor Kate Hamilton
other some of the other movies filmed in the region
Printing Design 2 Print Builder Street West Llandudno, LL30 1HH Contact Us editorial @northwalesmagazine.co.uk sales @northwalesmagazine.co.uk subscribe@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk
29 Time to face the music The festival season starts right here
35 Top 10… experiences for adrenaline junkies North Wales is the ultimate destination for thrill
North Wales Magazine is new, independent, regional magazine. It is distributed through the door of households in Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Wrexham, Gwynedd and the Isle of Anglesey. It is also available as a FREE pick-up across the region at carefully selected outlets.
seekers
41 Town in Focus The maritime town of Porthmadog
47 Food & Drink The latest news from our local food heroes and the
41
area’s wining, dining and culinary scene
65 Homes and Property Explore a reader’s home, peruse our property of the month, get inspired by the latest interiors and see the latest homes to come on the market
89 In my opinion… North Wales’ expert columnists share their thoughts
95 Win! Lunch for two at Bodysgallen Hall
65
Disclaimer: All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part (electronically or in print) without written permission is strictly prohibited. Every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of published content, and any views or opinions presented are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of North Wales Magazine. The publishers assume no responsibility for any damage, loss or injury arising from participation in, or as a result of, any offer, competition, information or advertisement contained within the magazine. North Wales Magazine does not endorse any of the advertisements featured. All words and images remain the property of their respective owners and all copyrights are observed. North Wales Magazine is not associated with any newspaper group.
NWM 2017 Page 7
RUTHIN GAOL
MAGAZINE
Pentonville style prison and museum EVENTS 2017 Included in admission unless otherwise stated CAPTURED ON CAMERA 1st June 2017 | 10:30 – 15:00 Celebrate the Year of Legends! Have your mugshot taken then create your own Wanted poster and crime story. £1 charge for each wanted poster. ARTY DAY AT THE GAOL 10th July 2017 | 11:00 – 16:00 Come and learn to draw pastel portraits with the staff at Ruthin Gaol. Fun for all ages! TALES OF THE GAOL 7th August 2017 | 11:00 – 16:00 Come and hear the stories of the Gaol and it’s colourful characters. Great for all the family. HALLOWEEN WEEK 28th October – 3rd November | 10:00 – 16:00 Crafty Halloween fun all week at Ruthin Gaol…fancy dress welcome! OPEN DOORS 2nd - 3rd September | 11:00 – 15:00 Pre-booked tours. To book please visit: www.cadw.gov.wales
www.ruthingaol.co.uk
NANTCLWYD Y DRE 15th Century Townhouse & Historic Gardens EVENTS 2017 Included in admission unless otherwise stated BEASTLY BUG HUNT 8th May 2017 | 11:00 – 12:00 A guided nature hunt around The Lord’s Garden to identify and learn about the fascinating bugs that live here. FESTIVAL OF GARDENS, NORTH WALES 27th May & 5th June 2017 | 14:00 – 15:00 Garden Tours, for more information visit: www.gardenstovisit.net INTRODUCTION TO HORTICULTURE 10th July 2017 | 11:00 – 13:00 Demonstration and hands-on activity to help you care for your own garden – bring your gloves! £2 charge, pay on the day. PLANTS WITH PURPOSE 7th August 2017 | 11:00 – 12:00 An informative guide to the plants that were grown in Medieval gardens, and how they were used. KNIGHTS AND PRINCESSES 12th August 2017 | 11:30 – 14:30 Come and join the fun at Nantclwyd on this family play day. Activities and games – you could also win a prize for coming in fancy dress. GOING BATTY 29th August 2017 | 12:00 – 15:00 Fancy dress prize for best bat-themed costume, quizzes, mask making, “hunt the bat” and much more.
www.nantclwydydre.co.uk
SITES OPEN APRIL – SEPTEMBER (SEE WEBSITES FOR DETAILS) Page 8 NWM 2017
2nd-4th Blas o Lŷn – Taste of Llŷn
What’s on
Love Llŷn? Interested in the local culture? Want to give Welsh a go? If the answer to these questions is a resounding yes, then this experience if for you. Taking place over the course of three days, the Taste
1st
of Llŷn includes a visit to a local
Pedwar Pawen Annual Companion Dog Show
brewery, a tour of Aberdaron,
Come along to the Community Playing Fields in Bodelwyddan
an evening of music and a visit
for the Pedwar Pawen Annual Companion Dog Show which
to the famous Tŷ Coch pub
features the only Welsh heat of Scruffts! The show opens at 9am, and judging begins at 10am.
3rd
6th
The Royal Windsor Express
Quest Betws Y Coed
After picking up across North
Adventure Race
Wales The Royal Windsor Express
Part of the new UK
travels down the English Shires
Quest Adventure
along the West Coast Mainline
Series, racers will
before crossing London and the
test their ability
River Thames. Journeying a little
with a choice of
south then westerly, it continues
three demanding
to Windsor – where guests have
and scenic routes
four hours before embarking for
through the breath-
the return leg
taking Snowdonia National Park.
4th Peatbog Faeries Hailing from the Isle of Skye the Peatbog Faeries are the figurehead trailblasers of the Celtic Dance Music renaissance. They come to the Galeri in Caernarfon today
4th
6th
Flog It! at Penrhyn Castle
The Conwy Real Ale Trail
Flog It, the popular
This bus-based Real Ale Trail finally
BBC One antiques
arrives in Conwy for its very first event.
programme presented
Hundreds of ale lovers will be transported
by Paul Martin, will
– literally – to seven of Conwy’s unique
be coming to Penrhyn
pubs (and one special micro brewery)
Castle today. Members of the public are invited to come
where you could potentially experience
along with up to three antiques or collectables they might be
over 50 unique, and mostly local, real ales.
interested in selling. Once valued, the owner and a team of
The Conwy Real Ale Trail is made up of
experts decide whether an object is filmed and it gets sent to
a unique route that stops off at specially
Rogers Jones Auctioneers in Colwyn Bay for inclusion in their
selected pubs chosen for their ales and
sale on Tuesday 23rd May.
great hospitality.
NWM 2017 Page 9
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What’s on 6th Welsh pop music - an alternative view Writer, musician and broadcaster Rhys Mwyn will be talking about Welsh pop music from the 1960s to the present day, and playing some iconic tracks at MOSTYN in Llandudno
6th Spring Fair Back by popular demand, St David’s Hospice will once again be host to a Spring Fair within the grounds of the hospice in Llandudno
7th May
10th
Quarry Explorer Cwm Cynfal Rally
Zip World Fforest Coaster
A day of Rally Time Trials set in the disused
The UK’s leading adventure destination,
slate quarry that towers above Llechwedd
Zip World, is launching the UK’s only alpine
Slate Caverns near Blaenau Ffestiniog.
coaster today! Be the first to experience the
Dramatic landscapes and challenging terrain
Zip World Fforest Coaster - an exhilarating
should make this a memorable day out. Other
experience where visitors can control their
attractions at the site include the Deep Mine
speed as they weave, dart and speed through
Tour, real ale pub and old fashioned emporium.
1km of stunning woodland scenery, while taking in Snowdonia’s breathtaking mountain views.
8th Aled Jones at William Aston Hall Classical and choral music sensation Aled Jones performs at William Aston Hall
11th
in Wrexham.
Guided MTB ride through the Gwydir Forest Guided MTB ride through the Gwydir Forest. Starting in Betws y Coed. Suitable for intermediate riders with good fitness levels. Ages 16+ Distance approximately 30km
11th – 13th Focus Music Festival For three days and nights, FOCUS Wales 8th – 13th
will once again take over the town centre
Million Dollar Quartet
of Wrexham, programming over 200 of the
Following its success in the West End, Las Vegas and on Broadway, Million
hottest new live acts as well as established
Dollar Quartet is coming to Venue Cymru. This worldwide smash-hit musical
names from Wales and beyond, and presenting
is inspired by the famous recording session that brought together rock ‘n’ roll
music industry and tech panels, and
icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins for the first
interactive workshops and events, featuring
and only time.
expert speakers from across the globe
Page 10 NWM 2017
12th
13th & 14th
Sounds of Abba. Come and listen to this tribute
Snowdon 500 Challenge
band at the Quay Hotel & Spa in Deganwy
Take on Mount Snowdon with the Snowdon 500 Challenge. And, if that’s not enough, conquer Pen Y Fan, Cadair Idris & Snowdon as part of the Welsh 3 Peaks Challenge - all in aid of the Prostate Cancer Research Centre.
13th Prom Xtra Prom Xtra is a family event based along
13th & 14th
Colwyn Bay’s gorgeous promenade. If you’re
Victorian Weekend
looking for things to do, Prom Xtra has plenty
The Llangollen Railway will be stepping back in time to the Victorian era
of free activities to keep the family entertained
this weekend. Experience life as it was over 100 years ago through the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of the recreated Victorian era.
14th International Dylan Thomas Day Dylan Day is an international day to celebrate the life and work of Dylan Thomas. This annual event is always held on May 14th, the date Under Milk Wood was first read on stage at 92Y The Poetry Center, New York in 1953.
18th Test the Team Bring your friends 13th
and colleagues to this
Bryn-y-Maen Exhibition
corporate quiz night
Come along to the Bryn-y-Maen Exhibition
in a bid to test your
to see vintage tractors, motorbikes, classic
knowledge and pit your
cars, stationary engines and local rural
wits against some of
crafts. All welcome - fun for all the family.
the brightest sparks in North Wales – in support of St David’s Hospice
13th & 14th Big Acoustic Walk Whether you are a musician, vocalist or just an enthusiastic listener, this weekend’s celebration of acoustic music and mountain walking at Plas Y Brenin is a great opportunity to share your love of walking and music with other outdoor enthusiasts and musicians
13th & 14th Wrexham Food & Drink Festival The Wrexham Food & Drink Festival is a showcase for all the wonderful local produce North Wales has to offer. Think of a celebration highlighting tender burgers, fresh bread and so much more all sourced from the region’s finest producers.
NWM 2017 Page 11
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What’s on
19th – 21st
19th – 21st Rail Ale 2017
Vangollen
Ffestiniog & Welsh Highlands Railways
Indie superstars Razorlight will
host Rail Ale 2017 - with the usual
headline Vangollen (a bands-and-vans
eclectic mix of a fine selection of real
festival) playing live for the first time
ales and ciders, combined with a
in two years with the promise of new
variety of music, fine food and of course
material from a forthcoming album.
steam hauled trains.
20th Wrexham Lager Family Funday The Wrexham Lager Family Funday at Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse has two enclosures to choose from and prices start from £7 for adult racegoers in advance of raceday.
20th & 21st 18th & 19th
The Pedalcover Slateman Triathlon
Babe the Sheep Pig
2017
When Babe arrives at Hogget’s Farm
A swim surrounded with mountains,
he is taken in by the trusty sheep-
a bike course in the heart of the
dog Fly and discovers a talent for
Snowdonia National Park and a run
herding. Visit Venue Cymru to see his
through an awesome slate quarry - we
adventures first hand
challenge you to find a more iconic race than the Pedalcover Slateman Triathlon.
19th – 21st
20th & 21st
Trefriw Walking Festival
Colwyn Bay 1940s Festival Back by popular demand, this festival is all about fun and nostalgia. Experience the sights, sounds and tastes of Britain during World War Two, from ration book cookery to vintage clothes and vehicles.
21st RNLI Big Mayday Dip at Surf Snowdonia A family-friendly fundraising Trefriw Walking Festival 2017 will be
event which invites you to
celebrating the Wales’ Year of Legends and
dress up as your favourite
the wonderful scenery of the Snowdonia
legend and jump into the
National Park with a series of walks in
waves at Surf Snowdonia!
and around this lovely village. Come along
RNLI will be collecting
on the 19th, 20th and 21st May to enjoy
donations and there will be
walking Trefriw’s own ‘Lakeland’ in the
information on how to enjoy
Gwydir forest and the grandeur of the
North Wales’s beaches and
Carneddau mountains.
lakes safely.
Page 12 NWM 2017
21st
23rd – 30th
The Colour Run
Gŵyl Beaumaris Festival
The Colour Run, Pwllheli is a 5km fun run, walk or skip with
The 2017 Gŵyl Beaumaris Festival has a Russian thread with
a difference – you get scattered with coloured paint at colour
a mix of homegrown, national and international talent.
stations along the route. Get messy in aid of St David’s Hospice 26th UB40 Grandslam Tour Reggae legends UB40 perform with 80s favourites Level 42 at Wrexham Racecourse.
21st Snowdonia Half Marathon A scenic but tough Half Marathon set in the beautiful Snowdonia National Park, starting and finishing in the village of Llanrwst which played host to the World Trail
27th
Running Championships in 2013
Prestatyn Funfest 2017 A great family fun day out, with lots of attractions for children. Assault courses, selection of bouncy castles,
21st
bungee trampolines, giant slides, small rides, fun runs
Snowdon Sunrise for Wales Air Ambulance
and refreshments.
Join the Wales Air Ambulance team to trek to the summit of Snowdon in the moonlight. Every step you take will raise vital funds to help this charity save lives. Leaving Llanberis at 1am
27th
with head torches.
North Wales Festival of Gardens TV broadcaster Peter Gibbs will
22nd – 27th Sister Act
be officially launching the North
The musical version of the hit film Sister Act will be embarking on a major UK this
Wales Festival of Gardens today
year, stopping at Venue Cymru during these dates
at Plas Tan Y Bwlch, Maentwrog
27th Rhuddfest Music Festival Rhuddfest music festival is returning for its third year. Located just outside Rhuddlan village with views of the castle, this family friendly event has plenty of crafts to keep the little ones busy and features plenty of local music talent
NWM 2017 Page 13
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What’s on
28th & 29th Llyn Land and Seafood Festival This popular food festival, which is now over a decade in development, is located waterside in the picturesque setting of Hafan Pwllheli Marina on the south side of the Llyn Peninsula.
27th – 29th Conwy Pirate Weekend Have a swashbuckling time with other land
28th & 29th
lubbers at the
Prestatyn Classic Car show
6th annual Conwy
The day starts with the arrival
Pirate Weekend
of cars (cars from the early 1900’s through to modern supercars) at 9 a.m. and with stalls, children’s entertainment and refreshments on the Edwardian Vicarage lawn, this is sure to be a day full of nostalgia
29th – 3rd June The Play That Goes 28th
Wrong
Katy Brand live at the Catrin Finch Centre
The Cornley
Katy Brand’s hit Edinburgh Festival show ‘I Was a Teenage
Polytechnic Drama
Christian’ is an honest, fascinating and funny exploration
Society is putting
of her self-imposed conversion and total immersion in
on a 1920s murder mystery, but as the title suggests,
evangelical Christianity.
everything that can go wrong… does! The accident prone thesps battle on at Venue Cymru
30th The Superstars of Welsh Wrestling Come and join Rhyl Pavillion for an evening of glitz, glamour and bodyslam mayhem as the Welsh Wrestling roadshow invades for one night only! The top stars of the wrestling world collide in a night of super slamming action at this fun, crazy, family entertainment show
31st 28th
Andy Parsons at PONTIO Bangor
Su Casa Festival
Worried about your job? Worried about your family?
Local Welsh DJs are set to play as part of a stellar line-up of
Worried about yourself? Worried about the health service?
dance music artists in Dolgarrog today. Over two thousand
Education? Climate change? World War 3? Worried about
people will gather at the Su Casa Festival at Surf Snowdonia
worrying? Sod it! Come and have a laugh about it.
Adventure Park, making it the very first festival of its kind.
Page 14 NWM 2017
FOOD & D RINK | C ONSES S IONS | EVENTS
LLANDUDNO’S PREMIER ATTRACTION
UPCOMING EVENTS MAY 2017
Llandudno Pier is the premier attraction to visit whilst
Spring Bank Holiday “Live Music @ The Bar”
on holiday in Llandudno, a fantastic holiday venue in
Saturday 27th May Dave Lee Vaughn
Wales. We are Wales’ longest Pier and offer superb
Sunday 28th May The River City Jazz Band
views, concessions, a relaxing stroll and excellent food stalls.
Relax, and enjoy the leisurely pace as you explore our friendly shops and stalls. Take a stroll and enjoy the beautiful views of Llandudno and the Irish Sea. Llandudno Pier & Attractions are open 10a.m till late during the Summer 2017 Season.
SCHOOLS / GROUPS WELCOME WITH PARKING NEARBY | DISABLED VISITOR ACCESS NORTH WALES NO.1 AMUSEMENT ARCADES | SUPERVISED CHILDRENS PLAY AREA SPECIALIST SHOPS
01492 876258 | simonmason@llandudnopier.com Llandudno Pier, North Parade, Llandudno, Conwy LL30 2LP
NWM 2017 Page 15
The big picture The walled market town of Conwy is always beautiful – but it shines especially brightly at night. Steeped in history and surrounded by beautiful Welsh countryside, it’s no surprise that Conwy is a world heritage site. As well as taking in its rich past and breathtaking views, today’s visitors are spoilt with a range of restaurants, pubs and cafés in which to refuel after a busy days sight seeing. Credit: Photo courtesy of Desh Kapur Photography. deshkapur.com
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One for the road Kate Hamilton talks to North Walian icons Mike and Jules Peters about life, love, laughter – and walking 130 miles in the name of cancer care.
Mike and Jules Peters met on Prestatyn High Street and got engaged a week later. Sound rock and roll? Well maybe that’s because Mike is lead singer of The Alarm, a band that may have started locally but went on to international success. The fact that Mike and Jules are still together 31 years later, however, isn’t actually very rock and roll at all. Add two young boys into the mix (the school run is the kind of topic that pops up during the correspondence between Jules and I), and a bucket load of
MAIN IMAGE: Love hope and Strength on Rhyl Beach
charitable fundraising and suddenly there’s a lot of rock – and no roll at all.
ABOVE LEFT: Mike Peters performing in 1984
This is because the key to Mike and Jules’ success – both in their careers and in their
ABOVE RIGHT: Jules, just beginning chemotherapy, October 2016
relationship – is the fact that they support each other 100 per cent. They are each other’s rocks and, unfortunately, they have needed to be. In the summer of 2015, after 20 years of living with leukaemia, Mike relapsed for the third time. And, just when he thought that he was out of the woods, Jules found a lump in her breast and was also diagnosed with cancer. But, like all things in their life, Mike and Jules have both managed to put a positive spin on their cancer journey. Their raison d’etre is now to help others suffering from cancer, while getting the most out of life that they possibly can. “I think that, if it’s possible, a positive attitude is essential,” says Jules. “I always view it as like reaching a road junction and having the opportunity to turn right or left. Mike and I both make an effort to dig deep and turn right when the going gets tough. This is
NWM 2017 Page 19
MAGAZINE
the only way. When you are faced with a cancer diagnosis, it’s like teetering on the edge of the abyss. By embracing the diagnosis, making it your own journey, not being afraid of it, you can turn something potentially negative and frightening into a positive and enlightening journey. We both feel blessed in a way by cancer. We don’t take ANYTHING for granted. We know how terrifying it can be to hear the words ‘I’m afraid you’ve got cancer’ – and a day when you are not dealing with those words, is an extremely good day.” Peters’ Family, NYC, just after receiving Jules’ breast cancer diagnosis
The fact that Mike and Jules both get as much out of their daily life as possible despite these testing setbacks is testament to the strength of their marriage as much as the strength of their will. “Jules and I have a big love and we motivate each other,” says Mike. “Despite the curveballs thrown at us, we always sit down, talk things through, count our blessings, have a laugh and most importantly realise that all things must pass, not to be afraid and live, and love, life to the full each day. “We love what we do, performing around the word, recording music, creating events.
Love Hope Strength Mike and Jules’ charity, the Love Hope Strength Foundation, raises funds and awareness for cancer centres around the world through music-related events and promotions. To date, Love Hope Strength has added more than 129,000 music fans to the bone marrow registry, helping to find more than 2,400 potential lifesaving matches. Visit www.lovehopestrength.org for more information as to how you can save a life…
We are very fulfilled and happy which helps us to stay motivated. At the end of the day we appreciate that we are very lucky. We have both survived cancer and infertility treatment and I think these experiences have fortified us both so much that we are stronger than ever.” And strong they’ll have to be, physically at least, in order to complete
Page 20 NWM 2017
By Your Side
the route
Jules, day after cancer diagnosis, July, 2016, North Wales
Thursday 15th June: Flint to Broughton Friday 16th June: Wrexham and surrounding area Saturday 17th June: Llangollen to Ruthin* Sunday 18th June: Ruthin to Prestatyn* Monday 19th June: Ysbyty Glan Clwyd to Mostyn Tuesday 20th June: Rhyl to Colwyn Bay Wednesday 21st June: Colwyn Bay to Conwy Thursday 22nd June: Conwy to Menai Bridge Friday 23rd June: Bangor to Caernarfon Saturday 24th June: Snowdon Rocks*
the 130-mile challenge that they have set themselves in June. The By Your Side walk is in aid of the North Wales NHS, and is the Peters’ way of giving back for the sterling treatment that they both received. “Jules and I are returning from the USA to embark on the 130-mile walk next month,” explains Mike. “During my battle with leukaemia I have received the most incredible care from the NHS in Wales and now, with the bombshell of Jules being diagnosed with breast cancer last July – and receiving chemotherapy and radiotherapy
The actual By Your Side Walk is over 130 miles in total. A small Beach to Beach* walk will also be taking place on Saturday 3rd June from Abersoch to Porthdinllaen *Open to all that want to take part. Everyone that wants to join on the 3rd, 17th, 18th or 24th will need to register in advance. Registration for these days is £20 per adult and children under 12 walk for free. The entire registration fee will support people with cancer and their families in North Wales.
For more information visit byyoursideappeal.org
over the last few months, we both felt more passionate than ever about giving back. The walk also shows up North Wales in the most incredible light and we are both excited to explore new patches of our beautiful country.” The By Your Side walk could almost be viewed as a journey within Mike and Jules’ journey of life which, although full of ups and downs, has always been fulfilled. In fact, the way that Mike and Jules have managed their cancer journeys has been so inspiring that the BBC has been filming them for the past 12 months. The documentary follows Mike (as well as Jules and sons Dylan and Evan) as he takes stock of his 30-year music career, and reaffirms what The Alarm’s music means to himself and his fans. “This could be my last chance to do these things,” he says in regards to the programme, which trails Mike and Jules as they work through one of the busiest years of their lives. Which is saying something about this couple that never seem to stop.
The Peters family trekking up Snowdon in the name of cancer care last year
“We have another very busy year ahead!” says Jules.
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The Alarm at this year’s Gathering , The Arena, Venue Cymru, Llandudno, Feb 4 2017
“Dylan and Evan attend Ysgol Glan Clwyd and Ysgol Dewi Sant respectively so we will be back to school shortly competing in the upcoming Urdd Eisteddfod in Brigend. We have a UK Alarm Tour in May, then off to perform at the Isle of Wight Festival, before heading back to North Wales for our 130-mile walk from Wrexham Hospital, via Glan Clwyd, finishing at Bangor Hospital and a final hike up Snowdon… “We then head straight to the USA for a two month tour of the USA with The Alarm and then head back to Wales in September when we will be launching a new musical written by Mike and fellow North Walian, Steve Allan Jones. We also have a new album coming out, another UK Alarm Tour in October, a trip to Mexico, reconstructive surgery for me at the end of the year and then it will be almost time for the Gathering!” Life for the Peters’ is certainly busy and exciting – and that’s just the way they like it. But they look forward to coming home as much as anything else on their calendar. “We have a strong affection for the United States, having spent a huge part of our life together in Los Angeles and New York, but our hiraeth for Wales keeps our main home and focus in North Wales,” says Jules. “We are both very passionate about Wales and love driving in from the airport and witnessing the dramatic view from the A55 as we weave our way through Rhuallt, looking out across Snowdonia and the Great Orme. Even after all these years, that view continues to take our breath away.” n thealarm.com
Page 22 NWM 2017
“We both feel blessed in a way by cancer. We don’t take ANYTHING for granted. We know how terrifying it can be to hear the words ‘I’m afraid you’ve got cancer’ – and a day when you are not dealing with those words, is an extremely good day”
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NWM 2017 Page 23
MAGAZINE
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Charlie Hunnam stars in the title role of King Arthur: Legend of the Sword, which is released in cinemas on May 19th
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Credit: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures
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ON LOCATION It is no coincidence that the new blockbuster depicting the Welsh legend of King Arthur was filmed partly in Snowdonia. Hilary Paschal shines the movie spotlight on North Wales. The stunning mountain landscapes of Snowdonia are set to take centre stage once again, this time as the backdrop to Guy Ritchie’s long-awaited fantasy epic King Arthur: Legend of the Sword. Starring Charlie Hunnam in the title role the film, which is released in cinemas throughout the UK on May 19th, is Ritchie’s take on the classic Excalibur myth, tracing Arthur’s journey from the streets to the throne. Jude Law plays Arthur’s uncle Vortigern, who seizes the crown when Arthur’s father is murdered. Robbed of his birthright, young Arthur has to fight his way up from the back alleys until – pulling the sword from the stone – he is forced to acknowledge his true legacy. Acclaimed movie director Ritchie also chose Snowdonia to shoot scenes for his previous blockbuster, Sherlock Holmes - A Game of
Page 24 NWM 2017
36
Movie locations
fact file The Red Beret (1953)
Director: Terence Young Cast: Alan Ladd, Susan Stephen, Donald Houston Locations: Trawsfynydd area The Inn Of The Sixth Happiness (1958) Director: Mark Robson Cast: Ingrid Bergman, Robert Donat, Curt Jurgens, Athene Seyler, Burt Kwouk Locations: Beddgelert, Nantmor and Capel Curig
36 Shadows, and it’s easy to see why North Wales draws generation after generation of film-maker back to the region. James Bond fans will recognise scenes
Carry On Up The Khyber (1968) Director: Peter Rogers Cast: Kenneth Wiliams, Peter Butterworth, Sid James, Terry Scott Locations: Cwm Llan, on the Watkin path
from the national park in From Russia with Love and The World is Not Enough. Tomb Raider, Willow and even Carry On Up the Khyber are also among the hundreds of movies and documentaries filmed in the area over the years. “King Arthur’s location manager asked for our advice on some of the most stunning locations for filming,” commented Arwyn Williams of Wales Screen, the Welsh Government body which supports film-makers. “We have the grandeur of the mountains, beautiful
Macbeth (1971) Director: Roman Polanski Cast: Jon Finch, Francesca Annis, Martin Shaw Locations: Talsarnau, Llan Ffestiniog, Black Rock Sands Holiday On The Buses (1974) Director: Bryan Izzard Cast: Reg Varney,Stephen Lewis,Doris Hare,Michael Robbins,Anna Karen, Bob Grant Locations: Pontins Prestatyn, Rhuddlan Bridge
beaches, stunning countryside and all within the radius of a few miles.” Wales Screen also organises recces to help producers choose the right location,
Yanks (1979) Director: John Schlesinger Cast: Vanessa Redgrave, Richard Gere Locations: Grand Hotel, Llandudno
and it has a database of contacts within local government, agencies and other organisations such as the National Trust to help make the process of gaining permissions easier.
The Keep (1983) Director: Michael Mann Cast: Scott Glen, Alberta Watson Locations: Llanberis, Glyn Rhonwy Quarry
Willow (1988) Director: Ron Howard Cast: Val Kilmer, Joanna Whalley (Kilmer), Warwick Davies Locations: Llanberis, Dinorwig Quarry First Knight (1994) Director: Jerry Zucker Cast: Sean Connery, Richard Gere, Julia Ormond, Ben Cross Locations: Trawsfynydd area, Mawddach Estuary, Llanfair Slate Caverns, Blaenau Ffestiniog, Black Rock Sands Tomb Raider – The Cradle of Life (2002) Director: Jan De Bont Cast: Angelina Jolie, Gerard Butler,Chris Barrie,Noah Taylor Locations: Llyn Gwynant, Alexandra Quarry near Fron, Pen y Pass, Ffynnon Llugwy, Capel Curig Half-Light (2004) Director: Craig Rosenberg Cast: Demi Moore, James Cosmo, Hans Matheson Locations: Ynys Llanddwyn, Porthdinllaen, Neuadd Pritchard Jones-Niwbwrch Clash of the Titans (2009) Director: Louis Leterrier Cast: Sam Worthington,Liam Neeson, Ralph Fiennes, Gemma Arterton, Alexa Davalos, Mads Mikkelsen, Danny Huston Locations: Dinorwig Quarry, Llanddwyn, Newborough Forest, Glyderau Mr Turner (2014) Director: Mike Leigh Cast: Timothy Spall, Paul Jesson, Dorothy Atkinson, Marion Bailey Locations: Cwm Idwal
“My personal favourite location is Nant Gwynant,” says Arwyn. “The view you get
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King Arthur
LEFT TO RIGHT: Jude Law plays Arthur’s uncle Vortigern in King Arthur: Legend of the Sword. Credit: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures
the North Wales legend King Arthur is heavily associated with Snowdonia,
the 13 treasures of Britain and nine bardic companions.
with several names bearing his name. Cegin Arthur and Ffynnon Arthur reputedly have healing properties, and
Bardsey is also claimed to be the fabled Avalon.
many tales associated with caves across the region tell
Merlin is also associated with Gwyrtheyrn. Vortigen, a
of a sleeping Arthur who awaits the call to return with
cruel and unpopular 5th Century warlord, escaped his
his men to rescue Wales.
enemies by running away to the mountain of Aran near Beddgelert.
The lakes of Llydaw, Dinas and Ogwen, amongst many others, claim to contain the magical Excalibur.
He instructed his men to build him a castle on the site but every morning the men would find the previous
A stone reputedly bearing the hoof print of Arthur’s
day’s construction destroyed. Vortigen’s advisers told
horse ‘Llamrai’ can be found on the banks of Lake
him to seek an orphan boy reared by the fairies.
Barfog near Betws y Coed. It is said that the mark was made when Arthur and his horse dragged a monster
His men finally found the boy Myrddin Emrys, or Merlin
from the lake’s deep waters.
for short. The boy explained that two dragons - one white and one red - in a lake underneath the site of the
Arthur is also associated with mount Snowdon, where
proposed castle, were in mortal combat, and that the
he reputedly killed the mountain’s most famous resident
red dragon (the Welsh) was thwarting the white dragon
- Rhitta, a fearsome giant who created a cape for himself
(the Saxons).
out of the beards of his enemies. His corpse was covered in huge stones by Arthur’s men at the summit of the
On hearing the news Vortigen fled and Merlin handed
mountain.
over the castle to Emrys Wledig, and to this day the remains of the ancient fort of Dinas Emrys can still
Bardsey Island off the coast of the Llyn Peninsula also
be seen.
has Arthurian associations. It is said to be the burial place of Merlin who lies in a glass coffin surrounded by
Page 26 NWM 2017
For more information please go to www.visitsnowdonia.
of the valley once you drive past Pen y Pass towards Pen y
companies has increased significantly in recent years. We
Gwryd is truly beautiful and spectacular.”
now deal with hundreds of enquiries a year ranging from brand launches to TV advertisements to blockbusters.”
Scenes from King Arthur: Legend of the Sword were filmed in Nant Gwynant, as well as Vivian Quarry near Llanberis
Meanwhile, Helen Pritchard, owner of Clic theatrical agency
and Capel Curig – which provided something of a boost for
based in North Wales, welcomes the chance to showcase
local businesses.
Welsh creative talent.
“The economic impact can be really significant when a
“I have supplied dozens of actors for various films shot
production films in the area,” added Arwyn. “A crew can
in North Wales over the years,” she says. “We used some
range in size from 100 on a small production to 400 plus on
pupils from Ysgol Friars pupils in Bangor for the production
a large feature film. Obviously this is a huge benefit to local
of King Arthur. I think they find the whole experience
hotels, as well as a range of other local businesses, from
overwhelming. They got paid to work on a feature film with
caterers to taxi companies.”
some of their heroes.
For example, Angelina Jolie, stayed at Seiont Manor Hotel, in
“I have worked with film makers and producers from all
Llanrug, Caernarfon in 2002 with her adopted son Maddox
over the world, from Japan to the States - and they are all
while filming Lara Croft Tomb Raider: the Cradle of Life.
captivated by our scenery,” Helen adds. “I remember filming a music video with Greek singer Demis Roussos on Anglesey
Seiont Manor Hotel operations manager, Jonathan Evans,
and his team couldn’t believe how beautiful the area was.”
was a waiter at the hotel during that time. “Angelina was a very pleasant person and wrote individual thank you notes
Travel guide Lonely Planet recently named North Wales
for staff when she left,” he said. “A lot of hotels in the area
fourth in a list of best regions in the world to visit in 2017,
provided accommodation for the cast and crew.”
and the view from the top of Snowdonia was named UK’s best sight in a poll by Samsung.
The Welsh Government provides funding support to attract productions to the region and ensure that a certain amount of
Tom Hall, Lonely Planet’s editorial director, said: “We included
the production budget is spent in Wales.
North Wales in this year’s list of top 10 regions because it deserves to be recognised on the global stage. North Wales is
“This can run into millions of pounds and means Welsh
a gem and should be on every traveller’s radar.”
freelance crew, special effects firms and set designers, among others, get the opportunity to work on large scale,
It has certainly caught the lens of movie makers worldwide.
big budget productions that will be screened worldwide,”
As Arwyn concludes: “I think our breathtaking scenery
continues Arwyn.
will continue to be an inspiration to film-makers for many generations.” n
“The use of stunning Welsh locations in TV and film productions are also a great boost to our tourism industry, highlighting what Wales has to offer. Arthur is a great
Hilary Paschal is a former BBC news editor, who has
example and supports the Visit Wales - Year of Legends
worked in TV, radio and print journalism. She was
campaign.
born in North Wales and has returned to the region to bring up her family.
“The number of enquiries from TV and film production
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Page 28 NWM 2017
That
festival feeling
Festival season kicks off with a vengeance this month. Kate Hamilton discovers the music events taking place throughout North Wales this May.
As the weather hots up, so does the North Walian music
UK top 40 albums since appearing on the X Factor in 2012,
scene. Festivals will be springing up all over the region this
and Welsh Music Prize winner Georgia Ruth complete the
summer, with five taking place in May alone.
line up.
The local festival calendar kicks off with FOCUS Wales –
In addition to headline music acts, FOCUS Wales will host a
and it’s a rather good way to start the season. Following the
range of interactive workshops and events, featuring expert
much praised 2016 event, which saw an audience in excess
speakers from across the globe. Alongside the interactive
of seven thousand people attend, FOCUS Wales returns to
programme is Digital Innovations Day, taking place on
Wrexham for its seventh consecutive year.
Saturday 13th May at Undegun Artspace. Digital Innovations Day will host live performances, panel discussions and an
Taking place from the 11th to 13th of May, the much
interactive expo.
anticipated line up for FOCUS Wales 2017 features some of the best new music coming out of the UK right now.
While FOCUS Wales is a well-established festival, Vangollen
‘International Treasures’ British Sea Power have confirmed
is about to host its inaugural event. The snappily-titled
they will headline on the Saturday night, while Cabbage,
event, which takes place from the 19th to 21st of May, is
John Bramwell (I Am Kloot front man), Astroid Boys and Gulp
the brainchild of Matt Doyle, whose home overlooks the
are also set to appear. Lucy Spraggan, who has had three
Llangollen Pavilion.
The 2017 Gŵyl Beaumaris Festival has a Russian thread with a mix of homegrown, national and international talent
NWM 2017 Page 29
Come and see Cabbage live at FOCUS Wales in Wrexham MAGAZINE
Welsh Music Prize Winner Georgia Ruth is one to watch at FOCUS Wales
Clare will perform in the festival’s Piano Series, which also features the award winning Georgian pianist Luka Okros. The rest of the 2017 Gŵyl Beaumaris Festival, which runs from 23rd to 30th May, has a Russian thread with a mix of homegrown, national and international talent. Other events taking place during the festival include talks, organ recitals, young The owner of a camper van rental business, Snowdonia
artist’s recitals and an art exhibition.
Vans, Matt was looking out at the distinctive white roof of the Pavilion one day when he had the idea of holding a camper
Back on the mainland, and the family friendly Rhuddfest
van-themed festival there.
festival takes place on Saturday 27th May. Returning for its third year, Rhuddfest music festival is located just outside
“There are lots of camper ‘jams’ out there, where proud
Rhuddlan village with views of the castle.
camper-van owners get together in a field with a few traders, have a good time, and show off their vans,” says Matt.“But
Showcasing brilliant singer songwriters and incredibly gifted
Vangollen takes a different slant. We’re a musical festival first
musicians in a single day, Rhuddfest’s carefully chosen acts
and foremost, but with a camper van vibe. Yes you can bring
are complimented by the setting, atmosphere, crowds, bars,
your camper, camp on a reserved pitch, enter the Show and
hand-picked caterers, children’s activities and artisan traders.
Shine competition, and have a great time with your fellow campers. Or just come to enjoy the show. You don’t need to be
Plenty of activities will be available for the whole family to
a camper ‘nerd’ to enjoy Vangollen.”
enjoy (you can even bring the dog) as you wander around the music festival listening to bands such as Yubaba, Blue Nation,
Indie superstars Razorlight will headline Vangollen, playing
Straight Jacket Legends and Hedge Gods.
live for the first time in two years with the promise of new material from a forthcoming album. They’ll be joined by 1980s
The last festival to take place this month is Su Casa on Sunday
chart-toppers The Christians, The Icicle Works and a whole
28th May. An unusual day for a festival perhaps, but luckily
host of local bands and performers.
the organisers planned it just before a bank holiday to give you plenty of time to recover.
And, sticking with the van theme, two of the artists appearing at this year’s Gŵyl Beaumaris Festival in Anglesey recently
The location of Su Casa is also rather unusual. Taking place
featured in the film ‘Lady in the Van’ starring Dame Maggie
at Surf Snowdonia in Dolgarrog this will be the first event
Smith. International concert pianist Clare Hammond, who
of its kind ever held at the outdoor wave garden, and will
portrayed Dame Maggie Smith’s character as a young woman,
ambitiously utilise the space like never before.
also performed all the music in the film – whilst the festival’s resident pianist Helen Davies’ hands were used in all the
The all-Welsh team of 20-somethings, two of which are from
close-ups as Maggie Smith’s hands playing the piano as an
North Wales, already have a strong following in the area and
older person.
this promises to be their most impressive event to date.
Page 30 NWM 2017
Lucy Spraggan, who has had three UK top 40 albums since appearing on the X Factor, will be performing at FOCUS Wales this month
Surf Snowdonia is set to be transformed for the Su Casa Festival on May 28th Razorlight will headline the inaugural Vangollen festival this month
The festival will cater for around 2,000 guests, and will feature a main stage, an intimate disco tipi hosting an allday party and a poolside decked terrace with light music
The sound of
summer FOCUS Wales, Wrexham 11th – 13th May
and entertainment. The event will also feature on-site hot tubs, a log-cabin-style sauna, an all-day barbeque and use of Surf Snowdonia’s glamping pods. Su Casa’s main stage will boast a festival-grade sound system and state-of-the-art lighting and production,
Vangollen, Llangollen 19th – 21st May Beaumaris Festival, Anglesey 23rd – 30th May
organised by the same company that are responsibly for production at events such as Glastonbury, V Festival and Parklife. The stage will host a line-up with some of the biggest names in house music, including Radio 1’s very own resident, B
Rhuddfest, Rhuddlan 27th May Su Casa, Surf Snowdonia 28th May
Traits and world renowned DJ and producer Yousef. “We couldn’t be more excited about the Su Casa Festival,”
Gottwood, Anglesey 8th – 11th June
to pull in some top class acts that the people of North Wales
Llandudno Jazz Festival, Llandudno 28th – 30th July Snowdonia Outdoor Festival, Bala 11th – 13th August Maes B, Anglesey 4th – 12th August PigFest, Denbigh 12th August Festival No 6, Portmeirion 7th – 10th September
Snowdonfest, Llanrwst 14th & 15th June
The Good Life Experience, Hawarden Estate 15th – 17th September
Electric Wave, Surf Snowdonia 14th – 16th July
Gorjys Secrets, Conwy Valley 16th & 17th September
Pentre Fest, Deeside 23rd – 25th June
Willfest, Bangor-on-Dee 17th September
said marketing manager James Quirke. “We thought long and hard about the line-up, and we think we’ve managed
International Musical Eisteddfod, Llangollen 3rd – 9th July
will enjoy. Having grown up in Colwyn Bay, I know that sometimes it can be hard to get to see big artists without travelling great distances.” Well there is certainly no need to travel far this summer. A fact that North Wales should be making a big song a dance about. n
NWM 2017 Page 31
Blooming marvellous
There’s no saying that a festival has to be about music, and it’s testament to North Wales that we have so much diversity when it comes to organised events. The Festival of Gardens is no exception, and it opens its gates to the public this month.
2017 is the second year of the North Wales
commented Jim Jones, managing director of North
Festival of Gardens, a unique event which brings
Wales Tourism. “This is the second year of the
together the finest gardens throughout the
festival and it’s going from strength to strength.
region. A total of 24 stunning gardens will open
It’s an excellent example of what can be achieved
to thousands of visitors during the event which
when North Wales gets together for a particular
will take place between Saturday May 27th and
offer – in this case its wonderful gardens. We have
Sunday June 11th.
some of the most beautiful in the UK, including some real hidden gems, and this is about showing
Last year’s inaugural festival brought almost
them off to as many people as possible.”
44,000 visitors flocking to the beauty spots involved, and this year the event is spreading
The festival dates have been arranged to coincide
over four extra days with even more gardens
with late-spring flowering displays, which will
taking part.
include rhododendrons, azaleas, magnolias, tulips and flowering cherries, making this one of the
The festival, which was organised by North Wales
best times of the year to visit the great gardens of
Tourism and is being supported by the Welsh
North Wales.
Government, will be officially opened at Plas Tan y Bwlch gardens near Maentwrog in Gwynedd by
“You can see our gardens separately, but being
Gardener’s Question Time chairman, and former
able to visit them all together during the festival
TV weatherman, Peter Gibbs.
is amazing – and the event is the perfect showcase for one of our best assets,” continued
More than 100 unique events are planned during
Jones. “The festival has been extensively
the 16 days of the festival at the gardens taking
marketed and we expect to attract thousands of
part, including musical performances, orienteering
visitors not just from around the gardens, but also
sessions, treasure hunts, bug hunts, gardening
from a much wider area.”
lectures, family treasure hunts, children’s trails and plant sales.
Some of the gardens on display aren’t usually open to the public, making the North Wales Festival of
“North Wales has some of the most beautiful
Gardens a great opportunity to see some private
gardens in the UK and this event is all about
spaces, as well as plants that are rarely seen
showing them off to as many people as possible,”
elsewhere in the British Isles. n
For more information about the festival call 08705 168767 or visit www.gardensnorthwales.co.uk
Page 32 NWM 2017
MAGAZINE
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The Royal Academy of Arts now has 2 fabulous events spaces, right in the heart of the West End.
STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESS
Burlington House The Fine Rooms in Burlington House are a suite of 18th Century Rooms hung with our permanent collection, including works by Gainsborough, Reynolds, Turner, Hockney and Degas.
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Membe� during their membership year. These can be taken in either Burlington House or Burlington Gardens.
Members Hire Fee £2,000 £5,000 £5,000 £2,000 £6,000 (June & July) £4,000 (Aug) £7,000 (June) £6,000 (July) £5,000 (Aug)
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APPROVED LIST OF SUPPLIERS FOR EVENTS IN THE ROYAL ACADEMY OF ARTS CATERERS Mustard Catering 1-3 Brixton Road London SW9 6DF Robert Salter 020 7840 5900
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Burlington Gardens The West H O URoom G H TinOBurlington N P H I L Gardens L I P S is a cool, contemporary, white space, with high ceilings, wooden floors and huge windows – perfect for parties E X E C U Tor I V Elaunches. SEARCH The West Room is available for hire 7 days a week, for daytime, evening events or longer term hire. H O Ubelow GHT O exclusive N P H I LofL VAT. IPS All prices are EXECUTIVE SEARCH
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ENTERTAINMENT
William Norris & Company Unit 24 Sleaford Street London SW8 5AB William Norris 020 7627 1220
Prelude The Old Stables 10 Timber Lane Caterham, Surrey CR3 6LZ Julianne Basten 01883 344300
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Corporate Membership Jo Ani Tel: 020 7300 5709 Email: jo.ani@royalacademy.org.uk
Ming Veevers Carter 020 7237 8800
Fisher Productions 118 Garratt Lane London SW18 4DJ Richard Merritt 020 8871 1978
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Veevers Caterers Flowers for discoverers 16 Endeavour Way The place of all Westminster Business Square London SW19 8UH Unit 10E, 1-45 Durham Street ages and expertise John Carroll 020 8971 3100 London Detta Phillips Floral Design 18 Redburn Street London SW3 4BX Detta Phillips 020 7498 2728 Simon J Lycett 30 Charterhouse Works Eltringham Street London SW18 1TD Simon J Lycett 020 8874 1040
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The Royal Academy of Arts is the oldest arts institution of its kind in Europe and receives no government funding. Corporate support is therefore vital to our work and we have a long and successful history of working with business. The Royal Academy of Arts Corporate Membership scheme gives your company the opportunity to access the Academy’s unique resources for clients, employees and community partners. The scheme is one of the best established in the UK with over 80 current Members many of whom have been loyal to the scheme since it was established in 1988.
Music Management UK Ltd PO Box 1105 London SW1V 2DE Sally Civval 020 7823 1111
Building on this and in consultation with our Members, our new scheme allows you to customise your own benefits package according to your business needs and priorities. Tailor-make your own membership from 1 or more of the membership modules. Or take all 3 and become a Premier Level Patron with exclusive partnership opportunities.
Events in Burlington House Nathalie Glaser Tel: 020 7300 5987 Email: nathalie.glaser@royalacademy.org.uk Events in Burlington Gardens Janet Plunkett Tel: 020 7300 5701 Email: janet.plunkett@royalacademy.org.uk Sponsorship Jane Marriott/Joanna Conlon Tel: 020 7300 5665/5620 Email: jane.marriott@royalacademy.org.uk Email: joanna.conlon@royalacademy.org.uk
Discounts for Current Corporate Members To show our appreciation for your continued support, existing Corporate Members can take any 2 modules for the discounted price of £15,000 (+ VAT) in the launch year.
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ENTERTAINMENT February 2008
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10
OR EXPERIENCES F
e n i l a n e r d A JUNKIES
North Wales is fast emerging as an adventure tourism destination to be reckoned with. We uncover the best experiences for thrill seekers…
1
Cliff Camping
You’d have to be a true adrenaline junkie to try cliff camping – where you sleep 15 metres above the sea, suspended in mid air. Gaia Adventures is the only company in the country to offer this truly memorable experience, and it can be found on the coast of Anglesey. “The first 20 minutes or so are pretty gripping for most of our clients, the creaks and slumps as the ledge settles, and the noise and power of the crashing sea below are stimulating,” says co-founder Will Nicholls. “Initial nerves quickly disappear though, and you’re left in the most surreal of situations, dangling high above the water, relaxed, sipping on a hot brew, gazing at the pastel sunset. The contrast of excitement, and then relaxation, is what really sets it apart as an experience.” If in doubt there’s only one way to find out… www.gaiaadventures.co.uk
2
Velocity
If you’re going to ride a zip line, it needs to be local. Velocity at Zip World in Penrhyn Quarry, Bethesda, is the fastest zip line in the world and the longest in Europe. This adventure takes you on the Little Zipper in order to build your confidence before you journey up the quarry on the company’s famous red trucks. Take in the stunning views from the Big Top of Velocity, out towards Anglesey with views of the Isle of Man on a clear day. You will then descend down the Big Zipper over the quarry lake – often reaching speeds well in excess of 100mph which, lets face it, is the nearest thing to flying that you’re going to get. www.zipworld.co.uk
NWM 2017 Page 35
MAGAZINE
3
Kite surfing
Kite surfing is a water sport that harnesses the power of the wind in a specially designed kite and uses this to propel the surfer across the sea on a specially designed board. While it looks exceedingly exotic, it can actually be done right on your doorstep ¬– Pro Kitesurfing is a flagship school of excellence with its own beachfront facilities in Rhyl. “Kite surfing is a very addictive, healthy lifestyle sport for any body size to try from the age of 12 years,” says Simon Jones, who describes the sport as “freedom on your feet and the sense of complete escapism”. Onlookers can watch this exciting water sport from the Kite
4
Surf Café as the huge kite propels its pilot across the water and high into the sky spinning them around before gently landing them and preparing them for their next move. www.prokitesurfing.co.uk
Snowdonia X2 Challenge
Bear Grylls has brought survival to North Wales with the Snowdonia X2 Challenge. Hosted by Dragon Raiders, adrenaline junkies are invited to come and experience the thrill and excitement of this two-day survival course. You will be picked up and taken via helicopter (weather allowing) and dropped off into the heart of Snowdonia. Here you will earn your stripes and fight for survival in your first challenge to find your food rations for the two-day experience. Don’t find them and you’re in trouble! This experience will take you through a set of mind blowing deep forest challenges to include the night vision goggle extreme, face down valley rappelling and escape river canyon. The course will teach you some of Bear’s unique survival skills and techniques, and it has been designed to put participants to the ultimate test. www.dragonraiders.co.uk
Coasteering
Coasteering, in a nutshell, is climbing, scrambling, swimming, jumping and exploring your way around the sea cliffs – in this case on the coast of Anglesey. Organisers North Wales Active has two main coasteering routes, both of which start and finish at the beautiful Porth Dafarch beach. “Coasteering is one of our most popular activities, as it is an ideal way to see the amazing Anglesey coastline,” explains managing director Jamie Williams. “On our coasteering courses we have very experienced and qualified instructors that have explored and worked on these coastlines through all tidal levels and in all weather conditions.” Coasteering jumps range from two to 35ft, and the suitable age range is 12 to 100! www.northwalesactive.co.uk
Page 36 NWM 2017
5
6 Go Below
Go Below is a multi-award winning activity company running authentic underground adventure trips in
7
the disused mines of Snowdonia. Its personally guided adventures are totally uncontrived and you’ll discover a spectacular hidden world of deep blue lakes, dramatic caverns, winding tunnels and ancient mining machinery abandoned in the darkness. See if you’ve got what it takes to tackle its most challenging day out – the
Surf Snowdonia
Ultimate Xtreme trip. Experience Goliath, the world’s longest and
When Lonely Planet named North Wales as one of the world’s Top Regions for its
deepest underground zip ride
2017 Best in Travel list it named-checked this world-first inland surf lagoon as
and the world’s first and only
being ‘the most headline-stealing example’ of our region’s reinvention. And when
underground free fall jump into
you arrive at Surf Snowdonia it’s not hard to see why it gets so many people
a pitch-black 70ft abyss. One for
quite so excited. The scale and energy of the place is enormous (the lagoon is
the bucket list and not for the feint
the size of six football pitches) and it hits you at a rate of – well, about one huge
hearted, this adrenaline-packed
roaring wave every 90 seconds. For adrenaline junkies who like getting wet it’s
trip requires nerves of steel – and a
a pretty irresistible proposition. Surf Snowdonia uses clever engineering and
very good head for heights…
hydro dynamics to generate three different wave profiles simultaneously, so
www.go-below.co.uk
adventurers can dive in whether they are absolute beginners or total pros. https://surfsnowdonia.com
NWM 2017 Page 37
MAGAZINE
White water rafting
8
While other rivers in Wales trickle, the mighty Afon Tryweryn delivers over half a mile of punchy grade 3-4 rapids. White water rafting is a very popular activity and, if it’s an adrenaline rush you are after, then this is certainly the experience for you. Whether you are on your own or thrill seeking with a group of friends, white water rafting offers the perfect day out – especially since it is an activity that isn’t in the least bit fazed by the good old Welsh weather. Well, let’s face it, you’re going to get wet anyway… www.balawatersports.com
Motor Safari
At Motor Safari’s flagship venue in North East Wales you can put the fun, adventure and sheer exhilaration back into driving. Following in the footsteps of celebrities like Ben Fogle and Liza
9
Tarbuck, you will discover just what 4x4’s can do. Enormous water splashes, the fearsome wall of death and, for all you adrenaline junkies, the giant See-Saw (as seen on Top Gear) plus the breathtaking Big Dipper are guaranteed to provide a thrill. Outstanding family adventure experiences are also available, and young drivers (12 years and over) can enjoy a First Drive experience that will have all of the family laughing together. www.motor-safari.co.uk
10
Rib Ride
Of course thrill seeking doesn’t have to be all energetic. Anglesey based RibRide lets you sit back and relax while being whizzed up and down the Menai Straight, so you get to feel the wind in your hair without breaking a sweat. You might even get to learn a thing or two along the way. “RibRide is not just about going fast on the Strait,” says Tom Ashwell. “The real adventure comes when we take time and explore the coast, discussing points of interest, helping everyone to understand the natural beauty of the coastline. Our RIBs are fast and fun but we exceed our RibRiders’ expectations by drawing on our sailing experiences and understanding of the environment to embrace the natural and cultural values of this amazing area.” www.ribride.co.uk
Page 38 NWM 2017
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NWM 2017 Page 39
Purple Moose Brewery MAGAZINE
Gypsy Wood Park is a magical day out for visitors of all ages, which all the family will love.
Porthmadog
SIBA
SIBA
REGIONAL WINNER 2012
REGIONAL WINNER 2013
PORTERS, STOUTS, OLD ALES & STRONG MILDS
BOT TLED SPECIALIT Y BEERS
There are loads of things to see and do at our outdoor park in the foothills of Snowdonia in North Wales, and we’re a must-see attraction for all animal, nature, outdoor, train and fairy lovers. Bring your wellies to explore the wetlands, meet all the different animals who live here, find the fairies, make a wish, hop on Woody’s train and enjoy one of our fabulous adventure play areas; just some of the events and attractions available at Gypsy Wood Park.
Open 27th March until Autumn, please check website for specific dates! We will be open daily from 10.30am to 5.00pm.
Multi Award Winning Real Ales from North Wales Purple Moose Brewery Ltd Madog Street, Porthmadog, Gwynedd, LL49 9DB Tel: 01766 515-571 HP horizontal Snowdoniapass copy.pdf 1 www.purplemoose.co.uk @PurpleMooseBrew
Please note that in inclement weather we may close early, or in severe conditions we may remain closed for the day.
Tel: 01286 673133 Manned 10.30 AM to 5.00 PM during the season
www.gypsywood.co.uk gypsywoodpark@btinternet.com
23/03/2017
10:45
Facebook.com/PurpleMooseBrewery
Snowdonia Pass is the must-have visitor discount card giving you access to over 50 participating attractions, activities, restaurants, shops and accommodation providers. Each pass costs just £5/person and lasts for 12 months – giving you incredible value for money!
Get yours and start saving today! T&Cs apply. Visit www.snowdoniapass.co.uk for full details.
Page 40 NWM 2017
www.snowdoniapass.co.uk | www.attractionsofsnowdonia.com
EXPLORING
Porthmadog The harbour town of Porthmadog is as rich in maritime history as they come. Dave Rothnie reports.
As the home to the world-famous Blaenau Ffestiniog railway, steam buffs have long been familiar with the attractions of Porthmadog, and at the weekends the high street is teaming with day-trippers as well as the friendly locals. But the town’s status as the gateway to Snowdownia makes it an ideal destination for a longer stay in order to enjoy and explore the surrounding area. A harbour town situated on the Glaslyn Estuary, Porthmadog is rich in maritime history and owes its openness and transport links to the vision of William Madocks, an 18th century Georgian entrepreneur who gives the town its name. Travelling from the south, you enter into the town along the famous embankment or ‘Cob’, built by Madocks to form the deep harbour from where great sailing ships carried around the world slate mined in Blaenau Ffestiniog. Born in 1773, Madocks built the Cob across the Glaslyn Estuary, thus considerably easing travel – by foot, horse and eventually by rail - between mid and north Wales and, in doing so, he created two new communities – Porthmadog and nearby Tremadog. Madocks made it his mission to open up the country to commerce and he built the Cob to enable traffic from mid Wales to reach Porthdinllaen on the Llyn Peninsula. Trade with Ireland was beginning to gather momentum and Madocks had plans to create a new port at Porthdinllaen in order to carry this traffic.
NWM 2017 Page 41
MAGAZINE
What to do 1) Black Rock Sands A two-mile stretch of white sandy beaches with views across to Criccieth Castle, Black Rock Sands is shallow, with a gentle gradient making it ideal for swimming and bathing. Black Rock Sands has become a well-known beach for activities and is popular with windsurfers and kite-bugging. It has designated bathing and boat-launching areas. The sand dunes forming the backbone of the beach are a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Cars are allowed on the beach for a fee of £5. Dogs are allowed on the eastern and western sections of the beach but are banned from the central section.
2) The Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways With a rail system crossing the length and breadth of Snowdonia, linking Caernarfon, Beddgelert, Porthmadog and Blaenau Ffestiniog, the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways offer the perfect opportunity to see the magnificent scenery from the windows of a traditional steam locomotive. All trains leave from Porthmadog harbour station, where a visit to Spooners Café is a must. For more information visit www.festrail.co.uk
3) Portmerion Village There is simply nowhere quite like Portmeirion. Built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1975 and made famous as the location of the 1970s science fiction TV series Prisoner, this coastal resort one mile outside Porthmadog is a homage to Italian architecture. The resort boasts botanical gardens, shops, a hotel and a number of individually designed self-catering cottages that sleep up to 8 people. There is also an ice cream shop, cinema and land train, or you can enjoy walks along the beach with stunning views. In September, the resort plays host to
However the bridging of the Menai Straits meant
Festival No6, fast-becoming the jewel in the crown of the boutique
that Holyhead, not Porthmadog, won the race for
music festival scene.
the Irish trade – but Madocks persevered with his
4) Llandanwg Beach
plan and work on the Cob was completed in 1811.
This sandy beach at the southern end of Tremadog bay and within
The project proved a drain on Madock’s resources,
the Snowdonia National Park is backed by a small estuary with a
and the great storm of 1812 damaged the
small 13th century church hidden in the dunes.
construction. But what put Porthmadog on the
5) Lloyd George Museum
map in the 19th Century was the thriving slate industry. Blaenau Ffestiniog and its famous slate
The items at Lloyd George Museum and Highgate, his childhood
quarries lay only a dozen miles south west of
home, help us to understand the former Prime Minister’s life
the new port and town and, as the demand for
and times between 1863 and 1945. Lloyd George Museum,
Welsh slate began to grow, Port Madoc became an
Llanystumdwy, Criccieth, Gwynedd, LL52 0SH
international port to export the raw material. The town’s population climbed to 3,000 in 1861 from close to zero at the start of the Century. When World War One broke out in 1914, the
Page 42 NWM 2017
Where to stay Portmeirion Hotel
The Royal Sportsman Hotel, Porthmadog
Ever since it opened in 1926, as the focal point of Clough
This 3-star, full-service accommodation has 28 en suite
Williams-Ellis’ Italianate vision, the Hotel Portmeirion has
rooms, as well as a restaurant offering classic British food.
attracted artists, writers and musicians, with H.G. Wells,
Dogs are welcome.
George Bernard Shaw, Bertrand Russell, Noël Coward
www.royalsportsman.co.uk
and Jools Holland all having stayed there. There are also thirteen self-catering cottages sleeping from three to eight
Tudor Lodge, Porthmadog
people. The cottages are let on a weekly basis or three
Less than one mile from Porthmadog Railway Station and
nights at the weekend (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) and
town centre, the Tudor Lodge is a 4-star rated guest house.
four nights during the week.
It offers en suite rooms, free parking and free wifi.
www.portmeirion-village.com
www.tudor-lodge.co.uk
Castell Deudraeth, Portmeirion
Aberdunant Hall Country Hotel
Castell Deudraeth opened in 2001 following a complete
Situated within Snowdonia National Park, Aberdunant
renovation of the Victorian building and restoration of
Hall Country Hotel is a 17th-century property set within
its gardens. The hotel, located just before the entrance to
200-acres of woodland on an idyllic upmarket static
Portmeirion offers 11 fabulous contemporary styled rooms
caravan park. With free onsite parking, it retains many
(four suites and seven bedrooms), two main dining areas
original features, such as beamed ceilings, fireplaces and
(with a total of 80 covers), a bar, brasserie and a stunning
stained glass.
Victorian walled garden. www.portmeirion-village.com
www.aberdunant.com
Eating and drinking The Moorings Bistro, Borth y Gest Overlooking the bay of Borth-y-Gest with a heated lucrative German slate market totally disappeared and the
terrace, the Mooring’s Bistro is open for breakfast,
port consequently fell into disuse. Now this bustling town
lunch and dinner.
survives on its tourist trade and serves as an ideal base
www.mooringsbistroborthygest.com
from which to explore Snowdonia. The Australia, 31 High St Porthmadog is an area of special marine conservation lying
Situated in the centre of Porthmadog, this pub is
offshore between the Eryri-Snowdonia National Park and
owned by the local Purple Moose Brewery.
the Llyn Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
01766 515957
Black Rock sands, a long sandy beach situated at Morfa
Portmeirion Café, 137 High St
Bychan, lies two miles from Porthmadog and draws the
A cracking little café offering fresh sandwiches and
crowds, as does nearby Tremadog Bay, which boasts
selling local produce.
extraordinary marine wildlife, including sea-turtles and
01766 514238
dolphins. Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in England and Wales, is just 15 miles away. n
Purple Moose Brewery Shop, Madoc Street Purple Moose Brewery is a ‘40-Barrel’ microbrewery and boasts an on-site shop, where you
Dave Rothnie is a freelance journalist who has a passion for all things North Wales and comedy. He lives in Colwyn Bay with his family
can book a brewery tour, or simply stock up on the locally produced beer. www.purplemoose.co.uk
NWM 2017 Page 43
MAGAZINE
MAGAZINE MAY 2017
! EE FR
MAGAZINE APRIL 2017
n? What’slyoguide
E! FRE
th Your mon ents to local ev
MAGAZINE
Festival fever
What’s on?
May brings music to your ears
Your monthly guide to local events
The best family da ys Where to take the kids
TOP 10
ON LOCATION IN NORTH WALES
INSIDE
out
this Easter
J Homes & Interiors J FOOD & DRINK
Your comprehensive monthly guide to local events
INSIDE
A laughing matter THE REGIONAL COMEDY
TOP 10
Castles to
SCENE IS NO JOKE
visit this sp
ring
Interview with Rya Born, bred n Evans and build ing in No
J Homes & Inter
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MAGAZINE
whats on
Castles to visit thi s spring
J INTERVIEW WITH MIKE PETERS
Wales
wa le s
Experiences for adrenalinE junkies
Lights, camera, action!
of North
north
SUMMER IS INSIDE J Homes
& Interiors rant rev iew ty of the month
J Restau J Proper
THE REGION AL
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HERE
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NO JOKE
Like what you see? Then let us help build your brand.
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MAGAZINE
Page 46 NWM 2017
FOOD & DRINK INSIDE Brewing Restaurant Profile Recipes Wine column
NWM 2017 Page 47
MAGAZINE
BREWING UP A STORM North Wales is at the heart of the craft ale boom, with scores of small operations thriving Dave Rothnie reports When it comes to mixing hops, grain and water, North Wales has a proud tradition that dates back to the Druids 1,500 years ago and, more recently, includes producing Britain’s first lager brew in Wrexham
The Great Orme Brewery has a range of eight cask ales
in 1892. Wrexham Lager put the region on the map until its apparent demise in 2000, when the company
launched at the Buck House Hotel in Bangor on Dee.
ceased production and the brewery was turned into a retail park. Thankfully, in 2001, Martyn Jones, a
Wrexham Lager stands as a proud symbol of
former microbiologist at the company and then MP
regeneration but Wales’s brewing story is not
for Clwyd South, brought the rights from Danish
confined to the bringing old names back to glory.
brewer Carlsberg for £1 and set about finding
As anyone who enjoys a tipple will know, drinkers
someone to produce the beer locally. His efforts
are spoilt for choice when it comes to ale and
seemed in vain until he met Ian Dale, the head of
increasingly lager, thanks to the efforts of a growing,
brewing at the old plant, and Mark Roberts. Both
yet tight-knit bunch of passionate entrepreneurs
men were keen to bring back Wrexham Lager in
who share a passion for what some locals will
the form of a microbrewery and, in October 2011,
recognise as two of the most important things in life –
their vision became a reality when the lager was
Wales and beer.
Page 48 NWM 2017
Lawrence Washington, who founded Purple Moose in 2005, developed his passion for brewing at university. Although originally from Gloucestershire, his love of Wales came from working as a volunteer on the Ffestiniog railway. After working for his father’s printing firm in Cheltenham, the pull of brewing proved too great. “I wanted to set up a brewery away from home. I considered Scotland but the market was fiercely competitive at the time. I knew Porthmadog and I love the mountains which are important when it comes to down time.” Meanwhile Jonathan Hughes, who set up the Great Orme Brewery in a converted cattle store and potato shed on his parent’s farm in 2006 before moving to his current premises on Builders Street in Llandudno, is another of the brewers riding the ale craze. “In the 1970s we had 70 odd breweries across the UK with their own pubs attached. They had a monopoly and had no real incentive to produce quality brews. Fast forward 30 odd years and there were around 1,700 brewers in the UK by the end of 2016. There are around 15,000 brands of beer. The consumer has never had it so good.” Born and bred in Glan Conwy, Hughes was working as a management consultant in the food and drink industry when he had his brewing epiphany. “I was stuck in traffic for the umpteenth time on the M25 when I decided wouldn’t it be nice to move back to Wales and brew my own beer.” He bought his first brewing kit and began experimenting in the kitchen of his flat in Milton Keynes, then returned to Wales in 2005 and launched his first commercial beer, Extravaganza, which has since changed its name to Celtica, with only his 12th brew. “Looking back now that seemed like a very bold, even foolhardy thing to do, but thankfully the beer won an award from CAMRA and set us on the way.” When Hughes set up Great Orme, his was one of five brewers, but by TOP: Wild Horse Brewing Company’s 10-barrel brewery in Llandudno MIDDLE: Wild Horse founder Dave Faragher (left) and brewer Chris Wilkinson (right) BOTTOM: Wrexham Lager stands as a proud symbol of regeneration
the end of 2015, the total registered with CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) stood at 32. Customers develop a strong loyalty to their favourite tipple, so having a strong, distinctive brand is almost as critical to the success of a brew as the closely-guarded recipe that makes it. Washington named his brewery after his favourite colour and initially launched his Madog’s Ale and Glaslyn Ale. Purple Moose now produces five cask ales and Great Orme Brewery a range of eight – and both are constantly evolving new
NWM 2017 Page 49
MAGAZINE
Lawrence Washington named his brewery after his favourite colour
brews to cater for more eclectic customer tastes.
innovation in taste and branding. US providers have adapted Indian Pale Ale, a British innovation dating back to the days of
A few hundred yards down the road from the Great Orme
the Raj known for its strength and intense hoppy flavour, and
Brewery is the Wild Horse Brewing Company, which was
sold it back to the UK with considerable success and it has
established in 2015, and offers a mix of lager-ale hybrids,
also jumped on the IPA trend with the launch of Antlered IPA,
American Pale Ales and porter. Among other newer entrants
its 5.2% India Pale Ale which is one of three new craft ales it
Bragdy Heavy Industry which launched in Denbighshire
has added to its portfolio to reflect evolving consumer tastes.
in 2012 and now has a range of 10 beers with names like Electric Mountain and Dr Jekylls’ Last Waltz. Meanwhile,
Ale accounts for around 20% of the beer market and with
The North Wales Brewery in Abergele has among its range
record numbers of micro-brewers slugging it out, lager is the
an alcoholic Dandelion and Burdock, as well as a Chilli
next big market opportunity. Great Orme produces Snowdon
beer using homegrown peppers. While Gwynne Thomas
Lager and it is also developing its own Pilsner, while in April
of Conwy Brewery and Dewi Jones of Bragdy’r Nant in
Purple Moose launched Mŵsh, a lager based on the Cologne
Llanrwst have both witnessed tremendous growth.
regional beer style, Kölsch.
The newcomers have joined established independent
The flourishing of the independent brewing scene has
brewers and it is estimated that these breweries employ
created strong competition, and amid the success stories there
around 150 across Wales and have helped restore Wales
has been a shake-up with Waen Brewery closing in 2016 and
as a burgeoning beer powerhouse. Hughes’ range of ales
Celtic Experience being sold.
and lager can be seen on the shelves at Tesco, Asda and Sainsbury’s, as well as hundreds of pubs and independent
But there is also a strong sense of camaraderie that has
retailers. He has also attracted attention from abroad. “The
forged innovation. In Conwy, The Albion stands as the only
world is waking up to British beer,” said Hughes, who
pub in the UK that is run by four rival brewers, a concept
began exporting to Japan last year. “We are also looking at
that came together after The Great Orme Brewery, Purple
Scandinavia and the United States, which are big markets.”
Moose Brewery, Conwy Brewery and the Nant Brewery worked together at the Conwy Food Festival. In 2010, Hughes,
Ale is big in the United States, where micro-brewers
was approached by former IT professional who had bought
have coined the phrase ‘craft brewing’ – a phrase
the Albion in Conwy, a once-great pub that had fallen into
interchangeable with real ale but which signifies
disrepair. Over the next few years, it underwent a restoration
Page 50 NWM 2017
Days out on the beer Rail Ale The Welsh Highland Railway Society’s Real Ale Festival – Cwrw ar y Cledrau / Rail Ale – will this year take place from May 19th - 21st. This year’s Festival, which will be the thirteenth of this now highly successful happening in the Railway’s calendar of events, will comprise the usual eclectic mix of a fine selection of real ales and ciders, combined with a variety of music, fine food and of Jonathan Hughes (far left), set up the Great Orme Brewery in a converted cattle store and potato shed in 2006 before moving to his current premises on Builders Street in Llandudno
course steam hauled trains. Festival-goers travel on the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway to a trio of local hostelries, as well as the epicentre of activities at the Goods Shed at Dinas station. For tickets visit
that retained its period features, complete with Art Deco
www.rail-ale.com
fireplace and the pub re-opened in 2012 to huge critical acclaim. As anyone who has visited knows, The Albion has
The Real Ale Trail
become a buzzing hub at the weekend. The brewers have
After hosting a similar event in Flintshire in
repeated the trick by buying the Bridge, also in Conwy
April, The Bus Based Real Ale Trail finally arrives
in 2014, and The Australian in Porthmadog which, since
in Conwy, North Wales for its very first event,
January 2017, has been leased and run solely by Purple
tempting thirsty travellers with the chance to
Moose.
taste over 50 unique and mostly local real ales too. Arriving in Conwy on Saturday 6th of May 2017,
Some of the micro-breweries such as Great Orme and Wild
hundreds of Ale lovers will be transported to seven
Horse have broadened their appeal and host events on their
of the Conwy County’s unique pubs and one micro
premises, from brewery tours to live music and arts events
brewery. For tickets and information http://realale-
in the evenings. In addition to the great pubs and vibrant
trails.co.uk/conwy/. Also, don’t miss the Snowdonia
micro-breweries, customers can also take advantage of the
Real Ale trail on June 10th.
growing number of ale festivals and tours. The North Wales Beer and Cider Festival 2017 Meanwhile, the rise of the independent brewer has not
This year’s annual event takes place from Friday
gone unnoticed among global brewing giants, who are
May 19th to Saturday May 20th at the Centenary
starting to snap up some of the smaller brands. Meanwhile
Club, Racecourse Stadium, Wrexham. As well as
BrewDog, Scotland’s biggest craft brewery, have moved
the scores of beers and ciders on offer there is
from maverick outsider to the mainstream and recently sold
also live music as well as the keenly-contested
a £10m bond to investors.
competition for the title of Champion Beer of North Wales. Last year, the Champion Beer of North
The independent brewing sector has grown at such a clip
Wales was awarded to Dark Side of the Moose, by
that it’s tempting to wonder how long it can continue at this
Porthmadog’s Purple Moose brewery.
pace. Some in the profession are already raising questions about whether everyone will survive. But in Wales, they have already proved that co-operation and healthy competition can live side-by-side. We say ‘Iechyd Da’ to that. n
Dave Rothnie is a freelance journalist who has a passion for all things North Wales and comedy. He lives in Colwyn Bay with his family
The Great Orme Brewery began exporting to Japan last year
NWM 2017 Page 51
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Signed,andsealed delivered Rupert Bates wines and dines at the Conwy restaurant where the phrase ‘signature dish’ applies to the whole menu…
“Your table had the lamb and three ducks. Not tempted by the monkfish?” It had been a busy Saturday night in Signatures, but chefs and restaurant managers have good memories, particularly when they are a husband and wife team and passionately committed to giving customers an experience that has taken the restaurant right to the very top of the North Wales culinary ladder. 48 hours later and executive chef Jimmy Williams and his partner in life and business Louise are enjoying a well-deserved break after a hectic Easter weekend with no spare seats in their 57-cover restaurant, attached to the Aberconwy Resort & Spa in Conwy. That’s the first surprise. Go through the gates of a holiday home park in the shadow of Conwy Mountain and a stone’s throw from Conwy Morfa beach and you are totally unprepared for the culinary delights that await you. Drop Signatures in the heart of Mayfair and it would not miss a beat. But you don’t see many static caravans in London W1.
NWM 2017 Page 53
MAGAZINE
Most of the restaurant’s trade is from outside the resort and
we do owning and building this restaurant, working with a
its reputation is spreading far and wide with Signatures
fantastic team who are like family,” says Louise.
already decorated with numerous accolades including Best Place to Eat in Wales in the 2013 Wales Tourism Awards,
Jimmy is from Llandudno and Louise originally from
beating more than 400 other restaurants to the title.
Wrexham. Now living in Gyffin, the couple first met at the Castle Hotel in Conwy where Jimmy was chef and Louise
Signatures restaurant appears in the Michelin Guide and
restaurant manager.
has two AA rosettes, while Jimmy’s cooking has featured in the Great British Cookbook. The rosettes were awarded
Jimmy started out as a 16-year-old kitchen porter at various
by two AA inspectors who had just popped in for lunch,
hotels, before getting his chance at the Imperial Hotel aged
rather than an official dinner visit, and were so impressed
23 to become a chef. “Washing dishes, I wasn’t dreaming
they picked up the phone to Jimmy and announced that
of becoming a chef, but clearly sub-consciously working
Signatures now had two rosettes.
around food set me down that path.”
While dinner is traditionally a restaurant’s crowning glory,
When it comes to cooking Jimmy is an international, having
Signatures is a popular lunchtime venue too, and Easter
taken part in competitions around the world as part of the
Sunday alone drew 140 customers.
Welsh National Culinary Team, competing in Luxemburg, Glasgow, Chicago, and finally winning gold in Switzerland
While awards are welcomed and deserved, they are mere
on his last appearance. He also won six gold medals at the
staging posts for Jimmy Williams. This is a chef who
Welsh International Salon Culinaire.
might rest parmesan and herb crusted scallops on slow cooked chorizo and baby spinach, but would never rest
Jimmy was executive chef at The Quay hotel in Deganwy,
on his laurels.
where he cooked a buffet for Prince Edward and Sophie, the Earl and Countess of Wessex, when they opened the hotel
“We are constantly looking to improve, conscious that every
in 2007. “I seem to remember the chocolate brownies went
dining experience for every customer has to be special.
down very well with the royal couple!”
That starts front of house with Louise who is massively important to the business, with the ambience and pre-
Jimmy then became head chef at Aberconwy Resort & Spa in
dinner drinks in the bar area beforehand and the service
2008, before taking the restaurant over and rebranded it as
and customer care such an important part of what we
Signatures. There are signature dishes everywhere
offer, setting the tone and the atmosphere and all our staff
such is his creative flair, working closely with head chef
playing huge parts in the success of the restaurant. We
Sonny Walker.
want to achieve the wow factor every time,” says Jimmy. “We do the menus together and have a great relationship. “Jimmy and I are both local to North Wales. We love what
Page 54 NWM 2017
Sonny is very calm and we enjoy creating new dishes. I bet
you didn’t hear any shouting from the restaurant when you
boxed for Wales in the Commonwealth Games, and is a
were here? Shouting to me is a sign of a kitchen not being
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) star preparing for a World Title
run properly.”
eliminator fight in South Africa this month, which could earn him a shot at becoming an Extreme Fight Championship
Such is Signatures’ theatre-style layout you can see the chefs
(EFC) world champion.
preparing the meals. It was clear who was in charge, but however hard I listened there were indeed no Gordon Ramsay
“Azi doesn’t just get me in shape physically, but mentally too.
rants from Jimmy.
Mental discipline, strength and focus are crucial ingredients running a restaurant. He has been a fantastic help to me,”
“We like to prepare modern classics. Flavour to me is all-
says Jimmy.
important – big, bold flavours.” My lamb two ways, rump and shoulder, with braised leeks, honeyed parsnips and potatoes
Signatures sponsors Azi, son of the former Wales,
oozed flavour and just the right texture. My starter was goat’s
Manchester United and Wrexham footballer Mickey Thomas
cheese and honey mousse, just getting my vote on the night
and Azi is clearly a fan of the restaurant.
ahead of Little Piggy – porcine panache on a plate.
“The food is sensational and Jimmy works just as hard on his fitness as his food,” says Azi, who lives in Rhos-on-Sea.
Jimmy likes to source his produce locally, but it has to meet his exacting standards and this in turn pushes local
And with that Jimmy was off on his motorbike to Paradox,
suppliers to up their game, knowing that Signatures will not
leaving Louise to reveal her passion for Wrexham football
accept second best.
club, where she is a season ticket holder.
Suppliers to Signatures include meat from Edwards in
The National League is a far cry from that Mickey Thomas
Conwy and Williams of Flint, fish from Mermaid Seafoods in
wonder goal 25 years ago helping Wrexham defeat the
Llandudno and vegetables from The Orchard, Llandudno.
then reigning league champions Arsenal at the Racecourse Ground in one of the greatest ever FA Cup upsets. But when
“The North Wales restaurant scene was under the radar for
it comes to Signatures Jimmy and Louise have a winner and
a while, but its reputation is growing all the time and we are
a premier league restaurant.
n
very proud to be part of that,” says Louise. The region clearly prides itself from the food and drink it tills, nurtures, catches and cultivates from local land and sea.
Rupert Bates is editorial director of leading Our chat is at an end and Jimmy is off for a fitness session at
housebuilding trade magazine Show House
Paradox in Colwyn Bay. But it transpires this is no ordinary
and new homes portal www.whathouse.com
workout, for Jimmy’s personal trainer is Azi Thomas, who
NWM 2017 Page 55
MAGAZINE
Page 56 NWM 2017
Food for thought I’ve never really understood people who emigrate to hot countries because of the weather. Is it really such a marvellous thing to swelter in baking temperatures every day of the year? That’s for lizards surely, and from the expressions on their faces, they rarely seem happy about it.
For me one of the great things about living in North
North Wales lamb is our reward for all that lousy rain
Wales is the very seasons themselves. They seem to be
that drenches us for so many months of the year. As a
timed to absolute perfection. After a long summer, having
consequence, our hills are carpeted by lush, nourishing
entertained children for months, you’re desperate for a bit
grass and herbs which is then devoured by our little woolly
of a slow-down. Like clockwork, the world changes colour
pals, giving them an unmistakable flavour and quality. If this
and dims the lights. Christmas and New Year out
is the payback, I say let it rain.
of the way? The short days starting to get you down? Here comes spring and the world is born again anew.
Not only that but after June, the world famous Salt Marsh
It’s miraculous!
lamb arrives, having taken their sweet time chowing down on samphire, sorrel and sea lavender over in Anglesey and
My stomach knows that the seasons are about to change
Caernarfon. This is the lamb equivalent of The Beatles, and
before I do. During the summer, I crave strawberries,
salt marsh lamb is coveted by some of the finest chefs in the
grilled fish and light salads with the crazed enthusiasm
UK. Rick Stein has Edwards of Conwy’s phone number on
of a heavily ex-pectant mother. As soon as I start to get
speed-dial when its salt marsh lamb is in season.
bored of that, autumn pops up and all around me are unctuous, hearty casseroles and comfort food; the kind of
We recently prepared a lamb en croute using the cannon of
thing a bear might eat by the kilo before hibernating.
lamb (the long, boned fillet) which we bought from R. Evans butchers in Llandudno; it was a huge success. Leg of lamb
Well, spring is very much upon us now. The days are
is always a great and easy choice for an impressive family
longer, primetime television is just that little bit poorer
roast but Scott Smith from R. Evans says “Personally I, like
and chocolate is in wild abundance. Any food fans taking a
many butchers would always choose the shoulder, main-ly
casual drive around the north Wales countryside will spot
for its succulence and sweetness and always cooked on
spring’s greatest gastronomic bounty gamboling around in
the bone - as the old butchers’ saying goes, closer the bone
the fields.
sweeter the meat!” n
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
NWM 2017 Page 57
MAGAZINE
Recipes
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Don’t fancy cooking? 01492 582079 @PaysanneDeganwy www.paysannedeganwy.co.uk
Page 58 NWM 2017
CMY
K
Y Review HP copy 01492 545934
HR.pdf
1
23/03/2017
10:01
8b Rhos Parade, Penrhyn Avenue, Rhos-on-Sea, LL28 4RD
“Gyda bwyd blasus a golygfeydd syfrdanol o fae Llandudno mae Bwyty Y Review Venue Cymru yn cynnig prydau amser cinio a chyn sioeau. Lleolir y bwyty ar y llawr cyntaf ac mae’r awyrgylch i’ch ymlacio yn ogystal â’r cynnyrch lleol a rhanbarthol Cymreig o safon yn golygu mai dyma’r ffordd berffaith i giniawa. With delicious food and stunning views of Llandudno’s bay, Venue Cymru’s Y Review Restaurant offers lunch and pre-show dining. Located on the first floor the relaxed atmosphere combined with quality, local and regional Welsh produce makes it the perfect way to dine. Ar agor am ginio Open for lunch Mawrth – Sadwrn / Tuesday – Saturday 12-14.30 Bwyty cyn y theatre 21/2 awr cyn y perfformiad / Pre-theatre dinning from 2 1/2 hours prior to performance
Y Review, Venue Cymru, Promenade, Llandudno www.venuecymru.co.uk // 01492 873641 NWM 2017 Page 59
Albion Ale House MAGAZINE
Founded by four local brewers who believe that there is a place for a drinks-only pub in todays market, The Albion is regarded as one of the finest examples of a 1920's public house in Britain. We don't have a juke box or television, we'd rather just fill 
 the pub with the sound of conversation. And the clinking 
 of glasses. Cheers
Albion Ale House Uppergate St Conwy LL32 8RF 01492 582484
Page 60 NWM 2017
Ask the Dietitian
Belinda Mortell, North Wales Magazine’s resident dietitian, deals with some of the most common feeding issues with babies. Firstly, everyone has trouble feeding their baby. These problems are perfectly normal but they can have a significant impact on family life and can contribute to post-natal depression. It is usually more stressful for parents rather than the baby during these difficult times. Breastfeeding has important benefits for mother and baby, and if more people breastfed it would save
Infant unless you have spoken to a healthcare
the NHS a fortune due to
professional. New guidance advises that for
reduced childhood disease
colic, parents should try different methods to
and reduced breast cancer
comfort baby, winding them, rubbing their
rates. Linking up with online
back or stomach and feeding them in an
or local support groups can
upright position. They can also consider a
really help. The NHS has just launched the Start4Life
different type of formula which has less lactose and is
Breastfeeding Friend online support tool on Facebook
partially hydrolysed. This means the proteins are broken
Messenger. To find a support group in your local area
down.
check www.breastfeedingcommunity.co.uk J Gripe Water There is absolutely no evidence that Gripe Common Issues
Water does anything to placate a colicy baby. It has been
J Overfeeding - babies have tummies the size of a golf
used for over 150 years but no one has ever officially
ball – how on earth can you fit 8oz of milk into that?
tested whether it works! Lactase drops are not needed
Don’t be in a rush to get your baby up to an 8oz feed.
as lactose intolerance is very rare in the UK.
Incorrect use of Formula - make up the bottles correctly using the correct temperature of water, correct ratio of
And finally…
feed to water, and appropriate hygienic methods – refer
NHS Choices website has great advice, forums and
to the box for instructions for your particular formula.
newsletters. Look in the “Pregnancy and Baby” section. For further advice on feeding difficulties speak to your
J Regurgitation is a normal process that happens in 50
Health Visitor, GP or dietitian. To see a dietitian in private
to 60% of babies. It tends to peak when babies reach
practice please go to https://freelancedietitians.org/ and
four months old. Practical tips to help are using a smaller
search for a paediatric specialist.
teat size, winding properly, feeding smaller quantities more often, feeding in an upright position and ensuring nothing is too tight around the baby’s tummy.
Belinda Mortell is a Registered Dietitian with an interest in family
J Colic is usually ‘multi-factoral’, this means it is
health. She lives in North Wales with
rarely caused by just one thing, therefore one thing
her two small children and running
is very unlikely to be the solution. Avoid buying or
obsessed husband.
using pharmacy remedies such as Infacol or Gaviscon
NWM 2017 Page 61
MAGAZINE
Open 7 days a week 129 Mostyn Street, Llandudno, LL30 2PE 01492 871813 www.jdoughspizzas.co.uk HP horizontal - PaysanneDeganwy HR.pdf
1
23/03/2017
14:28
Paysanne has been a Deganwy fixture since 1988. Over three decades, we have been presenting our guests with a permanently fashionable combination of classic, tummy-pleasing French country-style food, personally-sourced wines and warm, generous service. You can build up quite a hunger exploring all that beautiful north Wales has to offer, so let us deal with that for you. Take a look at what we have to offer at our website, Facebook page and all that other terribly modern stuff. We look forward to seeing you soon.
Photos Š Jamie Stevens
Page 62 NWM 2017
01492 582079 www.paysannedeganwy.co.uk @PaysanneDeganwy
Raise your glass Food and wine go hand in hand. Read on to discover Tim Watson’s top ten ‘tried and tested’ rules for great wine and food pairings. Pinot Noir is a great for dishes with earthy flavours.
Grigio or dry Pinot Blanc from Germany or un-oaked Chablis
Cuisine with ingredients like mushrooms and truffles taste
from Burgundy, France.
great with reds like Pinot Noir, which are light-bodied but full of savoury depth. It is in fact the oldest grape cultivated
Malbec… A cracking grape; be it from France or Argentina,
thanks to the Romans! Look out for a ‘Refosco’ from Fruilli,
I don’t mind! Good ones won’t be overshadowed by smokey-
and my wife’s favourite; Frappatto from Sicily.
spicy barbecue sauces. Shiraz stands up too, but try Côtesdu-Rhône wines which are big and bold enough to drink
Chardonnay is BACK, (it never went anywhere) and it best
with foods brushed with heavily spiced sauces. There’s
suits fatty fish or fish in a rich sauce. Chardonnays from
nothing better than hitting big, with BIG!
California, Australia or Chile are delicious with salmon, don’t dismiss the French. Those bygone days of A.B.C - ‘Anything
Off-Dry Riesling with sweet & spicy dishes is a heavenly
but Chardonnay’ are behind us and the variety is back with
food match, a must try. The slight sweetness of many
a vengeance.
Rieslings, Gewürztraminers and Vouvrays helps settle the heat of Asian and Indian spiced dishes. My favourite, Thai
Champagne, oh Champagne… suits anything salty. Most dry
green papaya salad with duck crackling and a stack of
sparkling wines, such as Cava and Brut Prosecco have a
sliced chilli.
faint touch of sweetness, making them extra-refreshing when served with salty dishes. My favourite, Fizz ‘n Chips.
‘Own Country’ wines sit perfectly with their ‘own country’
I’d give anything to have Champagne with ‘Fish and Chip
dishes. The aromas and flavours of foods and wines that
Friday’, but Cava will do dependant on my budget.
have grown up together over the centuries are tried and tested. Tuscan food and Tuscan wines fit like a glove.
Cabernet Sauvignon is sublime with juicy red meat
Malbec and barbequed fillet steak and many more… Conwy
dishes. Californian Cabernet, Bordeaux and South African
Mussels and Gwinllan Conwy Solaris, that’s my ideal at the
Bordeaux-style blends are terrific with herb rubbed steaks.
moment #properlocal.
Firm tannins in these wines refresh the palate after each juicy bite of meat. Try a Cabernet Franc also.
So have some fun playing the pairing game, or just pop in for some advice. There’s a wine for any dish, occasion, and
Sauvignon Blanc perfectly partners dishes with tart
enjoyment.
dressings. Try something tangy like scallops with onion and pink grapefruit salad next time the sun’s out! As well
Taste, Enjoy, Share, Educate. n
as Sauvignon Blanc, consider trying a Vinho Verde from Portugal, or an Albariño from Spain… De-lish! Dry Rosé wine is spot on with rich, cheesy dishes but some cheeses go better with white wine, some with red. Most, if not all, cheeses pair well with dry rosé wines which have
Tim Watson runs The Grape to
the fruity character of a red wine and the acidity of a white
Glass Wine Shop and Tasting
wine. Balance!
Room in Rhos-on-Sea which, as well as offering wine from far reaching lands, also
Pinot Grigio pairs with light seafood dishes. The light
stocks locally produced beers, wines and spirits
flavoured seafood seems to take on more flavour when equally matched with delicate white wines, such as Pinot
NWM 2017 Page 63
MAGAZINE
It only takes two ticks in Bangor How very Redrow
Help to Buy: Only a 5% deposit is needed when using this Government backed scheme.* Mastermove: Expert help to sell your home, hassle free and fee free too.**
GOETRE UCHAF ~ BANGOR Off Penrhos Road, Bangor LL57 2NT 4 bedroom homes from: £266,995 Sales Centre open daily, 10am - 5.30pm Call: 01248 209894 Visit: redrow.co.uk/goetre
**Terms and conditions apply. The level of estate agent fee contribution will vary depending on the property to be purchased. Please liaise with our Sales Consultant for full details. *Help to Buy is a Government backed initiative in partnership with housebuilders. Available on selected plots, subject to status, terms and conditions. Help to Buy cannot be used in conjunction with any other scheme. It is highly advised, for a swift, smooth transaction that an IFA/Solicitor advised by Redrow Homes
is used. Offer be used in 2017 conjunction with any other Redrow offer. Images typical of Redrow homes. Details correct at time of going to press. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR Page 64cannot NWM ANY OTHER DEBT SECURED ON IT. CHECK THAT THIS MORTGAGE WILL MEET YOUR NEEDS IF YOU WANT TO MOVE OR SELL YOUR HOME OR YOU WANT YOUR FAMILY TO INHERIT IT. IF YOU ARE IN ANY DOUBT, SEEK INDEPENDENT ADVICE.
HOMES & INTERIORS INSIDE Property of the month Reader’s homes property roundup interiors
NWM 2017 Page 65
Fletcher and Poole are delighted to announce the launch of:
Tel: 0330 133 0610 Mob: 07563 402720 Email: enquiries@dsmortgages.net We offer expert advice, specialising in the following areas:
ABERHOD COVE An exclusive development of high spec two and three bedroom houses, occupying a prime position on the promenade in the popular North Wales coastal resort of Rhos on Sea.
First Time Buyer
Remortgage
Moving Home
Buy to let
Buildings & Contents Insurance
Income Protection
Mortgage Payment Protection
Life & Critical Illness Insurance
1a Penrhyn Avenue,Rhos on Sea, Conwy, LL28 4PS
01492 549178
Prices from £325,000
Get in touch today for free*, no obligation advice.
For more information visit: www.dsmortgages.net *We offer free Mortgage advice & quotes with no obligation. If you decide to go ahead, there will be a completion fee of £249.
N
IN
ST
R
EW
U
C
TI
O
N
Gwynt Y Mor Apartments, Everard Road Rhos On Sea LL28 4EY From
Sunnydowns Apartments, Abbey Road Rhos On Sea LL28 4NU
£199,950
7 Luxury New Build Apartments Located In The Heart Of Rhos On Sea * Each Apartment Will Be Offered To The Highest Standard Of Finish & Specification & Will Enjoy Breathtaking, Far Reaching Panoramic Views
From £154,950
*
Reference Number: RP1290
* *
Luxury New Build Purpose Built Development Of Nine Apartments Lift To All Floors, Allocated Parking & Communal Gardens Reference Number: RP1020
PROPERTY of the month Three words spring to mind when viewing number 7 Marine Crescent in Deganwy – location, location, location.
OK, we admit that it’s rather unusual to choose a home that requires complete renovation for a Property of the Month – but we do love a project here at North Wales Magazine! The key to number 7 Marine Crescent’s appeal is its location. Sitting on the curve of the crescent, this threestorey property enjoys the most incredible panoramic views towards the impressive Conwy Castle and the Conwy Valley – extending round towards the Conwy Mountain. The property is also south west facing, meaning that it has astonishing sunsets to boot. described as ‘shabby chic’. Moving up to the top floor, and The potential of this home is nothing short of limitless. While
there are three further bedrooms and a shower room.
it is currently clean and tidy, it certainly requires a complete refurbishment. However, this provides any future owners the
However, what’s interesting about this house is that the
opportunity to put their own stamp on a very unique house.
ceiling height remains generous even on the third floor – there is certainly no attic feel up here. And, when you take
The current layout consists of three reception rooms and
into account the fact that the views get even better with
a small kitchen down stairs. The middle floor offers two
each floor, then it would certainly be tempting to turn the
bedrooms, a bathroom and a lounge that can currently be
layout of this house on its head.
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MAGAZINE
The fifth bedroom sits at the front of the property on the top floor, and it is an impressive 12 by 19ft. The property team here at North Wales Mag had visions of turning this room into a kitchen to die for, with bifold doors leading out onto a Juliet balcony in order to really make the most of those views. Of course, you would have slight issues getting your shopping up to the top floor – but perhaps a dumbwaiter could provide the solution. Failing that, and you could always have your shopping delivered! Ultimately however, there are numerous connotations for how house this house could be arranged – the choice is yours. Obviously what can’t be changed is the location – so it’s a good job that you wouldn’t want to. While the views stretch out to the front of the house, Deganwy village is set behind the property and the shops, bars and restaurants there can be reached via an easy stroll. Deganwy Quay and Conwy Marina are also easily accesible. Add to that the shops and theatre of Llandudno town, the beautiful World Heritage site of Conwy Town and there is really no reason not to get out your paint brush… n
Number 7 Marine Crescent in Deganwy is currently on the market with Coast & Marina Properties for £385,000. Contact the Deganwy Quay office on 01492 580500 for further information
Page 68 NWM 2017
Fires and fireplaces The Firreplace Specialist You Can Trust...
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• 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 ahowroom at:
Unit 1, Falcon Estate, Eagle Farm Road, Mochdre Business Park, Mochre, Ll28 5HF Mon – Fri: 10.00 - 5.00 and Sat 10.00 - 4.00 Sunday CLOSED • Customer car park • Wheelchair friendly
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Building from the ground up 01492 871711 | 07748 081775 JJ Construction@gmail.com
www.jjconstructionllandudno.co.uk NWM 2017 Page 69
DRAGON TILES MAGAZINE
115 Conway Road, Llandudno Junction, LL31 9NH
For Tiles & Tiling Equipment Kitchens • Bathrooms • Wetrooms • Floors EXCELLENT CHOICE & LOCAL! Fittting service available
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01492 580011 or 07851 234134 dragontilesltd@gmail.com Page 70 NWM 2017
BEst of both worlds Sheree and James Roberts wanted a rural house with countryside views, yet didn’t want to be too far away from the action. With Bwthyn Madarch, they got everything they asked for. It goes without saying that it was the location that first attracted Sheree and James Roberts to their home of Bwthyn Madarch 15 years ago. From the moment they arrived at the small hamlet, their eyes were drawn in all directions to the astonishing views. “We were living in a 1930’s semi in Colwyn Bay at the time,” reminisces Sheree. “We were actually on the hunt for a bungalow, but then a friend of ours saw this house, and she suggested that we came and had a look. The moment that we saw the views that was it. We went straight back home and put our house on the market.” To the front of the property the Conwy estuary stretches towards Glan Conwy and the Great Orme, while to the rear a truly breathtaking panorama of the Carneddau Mountains and the Conwy Valley can be seen. And every room in the house – even the bathrooms – benefit from the amazing vista. The downside to the house, at that time, was that it was rather unloved and needed an awful lot of tender loving care in order to get it to the high standard that it is today. “While the house was very unloved, we could see the potential in how we could make it our home,” explains Sheree. “The amount of work needed didn’t faze us at all as we knew that it was a very special place.” The property was in a general state of disrepair, so Sheree and James rolled their sleeves up and got straight to work. The biggest challenge however was the exterior of the property which was completely overgrown. The Roberts’ began a series of renovations on the outside of the property which included rendering the entire house, and adding new windows, fascias and gutters. The garden too benefitted from a huge makeover, with James
NWM 2017 Page 71
MAGAZINE
chopping down some trees to enhance the views even further (he is a forestry contractor by trade), and building the patios and expansive decking. The result of all this hard work is that there are now no less than five different places to sit outside – and each and every one has a magnificent view. “We can follow the sun all day long,” says James. “Depending on your mood you can relax while looking at the coast, mountains, Great Orme or the estuary. On a clear day we can even see the sea.” What Sheree and James didn’t expect when they first bought the house however, was how the views change with the seasons. “I still see something different every time I look out of the window,” adds James. Inside benefitted from some much-needed TLC too, with Sheree putting her tasteful touch throughout the interior. “I quite like the traditional look,” she explains. “And I think
Page 72 NWM 2017
that this really suits the house. I love Laura Ashley, and so pretty much all of my fabrics are from there.” The cottage style kitchen and homely lounge with multi-fuel stove certainly fit well with Sheree’s classic taste in interiors. In addition to sumptuous décor and enviable views, Bwthyn Madarch also boasts a very desirable location. “While we are certainly living in the countryside, everything is still so accessible,” continues James. “We are minutes from Glan Conwy and all local amenities, and have easy access to the A55. Yet we have country walks right on our doorstep.” Both Sheree and James are North Wales born and bred. “There is nowhere else like North Wales,” adds James who is from Penmachno originally. “We have lived here all of our lives – and will continue to do so wherever our next home might be.” Because, just as all good things must come to an end, it is time for Sheree and James to move on and find a new home for themselves. “We have had so many happy memories here – family parties and late night suppers with friends,” says Sheree. “But I recently lost my brother to cancer aged 57, and it puts life into perspective. James will be 65 this year and I’ll be 60, so we feel that now is the right time to downsize. There will certainly be a few tears though.” One thing is for sure – while the views are as impressive as they were 15 years ago, you certainly can’t call Bwthyn Madarch unloved any more. Here’s hoping that Sheree and James love their next home, wherever that may be, equally as much – and that Bwthyn Madarch’s next owners fall head over heals too. n
Bwthyn Madarch is currently on the market with Fletcher & Poole. To arrange a viewing, call the Conwy office on 01492 583100
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MAGAZINE
Your View
A DEVELOPMENT ON THE BANKS OF THE CONWY ESTUARY WITH VIEWS THAT TAKE IN THE MOUNTAINS OF SNOWDONIA TO THE CASTLE OF CONWY. Imagine waking up and opening double sliding glass doors onto your large private terrace presenting a perfect view of the Mountains of Snowdonia spanning across to the Castle of Conwy. This is all within reach of your morning panorama as you rise to take that early morning coffee, yours to enjoy and relax before the day wakes up. Why not prepare a shower or bath in one of the beautifully Porcelanosa tiled en-suites. Then…. A few steps down will take you to the middle floor and another breath-taking view from the balcony that is just a pace outside your open-plan living area, each day ever-changing seasons enhancing the surrounding scenery. Walk across the warmth of the underfloor heating to prepare your breakfast in the beautifully fully fitted German equipped kitchen as you plan your day. Perhaps visit some of the sensational parts of this country, here in North Wales. You are now living in the 4th best place in the world to visit, according to the ‘Lonely Planet’ and with the view from Snowdonia voted the ’Best View in the UK’ just on your doorstep….now that is unique! Pause for a moment to observe the Nature Reserve sitting on the edge of the estuary, watch the ponies and varied wildlife enjoy the surroundings…it is beautiful. Contemporary and elegant throughout with the very finest fittings in every room. A truly relaxed, gorgeous environment waiting for you. Welcome to The Reserve, visit our office and experience the view and learn more about this fabulous development.
The Reserve. Llanrwst Road. Glan Conwy. Conwy. LL28 5SR Tel: 07956 966590 www.thereserveconwy.com Email: thereserveconwy@outlook.com Page 74 NWM 2017
Hendy, Pwllheli Hendy is a substantial family home situated in an elevated position on the outskirts of Pwllheli. This spacious stone fronted semi-detached residence is ideally situated in a prime location to the outskirts of Pwllheli. Set in an elevated position, Hendy commands truly spectacular views over the open countryside towards the sea, Llanbedrog headland and mountains beyond. The property has been beautifully appointed throughout with the benefit of double glazing and central heating. The generous and versatile accommodation has been designed with the main living area lying to the first floor, taking full advantage of the stunning outlook and providing a living room, bedroom, shower room, dining room and kitchen, with the ground floor offering a further three double bedrooms, bathroom, separate WC and garden room. A particular feature is the well maintained external area boasting parking and generous garage to the front elevation with gate leading to an enclosed landscaped garden to the rear laid mainly to lawn hosting an abundance of mature trees, shrubs and flowering plants. Hendy has an asking price of £325,000.
Property
roundup Llangwnadl, Pwllheli This original cottage dates back to 1888 but was completely rebuilt under the careful supervision of a previous owner in
J
2005, with only two of the existing walls retained. All external walls are finished
Lon Sarn Bach, Abersoch
in local hand dressed
If it’s a centrally located property you are looking
Trefor granite. Totally
for with amazing views and good vehicular / boat
redesigned to a particularly
parking, then Tacoma could well fit the criteria. Lying
high specification with
just outside the village centre, the property is one of two,
stunning interior features, including light oak door frames with
set back off the seaward side of Lon Sarn Bach. The
matching skirting, under floor heating throughout the ground floor,
accommodation is particularly well appointed and a rear
and radiators to the first floor, light oak fronted kitchen units with
extension was added some years ago by a previous owner
granite work surfaces and hand made stained pine doors to the
which has significantly enlarged the layout. Features
first floor rooms and feature exposed hand crafted timber work. All
include a delightful sitting / dining room to the rear with
of the rooms are complemented by double glazed sash windows
double doors opening into a front lounge and French
and the first floor bedrooms enjoy delightful open views across the
doors onto a rear sun terrace and gardens. The first floor
surrounding farmland with a South Westerley aspect towards the
has four double bedrooms (two with en suites) and both
Irish Sea. This picturesque cottage is on the market for £395,000.
of these rooms enjoying the fantastic views through cathedral style picture windows across Cardigan Bay and St Tudwals Islands with the Welsh Mountains in the background. Offers are being invited for over £950,000. The above properties are on the market with Beresford Adams. For further information call 01758 712016 or visit www.beresfordadams.co.uk
NWM 2017 Page 75
MAGAZINE
Cae Cregin, Conwy
J
Situated in a picturesque location enjoying a delightful rural aspect yet only approximately half a mile from the historic town of Conwy, this detached country home enjoys panoramic countryside views extending towards Snowdonia mountains. The current owners have undertaken a substantial programme of development, sympathetically extending the property into a fine family home with many modern amenities, including double glazing and LPG central heating. Outside there is a sweeping tree lined drive leading to a two-story detached garage, with potential development for various uses. Cae Cregin has an asking price of £575,000.
J 25 Everard Road, Rhos-on-Sea This well presented two/three bedroom maisonette enjoys superb sea and coastline views, and is situated just a minutes walk to the shops, amenities and promenade. The extended and well planned accommodation comprises; entrance hall, stairs to hallway, lounge, kitchen/breakfast room with double doors and Juliette balcony, dining room/ bedroom three, bedroom with fitted wardrobes and a
J
bathroom. The first floor includes a study area/hobbies room, bedroom with en suite bathroom and walk in wardrobe, double glazing and gas central heating. To the rear of the property is a low maintenance graveled garden/ parking area and outhouse/store. 25 Everard Road is on the market for £179,950
21 Smith Avenue, Old Colwyn Immaculately presented and well maintained, this threebedroom house has a modern and contemporary feel with the kitchen/ diner having double doors that lead out to the rear garden taking full advantage of the far-reaching sea views. The accommodation comprises hallway, lounge with double doors giving access to the front garden, kitchen/diner, cloakroom, three bedrooms and bathroom with upvc double glazing and gas central heating. Outside there is a detached garage (currently being used as a games room) with a further room below that can be accessed from the rear garden. Landscaped by the present owners there is off road parking to the front of the property with a large seating area and, to the rear, the garden is part paved with lawn and decked seating areas. 21 Smith Avenue is being marketed for £238,950.
The above properties are currently on the market with Fletcher & Poole. For further information call the sales office on 01492 549178 or visit www. fletcherpoole.com
Page 76 NWM 2017
5 Westbury Apartments, Rhos-on-Sea This purpose-built ground-floor apartment located on the Promenade of
J
Rhos-on-Sea enjoys lovely views from the lounge and master bedroom and is approximately half a mile from the popular seaside town. This popular complex offers a communal lounge, small launderette and car parking, and the apartment benefits from double glazing and gas fired central heating. The accommodation comprises an entrance hall, lounge diner, fitted kitchen, two bedrooms and a Jack and Jill bathroom. It is currently on the market for £172,500.
54 St Georges Drive, Deganwy 54 St Georges Drive is a well-presented, detached four-bedroom house located in the popular residential area of Deganwy. The property comprises entrance hall with cloakroom and utility room, lounge, spacious fitted dining kitchen opening into a large garden room, with bi-fold doors opening out into the garden. To the first floor are four bedrooms and family bathroom. The property also benefits from front and rear gardens, driveway parking, garage, uPVC double glazing and gas central heating. It is available for £310,000
Bron Dinas, Llandudno
J
Bron Dinas is an imposing Grade II listed detached residence on Ty Gwyn Road in Rockfield Drive, Deganwy
Llandudno. It has
Number 21 Rockfield Drive is situated within a highly
been sympathetically
popular residential area of similar properties between
restored with a
the picturesque coastal village of Deganwy and the
Georgian facade of architectural significance. Located on the
bustling resort of Llandudno. The property is a beautifully
slopes of The Great Orme, the property boasts five bedrooms,
presented detached bungalow home, previously very
three reception rooms and panoramic views which overlook
successfully run as a top rated holiday let. In fact, the
both Llandudno town and West Shore. Externally, wrought iron
quality fixtures and appliances are available by separate
gates lead to a graveled courtyard with steps leading up to a
negotiation. The property has uPVC double glazing and
paved terrace. A courtyard garden can be found at the rear of
gas combi-fired central heating, and the accommodation
the property. Bron Dinas has an asking price of £ 479,950.
includes a lounge, conservatory, large fitted kitchen/diner, three bedrooms, shower room and utility. The property also benefits from coastal views plus a very large unused open loft space, a block-paved driveway for two cars and lovely
The above properties are currently on the market with Anthony Flint Estate
mature gardens. Number 21 Rockfield Drive has an asking
Agents. For more details call 01492 877418 or visit www.anthonyflint.co.uk
price of £279,950.
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Fun for all the family..... Quinton Hazel Enterprise Park. Opposite Colwyn Bay Crematorium
Vintage Kitchen Tea, coffee, juices, tray bakes and sandwiches available all day. Bella, the Prosecco Van will be here all day for your enjoyment.
Entertainment to include.... All day - Roving Weaver, Cartrefi Conwy, Pot painting, Face painting, Fire engine plus competitions and prizes.
Page 78 NWM 2017
Featuring.... 11am - De-stress with free wellbeing therapy session with Valerie Lewis Sophrology Wales. 12pm - How to organise your home/office with Vikki from Clear the Chaos. Top tips and practical solutions!!! 2 PM - Exciting auction from Mr David Rogers Jones, lots include British Rally tickets, Local art, Golf day and annual fitness pass. All Day - Try a variety of weaving looms to create fun and easy projects using yarn, fibre, fabric strips or go green with grasses & twigs.
Making
Light
WORK
It is very easy to overlook lighting when planning a room but, says Kate Hamilton, it is vital that you are switched on to the benefits of planning it well in advance.
LEFT: Patent-Protected Zep 6 Eyeconic Trimless
MIDDLE: Green Lighting’s D-Lux LED Downlights and LED Strip Task Lighting RIGHT: Sensio guides its customers through the process on how to effectively create lighting plans
There are two factors that need to be considered when planning the lighting scheme of a new room – the type of products that will be used and the design itself. Layering is the key here, with task and mood lighting the order of the day. Task lighting, as its name suggests, is designed to be positioned to give light exactly where it is needed for the given task, the most obvious being under wall cabinet lighting. Meanwhile mood lighting can transform the room by adding ambience and depth and yet – while it can create the biggest impact – it’s the one most often overlooked. There are now light fittings that can illuminate many different kitchen features whether that’s along the plinth to wash light over the floor, on the underside of a worktop making it appear to float or above a wall cabinet to cast a beam across the ceiling. Mood lighting can provide many different colour options, is dimmable and can often be remotely controlled too.
NWM 2017 Page 79
MAGAZINE
Ecoled’s Flawless Finishes
Green Lighting’s D Range contains m pendants - perfec
But there is also a third layer that can easily be forgotten
making a fairly ordinary kitchen, bedroom or bathroom look
– convenience lighting. These light fittings illuminate the
extraordinary if planned correctly.”
insides of cupboards and drawers when opened using remote infrared sensors. They offer the ultimate in ease of
And the good news is that looks no longer have to be
use and are really handy in kitchens that suffer from a lack
compromised for practicality either. A prime example is
of natural light.
Sensio’s our new pendant lighting range which is IP44 rated, making it suitable for use in the bathroom in order to
“The most common mistake we see is when builders go
create a unique and sophisticated look.
for the obvious choice of kitchen lighting – for example under cabinet lighting and/or ceiling lights – instead
Decorative pendants are also proving popular in the modern
of thinking in terms of layers of light that includes
kitchen and are often used over islands, not only to act as
introducing task, convenience and mood lighting to their
practical light, for preparing and eating meals, but also acting
kitchen designs,” explains Michael Linsky, director of
as a decorative centre piece to the room. Green Lighting’s
Sensio. “Layering light can make a real wow effect in
feature pendants come in all shapes and sizes, in styles
the room. At Sensio we guide our customers through the
ranging from simple and elegant to big and bold, so there
process on how to create effective lighting plans. Our
is always something that can fit the decor of any kitchen
brochures display products that have been tested for use
design. But, again, installation of such a feature really needs
in the kitchen, bedroom or bathroom but can be fitted
to be planned in advance.
anywhere in the home and clearly gives recommendations and shows in which zone they can be installed. Great
“When planning for lighting design, we take into account
lighting can make a massive difference to a new home,
the occupant of the property,” says Callum Whittall, technical
Page 80 NWM 2017
Sensio’s new pendant lighting, that is IP44 rated for the bathroom, is getting great reviews
Ecoled Project: Infinity House (blending natural and electric light)
Decorative Lighting many feature ct for kitchens
and compliance manager of Green Lighting. “Retirement
cheaper,” comments James Cadisch, marketing director
properties, for example, will have occupants that are more
of ECOLED. “Although luminaires may be slightly more
likely to be, in one way or another, visually impaired than
expensive, they are a much more sophisticated and reliable
the population as a whole. It is therefore clear that brighter
form of technology. Well manufactured luminaires are
lighting, as well as task lighting, is far more important in
considered to be ‘fit and forget’ solutions, and therefore the
these homes, which is something that is not always catered
owner of the space will not have to think about changing
for when designing a property.”
their fitting for quite some time.”
Of course another factor that needs to be considered from the
The Zep 6 Eyeconic Trimless is one of the company’s most
outset is cost. The latest LED downlights produce more than
popular ranges. It is a powerful, precision-engineered – yet
100 lumens per circuit-watt, being more than 700 times as
incredibly discreet – LED luminaire recessed into a plaster-
efficient and producing far less heat than traditional bulbs.
in module. It’s fully customisable and available in a range
Recent studies have shown that LED lighting could save
of finishes.
homeowners almost £250 a year and the fittings will ‘pay for themselves’ within the first few months of use. As a result,
“Not only does it offer high cosmetic appeal, but it’s also
through both a demand on the consumer side and push on
popular because of it’s practically,” concludes Cadisch. “It
regulatory side, energy saving bulbs are found on every new
uniquely combines the performance of a luminaire with
development. But there is an alternative.
the practicality of a bulb, and its patented design allows the light module (no spring clips/magnets) to be easily retracted
“Housebuilders often prefer to use LED bulbs rather than
from the front without damage, using a custom tool for a
architecturally designed luminaires, as they tend to be
post-decorative fit and service.” n
LEFT: Sensio’s brochures display products that have been tested for use in the kitchen, bedroom or bathroom
Contacts Aurora Lighting Group
RIGHT: As part of their brand new bathroom lighting collection, Sensio has launched Madison an LED bathroom wall light with a difference – it casts light both above and below the fitting
http://gb.auroralighting.com ECOLED www.ecoledlight.co.uk Green Lighting www.greenlighting.co.uk Sensio Lighting www.sensio.co.uk
NWM 2017 Page 81
MAGAZINE
FREE ESTIMATES CARPETS RUGS
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EMAIL: RHOS-CARPETS@MAIL.COM
*Not to be used on already reduced items. Please present this voucher before ordering
VAT NO 901162375
WWW.RHOSCARPETS.CO.UK Page 82 NWM 2017
01492 549 492
07961 577 577
Inside Out North Wales Magazine brings you the latest products from the world of interiors
On the boil Dial the sun Spring is the time to start thinking about the garden again. One way to create a beautiful focal point is to add a handmade, personalised sundial from Welsh based company, Border Sundials. A horizontal sundial doesn’t just tell the time, it also adds a design element to your garden that will look good throughout the year and last forever. Border Sundials has five different designs to choose from, with each one created to tell the time accurately, wherever you are in the world, personalised to the exact co-ordinates of where the dial will sit. Every sundial is bespoke – made to commission – in a wide range of sizes and can be engraved with your own message. They can be mounted anywhere in the garden, and prices start from £139.
British brand Swan has introduced a striking new kettle and toaster into its award winning Retro range. Offering a domed body with sleek chrome handle, the Retro kettle features a built-in automatic cut off, visible water gauge, cordless design and easy pour spout, all with a 1.7 litre capacity, while the toaster benefits from a stylish design with chrome detailing, six different browning levels, LED lighting and auto centering for even toasting. Available in a host of colours including sky blue, delicate green, rich red, traditional cream, contemporary black, pebble grey and pastel pink, the Swan Retro range provides a stylish vintage charm, which is perfect for both modern and traditional kitchens. www.swan-brand.co.uk
www.bordersundials.co.uk
Design for life If you fancy ensuring that your dining room is just that little bit different to everyone else’s, then bespoke chairs could be the answer. The Chairs By You range from Harveys was inspired by this display of creative license. You can design a chair with the exact style, colour and fabric to suit both you and your home – you can even mix and match. www.harveysfurniture.co.uk
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MAGAZINE
Sleep well
On the side With a penchant for natural materials, interiors specialist Mufti’s new leather furniture and accessories collection will add splendour to your home. Cleverly curated using only highly refined leather sourced from one of the UK’s leading tanneries, Mufti’s warm leather designs look set to prove popular among homeowners who are looking for individual, handcrafted pieces to complement their homes. Its new Portobello side table, priced at £895, features a solid wood base and frame covered in dark blue, premium leather with beautifully woven leather handles and brass details. www.mufti.co.uk
If you’re looking for a beautiful, classically designed bedroom which will stand the test of time, look no further than the brand new Miraval collection from MY Furniture. Including both a stunning bed and matching bedside table, it also coordinates seamlessly with the popular Les Milles range, allowing anyone to turn their bedroom into a stylish, elegant sanctuary. Romantic and ornate, the Miraval collection will add comfort and character to any interior. Each piece is skillfully crafted from solid Oak that has been subtly lime-washed for a gently distressed look. To make sure it fits neatly into any scheme, the headboard and foot end consist of lovely neutral oatmeal upholstery that will coordinate with any colour palette. Meanwhile, the bedside table boasts attractive solid brass handles with a delicate antique patina, creating a chic finishing touch. www.my-furniture.com
Make a statement A statement chair or sofa is the perfect way to bring a pop of cheerful, summer colour to your interior scheme. In fact, this single piece of furniture can transform a whole room, turning it into a place that you’ll be desperate to show off to your summer party guests. Whether you want to add to a bright, contemporary room or find a statement piece to set off a more subtle, traditional scheme, there are many ways to make this striking look work for you. The classically shaped Hampton armchair by Sofas by Saxon features simple, clean lines. No buttons, studs or pleats - just an impeccably finished sumptuous chair. Customers can choose their covering from a huge selection of leathers, fabrics or supply their own. There is also a choice of feet styles and studs. www.sofasbysaxon.com
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What lies beneath Whether you are a hygge fan or not, there is something to be said for inviting nature into your living space. With the help of Harveys, embrace stripped back occasional pieces that blend perfectly with plants and natural accessories. The Cargo Hartham side table (left) and the Sandbanks shelf (right) suit all neutral colour schemes perfectly and help create that allimportant natural look. www.harveysfurniture.co.uk
NWM 2017 Page 85
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LIGHTWEIGHT REPLACEMENT ROOFS
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Customers of Conwy Valley who have invested in a replacement conservatory roof are incredibly surprised at what a big difference it can make to their conservatories, previously a conservatory that was too cold in the winter, and too hot in the summer, is now an additional room that can be used all year round. Conservatories are often built to expand your living space and provide your family with a room they can use for many different purposes. With a replacement conservatory roof from Conwy Valley, we make your old conservatory into that living space and you will be able to use it all year.
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The Roundabout, Glan y Mor Road Penrhyn Bay, Llandudno, Conwy Ll30 3Nl *Offer not in conjunction with previous2017 offers orPage quotations NWM 87
Three places to visit in May RSPB South Stack,
Getting back
to Nature
Standfirst: There’s plenty of wildlife across North Wales in May, says Julian Hughes, if you know where to look.
Holyhead The most accessible seabird colony in North Wales, with Guillemots, Razorbills and Kittiwakes on the cliffs, and a chance of Puffins on the sea below. It’s also a top place to see Choughs (pronounced ‘Chuff’), the red-billed Celtic crow.
Peak birdsong May is the month of peak bird activity, as almost every species sings loudly to proclaim its nesting territory. The last of the Summer visitors arrive from Africa: Cuckoos in the hills and woods of Snowdonia and Mynydd Hiraethog, and Swifts to the older towns and villages, screaming as they fly low over the rooftops in the evenings.
Seabird cities The prelude to nesting is the dawn chorus, which peaks in late April. An early morning
Glaslyn Ospreys, Pont
walk in a woodland is a treat: don’t worry about identifying all the birds in the soundscape,
Croesor
just enjoy it. Resident species are joined by Garden Warblers, Blackcaps and Willow
Ospreys first bred in
Warblers, the latter singing a cadence of notes that fall down the scale. Robins and
Wales in 2004 at this
Blackbirds have their first chicks in April. Their youngsters are vulnerable for the first
site, now protected by a
days after they leave the nest, so it’s a good time to keep your cat indoors! Some birds,
local community project.
such as Skylarks, Curlews and Grouse nest on the ground, so if I’m walking on moorland,
Assuming the female lays
grassland or on a rocky beach, I keep my dog on a short lead.
eggs again this year, expect them to hatch in late May, after which the parents will
Damsels, without stress
be busy catching fish for the chicks until mid July.
Warm, calm days are ideal conditions to see
Loggerheads Country Park,
damselflies. Large Reds
near Mold
can be found in well-
The woodlands are home
vegetated ponds close to the coast from early in the
to Pied Flycatchers and
month. Blue-tailed and Common Blue Damselflies
Redstarts, just back from
On the moors above Ruthin,
emerge soon after, and if you look closely on
Africa, while Dippers
Black Grouse are displaying,
waterside vegetation, you can spot their exuviae,
feed their young by the
males strutting their stuff in
the exoskeleton they leave behind when the adult
fast-flowing streams.
a display ground known as a
emerges to fly.
The woodland floor is
‘lek’. The dominant male will
Damselflies are small dragonflies. At rest, they
brightened by bluebells and
see off rivals before mating
lay their wings along their back (abdomen), not
red campion, and the aroma
with the well-camouflaged
outstretched as dragonflies do. Adults fly for just a
of wild garlic.
females hiding in the long
couple of weeks, long enough to lay eggs in a pond,
grass; the chicks will hatch in
which will remain as larvae until next year or the
late June. Habitat management
year after. These larvae are
by landowners and the RSPB
voracious, eating all sorts
has doubled numbers of Black
of pond creatures with an
Grouse in North Wales, but the
extendable jaw that inspired
population remains at risk.
the Alien films.
Bubbling on the moors
Julian Hughes grew up in North Wales, which instilled a lifelong love of nature. He lives near Llandudno, manages the RSPB’s Conwy nature reserve, and writes about the region’s wildlife
NWM 2017 Page 89
Work with us! MAGAZINE
Do you have previous sales experience? Do you have excellent communication skills? Have you got a strong work ethic? Would you like to earn 20% commission, only working the hours that suit you? Then get in touch!
MAGAZINE
North Wales Magazine is looking for home-based sales agents to work with us on a commission-only basis. With training, support and sales materials provided, we’re looking for people to work from home and take 20% of all the business they do. Work the hours that suit you in order to get your work-life balance just right. So, if you are based in North Wales and think that this is an opportunity that suits your skill set, then please contact Grant Hamilton on 07572 422996 or email gh@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk * Access to a telephone and the internet essential. Car an advantage. All expenses incurred will be reimbursed
Page 90 NWM 2017
For the love of all things
vintage...
The confessions of a modern day Magpie Hooray! I hear you all shout... Spring has finally sprung. Lambs are leaping, buds are bursting and Tatty definitely has a spring in her step. For this season marks the start of a very special event, an event that occurs in almost every household across the country. Yes, you guessed it… spring cleaning!
That time of year that people involuntarily decide to re-
and handle the goods. Take photos
decorate, dabble in some DIY, deep clean the house and
on your phone if necessary (but
cleanse their wardrobes. The desire to throw out the old,
always ask permission first). This
in with the new (or in my house out with the old, in with
allows you the time to go home and
the old) manifests in nearly all of us, we just can’t help it.
think things through, research
For a vintage buff, this is the most exciting of times. Car
what items are of interest and do
boot sales, charity shops and auction houses are literally
your homework on prices, all in
brimming with people’s discarded items and, you know what they say… “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure”. So get
preparation for the day of the sale. If you don’t, costly mistakes can be made, trust me!
out there and get looking, you just never know what hidden gem you may find.
For me, it is so important to be in permanent learning mode, to stay on top of trends and shifting tastes. A
The past month for Tatty has been a
trader once gave me a great piece of advice and it’s
very busy one and business is brisk.
simple: just flick and read through fashion and interior
A Hermes silk scarf has been sent
magazines, preferably the high end ones. It trains the
from my North Wales HQ to a lady
eye and tunes your brain into what’s hot and what’s not.
living on 5th Avenue, New York. A
Knowledge is power! Designers often take inspiration
pair of antique artist’s pallets, posted
from the past, and looks are recycled over and over
to an interior designer in London’s Eaton Square. But, for
again, hence why vintage and decorative antiques are so
me, the very pinnacle of April has to be a beautiful 1930’s
ever popular.
brass birdcage which was carefully packaged and sent to the BBC, for a recently commissioned adaption of
Here’s hoping that you all had a fabulous Easter, and that
Jessie Burton’s award winning book, the sumptuous and
all your eggs were Faberge.
haunting period thriller, The Miniaturist. Similarly, a very pretty 1940’s ladies parasol has been hastily dispatched
Love
to Ealing studios for the filming of ITV’s The Durrells.
Tatty x
Buying has been big on the agenda and my local auction house Roger Jones’s in Colwyn Bay holds an excellent
Alison Hough is a specialist vintage
regular vintage and collectables sale. The great thing
dealer with a passion for decorative
about auctions is that you have time to make a rational
antiques and a flair for interiors,
judgement on items you may be interested in. Attend the
based in Old Colwyn, North Wales
viewing day, take your time, have a really good rummage
NWM 2017 Page 91
MAGAZINE
Page 92 NWM 2017
learning by heart
At my previous school, I introduced a new course for all our
extend to staff too, and it might also explain why three of
Year 9 pupils called Horizons. It was a multi-faceted course
our girls have qualified for the Welsh Schools Cross
designed to encourage the pupils to look beyond the confines
Country Final.
of their leafy, relatively secluded, Hertfordshire boarding school campus. One term into my Headship of Rydal Penrhos
But it is also in developing children’s character that a good
School I can already see the benefits of a school with far
education is founded and particularly, I believe, in the area
bigger, more beautiful and inspiring horizons.
of leadership.
Last October Lonely Planet named North Wales among the top
All children should be prepared for leadership, learn the
places, fourth in fact, in the world to visit. Last month Bear
principles of leadership and experience it in a practical
Grylls tweeted his favourite place in the UK was North Wales
sense too. Our location means that the Prep School’s
and, just last month, the view from Snowdon’s summit was
Forest School, the outdoor pursuits programme (climbing,
named as the UK’s best.
orienteering etc.) for all pupils in Years 7 and 8, our Sailing
These polls, and the Chief Scout and TV adventurer’s belief,
Club (celebrating its 60th anniversary next year) and our
merely reinforce what we residents already know: that with
Duke of Edinburgh programme are just four examples where
the sea just a few minutes’ walk from our school and the
leadership opportunities present themselves to pupils in the
mountains just a short drive away, Rydal Penrhos is uniquely
great outdoors.
placed to deliver a distinct education. A study by World Challenge in 2015 found that life Our educational programme is based upon five pillars:
experiences such as leading an expedition can prove to be
learning, living, leading, listening and location. The last of
the difference in successful job applications. Nearly two
these is a facilitator of the other four, helping our pupils to
thirds of businesses surveyed felt that candidates with
discover their talents and be the best they can be.
such experience tend to be more successful employees and
Academic success and co-curricular participation (sport,
progress more quickly in their careers.
music, drama and much more) is of course at the heart of everything a good school should be and I can see that our
So be they academics, athletes, adventurers, artists, or all four,
pupils are positively affected by the inspiring views and the
children and teenagers living in North Wales are blessed to
healthy environment in which they live and learn.
grow up and be educated in such surroundings.
Many of our boarding house rooms and study areas have sea
As a day and boarding school we are thrilled to welcome
views and as we approach the sharp end of the academic
children from across the UK and beyond to this unique part of
year and the potentially stressful period of exam revision I
the world. It’s our job as educators, with support from parents,
believe our stunning location acts as a calming influence on
to make sure they take full advantage of them and with the
the pupils and supports their well-being.
lighter nights, warmer weather and need for revision breaks there’s never been a better time to, in the words of the Visit
The government’s recognition of the importance of clean
Wales, Find Your Epic.
air on school life has also received much coverage in recent months. As the second Headmaster of Rydal School, George Osborne, wrote over a century ago: “Among the health resorts of Britain, Colwyn Bay has no superior as a place of residence for children.”
Simon Smith is the headmaster of Rydal Penrhos in Colwyn Bay. He is married
As I run along the Promenade on a sunny evening (in
with two teenage children and has a
readiness for the Chester Marathon in October and Conwy
passion for rugby
Half-Marathon in November) I’m pretty sure its benefits
NWM 2017 Page 93
MAGAZINE
COMPETITION
Win
a Family Ticket to
Open daily from 10am, and with an onsite café and free parking, GreenWood Forest Park is situated at Y Felinheli, Gwynedd. SAT NAV – LL55 3AD. For more information visit www.greenwoodforestpark.co.uk or call the 24 hour information line on 01248 670076
There’s stacks of fun to be had at GreenWood Forest Park and North Wales Magazine has got two great prizes for you to win. Each prize includes a family day ticket (with entry for two adults and two children) along with a £25 gift voucher to spend in The GreenOak café. Voted Best Family Attraction in North Wales for six years running, days out don’t get much better than this! GreenWood Forest Park is set in 27 magical acres, and it’s easy to see why it’s a full day out – discovering woodland adventure, awesome attractions and forest family fun. Make a splash on the UK’s only solar powered water ride, jump aboard the world’s first people powered roller coaster or zoom down the longest sledge run in Wales! Children will love discovering the super bouncy
For your chance to win simply answer the following question:
GreenWood Forest Park is home to the only Solar Powered water ride in the UK, but what is it called?
Giant Jumper, exploring the turrets of TreeTop Towers, taking their shoes and socks off for the BareFoot Trail or aiming for gold at archery. GreenWood Forest Park has those rainy days covered too – The Enchanted WoodBarn is full of the
a) SolarSplash b) WaveRunner c) LogFlume Send your answer, along with your name, address and telephone number to: competition@northwalesmagazine. co.uk – making sure your put Greenwood Forest Park in the subject
KSG
PUBLISHING
line. Good Luck!
latest indoor play with a separate area for the under three’s. Prepare to be dazzled in the Forest Theatre where you will find our fabulous entertainers during the school holidays, including Smarty Marty the Clown, Harley’s Showtime and Ricardo the Pirate – they just can’t wait to make you laugh. Get creative in the craft area where you can see local crafts people and make something unique to take home with you!
NWM 2017 Page 97
And the winners are… Massive congratulations go to the following winners of last month’s competition, who have both won a family day ticket to Greenwood Forest Park (with entry for two adults and two children) along with a £25 gift voucher to spend in The GreenOak Café. Have fun!
Naomi Fowles from Wrexham Mari Lois from Bangor
Congratulations
from us all at North Wales Magazine!
Page 94 NWM 2017
ALL YOUR PUBLISHING NEEDS IN ONE PACKAGE CONTACT US NOW ON: 07904 155943 EMAIL: HAMILTONKATE@BTINTERNET.COM
COMPETITION
Win
Win a three-course lunch for two people at Bodysgallen Hall
Bodysgallen Hall & Spa The Royal Welsh Way Llandudno North Wales LL30 1RS 01492 584 466 www.bodysgallen.com
For your chance to win simply answer the following question:
How many acres of gardens does Bodysgallen Hall have?
a) 17 b) 31 c) 200 Send your answer, along with your name, address and phone number to: competition@northwalesmagazine.
As there is nothing quite like an al fresco lunch during the month of
co.uk by Friday 19th May – making
May, Bodysgallen Hall has teamed up with North Wales Magazine
sure you put Bodysgallen Hall in the
to give you the chance to win a three-course lunch* for two people,
subject line. Good Luck!
including coffee and fudge at its award-winning restaurant that has 3 AA Rosettes. If you would rather eat indoors however, the Dining Room at Bodysgallen overlooks the gardens, within which guests can enjoy imaginative food prepared from the best and freshest local produce. Many hotels boast of their beautiful gardens but Bodysgallen Hall has even more reason to boast! The National Trust hotel is located in over 200 acres of gardens and parkland with Snowdonia as its backdrop – perfect for a relaxing stroll after lunch. The award-winning restored gardens feature several follies, a walled garden, lily-pad ponds and a rare 17th Century parterre of box hedges filled with colourful sweet herbs. An extensive kitchen garden is also available, and head chef John Williams creates seasonal dishes with the garden’s produce. * Valid Tuesday – Saturday. Subject to availability
NWM 2017 Page 95
MAGAZINE
Our marine wildlife is facing more threats than ever before – overfishing, pollution and plastics, plus far too little protection.
Help us put the life back into our seas Porthcurno Beach © Natasha Ewins
Join the Marine Conservation Society today and receive your welcome pack, free gift and your opportunity to help make a difference to our amazing marine environment - www.mcsuk.org/join
© John Archer-Thomson
HP photo course HR.pdf
1
22/03/2017
09:38
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Marine Conservation Society is a registered charity no:1004005 (England & Wales); SC037480 (Scotland). Company Limited by Guarantee no: 2550966. Registered in England VAT no: 489 1505 17. Registered office: Overross House, Ross Park, Ross-on-Wye, HR9 7US. AD0008-16
Learn how to get the best out of yourself and your camera in this half day photography course in Conwy. Covering composition and the exposure triangle, this beginners course will show you how to use all of the settings on your camera – therefore leading you towards going fully manual.
The course is divided into two parts – two hours of theory and two and a half hours of photography, where you can put the theory into practice! £30. Small classes are guaranteed. Individual classes are also available, please email for further information.
BEGINNERS PHOTOGRAPHY COURSE Page 96 NWM 2017
deshkapur@outlook.com
www.deshkapur.com
The Last Word
Across 9 Playwright (9) 10 Moor (3,2) 11 Space surrounding an altar (7) 12 Quickly (7) 13 Runner (9) 14 Cougar (4) 18 Distinct sort or kind (7) 20 Surgical knife (7) 21 A great deal (4) 22 Herald (9) 26 Hedge (7) 28 Books of maps (7) 29 Young hooter (5) 30 Abbreviated (9) Down 1 Decree (5) 2 Executives (10) 3 Biting (9) 4 Fiddle (6) 5 Old liners (8) 6 The Roman Empire’s home country (5) 7 Large mass of floating ice (4) 8 As thumbs are (9) 15 Disagreeable (10) 16 Psalter (5,4) 17 Moon (9) 19 Astonishment (8) 23 Lea (6) 24 Threescore (5) 25 Stage whisper (5) 27 Depend (4)
Down: 1 Edict, 2 Management, 3 Sarcastic, 4 Violin, 5 Steamers, 6 Italy, 7 Berg, 8 Opposable, 15 Unpleasant, 16 Psalm book, 17 Satellite, 19 Surprise, 23 Meadow, 24 Sixty, 25 Aside, 27 Rely. Across: 9 Dramatist, 10 Tie up, 11 Chancel, 12 Allegro, 13 Messenger, 14 Puma, 18 Species, 20 Scalpel, 21 Lots, 22 Trumpeter, 26 Barrier, 28 Atlases, 29 Owlet, 30 Shortened.
NWM 2017 Page 97
MAGAZINE
NEXT
ISSUE
June What’s on?
Your comprehensive guide to local events this June Conwy Discovering the unique history of this walled market town Top 10 Record Breakers Property roundup The latest homes on the market On your bike Exploring North Wales on two wheels Plus‌ Interviews | Restaurant profile | Recipes | Property roundup | Readers homes | Columns
Page 98 NWM 2017
More than just an education... Rydal Penrhos School provides a complete primary and secondary school education for children aged 2 ½ to 18 Situated in the picturesque town of Colwyn Bay on the stunning North Wales coast GCSE, A-level and International Baccalaureate
Scholarships available Day, weekly and flexi boarding Find out more on our new website at www.rydalpenrhos.com
To book a tour contact admissions@rydalpenrhos.com or call 01492 530155 NWM 2017 Page 99
BREWED WITH
SNOWDONIA WATER
www.greatormebrewery.co.uk