North Wales Magazine – May 2017

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.

BUY NOW

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.

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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.

NWM 2017 Page 21

MAGAZINE

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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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

NWM 2017 Page 25

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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

NWM 2017 Page 27

MAGAZINE

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 Fine� run from 6:45pm-8:45pm, dinners with private views from 6:45pm-11pm, breakfasts from 8-10am.

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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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ENTERTAINMENT

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Corporate Membership Jo Ani Tel: 020 7300 5709 Email: jo.ani@royalacademy.org.uk

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Fisher Productions 118 Garratt Lane London SW18 4DJ Richard Merritt 020 8871 1978

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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.

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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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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

3

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

iors J Restaurant revie w J Property of the month

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

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NWM 2017 Page 45

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

style &quality

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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

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Reference Number: RP1290

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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.

NWM 2017 Page 67

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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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

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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

NWM 2017 Page 73

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.

NWM 2017 Page 77

MAGAZINE

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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Please present this voucher before ordering

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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

NWM 2017 Page 83

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

Page 84 NWM 2017

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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Page 86 NWM 2017

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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© Dave Boyle

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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