North Wales Magazine - October 2018 by North Wales Magazine

October 2018

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MAGAZINE ? n o s ’ t Wha hly

nt Your mtoo local guide ents ev

learning by Heart

Sting in the tail Looking after our bees

finding a school they’ll love

fright night

Get spooked this Halloween

INSIDE J Homes & Interiors J Town in Focus J food & drink

Discover a choice of wonderful holiday home parks in North Wales with beautiful countryside views and gorgeous coastal vistas. Experience exceptional leisure facilities, mindboggling family fun activities, luxurious spa experiences and restaurants offering tantalisingly delicious dishes. With super stylish five-star comfort guaranteed, you and your family will want for nothing.

THE JOYS OF HOLIDAY HOME OWNERSHIP

ABERCONWY RESORT & SPA

NEW PINES HOLIDAY HOME PARK

WHAT TO EXPECT AND ENJOY

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.

TALACRE BEACH HOLIDAY HOME PARK Just a stone’s 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.

• Beautiful coastal location • Signatures Restaurant ‘Best Restaurant in Wales 2017 Winner' • Indoor heated swimming pool • Luxury spa treatments • Steam room • Jacuzzi • Air-conditioned gymnasium • Unisex hair salon

WHAT TO EXPECT AND ENJOY • • • • • • • •

Aberconwy Resort & Spa Aberconwy Park, Conwy LL32 8GA

Indoor heated swimming pool Steam room, sauna and spa pool Air-conditioned gymnasium Leisure and activities programme Bar and restaurant Costa Coﬀee™ Entertainment lounge Evening entertainment

New Pines Holiday Home Park Dyserth Road, Nr Dyserth, Denbighshire LL18 4DY

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.

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 HOLIDAY HOME PARK 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.

Seaview Holiday Home Park Gwespyr, Nr. Holywell, Flintshire CH8 9JS

WHAT TO EXPECT AND ENJOY • • • • • • • • •

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

WHAT TO EXPECT AND ENJOY • • • •

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 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 *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.

SITE FEES

INCLUDED UNTIL MARCH

2020

THE DARWIN ESCAPES HOLIDAY HOME

SALE IS ON

The Darwin Escapes SALE event offers great savings, on a range of fantastic holiday homes at four exceptional locations in North Wales. Don‘t delay: holiday homes are limited until stocks last, and with these savings we don’t expect them to be around long!

carving memories

MAGAZINE

THE MAGIC IS JUST BEGINNING...

Our new Olive Tree Coffee Rooms are now open from 9am-5pm Monday to Saturday, 10.30am-4.30pm Sundays; to give plenty of time for sampling our delicious breakfast menu (9am-11.30pm) and Â£3 afternoon tea and cake deal (3pm-4.30pm). Please call 01492 580665 for all reservations and enquiries.

Christmas Is Just Round The Corner Come in and celebrate the start of the Festive Season with our brand new Christmas displays

Page 4 NWM 2017 Snowdonia Nurseries & Garden Centre, Glan Conwy 01492 580703 www.snowdonianurseries.co.uk

MAGAZINE

Dear Reader In our house October can only mean one

fabulous attractions for a spot of ghoulish

thing – half term! But how is this possible I

entertainment, don’t let a spot of wind and

hear you cry, they’ve only just gone back to

rain put you off.

school! Well, it seems that way from where I’m sitting at any rate…

Embrace the autumn, get out there, and enjoy the glorious colours that the region

The good news is that October half term

has to offer at this time of year. But, if you

offers the last hurrah before winter really

are stuck for ideas then fear not, as we

sets its teeth in for the next few months. As

have a whopping eight pages of inspiration

long as you wrap up warm, there are plenty

for you – just turn to page 9 to get plotting

of fabulous days out to be had this month.

and planning!

And let’s not forget Halloween! As a mum of three, I’m a massive fan of Halloween, even if it’s just for the reason that it puts off the dreaded “C” word for as long as possible! So, whether you are off trick or treating or visiting one of North Wales’

J Are you organising or taking part in an event that should be covered in our what’s on listings? Then make sure you tell us! whatson@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk J Keep in touch. Send in your contributions, letters, photos and press releases and become part of the North Wales Magazine family. editorial@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk J Subscribe. If you want to ensure that you receive each and every copy of North Wales Magazine then why not subscribe? All you pay for is the post and packaging. subscribe@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk J Advertise. If you own a business in North Wales and want to get your message in front of 20,000 local readers every month then drop us a line. Prices start from just £75. sales@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk

In this issue...

Kate Hamilton Founding Editor

We want to hear from you!

Get into the spirit of things this October… Front cover credit: Shutterstock

NWM 2018 Page 5

MAGAZINE

Page 6 NWM 2017

MAGAZINE

Contents

Editor Kate Hamilton Publisher Grant Hamilton Sales & Marketing Manager Carly Redgers Art Director Simon Marriott

09 What’s On?

Your monthly guide to the best events taking place in North Wales this October

20 The Big Picture

The autumnal shades of Snowdonia

23 Education

29 33

Getting off to the right start

29 Ghostly tales

Stories that will make your blood run cold…

33 Wales Rally GB

The ultimate rally is coming to Llandudno

37 Town in Focus

Get out and about in beautiful Beddgelert

whatson @northwalesmagazine.co.uk

43 Food & Drink

The regions wining, dining and culinary scene

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

59 Homes & Property

Get inspired by homes that are on the market

78 Community news

A roundup of regional happenings

61 Walking

Contributors Stephen Gregory Alison Hough Tim Watson Cai Ross Julian Hughes Simon Smith Steve Goodier Nick Embrey Luke Edwards Caroline Roberts Janet Hill

Prestatyn offers a pushchair friendly stroll

87 Competition

Win a fabulous night out to watch Calendar Girls!

89 In my opinion…

Our expert columnists share their thoughts

98 Horoscopes

Find out what October has in store

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

NWM 2018 Page 7

She Sees The Shadows Exhibition All month Mostyn in Llandudno will display works by over 40 renowned contemporary artists who re-examine everyday objects and materials in unexpected ways and invites viewers to see the familiar anew. This fascinating exhibition contains painting, sculpture, drawing, photography and mixed media, and will be 2nd-13th

sure to intrigue visitors of all ages

Lord of the Flies Step into a terrifying dystopia

What’s on this...

October

where rules don’t matter, law means nothing and school kids rule the world. This is a bold and contemporary staging of William Golding’s classic is on at Theatr Clwyd

3rd

Every Monday

Vintage, Antiques & Collectibles Fair

Take a Tribal Belly Dancing

Browse through vintage and antiques from 15 stall holders at

class at the Ucheldre Centre

the Town Hall in Llandudno between 9am and 4pm

between 7 and 8pm

1st-10th

3rd

Mostn Gallery is pleased to present the first off-site

Lyn has some really lovely knitted and

collaboration by DRAF (David Roberts Art Foundation),

crochet items, to include baby clothes and

with works by a wide range of artists. The exhibition

cute animal themed hats, plus some sparkly

runs until 4th November

mohair shrugs and much more. Visit her at

David Grosvenor Art Collection

Just Love Knitting by Lyn Mabbs

the Afonwen Centre today

4th

Roy Chubby Brown Live Roy Chubby Brown may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but there are lots different teas out there to try. So if you fancy a good night out and a laugh, you will enjoy an evening with the down-to-earth comedy legend who says “I’ve never had stars in my eyes, I just like working and making people laugh”. Tickets are £21, show starts at 7:30pm at the Rhyl Pavilion

3rd-4th

Over the Moon: Opera for Babies Perfect for ages 0-2, babies and toddlers will enjoy gentle classical music with familiar nursery rhymes and games in an interactive musical adventure. Visit the Clwyd Room at Theatr Clwyd for 40 minutes of musical tickling, stretching, chomping and stamping as you journey together through the day: waking, eating, playing and sleeping

NWM 2018 Page 9

MAGAZINE

October 4th-5th

Silver Jewellery by Sandra Roberts

Sandra hand makes Eco Silver Jewellery, which has been hammered, cut and twisted to create her lovely pieces. Visit her at the Afonwen Centre today 5th

The Illegal Eagles The World’s Official No.1 Eagles tribute returns in 2018 for another outstanding show at the Venue Cymru promising more of their trademark musical prowess, acute attention to detail, and incredible showmanship. Show starts at 7:30pm

5th

Welsh Chamber Orchestra With music from composers Mozart, Bach-Stokowski,

4th-7th

Dayinsure Wales Rally GB The intrepid stars and superfast cars of the FIA World Rally

Debussy, Hilary Tann, Morfydd Owen and Schubert the evening at the Ucheldre Centre promises to be a delight. Show starts at 7:30pm

Championship will make a spectacular return to the UK when the 2018 Dayinsure Wales Rally GB blasts off under the floodlights at the Tir Prince Raceway

6th

Denbigh Plum Fest Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the Denbigh Plum Feast welcomes

4th, 18th, 24th

Antique, Collectors & Vintage Fair

celebrity chef Ellis Barrie of The Marram Grass, children’s cookery

Betws y Coed hosts three dates for collectors

competition, demonstrations, crafts and more. The Fest runs

looking for exquisite antiques and vintage

from 10am-4pm at the Denbigh Town Hall

treasures. Open between 9am and 4pm 6th

Climb Snowdon Now is the time to tick that Snowdon box in your bucket list! 4th

Welsh Music Night Dylan’s music night returns to Menai Bridge, showcasing some of the best in local musical talent. This event will take place from 9pm, upstairs in the Menai Bridge restaurant 5th

Luther UK Experience all the hits from Luther Vandross’ amazing career, fronted by international Luther Vandross tribute Harry Cambridge and his 8-piece band. The show starts at 7:30pm

Page 10 NWM 2018

EXPED’s Climb Snowdon Challenge I, is for those who just want to Climb and summit Snowdon itself. Climb starts at 8:45am

6th

Ultimate 90’s Anthems From the heyday of clubbing, the Rhyl Pavilion presents four original singers of some of the biggest dance anthems ever! Show starts at 7:30pm

9th

Oscar Wilde Live: The Importance of Being Earnest A brilliantly funny and charming new production of one of the funniest plays in English. Wilde’s witty masterpiece throws love, logic and language into the air to make one of theatre’s most dazzling firework displays. Watch the performance at the Pontio in Bangor 10th

inTarsi

6th

On Tour with Elvis

After successfully touring all over

Put on your blue suede shoes and experience Michael King

Europe, Catalan company Eia bring

live on the Venue Cymru stage paying tribute to Elvis. From

their award-winning acrobatic

elaborate costumes, the signature hairstyle to songs like All

theatre piece inTarsi to the UK for

Shook Up and Jailhouse Rock - this is one evening you don’t

the first time. Get tickets to see the performance at the Theatr

want to miss. Tickets start from £22

Bryn Terfel in Bangor by calling the box office 01248 382828

6th-7th

10th-11th

The girls have some unusual handmade jewellery, with

Elaine has a large collection of handmade jewellery and

some being made with glass, resin and braid, also they

gifts, to suit all ages, whilst Helen makes curtains and

have a good selection of handmade greetings cards.

blinds to order, as well as other stitch work items, to include

Browse through their jewellery at the Afonwen Centre

peg bags, shopping bags and much more, all of which

Cherry Bea Jewellery & Helen Bradley

Crafty Sisters Cymru

are finished to excellent quality and detail. The ladies are exhibiting at the Afonwen Centre 7th

Buddy Holly and the Cricketers

10th-13th

There’s much to celebrate in

Awful Auntie

what is the 60th anniversary

Experience the popular David

year of Buddy’s one and only

Walliams’ story about a little girl

UK tour. Although he lived a

called Stella who sets off to visit

short life Buddy certainly left a

London with her parents, Lord and

great musical legacy that lives

Lady Saxby live at Venue Cymru

on today. This remarkable evening of classic rock n roll

11th

will have you dancing in the

The Ecology and Management of Marine Aliens

aisles at the Rhyl Pavilion

Visit Mostyn gallery for a lecture by Stuart Jenkins as part of the

shouting for more!

Year of the Sea series. Talk begins at 7:30pm (drinks reception at 7pm)

NWM 2018 Page 11

MAGAZINE

October 11th

Russian National Ballet Presents Swan Lake

2018 Ogwen Mountaineering Festival

After the sell-out performances of Nutcracker last

This popular, community-based mountaineering and outdoor

year, Russian National Ballet is proud to present a

festival makes a return for the third year. Surrounded by the

spectacular new production of Swan Lake, one

Snowdonia mountain ranges of the Carneddau and Glyderau,

of Tchaikovsky’s most celebrated works. Swan

the location is one of the best in North Wales

12th-13th

Lake features some of ballet’s most memorable music and breath-taking dance

13th

12th

Enjoy a unique voyage back to 1970s at the Rhyl Pavilion,

Poetry Stomp

Les McKeown’s Bay City Rollers when Les and his legendary band ruled the world’s pop

A night full of humour and laughs at Dylan’s Llandudno, with

charts and the Bay City Rollers’ music became the soundtrack

the infamous Myrddin ap Dafydd in charge. A group of bards

for a generation of teenagers. Show starts at 7:30pm

are ready for a challenge, and there will be a chance for the audience as well to join in the fun! Stomp starts at 9pm 13th 12th

Quadrophenia The Album Live

Only Fools and 3 Courses Comedy Dining at Rossett Hall are pleased to bring you

This storming show at Rhyl Pavilion pays

“Only Fools and 3 Courses” – a completely different dining

tribute to the emotive music of The Who,

experience. All your favourite characters will be on hand

the biggest-selling and most powerful

to make sure you have an evening you will never forget,

band in the world for decades. Produced

this will exercise chuckle muscles you did not know you

specifically for the stage and appealing to

had. Lovely Jubbly

all generations, with full-on sound effects as used on the original album and state-of-theart lighting to enhance the performance 12th & 14th

Cliff Richard Anniversary Tour

13th

In Conversation with Author John Boyne John Boyne, one of Ireland’s finest contemporary writers, joins Jon Gower at the Theatr Bryn Terfel. Author of ten novels for

The 60th Anniversary Tour will be broadcast LIVE at Pontio

adults and five for younger readers, including The Boy in the

Bangor on Friday 12 October 2018, with special encore

Striped Pyjamas this is a novelist at the top of his game

screenings on Sunday 14 October in celebration of Cliff’s 78th birthday. Featuring a selection of his greatest hits across six decades, this will be Cliff Richard’s most exciting tour yet

13th

Yana & the Yeti Featuring exquisite music, Artic landscapes and a cast of extraordinary puppets, Yana and the Yeti is aimed at family audiences (5+). This is a dark, funny and poignant tale of a small child’s determination to be understood and her discovery that friends can come in the most unexpected shapes and sizes. Catch the show at the Pontio Bangor

Page 12 NWM 2018

21, 22 a 27 Hydref - 4 Tachwedd, 10.30am-4pm 21, 22 and 27 October - 4 November, 10.30am-4pm

YSBRYDION Y CASTELL THE GHOSTS OF PENRHYN CASTLE

Helfa straeon ysbrydion Ghostly silhouette trail Crefftau cysgod Shadow crafts Pypedau Puppets Peintio gwynebau (£) Face painting (£)

Ewch i’r wefan am fanylion llawn visit our website for full details

nationaltrust.org.uk/penrhyncastle 01248 353 084 @NTPenrhynCastle NWM 2018 Page 13

Glamping Pod Rental and Sales, Throughout England and Wales. •Business Rental available on all pods from just £35 per week - No deposit, just pay 3 months rent up front. •Buy from £1785 •Our Pods come with everything you need to get started - Just add bedding. •Insulated versions for all year round use. •L •Low delivery and ﬁtting costs - get in touch for a quote.

01746 783595 | www.glampods.uk | info@glampods.uk

13th

The South

October 16th

Rhondda Rips It Up

The South feature former members of The Beautiful South

Theatr Bryn Terfel presents a tongue in cheek entertainment

including singer Alison Wheeler and Gaz Birtles. The group

has been created for your delectation by the illustrious Ms

will perform hits like A Little Time and Perfect 10 at the Tivoli

Elena Langer (composer and suffragette) and the inimitable

in Buckley

Ms Emma Jenkins (librettist and suffragette). Show starts at 7:30pm

13th

Oktober-Ffest

17th

Celebrate the autumn season with

Painting Furniture with Charlotte @ Country Commissions

Welsh Ales, German Weiss beer

Charlotte can paint your pieces of furniture, which can

and live music at Cellb in Blaneau

be large or small, and is also running a vintage furniture

Ffestiniog! Fun starts at 6pm

workshop at the Afonwen Centre 18th

13th- 14th

Handmade Bags with Ana & Sonia

Rich Hall’s Hoedown Rich Hall’s critically acclaimed new show begins its second

The girls have many different fabrics for their great bags, in

leg of touring. There’s stand- up, improvised ballads, cracking

many different colours and patterns as well as hand-made

good musicianship and a good time to be had by all. Show

teddy bears which they dress and hand knitted toys. Swing

starts at 8pm at the Theatr Bryn Terfel

by the Afonwen Centre to see them for yourself 18th-20th

Monty Python’s Spamalot 13th-14th

Llangollen Food Festival

Monty Python’s Spamalot is a musical comedy adapted from

Attracting foodies from all around the globe, this

the 1975 film Monty Python

food fest has been named one of the Top 10 Food

and the Holy Grail. Like the motion picture, it is a highly

Fests in the UK by the Independent

irreverent parody of the Arthurian legend. Llandudno Musical Productions will perform at the Theatr Colwyn

14th

19th

The Quaynotes are a new North Wales based jazz quartet

Britain’s best-loved psychic Sally Morgan takes to the road for

whose set list includes some of the great jazz standards and

a record-breaking tenth consecutive year to bring amazing

also some more unusual jazz arrangements based on songs

moments and spooky insights to audiences in Rhyl Pavilion

Jazz Sunday at Deganwy Quay

Psychic Sally Live

you already know and love. Show starts at 3pm 20th-4th November

Ffear Fforest

Head to Zip World Fforest for North Wales’ only ultimate Halloween spook-fest! Step foot in the Ffear Fforest and be immersed in a spooky Halloween scare fest from 6:30pm to 9:30pm. Pre-book for a discounted rate online

NWM 2018 Page 15

MAGAZINE

October 20th

The King of Pop – The Legend Continues Tribute

23rd-27th

Calendar Girls

Hired by Michael Jackson himself as the stars

The fabulous new production of Calendar Girls The

official body double, Navi puts on an incredible

Musical, written by Tim Firth and Gary Barlow, is arriving

show with live band and dancers at the Rhyl

at Venue Cymru!

Pavilion. The production features all of Jackson’s mega-hits in a fast-paced, two-hour show that will have you dancing in the aisles and singing

23rd-24th

along all night to the likes of Thriller, Billie Jean

Huw Vaughan Jones - Pen and Ink artist

and Smooth Criminal. Show starts at 7:30pm

Huw’s wonderful drawings are all carried out using pen and ink, are really worth a visit to the Afonwen Centre. Huw is

20th-21st

Local Artist Thelma Evans

able to take commissions, whether it be a beloved pet portrait or a place of interest or maybe a transport request

Thelma has a very delicate style to her painting, which consist mostly of landscapes and places, plus some lovely coastal scenes and floral designs. Thelma will be busy

24th

Funny Girl - The Musical

working all weekend at the Afonwen Centre and is very happy to chat 20th-26th

Gwyl Daniel Owen Festival A colourful and lively festival dedicated to author Daniel Owen. Festival will be held all around Mold including the Daniel Owen Square and Bethesda Chapel

21st

Cor Cantorian Gogledd Cymru Visit the St. Mary’s Church in Betws y Coed for a lovely

Following its record-breaking, sell-out run in London’s West

evening of songs by the very popular Cor Cantorian

End and national tour, the critically-acclaimed musical ‘Funny

Gogledd Cymru choir. Show starts at 7:30pm. Tickets

Girl’ comes to the big screen at Theatr Colwyn. Made famous

(£10, £9 with Conwy Card) available from TIC Betws y

by Barbara Streisand in the 1968 film adaption, Fanny Brice

Coed and on the door

will be played by the talented Sheridan Smith 25th

21st-31st

Family Halloween Fun: The Rook Wood Mystery

Clwb Comedi Club Little Wander in association with Pontio proudly present Clwb

Visit Penrhyn Castle and help solve the mystery of Rook

Comedi Hydref featuring Tom Wrigglesworth, Will Dugan &

Wood. Tour is between 10:30am-4pm

Rachel Fairburn. Show starts at 8pm

Page 16 NWM 2018

26th

Handmade Jewellery by Kay Another opportunity to pop along the Afonwen Centre to browse through Kay’s lovely handmade pieces of jewellery, which she makes with an assortment of beads and stones

25th

10cc Live With four decades of song-writing excellence and a crack band of musicians behind him Gouldman confidently promises, “This is as near as you’re ever going to get to hearing the perfect 10cc. Hit after hit after hit. It’s relentless. We show no mercy.” Catch the show at the Rhyl Pavilion at 7:30pm 25th

Sustainable Farming of the Sea – from Global to Local

26th

Visit Mostyn gallery for a lecture by Lewis LeVay as part

The world’s number one touring ABBA tribute concert

of the Year of the Sea series. Talk begins at 7:30pm (drink

returns to the Rhyl Pavilion Theatre for a fun evening of sing

reception at 7pm)

along to popular hits like Money Money, Dancing Queen and

Abba Mania

Waterloo. Show starts 7.30pm 26th-28th

Gwledd Conwy Feast One of the tastiest festivals in North Wales, browse through over 100 stalls and watch live top chef demonstrations in the picturesque town of Conwy 26th-31st

The VOID: Horror Scare Maze Cyclone Events and Fear & Sons: Immersive horror consulting present THE VOID a brand new indoor LIVE scare maze 25th-27th

Day Out With Thomas

horror attraction coming to Wrexham, Halloween 2018. Don’t miss this incredible event

Enjoy a train ride with Thomas, meet the Fat Controller and much more at the Llangollen Railway Station

27th

BOYZLIFE Playing the hits of Boyzone,

26th

Jamie Smith’s MABON

Keith Duffy of Boyzone and Brian McFadden of Westlife

Now consistently celebrated as one of the UK’s outstanding

are on tour together and

Celtic roots acts, the 5-piece band of virtuoso musicians

playing at William Aston Hall

combine traditional instruments with a modern rhythm

in Wrexham. Doors open at

section. Music starts at 8pm at the Theatr Bryn Terfel

7pm

NWM 2018 Page 17

MAGAZINE

October

27th-2nd Nov

Pumpkin Fest Visit Manorafon Farm Park in Abergele to enjoy a ghost buster hunt, pumpkin picking and carving and more. Fun starts at 10am

27th

Stand-up at the Seaside

30th-31st

Geoff Norcott, a regular on BBC’s Live At the Apollo and

Marie at Earth Deva

The Mash Report, takes centre stage at The Station in

Marie will display handmade statues,

Colwyn Bay tonight with support from Anthony J Brown and

bowls and wall plaques, featuring many mythical creatures

Howard Walker. MC Dave Rothnie hosts with an audience

as well as rare and unusual gemstone and silk jewellery. Visit

joke competition. All tickets £12.50. To book please contact

the Afonwen Centre

dcrothnie@gmail.com 31st 27th

Pasta Perfection Cookery Course

Gwrych Castle Halloween Spooktacular Gwrych Castle’s annual Spooktacular is happening on Halloween night! Come and see this SPOOKY castle on the

Bodnant Food is hosting the

scariest night of the year! With lots to do, including pumpkin

essential course for all pasta

carving competitions, fancy dress competitions, fireworks,

enthusiasts! Learn how to

stalls and much more – this is a family event you don’t want

make fresh pasta, fillings

to miss

and sauces using the very best ingredients. Class is from 10-4pm. Visit their website for more information

27th

Llandudno Fireworks Display Fireworks set off at 7:30pm. There will be entertainment on the stage on the promenade prior to the spectacular display

31st – 3rd NOV

The Sound of Music One of the greatest musicals of all time, the true story of the

27th- 2nd Nov

Halloween Week at Ruthin Gaol Halloween fun all week

world-famous singing Von Trapp family, features Edelweiss, My Favourite Things, Do-Re-Mi, Climb Every Mountain, So Long Farewell, and of course, The Sound of Music. The musical will play at Theatr Clwyd

at Ruthin Gaol. Wear your best scary outfit and join for fun arts, crafts and activities for all the family. Suitable for all ages. 10am to 4pm

Page 18 NWM 2018

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

NWM 2018 Page 19

MAGAZINE

The big picture You know that autumn is here when the trees start to turn a range of glorious shades. These autumnal examples can be found in the heart of Snowdonia – and where better to stretch your legs and admire the clever work of Mother Nature? Wrap up warm and breathe in the crisp air – all the while discussing which of the regions fabulous pubs you will retreat to at the end of your invigorating walk for a well-earned rest…

Page 20 NWM 2018

NWM 2018 Page 21

SCHOLARSHIP ASSESSMENT DAY

Sixth Form entry: Saturday 24 November Deadline for Applications: Monday 12 November 2 ½ - 18 • Boys & Girls • Day, Weekly and Flexi Boarding • GCSE and A-level

Tel: 01492 530155 • admissions@rydalpenrhos.com Academic, Art, Drama, Music and Sport scholarships available

www.rydalpenrhos.com

YOUR ADVENTURE STARTS HERE OPEN DAYS SUNDAY 14 October SUNDAY 28 October SATURDAY 10 November

If you want to be one of Life’s Explorers, come and discover the award-winning university where the landscape is as inspiring as the learning. • Meet staff and students and visit the academic subjects • Explore the campus and view our student accommodation • Discover more about student life at Bangor FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Tel: 01248 383561/382005 E-mail: openday@bangor.ac.uk Wrexham campus (Health Sciences) also open - phone 01248 383924 (Radiography) or 01248 383931 (Nursing & Midwifery).

www.bangor.ac.uk

A lesson

learnt

Choosing the right school for your child is no easy task – and choosing the correct university can be even tougher. But, as Nick Embrey discovers, there are a range of establishments in North Wales that aim to make the process as easy as possible.

Be it apple trees bursting with ripe fruit or misty mornings, the autumn months afford plenty of visual pleasures as they return each year like migrating birds. Yet as well as natural wonder, there is another more amusing sight to behold during this changing of the seasons, for throughout the land, an army of over-sized shoes, blazers and school bags can be seen this time of year plodding zombie-like into educational establishments, each identikit ensemble hiding a child lost somewhere within. Lurking near the perimeters of colleges you’ll find a similar picture, only here the protagonists are dressed sharply in new suits, each one a variant shade of black or blue. So with the

Rydal Penrhos can take care of your child’s educational needs from the age of two and half right up to the day they complete their A-levels

nation’s youth enmeshed once more in the gears of scholastic study, it should serve as a reminder to the rest of us that it is time to consider the next step in their academic pathway, as October is school open day season and North Wales is packed full of excellent institutions you might like to consider. If it’s a move to another school or college that you are Showcasing a large range of jewellery and watches, Clogau’s brand new store in Broughton Shopping Park is located at a premium shopping destination in North East Wales Wrexham Glyndwr University offers a vast array of courses to choose from

NWM 2018 Page 23

MAGAZINE

Above: Bangor is a vibrant university in a beautiful location Left : Myddelton College is a fresh new co-educational school in Denbigh

am proud to be the headmaster of one that does!” Pastorally, the school provides day and boarding options for its pupils and has recently introduced a “substantially” reduced fee for those parents wishing to pursue the weekly boarding option for their child. And, while on the subject of fees, Rydal Penrhos offers both bursaries and scholarships as well as being an MOD approved school for families with an Armed Forces background. At its heart, it is a Christian community based on a Methodist foundation and is dedicated to ensuring a healthy balance of academic rigour and a rich diet of extra contemplating for your offspring in 2019, then Rydal

curricular activities including speech and drama, music,

Penrhos has a lot to offer and is worth checking out. The

the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme and a raft of sports.

school itself is a ‘straight through’ establishment, meaning

Throughout the coming months, Rydal Penrhos will open

it will happily take care of your child’s educational needs

its doors to interested parties and applicants alike, starting

from the age of two and half right up to the day they

with a Sixth Form open evening on Tuesday 6th November

complete their A-levels. This classic looking private school

followed by a similar event for the new Year 7 intake later in

nestled quietly in the heart of Colwyn Bay and overlooking

the month on Thursday 15th November.

the idyllic coastal waters of North Wales dates back to the 1880s and challenges its pupils to learn how to “make a

A little way further up the A55 and catering this time for boys

difference in the world, to discover their talents and be

and girls aged nine upwards lies Myddelton College – “a fresh

the best they can be.” Helping them on that journey, the

new co-educational school for the county town of Denbigh.”

school provides a wide choice of curriculum, subjects and

New it might be, but don’t let that spoil your JK Rowlingesque

sporting activities, each one enabling individual students

imaginings; if you want castle-like turrets and acres of

to succeed in their own field. Building on this sentiment,

Victorian features with which to play Quidditch and the like,

head teacher Simon Smith is rightly proud to claim that

Myddelton has it all in spades, having set up home on the

“few schools really can offer something for everyone but I

site of a previous school whose buildings date back as far as

Page 24 NWM 2018

Left: Myddelton College offers a three-phase curriculum Below & Right: Rydal Penrhos offers something for everyone

Myddelton pupils have a wide and impressive range of extra curricular activities at their disposal – including a wealth of sporting clubs, drama, dance, choir, language groups and regular trips off campus

1859. The school offers pupils both boarding and day options,

its open day coming up soon on 13th October, Wrexham

with the “newly refurbished boarding houses combining the

Glyndwr University is one to consider. Glyndwr offers a

benefits of modern amenities with the original architecture of

vast array of courses from accounting and finance to crime

the surrounding school buildings.”

scene investigation and cyber security. In addition, its website rightly boasts of ten great reasons to study there

Myddelton offers a three phase curriculum, each phase

including an award winning student union and state of the

allowing its students to develop the necessary skills to make

art facilities throughout. Wrexham Glyndwr has strong

the next move successfully. In lower school, the “sole principle

international links they are rightly proud of including

is to embed skills for learning through the curriculum at an

connections to the BBC, Toyota and Airbus, while at the

early stage in preparation for the rest of college life” and “all

national level, the University has several different campuses

students will be taught a range of subjects sustaining common

including one in London, each one designed with “its own

threads throughout every lesson.” In middle school, students

distinct character, identity and purpose.”

undertake a programme of GCSEs alongside a “common programme of university preparation” while at senior school,

The open day itself at Glyndwr aims to offer prospective

A-level students can expect to see a global perspective which

2019 students a taste of “what it’s like to study at the

encourages them to seek out international and not just UK

University and a chance to learn much more about the wide

based opportunities when the y leave school. Beyond the

variety of degree programmes available, what the campus

classroom and the textbook, Myddelton pupils have a wide

has to offer as well as being able to meet with course staff

and impressive range of extra curricular activities at their

and current students.” Not to be overlooked on the day

disposal including a wealth of sporting clubs, drama, dance,

either, visitors will have the option to attend a “variety of

choir, language groups and regular trips off campus to local

talks” and an all important chance to peruse the Regent

haunts including Cheshire Oaks and Liverpool. The school has

Street campus which houses many of Wrexham Glyndwr’s

an open morning on Thursday 4th October by arrangement

creative arts courses. A number of the university’s

and later that same evening, a two-hour ‘turn up and look

supporting services will also be on hand on the day to

around’ session between 6 and 8pm.

speak to prospective students including the award-winning

At post-19, the region has a variety of exciting options for

careers team. The day itself runs from 10am – 2pm with last

school leavers keen to continue their studies and, with

entry at 1pm. Visitors are advised to check in advance the

NWM 2018 Page 25

MAGAZINE

list of talks and events so as to avoid missing out.

was also awarded a “Gold Standard in the first round of the UK government’s teaching excellence framework and

Swapping the picturesque Dee Valley for the Menai Straits,

consistently performs well, based on student responses in

would-be students at Bangor University can take a snoop

the WhatUni Student Choice Awards.” From its website,

around on a choice of three weekends this autumn - Sunday

visitors will also quickly spot other accolades pouring in

October 14th, Sunday October 28th and Saturday November

including “winner of best accommodation and best clubs and

10th. Bangor is a “vibrant university in a beautiful location”

societies 2018.” Beyond the awards and prizes of which there

and is “renowned for its excellent teaching and student

are many, Bangor offers the usual range of course options

care and is ranked in the top ten of the UK’s non-specialist Universities according to the

including some that start in January and has a great ‘virtual student experience’ on its website that’s well worth a visit.

latest annual National Student Survey (NSS).” Priding itself particularly

Let us not forget either that University is a place for social

on its quality of pedagogy, the

as well as study time and Bangor has plenty of options,

institution established in 1885

including the Pontio Centre billed as a social hub for students as well as a centre for “learning, innovation and performing arts” and a student union replete with cafés, restaurants and even a cinema. The institution urges those interested to get involved and come along for one of their three events, noting that “an Open Day is the best way for

Dates for your diary

There is a raft of open day opportunities in the offing this autumn. If you are unable to make any of the dates below in person, why not get in touch directly with the institution as they are usually happy to provide alternative tours at a time that suits you best.

you to get to know Bangor University and find out what the University has to offer.” For those that do make the journey, it will be a chance to visit academic departments, talk to the University’s staff and students and tour the University’s accommodation and facilities. A full list of courses is available on the Bangor University website as well as an

Rydal Penrhos School Tuesday 6th November – Into sixth form information evening Thursday 15th November – Into year 7 information evening Saturday 24th November – Sixth form scholarship assessment day (application deadline 12th November) Saturday 2nd February – Year 7 and 9 scholarship assessment day (application deadline 18th January)

option to grab yourself a prospectus and leaf through it the

Myddelton College Thursday 4th October – open morning between 9.30 and 11.30am (by appointment only) and an open evening between 6 and 8pm (open house)

Even if your brood have not quite yet reached the age to take

Wrexham Glyndwr University Saturday 13th October – Open day between 10am and 2pm Bangor University Open days – Sunday 14th October, Sunday 28th October and Saturday 10th November

old fashioned way. Our featured four are just a handful of the excellent schools, colleges and universities the region has to offer, so why not get your diary out and make a date with one or two of them? up a place at such an establishment, with competition often high and places at some institutions in demand, it never hurts to be organised. Better still, a visit to a university or two could be just the tonic to revive a flagging teenager from their academic torpor… n

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

Page 26 NWM 2018

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Most haunted

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Are you someone who loves to seek out the supernatural? Why not head to one of the most haunted places in North Wales for a spine-tingling experience this Halloween?

Bodelwyddan Castle With stunning views towards the Clwydian Hills, Rhuddlan Castle and the Irish Sea, it’s no wonder ghosts don’t want to leave the building! With over 600 years of history, which includes the discovery of human boned found concealed within a wall in 1829, a lady in a blue flowing dress wandering the sculpture gallery and rattling dishes and pans in the kitchen in the dead of night. Ghostly children have been heard playing and guest have reported a feeling of being followed, but upon turning around there’s never anyone there. The castle was used as a military hospital in the first World War, and it has been reported that a soldier haunts the premises. Bodelwyddan Castle offers ghost tours for both families and true paranormal enthusiasts, who aren’t afraid of the dark. Make sure to book tour tickets online for October dates 26th, 27th and 31st. www.bodelwyddan-castle.co.uk

NWM 2018 Page 29

MAGAZINE

The Black Boy Inn Set deep in the evocative Royal Borough of Caernarfon, The Black Boy Inn has been a welcome retreat for weary travellers for centuries. Built circa 1522, it is one of the oldest inns in North Wales. In the 1990s, an excavation team found an old woman’s skeleton near the building. The archaeologists concluded that she had been buried there to save the expense of a funeral. More recently during restoration work at the Black Boy Inn, workmen uncovered a range of items underneath the dining room floorboards including a child’s shoe, clay pipes and animal jaw bones. A ghost of a nun has seen passing through the Inn to the nunnery, which at one time was at the rear of the Inn. Why not book a night stay at the historic inn… if you dare! www.black-boy-inn.com

Denbigh Asylum The North Wales Hospital, also known as the Denbigh Asylum, was built in the mid-19th Century to provide care for Welsh speaking people suffering from mental illnesses. In 1956 there were 1,500 patients. The Health Authority announced closure in 1987 and the last patient left in 1995. Isolation in an asylum was the treatment for conditions like postnatal depression, alcoholism, senile dementia, and even infidelity. Many asylums were privately owned, and patients meant profits so there was little incentive to discharge. Paranormal investigators claim to have been scratched by ghosts at the derelict North Wales psychiatric hospital. Others are convinced they have heard bangs and phantom footsteps with some even hearing terrifying screams and laughter. However, while its interior is far from what it was 168 years ago – it’s rumoured that the apparitions of past patients, staff and visitors remain to this day. Paranormal investigator Lorraine Mills says Wales is the most haunted area of the country and the North Wales Hospital is her favourite paranormal spot…

Page 30 NWM 2018

Plas Teg The Plas Teg House in Flintshire is reportedly one of the most haunted buildings in all of Wales. As well as serving as a residence for over 400 years, it’s also believed to have been used as a local court, where people were often tried and hung. One of the stories being told is that of a young girl called Dorothy who fell in love with a local farmer’s son named Iorwerth. Knowing that her father disapproved of the affair she planned on eloping and running away with her love but fell down a well while trying to retrieve her jewellery box. It is believed that it is her ghost that people have been seeing for years on the A541. Could she be running to meet her love Iorwerth? Is she the woman in white? Dorothy’s body was discovered two months later, however, her jewels were missing. Iorwerth was so distraught and feared being accused of her murder, he hung himself. His ghost is also believed to haunt the grounds, looking for his beloved Dorothy. On one occasion during the late 1800’s early 1900’s, a gardener is reported to have felt hands grabbing his shoulder trying to pull him down the well. He struggled free and looked down at the dark water beneath and saw nothing. The sounds of giggling, sobbing, knocking, whispering, talking, and footsteps are also regular occurrences throughout. If you’re feeling brave, why not book a paranormal tour with Lisa or Jean at Plas Teg?

DID YOU KNOW? J Ghost hunting has been classified as pseudoscience J Other words used to describe a ghost include: apparition, haunt, phantom, poltergeist, shade, specter or spectre, spirit, spook, and wraith

www.plasteg.com

J According to a recent survey by OnePoll, 55% of adults believe in ghosts

Plas Mawr With The Elizabethan Town House, constructed in the late 1500s in Conwy, was recently featured on the television show Most Haunted. Regular sightings include previous resident Lady Wynn, dressed in a grey gown, who tragically died when pregnant. Another is of a man who people believe is a doctor who came to attend a sick patient in the building and on his visit, ended up dying. Poltergeist activity has been noted in Plas Mawr too, such as echoing footsteps, the smell of tobacco, doors opening by themselves, and a ghostly black cat running down the hallway. The house is now a tourist attraction, operated by Cadw, and is a Grade I listed building, as it is said to be one of the finest surviving town houses of the Elizabethan era. Plas Mawr will be hosting a Halloween event on the 27th of October from 11am4pm filled with spooky games, making your own scary mask and a tour. www.cadw.gov.wales

NWM 2018 Page 31

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Rally the troops Wales Rally GB comes to North Wales this month, and it is promising audiences a fantastic finale in Llandudno…

Spectacular high-octane World Championship motor

of even more powerful cars plus a titanic title fight

sport action is roaring back into North Wales at the start

guaranteed to wow visitors. What’s more, local hero Elfyn

of the month – and it’s not to be missed.

Evans will be gunning for back-to-back victories having scored a famous home win in 2017.

Based at the Rally Village in Deeside, the Dayinsure Wales Rally GB (4-7 October) is the British round of the

While lots of the dramatic competitive action takes place

globe-trotting FIA World Rally Championship which

against-the-clock in the legendary Welsh forests, the

blasted off in Monte Carlo back in January and has since

epic four-day schedule blasts off on Thursday evening

visited Argentina, Mexico, Turkey, Corsica and Finland

with a dazzling speed test under the floodlights at the

en route to the UK.

Tir Prince Raceway in Towyn, Conwy County.

This year’s thrilling four-day event promises to be the

The packed programme then culminates in a spectacular

biggest and best yet fuelled by the latest generation

finale on Sunday morning with cars racing flat out

NWM 2018 Page 33

MAGAZINE

While rally stars and superfast cars arrive for two blasts around the test on Sunday morning, the resort town will be buzzing with high octane attractions for the entire weekend… and admission is totally free! “We have set out to create a motor sport festival atmosphere,” explains Alun Pritchard, the man responsible for running the WRC show in Llandudno. “There will be two days of entertainment for all ages based on the Prom. We have a display of historic rally cars, a special Toyota showcase and the Dayinsure Family Zone which includes lots of great activities such as climbing walls, segways, a bungee trampoline, remote control racing cars plus an indoor marquee filled with kids’ amusements. Again all this is totally free.” around the iconic Great Orme – and onto the everyday streets of downtown Llandudno.

Sunday’s schedule also includes eye-catching mountain bike displays from legendary Belgian trail-biker Kenny Belaey and

Bringing a little bit of the Monaco Grand Prix magic to North

an amazing stunt show from Paul Swift and his renowned

Wales, closed sections of public roads will be used to host

precision driving team.

World Championship motor sport for the very first time on British mainland.

With the public offered free admission (though there’s also the opportunity to upgrade to a £20 grandstand seat or a

The ground-breaking speed test will start on the west side

hospitality experience in the St George’s Hotel for £125) a

of the Orme and then enter Llandudno via North Parade.

massive crowd of more than 20,000 spectators is expected to

The route then sees the drivers blast up and down either

pack onto the Orme and into the heart of Llandudno.

side of Gloddaeth Street before a flying finish – quite literally as there’s a jump – on South Parade parallel to the famous

Before reaching the spectacular finale, the WRC crews

Promenade where the winners’ podium will be positioned.

face some exhilarating, high-flying action in the great

Page 34 NWM 2018

“We are so excited by this dramatic new look to the route and would to thank everyone involved for making it possible,” Ben Taylor, Dayinsure Wales Rally GB’s managing director

Snowdonia – including Gwydir which will be the pointsscoring Power Stage – before the thrilling finale on the streets of Llandudno. In its entirety, this year’s route adds up to 23 stages adding up to more than 200 miles of electrifying competition. “We are so excited by this dramatic new look to the route

outdoors. Friday’s revised schedule switches to North Wales,

and would to thank everyone involved for making it possible,”

with further sections of closed road helping to create new

enthused Ben Taylor, Dayinsure Wales Rally GB’s managing

challenges in the classic Brenig, Alwen and Penmachno

director.

forests. Friday also sees the introduction of a new doubleheader stage at Slate Mountain at The Slate Caverns

“Last year was amazing with Elfyn’s victory, but the new

adventure zone, home to Zip World Titan.

legislation has allowed us to really freshen up the event. We have a whole day in North Wales complete with a midday

A gruelling ‘Super Saturday’ schedule will move the battle-

return to service in Deeside. Super Saturday will be an epic

ground to mid Wales and the legendary forests such as

battle and the whole thing builds to a fabulous climax on

Myherin, Sweet Lamb, Hafren, Dyfi and Gartheiniog. These

Sunday with our first ever street stage. It’s going to be one to

forests offer plenty of capacity for the large numbers of

remember!” n

spectators that will be drawn by the latest generation of incredible WRC cars.

Adult tickets to Dayinsure Wales Rally GB start from just £15 if purchased in advance – to find out more and book visit

Sunday morning sees two forest tests back in scenic

walesrallygb.com

NWM 2018 Page 35

Enjoy Life

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Page 36 NWM 2018

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EXPLORING BEDDGELERT Steve Goodier visits Beddgelert – the perfect destination for a North Walian day out.

It is a delightful place to visit, and has much to offer the day

ridge to the adjoining summits of Moel Yr Ogof (2,149ft) and

tripper or holiday maker looking to stay longer.

Moel Lefn (2,093ft) making an excellent, if tiring, day out.

To me Beddgelert will always be linked with mighty Moel

Moel Hebog, despite its roughness, is generally seen as a

Hebog (2,569 ft) that towers above the village and makes a

friendly giant.

great, if very strenuous, walk, from its centre. It’s rough going too, with plenty of scree and boulders for the walker to deal

Let’s leave the high ground behind for a while and descend

with before they reach the summit. But what a summit it is!

again to the streets of Beddgelert and take a look at the village itself.

The views in all directions are stunning and Beddgelert looks like a model village far below. My abiding memory of

Its name means ‘The Grave of Gelert’ and legend has it that

this was arriving here on a late November day when the

Gelert was the faithful hound of the Welsh Prince Llewelyn

first snows of the approaching winter had fallen. We shared

The Great who lived in a palace in the vicinity in the 13th

the summit with several other people and to the surprise of

Century. When he went out hunting one day he left his

us all a cat appeared and mingled amongst us scrounging

infant son in the care of the dog and on his return the animal

food. It was well fed and groomed and consensus of opinion

greeted him with a blood soaked muzzle. Assuming Gelert

was that it must belong to one of the farms far below. Several

had killed the child he attacked it and left it dying before

people tried to catch it to take it back down but it was too

he heard a babies cry and discovered his heir in its cradle

fast for them although it would readily take titbits from

safe and sound. Nearby was the torn body of a huge wolf

extended hands. It’s a long three miles from most points in

which the dog had fought to the death. It was too late for

the valley below to the top of Moel Hebog so it must have

Llewelyn to save Gelert’s life but he buried it in a grave that

been a determined animal to make the journey on such a

is still visited by thousands of people annually – it’s in a

freezing day!

meadow down below Cerrig Llan and consists of a stone slab surrounded by fences and it makes a pleasant short walk

For the serious walker Moel Hebog can be linked by a rough

from the village.

NWM 2018 Page 37

MAGAZINE

What to do

Beddgelert and steaming through The Alpine Aberglaslyn

VISIT GELERTS GRAVE

line uses Beyer-Garratt locomotives which are the largest and

OK, so the legend of Gelert the faithful hound of Prince

most powerful two foot gauge locomotives in the world. The

Llewelyn the Great may only be a made up story devised by

25-mile line is a credit to the volunteers who helped rebuild

local town traders in the hope of attracting more visitors to

it. The original line closed in 1936.

the village but it ought to be true! The site chosen for the

www.festrail.co.uk

Pass. There are sharp curves and steep gradients and the

fictional grave is a short walk south of Beddgelert and is reached by a good path.

EXPLORE MYNYDD SYGUN AND THE ABERGLASLYN PASS You can make a good circular walk by using the dramatic

VISIT SYGUN COPPER MINE

Fishermans Path to explore the Alpine pass of Aberglaslyn

Sygun Copper Mine was a winner of The Prince of Wales

and this alone makes for a stunning outing. However, if you

award for tourism and is located three quarters of a mile

combine it with a climb over rugged Mynydd Sygun (1,049

away from Beddgelert under the slopes of Mynydd Sygun.

ft) you will get a truly great walk with stunning views.

The attraction is very popular and is unique and highly

You can easily work a route out for yourself or buy a guide

impressive example of how Wales’s industrial heritage

book covering the area. The links below gives good rounds

can be reclaimed and transformed into something of

but remember to take along Ordnance Survey OL Explorer

interest to tourists. There are winding tunnels and large

17 – Snowdon/Yr Wydffa and a compass and know how

colourful chambers to explore with stalagmite and stalactite

to navigate. You will need to choose a clear day of settled

formations that will amaze adults and children alike. You

weather and turn back if conditions deteriorate. Wear boots

can experience what it would have been like to have been a

and carry waterproofs, hat and gloves and food and drink in

miner in Victorian times and see copper ore veins containing

your rucksack.

traces of gold, silver and other precious metal. A self-guided audiovisual tour allows visitors to explore the old mine

VISIT TY ISAF

workings on foot and colourful lighting makes the whole

Ty Isaf is one of Beddgelert’s oldest buildings and is owned

experience very enjoyable.

and operated by The National Trust who run it as a craft

www.syguncoppermine.co.uk

shop. It is located in the heart of the village and is to be found in a Grade 11 listed building that dates back to the late 17th

RIDE THE WELSH HIGHLAND RAILWAY

Century although there is some evidence that suggests it

You will hear the trains of The Welsh Highland Railway

might be of 15th Century origin. The shop sells a good range

before you see them and this narrow gauge Railway is billed

of local produce and crafts along with regular National Trust

as ‘train travel as it used to be’ and runs ‘coast to coast’ from

products and even some second hand books. The building

the historic walled town of Caernarfon to Porthmadog where

has museum status and it is well worth taking time to see

is shares a station with The Ffestiniog Railway. On the way

the ancient wooden beams on the upper floor. Many of the

it passes through spectacular Snowdonian mountain scenery

crafts exhibited and sold are inspired by the local landscape

and even under Mount Snowdon itself as well as calling at

and slate, wood and wool is heavily used.

Page 38 NWM 2018

Where to stay

and varied menu is served with a good selection of vegetarian

BRYN EGLWYS COUNTRY HOUSE HOTEL

premises. The bar serves a good selection of beers, lagers and

A former Georgian country farmhouse standing in a stunning

spirits and is unique in offering the cask ale ‘Faithful Gelert’

location, The Bryn Eglwys Country House Hotel has been

named after the local legend. The hotel has 11 comfortable

extensively refurbished but still retains much of its original

bedrooms to choose from.

character. The hotel is set in its own grounds with car parking

www.robinsonsbrewery.com

dishes. Food is locally sourced and freshly prepared on the

and a large garden. The bedrooms are comfortable and well equipped and most have good views of the surrounding area.

PLAS GWYN BED AND BREAKFAST

There is a restaurant with a good menu selection and you can

Plas Gwyn Bed and Breakfast is located near the Bridge and

eat overlooking the river Glaslyn. There is also a small lounge

overlooking the river in central Beddgelert. You are right in

and bar where you can relax with a drink.

the middle of the village here and it’s very handy for taking

www.snowdonia-hotel-accomodation-wales.com

a short walk to have something to eat in the evenings. Plas Gwyn has recently been renovated to a high standard and

THE SARACENS HEAD HOTEL

offers two single rooms, a twin room and three double rooms.

The Saracens Head Hotel is a lovely country inn set in the

Rooms are comfortable and the views superb. Plas Gwyn is

heart of the village of Beddgelert. Walkers with muddy boots,

friendly and comfortable and there is a resident’s lounge.

children and even dogs are welcome here. The hotel serves

www.plas-gwyn.com

a varied menu of traditional food that is cooked using locally sourced produce where possible. The bar is well stocked

BRYN DINAS CAMPING PODS

and comfortable and cosy. The Saracens Head Hotel has 11

Glamping is the latest craze for those who want to camp but

clean and pleasant en suite rooms that have been recently

don’t want to have to pitch a tent. All you need to bring is your

refurbished to a high standard. The hotel is open all year and

sleeping bag and cooking gear and of course food and drink.

is very welcoming.

Bryn Dinas Camping pods is located 2.5 miles from Beddgelert

www.saracens-head.co.uk

and was established in 2013. There are eight pods available as well as two bunk rooms sleeping four people in each. There is

PRINCE LLEWELYN HOTEL

also a log cabin that will take four people too. There are heated

The Prince Llewelyn Hotel is set in the heart of Beddgelert

bathrooms and showers close to the accommodation which is

and is named after The Welsh Prince Llewlelyn The Great who

set in 4.5 acres of woodland.

was believed to have had a palace in the area. A good

www.bryndinascampingpods.co.uk

Although it is a brilliant story that you really want to be true,

whether bedecked with colourful flowers on a warm sunny

the reality is that it was probably made up by local traders

day or when shiny with frost on a cold winter’s morning. It is

in an attempt to lure more visitors to the village. It’s hard to

a happy place and although it does not have a large number

put a date on the exact time this happened, but when George

of shops to boast of, it is full of charm and pleasantness.

Borrow (author of the classic Wild Wales) visited here in 1854

Whenever I think of the village it is always with fond and

the legend was already well known. The real ‘Gelert’ was a

happy memories of days spent on the high ground above it

sixth Century saint who lived in this area and gave his name

or taking a drink outside one of the pubs - and like all other

to the place.

visitors here on a hot day I love to buy ice cream and eat it often near the picturesque bridge at the village centre where

George Borrow also calls the valley around Beddgelert a

the Afon Glaslyn and The Afon Colwyn meet.

‘wondrous valley – rivalling for grandeur any vale either in the Alps or Pyrenees’. And he was a widely travelled writer so he

The pretty St. Mary’s Church is built on the site of a 7th

knew what he was talking about!

Century Augustinian Priory and retains relics of the original building which was badly damaged by fire in the 13th

The village is in a truly beautiful setting with wooded vales,

Century.

forests, rocky slopes and awesome hills contrasting nicely with the stone built houses, the cafés, inns and hotels. It is an

On the outskirts of Beddgelert you can visit The Sygun Copper

unspoilt spot that is both small and friendly and has plenty

Mine which is a great family day out and gives adults and

of amenities to offer the visitor. And it has to be said, tourists

children alike the chance to experience what it was like to be

flock here in some numbers and on a hot summers day the

a Victorian miner in the area.

place can be bustling and very busy. Rising above and behind this is the little (but very rugged) Beddgelert is one of those locations that always look pretty

peak of Mynydd Sygun (1,049 ft) which is linked by a high

NWM 2018 Page 39

MAGAZINE

level path to the nearby Mynydd Dyniewyd (1,254 ft). A nice circular walk can be made over the two summits with the path eventually descending to the shores of Llyn Dinas where you pick up a good track to return to Beddgelert. It was on the slopes of these two smaller Snowdonian summits that scenes for the 1958 film The Inn of The Sixth Happiness were filmed and famous Hollywood actress Ingrid Berman was regularly spotted in the area. The film was based in China and told the story of missionary Gladys Aylward who worked there

Eating and drinking

in the turbulent years leading up to The Second World War.

THE ROYAL GOAT HOTEL

built at nearby Nantmor.

To set the scene a Chinese village appeared on the terraced workings of one of the old copper mines and a Chinese fort was

The Royal Goat has been under new management since last year and offers a good selection of

Beddgelert’s other ‘famous face’ is Rupert the Bear. The village

traditional pub food and fare along with an

was almost certainly the inspiration for many of the drawings

excellent selection of drinks.

in this famous and long running cartoon series as the strips

www.royalgoathotel.com

illustrator, Alfred Bestall M.B.E., lived here.

HEBOG CAFÉ AND BISTRO

Other things to do while you are here are to check out the very

Open since April 2014 Hebog Café and Bistro

Alpine Aberglaslyn Pass which is a wonderful gorge down

serves a varied breakfast and lunch menu in

which The Afon Glaslyn runs. The narrow Fishermans Path

a central location in Beddgelert. If the weather

besides the river is great to walk on but requires care in places.

permits food can be eaten Al Fresco on the river

As well as being able to drive through the pass, the delightful

terrace.

narrow gauge Welsh Highland Railway runs along it too. This

www.hebog-beddgelert.co.uk

25-mile line links Caernarfon and Porthmadog and has a station at Beddgelert.

BEDDGELERT BISTRO, ANTIQUES AND TEA ROOM Located in a 17th Century stone built building in

And let’s finish with some strange history.

the centre of Beddgelert overlooking The Afon Colwyn. Food included breakfasts, hot and cold

On September 21st 1949 a five pound meteorite crashed through

snacks, homemade cakes and full meals.

the roof of The Prince Llewelyn Hotel. Fortunately no one was

www.beddgelert-bistro.co.uk

injured and the hotel sold half of the object to The British Museum and half to Durham University.

GLASLYN ICES AND GLANDWR CAFE A popular ice cream parlour and café much

It was one of only verified meteor strikes in Wales. n

frequented by visitors. Glaslyn Ices offers a large selection of different flavoured ice creams and sorbets as well as traditional café good. www.glaslynices.co.uk THE TANRONNEN INN The Tanronnen Inn offers traditional home cooked pub food served in a comfortable dining room that is open to non residents of the inn. Two bars cater for your thirst as well. www.tanronnen.co.uk

Page 40 NWM 2018

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

INTELLIGENT ELECTRIC HEATING Tailored to suit your home & lifestyle

directory

and in North Wales; they also have a brilliant two-minute ‘Day in the Life of a Beekeeper’ video on the website filmed using a Go-Pro camera which I challenge you to watch and not be bitten by the beekeeping bug! There’s also Brian Sacre at Celtic Honeysmith, who produces a number of artisan honey products including Natural Raw Honey, Honey Pickled Shallots and Honey Pickled Onions. You can pop along to the annual Conwy Honey Fair which celebrates North Wales’ long-standing connection with bees and beekeeping and provides an opportunity for local

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

NWM 2018 Page 51

Abersoch Holiday Homes

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Y GARN, ABERSOCH Oozing luxury, style and elegance, this exquisite house features spacious living areas, a top-quality kitchen, fabulous bathrooms and incredible outside spaces including a glass infinity balcony and hot tub; all within walking distance of the beach and village.

WENDON, LANBEDROG

S TAY I N S T Y L E O N T H E L L Ŷ N Contemporary and stylish dormer bungalow with sea views, enviably located in an elevated position within walking distance of Abersoch and this renowned seaside village's shops, restaurants and long sandy beaches. The house has been decorated in a sleek and modern coastal style throughout. Friends and family can gather in the sociable open-plan living/dining room with multi-fuel burner roaring in the winter or head directly onto the large front balcony with sea views in the summer; a great place for an extended family holiday in all seasons! 10

Desirably located in the pretty village of Llanbedrog, Wendon is a perfect family escape! A short walk to renowned sandy National Trust beach, art gallery, restaurants and pub. With a well presented interior and rear enclosed lawn garden, there in no need to move from this holiday home!

KOOKABURRA, ABERSOCH A modern, detached bungalow providing an ideal holiday home in Abersoch. An enclosed rear garden, great for both children and pets, is just one of the family-friendly features of this well presented holiday home. It also boasts a raised sun terrace from which to enjoy the superb views over Abersoch to the sea.

2 CRUGAN, LLANBEDROG

Take a look at our full collection -

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A stylish and contemporary detached chalet located on the exclusive family-friendly Crugan holiday park. This high quality chalet offers beautifully presented accommodation, ample living space and offers access to The Warrens' leisure facilities including outdoor pool, tennis courts, spa and more.

Page 52 NWM 2018

Food

for thought

Every now and then, I catch snippets of a TV

you’d get a pretty impressive tan.

show called A Place in The Sun, in which couples uproot their families to live abroad –

It helps enormously that North Wales is

tends to be Australia a lot of the time – more

one of the most beautiful places on earth at

often than not because ‘it’s always sunny.’ It’s

the best of times. In the autumn, the great

a mindset I have simply never understood.

coppering of the leaves is like a silent explosive fireworks display that transforms all

The changing of the seasons in this country

that glorious countryside we live within.

is a gift sent to us by the divine, quartering the year with nature’s elegant paintbrush.

Our appetites change at this time of year.

Summer is all well and wonderful (this

All the talk of beach-body-diets have been

summer especially), but after three months

packed away for the year now that we no

of it, I start to pine for a bit of rust in the

longer have to face the prospect of appearing

Cai Ross is co-owner and

trees and the chance to wrap up in a decent

publicly in swimming trunks and an open

Maitre d’ of the award-

coat and go for a long and winding country

shirt. Those appetites will be well satisfied if

winning Paysanne Bistro

ramble which ends up at a friendly pub with

you happen to be attending Conwy Feast, the

in Deganwy, which has

a ‘hearty fayre’ menu policy.

annual food festival (26th – 28th October).

been serving French country-style food to the

The way the four seasons turn into

At home, the salads and the barbecues

fine people of North Wales

themselves is basically the ageing process

are off the menu. It’s back to huddling the

since 1988. He also writes

turned into a deeply reassuring multisensual

family around a big table to enjoy a tummy-

for Calibre Magazine, BBC

experience by Mother Nature, and we are all

pleasing roast, much like I did last week.

Good Food, HeyUGuys.

the more enriched by it. The idea of missing

I can recommend the following recipes

com and The North Wales

the falling of the leaves and the warmth of a

unreservedly – so many of us stroked our

Weekly News

mug of soup in my hands on a cold day, just

bellies in satisfaction at the same time

to live in per-petual sunshine sounds like a

afterwards that I thought we’d start chiming

prison sentence to me – albeit one in which

like so many rubbed wine-glass rims. n

NWM 2018 Page 53

MAGAZINE

Recipes

OES AST POTAT O R N O M E EASY L

VY WITH GRA Y L L E B K R ROAST PO ght is, and bou for th ver recipe vans in d Jamie Oli ol ly from R. E an el d b k se or Iu p ot p S ster Old cheap too. d absurdly some Glouce an s u io ic It’s del Llandudno. Serves 6

pork belly her-welfare ig h of ce ie 1.3 kg p seeds oons fennel Two tablesp lt n of rock sa 1 tablespoo oil e 100ml oliv led ee p s, 2 carrot ry le ce of s k 2 stic c li ar g of lb 1 bu e (leave fresh thym Handful of s) oe e potat some for th red ions, quarte on d 2 peele e it wine -grade wh 1 bottle of B our 75g plain fl ou’ll need perature. Y m te t es es h ig its h g the groov oven up to knife, cuttin y le n Crank the ta el S n n a g d the fe e skin usin the salt an l over to score th hen crush T . er e olive oil al h th et g b u to R e r. os ta cl or the ry m g ve tle & re, coatin her in a pes nnel mixtu fe e th seeds toget er ov er. en sprinkle black pepp the skin, th skin with e th n so ea g. S whole thin ulb in the garlic b celery. Cut d ong an al s ot ay tr rr g op the ca ed roastin as b of yv Roughly ch ea ah belly on top erything in ut the pork e P th e. , ym half. Put ev en th th e tes. By ions and th for 15 minu k or en p ov with the on s e d th ar w ding to stick it in ing and hea ), and the veg then ted brown ar 160°C (FAN st to e n av h ow d en door, ov e skin will ov rn th en the en rritory. Tu fter that, op A t for s. as te ro u crackling te d in an the pork r and 30 m d ou n h 1 ou r ar fo e t roas the win quarters of pour threeour. ping one more h onto a chop ft the meat li full of lly ay tr fu g re is up, ca e roastin e th t m u ti P e . th st re When ium heat. d let it over a med with foil an r ob h ve e ick co , th rd to boa her until th ectly on etables dir en stir toget th , the g p in u h h yt as cooked veg u like). M r over ever yo ou if fl e er th at of w le a little Sprink d the rest spoon (add e base. Ad en th d f of oo in w ff er u a with good st ding wat g. Keep ad rape all the in sc p d it ra an at sc c th d li gar worry ring an want. Don’t d keep stir stency you the wine an si n co e th to get point. small doses ising at this ly unappet te le p ed m co looks a good-siz a sieve into h g in u y ro v th ra ve the g ouring it an job. Lea sauce by p ntil es a two-m Strain the im ork belly u et p m e so th his is carve up u yo e il saucepan –t h tw er a low hea the pan ov e. rv se to y you are read

Page 54 NWM 2018

t All‘Tesco Fines oes - I used at ot p ) x ro 1.5kg (app nd but Marius ould be gra Rounders’ Edwards w g in K or s Piper t n goose fa ary 1 tablespoo ried rosem d chopped 1 teaspoon d es, unpeele 6 garlic clov yme th er ov ft e le Some of th er p ep P & t Sal ting fat in a roas n of goose oo s. p te u as in te ed t ten m Put a heap en for abou ov e th in it t tin and pu ter them atoes. Quar peel the pot ’t h lemon on it d t w u b Wash rinkle them p S . le g an ty all at a jaun w minutes. ave for a fe le d an e ic ju (very) ng tin, then t the roasti ou em with e th k g ta n -i lly Carefu s in, turn oe at ot p ng in e th as ut get a co ti carefully p at they all th ter so at n sc oo , lic cloves a wooden sp dd the gar A t. e fa th d se oo an lt the hot g pepper, sa with black over thyme ft le e everything th d the semary. Ad put back in chopped ro recipe and ly den el ol b g k em or want th from the p hour – you an t ou ab oven for brown.

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

ce EE rvi FR Se n sig De

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Unit 6, Mochdre Industrial Estate, Blackmarsh Rd, Colwyn Bay LL28 5HA 01492 541126 Take a look at our Shaker range for a more classic approach TRADE ONLY

Page 55 NWM 2018

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HP Cae Mor Hotel Oct FINAL OK.pdf

18/09/2018

07:48

Lyn has been lovingly making handmade gifts, decorations, bags and a wide range of other items for over 5 years since moving to live in North Wales. Lyn is mainly self-taught after initially learning basic skills at school. Lyn has gained experience in many skilled crafts including crochet, knitting and card making before finally finding her passion which is sewing. After moving to Cilcain Village, near Mold, Lyn attended a local sewing class to refresh and enhance her skills, before making gifts for family and friends. This grew rapidly when people began to see the beautiful and unique gifts and ideas that Lyn creates, until it became the all consuming passion that is it today.

All the above items can be personalized with embroidery or applique Shop Address Clwyd Street, Ruthin, LL15 1HH Mobile:07872 435107

www.lovinglymadebylyn.co.uk

Want to get into the Christmas Spirit early? Join us at ‘Samphire Brasserie & Bar’ for our Christmas Fayre Menu, which will start on 26th November. The Newest Restaurant on the Block, ‘Samphire Brasserie & Bar’

Situated at The Cae Mor Hotel, right next door to The Venue Cymru. Open from 16.30 -20.30 Tuesday to Saturday. Get your Christmas Jumpers ready and join us for some delicious Fayre. Using local Supplier Poyntons to supply the meat. Call us on Tel: 01492 878101 to make a booking. F: caemorhotelllandudno

Raise your glass Autumn wines – it’s time to open the reds!

While it is probably still early to resort to the enveloping embrace of an Aussie Shiraz or a rich and opulent red from France’s deep south, there are plenty of middleweight wines to offer comfort as the nights draw in more. Although September is regarded as the start of autumn, it’s not until October that I really feel a change in the sort of food

If you’re a Rhône fan, you might also fancy picking up a

and drink I favour. When summer tips over into autumn,

couple of bottles of the rich, spicy Darriaud Cotes Du Rhone

I’m instinctively drawn to the richer, weightier whites and

Villages AOP, 2014. This wine has instantly appealing tones

reds than the wines I’ve been drinking for the previous few

of warm fully ripe southern Rhône fruit, lifted by nuances of

months.

oak, which flow into layers of supple and smooth textures and roll forward to a full-flavoured sumptuous finish. This wine

Autumn is a good time to appreciate the secondary fruit

is Mostly unoaked, a small proportion (20%) is part aged for

flavours you find in older vintages and aged wines – that

22 months in a few new but mostly older oak barrels to bring

offers notes of cooked plums and

depth and subtle notes of complexity.

damsons, rather than the bright raspberries and strawberries of fresher,

During autumn, wines made from grapes such as Grenache

younger, more summery reds.

and Pinot Noir can offer the perfect bridge between fruitier summer reds and the heavier, supercharged styles suited to

So it’s ‘hooray’ for robust reds such

chilly November evenings. So, here’s another fine example

as the big, full throttle HECULA,

with which to pop your lips on…

Monastrell, Bodegas Castano, 2016. Yecla/Spain.

Mora & Memo, Nau, Cannonau di Sardegna, DOC Sardinia, Italy, 2016. Cannonau is locally known in Sardinia as Grenache.

This oak-aged Monastrell (a grape known in France as Mourvèdre) was produced on two

Intense ruby red colour with violet reflections, bouquet of red berries, spices and coffee. Smooth

high altitude older vineyards averaging 750m above sea

and elegant tannins in a great

level. There’s a specific microclimate in these areas with very

structure and complexity.

cold winters and hot summers, leading to greater depth and concentration in the wines. You’ll find an aromatic glassful,

There’s plenty more to tantalise

with raspberry and liquorice notes and a floral hint. To taste

your tastebuds in-store @

(or rather to drink), it’s ripe and rich, with smooth black fruit

thegrapetoglass, so whether you

laced with vanilla spice from the oak.

are in for a free tasting to decide what to take home this autumn, or relax and have wine by the glass, make sure you bring your scarf!

Tim Watson runs The Grape to Glass Wine Shop and Tasting Room

Iechyd da!

in Rhos-on-Sea which, as well as

Tim and Mark

offering wine from far reaching lands, also stocks locally produced beers, wines and spirits The Grape to Glass Wine Shop and Tasting Room 8b Rhos Parade, Penrhyn Avenue, Rhos-on-Sea, LL29 7RE 01492 545934, thegrapetoglass@gmail.com Facebook/Twitter/Instagram @thegrapetoglass www.thegrapetoglass.co.uk

NWM 2018 Page 57

MAGAZINE

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Page 58 NWM 2018

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Ffordd Y Pentre is a stone-built Grade II listed farm house believed to date back to the 1600â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Situated in the picturesque rural village of Nercwys, Ffordd Y Pentre offers the perfect blank canvas for somebody who wants to put their own stamp on a character property. It is on the market for ÂŁ269,950 with Williams Estates. www.williamsestates.com

HOMES & INTERIORS NWM 2018 Page 59

Bathrooms | Bedrooms | Kitchens Ensuites | Wetrooms | Tiles WE DESIGN, SUPPLY, FIT AND GUARANTEE

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Property

of the month A If it is seclusion you are looking for then Henar Farm could well be the place! This attractive farm property is situated in an idyllic location above the North Wales town of Llanfairfechan which offers uninterrupted views across the Menai Strait towards both Anglesey and Puffin Island. The property sits within eight acres of land, so be prepared to roll your sleeves up! The main house has three bedrooms, with one boasting an en suite. There is also a separate detached cottage with one bedroom and a crog loft which can be used for holiday letting or as an annexe to the main house. In addition there is a stone built barn with a slate roof which could, subject to permission, be developed further – making this the ideal place should you be looking for a home that provides you with an income to boot. The property is in a good state of repair but, if we’re honest, it’s the stunning views that really steal the show…

NWM 2018 Page 61

MAGAZINE

Henar Farm is currently on the market with Accent Properties for ÂŁ525,000. For further information visit www.accentproperties.co.uk, or call 01248 680222

Page 62 NWM 2018

The Selling & Letting Agents

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

email: rhos@fletcherpoole.com

website: www.fletcherpoole.com

ROWEN

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EPC

• A Detached Cottage built circa 1600 was originally three cottages. • Sitting in the heart of the much sought after picturesque village of Rowen. • Converted and thoughtfully updated and has a wonderful welcoming feel. • Delightful private gardens to both the front and rear, off road parking and single garage.

DEGANWY

LLANDUDNO JUNCTION £450,000

£329,950 • An immaculately presented and extended detached four bedroom home • Situated in a tucked away cul de sac, within easy access to the schools, train station, shops and A55. • Good size driveway with enclosed and gated side and rear gardens. • Solar panels which are owned by number 15 and generate income.

• Beautifully presented & extended 4 bed home occupying a corner plot in a sought after location. • Extended & completely refurbished to a very high standard with a thoughtful attention to detail. • Superb & far reaching views over the mountains, Conwy Castle, the harbour, countryside & estuary. • Good size garage, beautifully landscaped enclosed rear & side gardens ideal for capturing the sun.

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

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

The Selling & Letting Agents

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

email: rhos@fletcherpoole.com

website: www.fletcherpoole.com

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

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

sales & lettings beresfordadams.co.uk Caernarfon | 01286 829149

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• Four bedrooms • Individually designed family residence • Full length sun room • Generous sized plot • Amazing views across Cardigan Bay & Snowdonia mountains • Sound system and security cameras installed • Large Kitchen and two reception rooms • External al fresco dining area.

EPC

Pentrefelin, Criccieth £280,000 • Converted Chapel to a very high specification • A contemporary and quality residence • Generous accommodation set over three floors • 4 bedroom semi detached property

Llanberis Prices start from £300,000 • Fully double glazed, gas fired central heating and lounge with a multi fuel burner • Personal driveway providing ample parking. • Enclosed terrace/seating area

• Exclusive development of 11 Luxury Homes • 4 Bedroom detached homes offering modern living accommodation • Open plan Lounge/kitchen/diner • Bathroom and one bedroom with en-suite

• Located in the heart of Llanberis • Show Home Available • Viewing Highly recommended • Help To Buy Scheme available

sales & lettings beresfordadams.co.uk Colwyn Bay | 01492 849334

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Rhos on Sea £249,500

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Llandudno | 01492 849290

• Stunning, Newly Built Apartment • Interior Designer Finish • Two Double Bedroom • En-suite & Bathroom

• Central Location • Ample Off Road Parking • Enclosed Garden To Rear • Recently Reduced By £20,000

EPC

• Beautiful, Open Plan Living Space • Modern, Fitted Kitchen • Utility Room, Storage & Fitted Wardrobes • Allocated Parking

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Cadnant Park Conwy £435,000 • No Chain – Reduced for limited period • Four Bedroom Detached Property • Far Reaching Estuary Views Towards Llandudno Great Orme • Two Reception Rooms

Penrhyn Bay, Llandudno Offers Over £525,000 • Kitchen/Breakfast Room & Utility Room • Family Bathroom, Wet Room & En-Suite • Gardens • Double Integral Garage & Driveway

• Detached Character Property • G/F Apt Offers 3 Bedrooms O/O £260,000 • Currently Separated Into Two Spacious Apartments • F/F Apt Offers 2 Dble Bedrooms O/O £280,000 • Both Apartments Enjoy Garage, Gardens & Driveway • Ground Floor Apartment Is Currently Tenanted • Distant Sea Views & Mountain Views From the First Floor

sales & lettings beresfordadams.co.uk Bangor | 01248 489318

Holyhead | 01407 799184

Menai Bridge | 01248 489323

Waen Farm Caravan Park, Llanfechell £499,950 • Short drive to the coastal village Cemaes Bay • Lots of further potential • Idyllic location • Income potential

Ty Bryn Adda, Y Felinheli Offers over £680,000

• Good size family accomadation • Sizeable gardens • Outbuilding with potential for conversion (STP) • All round viewing recommended

• Located in the Vaynol Estate & dates back to 1890’s • Used for various different businesses/work shops • Six bedroom property • Private drive, mature gardens and woodland area • Situated within its own private grounds • Viewing highly recommended • Holiday let cottage with further three bedrooms

EPC

Pen Yr Orsedd, Gorsedd £425,000 • Secluded Property • Popular Sought after Village Location • Dining Room, Lounge, Sun room • Three Bedrooms

Holywell | 01352 809410

The Yard, Red Wharf Bay £750,000 • Extensive Gardens • Views Over Estuary and Wirral Peninsular • Excellent access to commuter routes • Viewing recommended to appreciate the wealth of charm

• 4 Bedrooms • 2 Receptions • Detached Property • Waterfront Location

• 6 Acres Of Grazing Land • Far Reaching Sea Views • Walking Distance To Local Restaurants • Ideal Holiday Home Income Potential

sales & lettings beresfordadams.co.uk Rhyl | 01745 449344

Abergele | 01745 449349

Prestatyn | 01745 449339

Kinmel Bay £495,000

Corwen, Denbighshire Offers over £300,000 • Stunning Character Property • Large Gardens • Outbuildings • Four Bedrooms

• Two Bathrooms • Large Family Kitchen With Rayburn • Cruck Construction • Inglenook Fireplace With Multi-Fuel Burner

• Detached five bedroom house with large rooms • UPVC hardwood effect double glazing, • Gas central heating & full TV security system • Fitted kitchen, dining room, utility, & downstairs WC

EPC

• Large lounge with 2 conservatories • Ground floor bedroom with en-suite shower • Master bedroom with shower room • Large driveway, outdoor entertaining area & bar

Marion, Trelawnyd £625,000 • Detached property with approx 3 acres of land • Paddocks, stables, 2 garages & hay barn • Semi rural location, in an area of natural beauty • Lounge with multi fuel stove & brick fire place

Ruthin | 01824 729139

Llanddulas, Abergele The Mill £400,000 • Large kitchen with dining area & conservatory • 3 bedrooms, en-suite shower & feature bathroom • Two attic rooms used as a bedroom & office • The garage has been converted into an annex area

• Extended and Renovated Former Mill • Riverside Setting • Large Mature Gardens • Open Plan Living Kitchen

• Lounge With Bi-Fold Doors • Modern Bathroom and En-suite • Three Double Bedrooms • Outbuilding

www.anthonyflint.co.uk

23 ROCKFIELD DRIVE, DEGANWY, LL30 1PF

ÂŁ449,950 Stunning detached chalet style home with stunning views having been renovated, extended and upgraded. Spacious open plan living area, dining space and fitted kitchen, separate lounge and utility. Bedrooms over two floors with two bedrooms and bathroom on the ground floor. First floor offers bedroom with en suite shower room and master suite with stunning views, study/dressing area, bathroom plus walk in wardrobes. Outside there is a garage, gardens and great views. EPC Rating: D

Regents House, 125 Mostyn Street, Llandudno T: 01492 877418 E: llandudno@anthonyflint.co.uk

Rentals, Llandudno T: 01492 877419 E: rentals@anthonyflint.co.uk

www.anthonyflint.co.uk

PINE RIDGE, RHYD Y FOEL, NR ABERGELE, LL22 8EG

ÂŁ695,000 Spacious accommodation over two floors set in approximately 1/3 of an acre in a semi rural hamlet of Rhyd y Foel. Modern reception hall, double aspect lounge with curved glass balcony, open plan dining area, fully fitted kitchen, utility, sun room, cinema room and three bedrooms - all with en suites. Outside there is ample parking, double garage, and good size gardens. Viewing is highly recommended to appreciate the size, style and high quality finish this beautiful home has to offer. EPC Rating: D

Regents House, 125 Mostyn Street, Llandudno T: 01492 877418 E: llandudno@anthonyflint.co.uk

Rentals, Llandudno T: 01492 877419 E: rentals@anthonyflint.co.uk

£279,950 £76,950 Bryn Gro, Valley Road, 30 Penrhyn Park, Penrhyn Llanfairfechan, Conwy, LL33 0ET Avenue, Rhos on Sea, LL28 4PL A tastefully refurbished 4 bedroom semi detached family home which has been restored to a very high standard with high quality fittings and furnishings throughout with timber framed windows with double glazed inserts and oil fired central heating. The property is in the upper part of the village in a sought after residential location. There is off road parking for two cars plus a large block and stone faced outbuilding which could be converted into a garage, if required.

A desirable one-bedroom TOP FLOOR apartment with LIFT ACCESS and delightful VIEWS OF THE BOWLING GREEN, PARK AND LITTLE ORME. The property is very well presented and is a credit to the current owners. In brief the apartment comprises of; hallway, lounge, kitchen, double bedroom with fitted wardrobes, bathroom with overhead electric shower, Upvc double glazing and electric heating. This property affords relaxed accommodation within easy walking distance of Rhos on Sea’s shops and promenade.

£139,950 2 Bron Berllan, Nant Y Felin Road, Llanfairfechan, Conwy, LL33 0TA A deceptively spacious two bedroom, two bathroom mid terraced cottage located in the upper part of the village but still within easy access of local amenities. The property has been much improved over recent years and benefits from uPVC double glazing throughout and gas central heating. The property is extremely well presented and viewing is highly recommended.

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

Wigwam Works A recent project in the Welsh borders had a simple brief, provide a relaxed, open plan environment with moody atmospheric areas. When you have a look in mind, but the budget has other priorities, Wigwam Design can source a lower priced comparable product or even an alternative approach altogether. In this instance, alternative tiles on a dominating wall did the trick. www.wigwam.design

Warm Essence The Gift Companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best selling candle lantern is back in stock, just in time for the season change. Standing approximately 28cm high, the candle warmer lantern fills the room with your favourite fragrance, as well as a wonderful light. The perfect stocking stuffer, the candle lamp melts about five centimetres of wax in your jar candle. After many hours of melting the fragrance will start to dissipate, when the scent is not as strong as you like, simply remove the first layer of the melted wax, place you candle back under warmer and your warmer will then continue to melt the next layer of your favoured fragrant candle. www.giftcompany.com

Inspire & Source sYvonne Parker is a creative interior designer with a wealth of knowledge and experience. Through her company Evoque Designs, she offers a professional, friendly and personal service. Working with you, Yvonne will match your vision with the flow and layout of your property, then source textures, colours, lighting, furniture and fabrics to create a beautiful, coordinated and comfortable living space that works for you. And all within your timescale and budget. www.evoqued.co.uk

NWM 2018 Page 75

MAGAZINE

Take a seat The Daphne Chair from MY Furniture is an exceptionally stylish and comfortable lounge chair which will make a bold statement in any room. Large wraparound back, upholstered in emerald green velvet fabric with contrast piping, compliments the solid ash legs stained to a walnut finish. www.my-furniture.co.uk

Plant a Poinsettia October signals Richard’s award-winning homegrown Poinsettias and Cyclamen to take centre stage at Snowdonia Nurseries. These magnificent, yet traditionally temperamental festive blooms have become famous in the region for their unparalleled strength and quality, providing the perfect gift for a friend or family member at Christmas. Oops – did we mention the C word already? www.snowdonianurseries.co.uk C

Fabric first

The Isadore fabric from ILIV collection boasts rich opulent designs in six luxurious colourways; Amethyst, Maize, Teal, Ash Grey, Duckegg and Sapphire. The Sapphire colourway, which is priced from £50.00 per metre, is pictured here, and promises to become the focal point of any room. www.i-liv.co.uk

Page 76 NWM 2018

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MAGAZINE

New Treatments at The Lifestyle Spa The Lifestyle Spa in Ruthin, Denbighshire, has launched a range of new treatments. The Lifestyle Spa is committed to bringing you the best alternative therapies available to enhance your health and wellbeing. Every treatment is given by experienced, fully trained, professional practitioners with a passion for what they do. In addition to your therapy, you’ll be given helpful advice and techniques for you to use at home to help you maintain and prolong the benefits of your treatment. Get in touch to learn more about Reiki, the Bowen Technique, Tui Na Massage, Reflexology, Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture, Crystal therapy and more. www.thelifestylespa.co.uk

Website finds dog friendly places Dog Furiendly is a new interactive website for North Wales dog owners. The website lists businesses and events across Wales – all of which are dog friendly. The website is entirely free to use and businesses are welcome to list their business for free. Dog Furiendly has recruited 50 dog owning brand ambassadors across the UK called ‘Explorers’. Emma and her Dachshund Seth from North Wales are proud brand ambassadors of the platform’s growing tail wagging community. www.dogfuriendly.com

Page 78 NWM 2018

And the winner is… Huge congratulations go to Jan Hale from Newborough who

New stores for Clogau Award winning jewellery brand Clogau is continuing

has won afternoon tea for two at The Llandudno Bay. We hope you have a fabulous day out! Tyddyn Bach, its development

on South Stack Road in Llaingoch.

on its upwards trajectory with four new stores set to open. Following the successful opening of its Broughton store in spring, the family owned Welsh jewellery brand will open stores in Swansea, Llandudno, Bangor and a new, larger site for its successful outlet store at

Subscribe!

Cheshire Oaks. Recent winners of Jewellery & Watch

If you enjoyed reading this issue of North Wales

Supplier of the Year at the 2018 UK Jewellery Awards,

Magazine then why not subscribe? Packed full of

Clogau, a small Welsh business with a big vision, has

interesting features, what’s on listings, food & drink

emerged as one of Wales’ fastest growing, exportable

articles, columns, homes & interiors and days out, North

brands. Every Clogau piece, containing rare gold from

Wales Magazine is the ONLY monthly glossy publication

the Clogau St David’s mine, is inspired by a wonderful

that is dedicated to the region. You can pick one up from

story – whether it be nature, the natural beauty of

a range of independent retailers – but when they’ve gone

Wales, its wonderful myths and legends or the unique

they’ve gone! But the good news is that for just £2.99 (or

association with royalty. ”I am really proud to be opening

the price of a cup of coffee) you can have one delivered

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Colwyn Bay,” commented MD Ben Roberts. “We have

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worked closely with Lord Mostyn and Mostyn Estates

delivery now…

to develop the store design in keeping with Llandudno and Bangor but also portraying our new look.”  With the new stores scheduled to open this autumn, a new TV advert featuring brand ambassador Gethin Jones and some fabulous festive limited edition pieces, Clogau is preparing to make sure its customers have a very special Christmas indeed. www.clogau.co.uk

NWM 2018 Page 79

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Walking

world

THE PRESTATYN TO RHYL PUSHCHAIR WALK

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW J Distance: 4.50 miles/7.24 kilometres J Time: Allow 2.5 to 3 hours – longer if stopping on the beach on the way

J Start: Car park for The Nova Centre at Prestatyn seafront. Use the west side car park (the one nearest Rhyl). There

The long seafront and promenade that runs between Prestatyn and Rhyl is

are toilets here. This is a pay and

a wonderful stretch of coastline, and the sandy beach here is very popular

display car park

and one of the best along this stretch of The North Wales coast. And because there is a concrete and surfaced sea wall for the whole distance it lends itself to parents of younger children who want somewhere they can push their pram or pushchair unimpeded for a few bracing miles. The going is flat and straightforward and if you start at Prestatyn’s seafront Nova Centre you will

J Grid Ref: SJ 058636 J Nearest postcode: LL19 7EY J Ordnance Survey Map: Ordnance Survey Explorer 264 – Vale of Clwyd

J What to expect: This is a linear

find plenty of space to park your car. From there a superb and mostly easy

walk along flat and mostly easy

approximately 3.5 mile/7.24 Km outing brings you to the Sea Life Centre

concrete and surfaced sea walls and

in Rhyl where a conveniently placed bus stop gives you the option to ride

promenades. It starts at The Nova

back to Prestatyn. From here a short walk through the town and down to the

Centre at Prestatyn and finishes near

seaside again brings you back to the start. It goes without saying that you

Rhyl SeaQuarium. A bus journey is

should choose a settled day of dry and warm weather to get the very best

required to get back to Prestatyn

out of this route – a wild and windy day would spoil things a lot and could be

and then a further walk is needed

dangerous if the tide were in. There are plenty of opportunities to get down

to return to the seafront and The

on the beach if you want to stop with the kids for a while and Rhyl has lots

Nova Centre. There is a bus stop

of places to eat and drink when you get to the end. Make sure you check the

near Rhyl SeaQuarium – use bus stop

tide times if you want to go onto the beach and observe any dog restrictions

1 and catch the Number 35 Bus to

that may be in force.

Prestatyn Bus Station. Families with pushchairs should find no problems with this route but remember

WALK DETAILS

to choose a settled day of warm weather. If you have children watch out for bikes on the promenade as it

START

is a popular ride for them and take

Exit the car park to go left (westerly) in the direction of Rhyl keeping

the usual precautions you would with

the sea right. There is a ramp for pushchair users in the narrow section

kids near the sea

that separates the two sections of the car park. Pass a sign for ‘Prestatyn

J Suitable for: Suitable for all age

Central beach’ and head off along the promenade keeping the beach and

groups and for families with

sea right. After the car park ends keep ahead on the promenade passing

pushchairs. Most fit and active

odd stone breakwaters on the beach. Shortly the promenade becomes

walkers will be fine on this walk

three levels – stick to the middle one if you can. Pass a ramp giving beach access and continue to reach a slipway down to the beach right and left

J Refreshments: At The Nova Centre at the start and plenty of choice in Rhyl

turning giving access to the bowls centre left.

NWM 2018 Page 81

MAGAZINE

START/ FINISH

PRESTATYN

Bus Stop

4 Bus Journey

RHYL

Central Beach and an elevated viewing platform area left. Rise Points of interest on this section

gently past a lifeguard station to curve left and walk past the

J A - The Nova Centre is one of North East Wales’ biggest

entrance to Rhyl SeaQuarium. Reach a road near the shops in

indoor visitor attractions offering a swimming pool, a splash

Rhyl and go left to the bus station which is facing The White

pool, a fitness suite, an indoor soft play area, a café and a

Rose Shopping Centre. Go to Bus stop 1 and catch bus 35 to

restaurant.

Prestatyn Bus Station.

J B – As you walk along the front you will notice the large wind farm out to sea. This is The North Hoyle Offshore Wind

Points of interest on this section

Farm which commenced operating in 2003. It was Wales’ first

J A – Rhyl SeaQuarium has over 30 exhibits and an outdoor

offshore wind farm.

cove for seals.

2) Continue ahead on the promenade which is just one level

5) Exit the bus at Prestatyn Bus Station and head towards the

now and slopes gently to the beach. When you reach a sea wall

nearby bridge to cross Gas Works Lane. Follow the left side of

continue ahead with the beach beyond the wall right and a golf

the road to pass over another road and cross the bridge. Curve

course left. Along this section you are by Robin Hood Beach

right and left past the entrance to Prestatyn Railway Station.

and there is no pushchair access to it here. Further along pass

Take care with children and dogs on this section and continue

a small lake left and continue past houses on the outskirts of

to the road end and a major crossroads with traffic lights. Go

Rhyl. After a modern red brick building bend right and left

left to use the crossing point to get over the road and take

with the promenade to reach Splash Point by a raised viewing

Bastion Road ahead continuing all the way to the Nova Centre.

area.

Go left in front of it to cut right back to the car park and start point.

Points of interest on this section

J A – Splash Point – Splash Point and Splash Point Beach are a

Points of interest on this section

popular location for day-trippers. The beach is dog friendly and

J A – Offa’s Dyke Long Distance Footpath starts to right of

has no restrictions all year round.

The Nova Centre as you walk towards it and runs for 177 miles/285 Km to Chepstow in South Wales.

3) Continue ahead along the promenade (a detour to the raised viewing platform is pushchair friendly and worth it for the

A WORD OF CAUTION

views) with the seafront buildings of Rhyl to your left. Pass

Walking in the outdoors can be a strenuous activity and it

toilets left and continue along Rhyl seafront passing along Rhyl

is up to you to ensure that you are fit and healthy enough to

East Beach to reach Rhyl Lifeboat Station.

undertake the route described and to approach the venture with caution and care. You should wear appropriate footwear

Points of interest on this section

and suitable clothing, take along food and drink plus carry the

A – Rhyl’s Lifeboat service was established in 1852 and the

relevant map and a compass and be able to use it. The details

lifeboat station here is one of the busiest stations in Wales.

given here are believed to be correct at the time of going to press. However, neither North Wales Magazine nor the author

4) – From the lifeboat station continue along the front past Rhyl

Page 82 NWM 2018

can accept responsibility for inaccuracies encountered.

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COMPETITION

Win

Tickets to Calendar Girls plus dinner at Y Review!

The award-winning musical, Calendar Girls, by Gary Barlow and Tim Firth is heading to Venue Cymru this month – and we have a pair of tickets to give away! The lucky winners will enjoy a complimentary three-course meal, with a bottle of wine, at Y Review first, before heading through to the theatre to watch the show. Calendar Girls The Musical is inspired by the true story of a group of ladies, who decide to appear nude for a Women’s Institute calendar in order to raise funds to buy a settee for their local hospital, in memory of one of their husbands, and have to date raised almost £5 million for Bloodwise. This musical comedy shows life in their Yorkshire village, how it happened, the effect on husbands, sons and daughters, and how a group of ordinary ladies achieved something extraordinary. Bloodwise, the UK’s specialist blood cancer charity, will continue to receive monies from this production – making the event even more special.

To Enter To win this amazing prize, simply send your name and address to competition@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk by Thursday 18th October – making sure that you put ‘Calendar Girls’ in the subject line. Good luck! T&Cs: The tickets are valid for the opening night of the show, Tuesday 23rd October, only. The meal must be taken at 5.30pm on the same evening in time for the 7.30pm performance.

We collect your information when you enter our competitions, and store this information on our systems. We will use this information to contact you if you are the competition winner, and to contact you occasionally with details of relevant offers. If you win the competition, your name and the town where you live will be printed in the following issue. Please visit www.northwalesmagazine.co.uk for our full Privacy Notice.

NWM 2018 Page 87

THE

wedding planner

We’ve all seen the movies when the girls get together to go

to size this was the

dress shopping and you’re greeted at the door of the shop

biggest issue I had

with a glass of Prosecco. The shop itself is perfectly white

when shopping, besides the fact

from the walls, to the doors and the floors, with grand chairs

we were never offered a glass

in the corner for your family and friends to sit on and a

of prosecco on arrival at any

beautiful podium in front of a large ornate mirror to gaze into

shop and the experience never

when you’re wearing ‘the dress’.

seemed as glamourous as it did

Get planning! 4th Oct The Kinmel, Abergele 5:30 – 8pm

on TV… *Warning* the following piece may alter the above image in Unfortunately, the majority

your mind.

of wedding dress shops will Don’t get me wrong, wedding dress shopping is an exciting

only have a small selection of

time and you may experience the above, if you do I’m jealous

samples sizes, with possibly

of you already. I’m speaking from personal experience on

one or two that might fit you on

this one and I fully understand what I’m about to say won’t

the shop floor. When I found the

happen to everyone – but it’s always nice to know an honest

dress I loved, I called around all

experience, so you don’t feel underwhelmed.

the stockists in the UK, as I was determined to find a shop who

For those who know me, you know, I’m not a skinny minny and

stocked ‘the dress’ in my size,

never will be, I love my desserts WAY too much! My wardrobe

which I did, and only then did I

is also full of varying shades of black, black, black and more

have the magic moment where I

black, so for the women reading this who can relate, my top tip

knew it was ‘the one’.

to you is… buy at least one white top and start wearing it every now and then, so when you come to try on a dress, you won’t

Times have changed since I

be dazzled by the colour, along with the fact it’s not black.

went wedding dress shopping and the ‘experience’ may have

When you do decide to go shopping for ‘the dress’ please don’t

improved but for those who may

leave it too late, it can take between 6-9 months for a dress to

experience the same as I did,

be made to your measurements, you also need to factor in time

don’t let it upset you, I promise,

for finding the perfect dress and time for fittings/alterations.

you will find the dress of your

When you do find the dress of your dreams order the size you

dreams! n

7th Oct Bodnant Welsh Food, Tal-y-Cafn, 11am – 6pm 7th Oct Holt Lodge Hotel, Wrexham 11am – 3pm 21st Oct Venue Cymru, Llandudno 11am – 4pm 21st Oct Rossett Hall, Rossett 11am – 3pm 25th Oct Chateau Rhianfa, Menai Bridge 5pm – 7pm 28th Oct Theatr Clwyd Wedding Fair, Mold 10am – 3pm

are now, it’s always easier and cheaper to take a dress in if needed.

Caroline Roberts runs Events by Caroline Louise, an I must have visited about 20 wedding dress shops

event management company that specialises in wedding

across the country and I think I tried on over 60

planning. She also owns Bella, the Prosecco Van and

different dresses, well when I say tried on, some I

provides happiness in a glass! For more information

just held up to myself in the mirror. When it came

please visit www.eventsbycarolinelouise.com

NWM 2018 Page 89

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Sea

life

Why sharks should be seen as friends… and NOT soup!

promote their protection and conservation. We house only the smaller native species of sharks, as larger ones do not do well in captivity, but we have displays and interactive exhibits showing the larger and more impressive shark species commonly found in British waters, which many Brits are unaware of. For example, our native plankton-feeding Basking Shark is the second largest shark in the world, far bigger than the Great White. Blue sharks, elegant and streamlined, are common in our waters offshore, as are Thresher and Porbeagle sharks. And (possibly most surprisingly) the Shortfin Mako, the fastest swimming shark, capable of reaching speeds of 74km an hour, is a regular visitor

Sharks are undoubtedly the most feared animals in the sea. However, these

to British seas during the

betoothed beauties deserve respect, and

warmer months!

with more shark species becoming endangered every year, we need to recognise their essential and fascinating

The statistics for global shark attacks speak for themselves.

role as friends – not foe.

You’re over a hundred times more likely to be killed by lightening, and thousands of times more likely to be killed by a

Sharks are technically referred to as ‘Apex predators’ meaning

hippo or a bee sting than a shark. Despite Spielberg’s attempts

that they are top of the food chain. They are an essential part

to convince us to the contrary, sharks do not see humans as

of the marine ecosystem and an indicator of ocean health – so

food and they do not hunt people down to eat them. All shark

if shark numbers are low then the health of the ocean is poor.

attacks are down to mistaken identity or defensive reactions,

Sharks have an important role in maintaining the species

which can easily be avoided by changing human behaviour.

below them, removing the weak and sick individuals amongst

But we love to surf in the best spots amongst seals (a favourite

their prey species, supporting diversity and controlling

food of Great Whites) or paddle on the surface with turtles (a

numbers to keep marine systems in balance.

favourite food of tiger sharks) or to explore poor visibility Bull Shark territory and most people will still make the calculated

As Apex Predators sharks face few natural threats – that is,

choice of going ahead anyway. I have done all of these things

until us humans come along with a ludicrous and insatiable

and have been fortunate enough to see these sharks and many

appetite for Shark Fin Soup! And until Spielberg released

others up close, without ever being attacked. The risks are

the first of his (admittedly very good) JAWS movies, which

absurdly low.

although a superb suspense thriller, resulted in an extreme and irrational fear of sharks and an unprecedented slaughter

We now have a lifesize model of a Megalodon jaw on display at

of shark populations, particularly that of the iconic Great White

the Anglesey Sea Zoo which throws into insignificance every

Shark which is now an endangered species.

predatory shark species we have in our seas today. The name Megalodon means ‘big tooth’ and these guys were SERIOUSLY

All sharks have a slow rate of reproduction and left to their

BIG! Closely related to the Great White shark but four times

own devices, their survival rate would be high. So once

larger, and enough to strike fear into the heart of the most

overfished, shark populations are rapidly depleted to the stage

hard-core surfer, they reached 21m in length with a bite force

where they may be unable to recover.

over five times greater than a Tyrannosaurus Rex!

Shark-finning is the sad fate of many millions of sharks every

Fortunately these highly intimidating toothy beasts have

year globally and it is brutal. These graceful predators are

been extinct for 2.6 million years. But they certainly put our

hauled out of the water, their fins are cut off and they are

irrational fear of modern-day sharks into perspective and

thrown back into the sea to sink to the bottom and slowly

enable us to see these amazing and vital creatures in the more

drown. Just to create a thickening agent for a soup which

positive light that they justly deserve. n

is consumed as a ritual in Asia and has so little flavour that many other ingredients must be added before it is even considered palatable. Here at the Anglesey Sea Zoo we educate all our visitors about the importance of sharks in the marine environment and

Frankie Hobro is the owner and director of Anglesey Sea Zoo. She has always been a passionate advocate for conservation, and has a long history working on hands-on conservation projects with critically endangered species in difficult conditions abroad

NWM 2018 Page 91

Three places to visit in October

Getting back

Foryd Bay, Caernarfon

to Nature

Time for fungi This is the best month to look for fungi – but unless you really know what you’re doing, look but don’t eat. There are hundreds of

at high tide, viewed from the east side in the morning or west side in late afternoon so that the sun is behind you. As the tide rolls in, look for Credit: Philippe Moret

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

This narrow tidal bay is best

waders such as Curlews and Redshanks on the mud, but the speciality here is the flock of Pale-bellied Brent Geese that arrive from Arctic Canada in October. Up to 200 feed

types, most are shades of yellow or brown, but the classic ‘toadstool’

on the saltmarsh, or on the

is Fly Agaric, its scarlet cap dotted with white flecks. For centuries

fields at RSPB’s Morfa Dinlle

the poison in this fungus was utilised, when sprinkled with milk,

nature reserve that also hosts

as an insecticide to kill bugs around the house. By the way, there’s

Lapwings and Golden Plovers

no simple way to determine whether fungi is edible – my best

over the winter.

advice is to join a fungus forage event with an expert guide. Coed Gwydyr, near Llanrwst Enjoy the changing colours of

Spider spotting

this forest above the Conwy

Walk across a grassland early on an October

Valley, accessed from places

morning and marvel at the many spiders that have

such as Llyn Crafnant and Nant Bwlch yr Haiarn. On the

been busy overnight, their silky webs illuminated by droplets of dew. Orb-weavers are the most

Credit: Ian Kirk

damp woodland floor, you’ll find a range of fungi in October, and

common family to make spiral wheel-shaped webs, and many have brightly-coloured bodies. The

Give hedgehogs a home

listen for the chipping calls of

spiders hide during the day, building their web in

A poll in 2012 voted the hedgehog as

Crossbills around the tops of

the evening to catch passing insects. The following

Britain’s favourite wild species but

the conifers – the red ones are

evening, they consume the remains of last night’s

there’s a real risk that many children’s

males and the females have

web and build a new one.

only experience of a hedgehog is Mrs

woodland-green plumage.

Tiggywinkle’s reanimation in the recent

Listen to the sky at night

Credit: wBen Porter

Step outside after dark on a calm evening and you may hear the high-octave ‘tseep’ lisp of Redwings. They look like Song Thrushes, but with a pale head-stripe and blood-red ‘arm pits’ that provide their name in English and Welsh (Coch dan adain). Redwings migrate at night, flying from Russia and Scandinavia to spend autumn in Britain, scoffing their way through berries on Rowan trees and wild rose bushes. Away from traffic noise, you might hear nightflying waders and waterbirds too, such as Whimbrels, Golden Plovers and Water Rails.

Peter Rabbit movie. A recent study found

Chirk Castle, near Wrexham

this once-widespread animal in only 20%

The medieval fortress and

of 261 sites surveyed. Pesticides and

formal gardens are the usual

habitat changes have removed many of

draw at this National Trust

the insects they munch, and road traffic

property, but much of the 480-

has had its toll. Gardens are a potential

acre parkland was designated

lifeline for this prickly mammal, but only if

a Site of Special Scientific

we help: cut a hole in the fence so they can

Interest earlier this decade

move in from next door; don’t burn piles of

in recognition of its ancient

leaves but leave them to rot so hedgehogs

trees, grassland fungi and the

can hibernate; search ‘make a hedgehog

associated insects.

home’ online and build a cosy house of wood, or buy a ready-made one and put it in a quiet corner of the garden. Julian Hughes grew up in North Wales, which instilled a lifelong love of nature. He lives near Llandudno, manages the RSPB’s public affairs work in Wales, and writes about the region’s wildlife.

NWM 2018 Page 93

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THE LAST LAUGH I was recently asked to present an awards ceremony, a task that involved me speaking Welsh. “How much Welsh?” I thought, in a panicked voice in my head, before realising I’d said it out loud. “Just a few lines to introduce the evening,” said Glyn the event manager. “Oh fine, just a few lines, dim problem!” I said, trying to cover my ignorance by using one of only 15 Welsh words I have in my linguistic armoury. Glyn just stared back at me with the

Welsh as the only language in the world that you learn so you

same look of deep disappointment that I give my kids when

can speak to fewer people. As I get older that’s becoming an

they have just spent an entire day flossing and taking selfies.

increasingly attractive prospect.

“You know I’ve been meaning to learn Welsh ever since

Glyn made me realise I’ve reached linguistic rock-bottom and

I came here, maybe this is the time,” I said. “My wife has

now is the time to turn a corner. He’s has offered me an olive

been saying the same thing for years,” said Glyn. “It’s

branch, the equivalent of a speed-awareness course. Fail to

embarrassing.”

take this opportunity and I face the prospect of humiliation in the court of public opinion.

Ouch. I already felt guilty about my lack of Welsh but he was right. Although I grew up in Kent and moved up here from

There should be support groups for residents of North Wales

London, I’ve never approved of the English attitude to foreign

who are living in denial about their grasp of the Welsh

languages, which basically boils down to repeating the same

language. Never mind Going Sober in September, or Couch to

word slowly and in ever-increasing volume.

5k or whatever it is people do when they can’t be bothered to do nothing - we should set aside a month for learning Welsh.

My shame is greater because having studied French and German at university many moons ago, I regard myself

I mentioned this to Glyn. “It’ll take more than a month,” he said.

as a linguist. I’ve always believed that learning different

Right, I thought, I need to think of another solution – and fast.

languages is the mark of a civilised human being, an

Fortunately there was one closer to home than I thought: my

essential tool in bridging cultural differences and one that

kids. They all speak Welsh and my ten-year-old knocked me

that, most importantly, gives me the right to roll my eyes and

out a really nice introduction in minutes, and then they sat and

look down on ‘tourists’ whenever I’m in Paris and Berlin.

patiently corrected me on my pronunciation. It was a complete role reversal and a strangely moving moment. I always knew

So my failure to learn Welsh to any useful degree is a source

my children would teach me things – I just didn’t expect it to

of personal disappointment. I wasn’t lying to Glyn – I have

be Welsh for ‘Lift contractor of the year.’

wanted to learn the language of my adopted home for years, I’ve just never got round to it. Life is what happens when

The kids did a great job, in fact so good that I’m wondering

you’re busy making other plans, said John Lennon and,

whether I need to lessons after all. n

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Quite apart from the fact that Welsh sounds so beautiful, it’s

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NWM 2018 Page 97

MAGAZINE

IN THE

STARS...

While everyone remembers Russell Grant from his Breakfast TV appearances in the 1980’s, most people don’t realise that Russell was the first astrologer in over 300 years to present a horoscope forecast to a member of the Royal Family (HRH Queen Mother). Now dubbed the “Royal Astrologer” Russell has appeared on numerous television shows, including Strictly Come Dancing. He divides his time between London and his North Wales home near Portmeirion. www.russellgrant.com

October’s horoscopes brought to you by Russell Grant ARIES (March 21st-April 20th) The New Moon on the 9th puts strain on a close relationship. Just when you thought you were making a breakthrough with a romantic or business partner, an argument breaks out. On the 24th, the Full Moon could bring an influx of income. Use this money to treat yourself to something you’ve set your heart on and wanted for a long time.

LIBRA (September 24th-October 23rd) You yearn to break out of your shell on the 9th, when the New Moon prompts a personal change. Your family won’t be supportive of your desire to pursue a particular career, move to a different neighbourhood or take up another belief system. The Full Moon on the 24th brings a cheque and bonus that is much bigger than you expected.

TAURUS (April 21st-May 21st) Despite your best efforts, it will be difficult to get organised on the 9th. That’s when a tense New Moon keeps calling you away from your duties. The Full Moon on the 24th invites you to enjoy some self-pampering. Instead of pouring all your energy into a close relationship, do something nice for yourself. Take a few days off work and get a massage.

SCORPIO (October 24th-November 22nd) The New Moon on the 9th makes you yearn for privacy. Unfortunately, a relative or neighbour keeps trying to pry into your personal business. On the 24th, your romantic or business partner will have some surprising news. A big promotion or hefty raise will increase your standard of living. If you’re single, you won’t be for long.

GEMINI (May 22nd-June 21st) On the 9th, the New Moon puts you in the path of romance. Although the lure of a creative person is powerful, you should hesitate before getting involved in a serious relationship. On the 24th, the Full Moon will bring a welcome chance to rest and recharge your batteries. If an appointment or trip is cancelled at the last minute, don’t complain. Instead, treat it as a chance to relax.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23rd-December 21st) On the 9th, the New Moon will spark a group project. This venture will not pay very well. To add insult to injury, you’ll find your indecisive colleagues highly unpleasant. The Full Moon on the 24th is perfect for getting organised. Getting rid of clutter will make space for new energy in your life. Make three piles: Donate, discard and sell.

CANCER (June 22nd-July 23rd) The New Moon on the 9th warns against confiding in an untrustworthy person. A relative who pretends to have your best interests at heart is really jealous. The Full Moon on the 24th brings a group project to its successful conclusion. Much to your surprise, you’ll be named most valuable player. The other members of the group appreciate your leadership ability. LEO (July 24th-August 23rd) Acquiring a skill will be more difficult than expected on the 9th. That’s when the New Moon puts you in the path of a relentless critic. It will be hard to study with their disdainful voice in your ear. On the 24th, the Full Moon marks an impressive turning point in your career. You’ll be given a promotion or high profile position. This will come as a total surprise. VIRGO (August 24th-September 23rd) The New Moon attracts a moneymaking opportunity on the 9th. Taking this job will limit your personal life. You’ll spend virtually all your time at the office, trying to satisfy a demanding client or supervisor. The Full Moon on the 24th finds you returning from a trip, finishing an ongoing project or collecting a diploma. There will be a surprise bonus for your hard work.

Page 98 NWM 2018

CAPRICORN (December 22nd-January 20th) A professional opportunity will beckon on the 9th, but think carefully before accepting it. A conflicted New Moon will force you to choose between having a wildly successful career and a comfortable home life. The Full Moon on the 24th marks an exciting turning point in your personal life. You might decide to get engaged or married on the spur of the moment. AQUARIUS (January 21st-February 19th) The New Moon on the 9th will bring an enticing opportunity to travel, study or write. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to make the most of this chance. An expired passport or tight enrolment window will force you to postpone plans for another time. On the 24th, there will be unexpected changes at home. You might have to relocate for work. PISCES (February 20th-March 20th) A physical relationship forces you to make a decision on the 9th. That’s when the New Moon causes someone very close to you to question your feelings towards them. Spending all your time with friends makes them feel neglected. It’s time to change your priorities. Surprising news will reach your ears on the 24th, when the Full Moon brings hidden information to light.

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Page 100 NWM 2018