North Wales Magazine – June 2017

JUNE 2017

!

EE FR

MAGAZINE

? n o s ’ t a Wh hly guide on

t Your mon ents v to local e

On your bike!

Mastering the mountains on two wheels

The great North Wales staycation WHY HOLIDAY ANYWHERE ELSE? INSIDE J Town in focus J Food & Drink J Homes & Interiors

WHY WAIT FOR

SUMMER? OWN YOUR OWN HOLIDAY HOME TODAY Imagine escaping whenever the mood takes you, and enjoying endless getaways, long weekends and full-on holidays as often as you wish.

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

Purchasing your very own Darwin Escapes holiday home has never been easier – or more affordable. With a number of options available, you can buy the holiday home of your dreams and start enjoying days full of fun, adventure, and relaxation.

BUY NOW

SITE FEES INCLUDED

*

UNTIL MARCH 2018

TALACRE BEACH AND NEW PINES

SEAVIEW

ABERCONWY

Holiday homes from

Holiday homes from

Holiday homes from

£15,995

£17,995

£34,995

Exceptional holiday homes in glorious surroundings

Explore Darwin Escapes’ exciting range of holiday homes and luxury lodges. Choose from 2 and 3 bedroom models providing remarkable comfort with contemporary fixtures and fittings, to luxuriously appointed lodges offering pure indulgence at every turn.

ABERCONWY

WHAT TO EXPECT AND ENJOY

Relaxing Indulgent Aspirational Join an exclusive club offering a world-class five-star lifestyle set in a beautiful coastal location. Pure luxury is offered as standard, but expectations are always exceeded.

• Beautiful coastal location • Award-winning ‘Signatures’ restaurant • Indoor heated swimming pool • Luxury spa treatments • Steam room • Jacuzzi • Air-conditioned gymnasium • Unisex hair salon

NEW PINES

WHAT TO EXPECT AND ENJOY

Captivating Revitalising Enjoyable New Pines offers the perfect blend of traditional holiday home ownership with a five-star country club atmosphere. Relax or be as active as you wish, all within a secure gated setting.

• • • • • • • • •

SEAVIEW

WHAT TO EXPECT AND ENJOY

Tranquil Breathtaking Unforgettable

• • • •

An intimate luxury five-star holiday park, situated in an unrivalled location. Either enjoy the peace and calm or use a range of facilities at Talacre Beach only a mile away.

Indoor heated swimming pool Steam room, sauna and jacuzzi Air-conditioned gymnasium All weather sports pitch Leisure activity programme Brasserie restaurant and bar Over 18’s lounge and family room Costa Coffee™ Evening entertainment

Breathtaking sea views Peaceful and relaxing location Close to sandy beaches Use of Talacre Beach’s facilities: Indoor heated swimming pool, steam room, sauna, spa pool, spa treatments, air-conditioned gymnasium, leisure and activities programme, bar, restaurant, entertainment lounge and evening entertainment

TALACRE BEACH

WHAT TO EXPECT AND ENJOY

Exciting Adventurous Entertaining

• • • • •

Indoor heated swimming pool Steam room, sauna and spa pool Spa treatments Air-conditioned gymnasium Leisure and activities programme • Bar and restaurant • Entertainment lounge • Evening entertainment

Just a stones throw from the beach, Talacre Beach is the perfect location to experience a fantastic range of five-star facilities and recreational activities the whole family will enjoy.

Aberconwy Resort & Spa Aberconwy Park, Conwy LL32 8GA

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

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

Talacre Beach Holiday Home Park Station Road, Talacre, Flintshire CH8 9RD

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK YOUR EXCLUSIVE PARK TOUR, VISIT OUR WEBSITE AND LIVE CHAT WITH ONE OF OUR LOVELY TEAM OR TELEPHONE: 01745 858 010

www.darwinescapes.co.uk

For a lifetime of memories

*Applies to new customer purchases only on selected new and pre-owned models. No part exchange allowance can be used in conjunction with this offer.

MAGAZINE

Lots of clever storage options

Come and see our fabulous displays of the best of British and German kitchens and appliances Our designers will work with you to develop your perfect dream kitchen Page 4 NWM 2017

Llandudno Junction Industrial Estate LL31 9SX info@greentreekitchens.co.uk Open Mon-Fri 9:30 - 5 then Saturday 10-4

www.greentreekitchens.co.uk

01492 585477

MAGAZINE

Dear Reader As I write this the sun is shining and the children are about to break up for half term which, naturally, gets me thinking about the “big summer holidays” and how on earth I’m going to survive six weeks with three kids, a puppy – and my fifth baby that is North Wales Magazine.

The key, I’m hoping anyway, is in the

We want to hear from you!

J Are you organising or taking part in an event that should be covered in our what’s-on listings? Then make sure you tell us!

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

during the holidays.

planning. Inspired by our Staycations feature on page 23, we are going to up

But first, we must survive half term,

sticks and head down to Porthmadog

and it’s slightly concerning that we

where we can run the kids and the dog

don’t actually have any plans for this

ragged on Blackrock Sands. After all,

week. I think I’ll just pop down to

the magazine can run me ragged from

The Grape to Glass in Rhos-on-Sea

anywhere in the world, thanks to the

in order to see which wine Tim is

wonders of modern technology…

recommending today – all other plans

whatson@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk

are secondary, after all.

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

Day trips and holiday clubs will also feature heavily in our summer plans.

And, if you have similar ideas for July and August, don’t miss our special Summer Holiday feature next month which will give you the lowdown on how to keep the kids entertained

Kate Hamilton Founding Editor

editorial@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk

In this issue...

MAGAZINE

WHERE YOU CAN AND CAN’T RIDE YOUR

mountain bike Where you can ride…

J Bridleways J Byways open to all traffic

The magic of

Mountain biking has evolved dramatically over the last 25 years, and there’s no better place to try it than in beautiful North Wales. Steve Goodier reports.

(known as BOATs and formerly called RUPPs) J Forest tracks (with

marked cycle routes) J Green lanes (unsealed country roads, tracks or

bridleways) J White roads (referring to their colour on an

Ordnance Survey map and often lost public roads that have become disused. Obviously follow any restriction signs you come across ABOVE: The Clwydian Range in Denbighshire RIGHT: Mountain Biking at Coed y Brenin © Crown copyright (2013) Visit Wales, all rights reserved

J Footpaths J Canal tow paths (unless they have dedicated

cycle routes) J Disused railway lines (unless they have

dedicated cycle routes)

FOOD & DRINK

Throughout the 1990’s and into the 21st century mountain biking moved from a relatively unknown sport to become a mainstream activity with thousands of devotees.

From being few in numbers – and seen almost exclusively on the paths and tracks of North Wales’s mountainous regions – mountain bikers nowadays

on specially designated mountain bike trails, you will have more than

flock to forests and areas where purpose made biking trails have been

enough potential to fill several years of activity.

opened, backed up by a network of facilities such as car parking and nearby accommodation, cafes and accessory shops.

And as well as getting you fit and healthy, mountain biking is also a very social sport and you’ll soon find yourself with a network of friends you

As a sport, mountain biking provides an outlet for a huge and diverse amount

meet up with to ride and share a meal and drink.

of people – and appeals to both those with competitive instincts (who will

You will quickly learn to be very self-reliant too. As you will often find

quickly drift into the racing side of the sport) and the more recreationally

yourself far from help and civilization you’ll need to be able to repair

minded outdoor enthusiast who just likes to get into the open air in inspiring

your bike and fix punctures - many riders carry a small rucksack

Cycling the Loop de Loop route in Denbighshire

and breathtaking surroundings in order to enjoy a physical activity that is lots

containing essential tools and repair equipment as well as a bladder of

of fun and gets the adrenalin pumping too.

water. Along with a map, today’s mountain bikers often take along a GPS

© Crown copyright (2013) Visit Wales, all rights reserved

If you have never tried mountain biking then the later of these two options is

bike, and takes some of the strain of route finding out of the day.

navigation system which can be adapted to fit to the handlebars of the a great place to start.

With merely a bike, a helmet, some sturdy footwear

and old clothes you can set off along North Wale’s network of bridleways and

over a century with clubs such as ‘The Rough Stuff Fellowship’ being established in the UK in 1955, and it is believed that the first time the

want to cycle, the relevant Ordnance Survey map to the area (and the ability to

phrase ‘mountain bike’ was actually used was in Oregon in 1966 when

navigate from it) and the world becomes your oyster. From moorland tracks to

A Chemekatan Club Member built a rough terrain trail bike and gave it

high level mountain paths, through forests and over rough ground, as well as

the title.

“

Throughout the 1990’s and into the 21st century mountain biking moved from a INSIDE relatively unknown LOCAL CHEESE sport to become a Restaurant Profile mainstream activity Recipes with thousands of Wine column devotees.

”

As Dylan’s was preparing of Llandudno’s seafront, to open its third restaurant on the East Parade Kate Hamilton went Evans. to meet co-owner David

When I went to meet David Evans at Dylan’s new restaurant in Llandudno it was exactly a week away from opening day.

Did it look like The Washington was ready to open its doors in seven days? Not really, if I’m honest. Did David appear concerned?

No, not really either.

Maybe this air of confidence was because David and his business partner Robin have renovated and successfully opened two restaurants already, or maybe it was because it’s David’s own construction firm that’s undertaking the renovations.

Maybe it was a combination of the two, or something else entirely, but you get the impression within minutes of meeting David that he is a man that gets things done.

So, if Dylan’s is set to open the doors of The Washington to the public on May 25th, then open they shall. And, boy, are the people of Llandudno excited.

David and Robin’s ethos is to serve quality food and drink in quality surroundings, thereby providing the best possible dining experience to the good people of North Wales. It’s no coincidence that all three of restaurants in the the Dylan’s chain (Menai Bridge and Criccieth are home to the other two establishments) boast the most outstanding views, for example.

“We want to provide the best possible experience,” explained David.

“All three of our restaurants

subscribe@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk

NWM 2017 Page 45

NWM 2017 Page 29

J

Page 28 NWM 2017

Surprisingly cyclists have attempted to ride bicycles ‘off road’ for

B.O.A.T.’s (Byways open to all traffic) where bikes have a legal right to go. There are simply hundreds of miles of these and all you need is an idea of where you

THE HIT PARADE

Where you can’t…

Get out and about on your bike this summer and discover all that North Wales has to offer on two wheels

NWM 2017 Page 51

J

mountain biking

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.

It’s all happening on the culinary front this month. Read on to get your taste buds going…

Westfield Lodge at Aberconwy Resort and Spa www.aberconwyresort.co.uk Credit: Tony Trasmundi

NWM 2017 Page 5

MAGAZINE

Ali Hough: Mobile 07940 730421 email sales@tattydivine.co.uk Page 6 NWM 2017

MAGAZINE

Contents 09 What’s On?

Your comprehensive guide to all of the best events,

shows and days out taking place in North Wales this June

Art Director Simon Marriott

16 The Big Picture

Sales Director Grant Hamilton

There is more to Caernarfon than the castle alone

19 Interview with… Trisha Ashley Sunday Times bestselling author Trisha Ashley gets

23

inspired in North Wales

23 Staycations

28

The best holiday spots in North Wales

28 Mountain biking Cycling at its best

Exploring all that Conwy has to offer

38 Top 10… claims to fame Did you know? Ten fascinating North Walian facts

45 Food & Drink

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

The latest news from our local food heroes and the area’s wining, dining and culinary scene

Peruse our property of the month, get inspired by the

45

latest interiors and see the latest homes to come on the market

85 Community news A roundup of regional happenings

89 In my opinion…

North Wales’ expert columnists share their thoughts

95 Win! A family pass to Zip World Fforest

Contributors Dave Rothnie Hilary Paschal Rupert Bates Alison Hough Belinda Mortell Tim Watson Cai Ross Julian Hughes Simon Smith Steve Goodier Contact Us editorial @northwalesmagazine.co.uk sales @northwalesmagazine.co.uk subscribe@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk

33 Town in Focus

65 Homes and Interiors

Editor Kate Hamilton

65

Disclaimer: All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part (electronically or in print) without written permission is strictly prohibited. Every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of published content, and any views or opinions presented are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of North Wales Magazine.

The publishers assume no responsibility for any damage, loss or injury arising from participation in, or as a result of, any offer, competition, information or advertisement contained within the magazine. North Wales Magazine does not endorse any of the advertisements featured. All words and images remain the property of their respective owners and all copyrights are observed. North Wales Magazine is not associated with any newspaper group.

NWM 2017 Page 7

RUTHIN GAOL

MAGAZINE

Pentonville style prison and museum EVENTS 2017 Included in admission unless otherwise stated CAPTURED ON CAMERA 1st June 2017 | 10:30 – 15:00 Celebrate the Year of Legends! Have your mugshot taken then create your own Wanted poster and crime story. £1 charge for each wanted poster.

ARTY DAY AT THE GAOL 10th July 2017 | 11:00 – 16:00 Come and learn to draw pastel portraits with the staff at Ruthin Gaol. Fun for all ages!

TALES OF THE GAOL 7th August 2017 | 11:00 – 16:00 Come and hear the stories of the Gaol and it’s colourful characters. Great for all the family.

HALLOWEEN WEEK 28th October – 3rd November | 10:00 – 16:00 Crafty Halloween fun all week at Ruthin Gaol…fancy dress welcome!

OPEN DOORS 2nd - 3rd September | 11:00 – 15:00 Pre-booked tours. To book please visit: www.cadw.gov.wales

www.ruthingaol.co.uk

NANTCLWYD Y DRE 15th Century Townhouse & Historic Gardens EVENTS 2017 Included in admission unless otherwise stated BEASTLY BUG HUNT 8th May 2017 | 11:00 – 12:00 A guided nature hunt around The Lord’s Garden to identify and learn about the fascinating bugs that live here.

FESTIVAL OF GARDENS, NORTH WALES 27th May & 5th June 2017 | 14:00 – 15:00 Garden Tours, for more information visit: www.gardenstovisit.net INTRODUCTION TO HORTICULTURE 10th July 2017 | 11:00 – 13:00 Demonstration and hands-on activity to help you care for your own garden – bring your gloves! £2 charge, pay on the day.

PLANTS WITH PURPOSE 7th August 2017 | 11:00 – 12:00 An informative guide to the plants that were grown in Medieval gardens, and how they were used.

KNIGHTS AND PRINCESSES 12th August 2017 | 11:30 – 14:30 Come and join the fun at Nantclwyd on this family play day. Activities and games – you could also win a prize for coming in fancy dress.

GOING BATTY 29th August 2017 | 12:00 – 15:00 Fancy dress prize for best bat-themed costume, quizzes, mask making, “hunt the bat” and much more.

www.nantclwydydre.co.uk

SITES OPEN APRIL – SEPTEMBER (SEE WEBSITES FOR DETAILS) Page 8 NWM 2017

1s t

The Great Big Tree Climbing Company at Erddig Children aged six and up can join the tree climbing experts who will guide them up Erddig’s trees using ropes and harnesses. Once they’re kitted out, they will get an opportunity to 1st

Summer of Stories - Conwy Castle

see Erddig’s 1,200-acre estate from a completely different perspective…

North Wales is renowned for its literature and poetry, and this summer you will be able to experience the best of Welsh tale spinning. In conjunction with Summer of Stories, Cadw invites you to join a storyteller at Conwy Castle today to celebrate Wales’s oral heritage. (Each story can last up to 30 minutes. No booking required.)

RGC v Wales

3r d

2n d

What’s on 2nd & 3rd

Wind in the Willows

The Wales rugby

Join the hilarious Mr Toad and his trusted companions at Rhyl

team will embark

Pavilion as they leap through the countryside and battle the wicked

Deganwy Prom Day

on a six-day

Weasel King in this all-new family panto-musical adventure.

Fun for all the family on

training camp

Deganwy Promenade

in North Wales, culminating with

with funfair, inflatables, 2nd – 4th

music, dancing displays,

a game against

Loggfest

RGC at Parc

The Loggfest event will feature a bouncy castle, craft stalls, face

stalls, competitions,

Eirias, Colwyn

painting and birds of prey in the Country Park, while in the

refreshments, dog show,

Bay today

Colomendy Centre behind We Three Loggerheads the 200 metre

children’s sports event

zip wire will available for all festival attendees. There will also be

and more.

craft and charity

organised tree climbing for the kids and a 3G swing 3rd

Kill for a seat When North Wales’ most beautiful restaurant becomes the funniest! ‘Kill For a Seat’ sold out in seconds last spring, with Silky the Comedian at the helm at Dylan’s in Criccieth, so book early. No joke!

3rd & 4th

Knights and princesses weekend Join Chirk Castle for a weekend of storybook fun and frolics.

Meet the Knight, Princess, Jester, Squire and the dragons.

Enjoy storytelling, games, sword-fights, puppet shows, and enter our afternoon costume parade for a chance to win a prize. All children in costume get in for free!

NWM 2017 Page 9

MAGAZINE

What’s on

8th – 11th

Gottwood Festival Gottwood is an independent, boutique, and very intimate underground electronic festival held in Anglesey this weekend

4th

Milkshake! Live

9th

Milkshake! Live ‘The Magic Story Book’ comes to Rhyl Pavilion today.

The Three Castles Trophy

Starring Milkshake! favourites Bob the Builder, Little Princess, Noddy,

Open to classic cars of all ages from 1921 up

Fireman Sam, Shimmer & Shine, Pip from Pip Ahoy!, Winnie and Wilbur,

to 1985 based in Llandudno, the route will be

Wissper, Milkshake’s very own Milkshake! Monkey and two Milkshake!

around 160 miles covering some of the best

presenters, this all-singing, all-dancing, musical masterpiece will take

driving roads North Wales has to offer.

9t h

audiences on a journey through the world’s favourite fairy tales.

4th

Great Strait Raft Run

Toddler Day at Techniquest

The Great Strait Raft Run is held annually on the

Once a month during term time, pre-school

Menai Straits from Felinheli to Menai Bridge

children have their run of the exhibits with

to raise funds for charity. Starting from the old

activities on a special theme, and this June

slate port of Felinheli rafts proceed past historic

it’s Animaltastic.

Plas Newydd and on towards Porthaethwy

There’ll be storytime

(Menai Bridge) while navigating the

and singalong, a mini-

notorious and occasionally demanding Swellies.

disco and something to make to take home. Techniquest is buggy-friendly, with nappy-changing

5th –10th

Footloose

facilities, and lockers.

Following an acclaimed 2016 UK Tour, worldwide smash hit musical Footloose: The Musical will burst back onto the stage in 2017, playing at Venue Cymru from 5th to 10th July.

The cast will include Gareth Gates, who rose to fame through the inaugural series of Pop Idol in 2001, as Willard; and Maureen Nolan, who has been singing with her sisters since she was nine years old, as Vi Moore.

9th – 11th

All Wales Boat Show

10th

The All Wales Boat Show 2017 takes place in

Snowdonia Real Ale Trail

Conwy Marina near

A bus based Real Ale Festival, which allows

the stunning

you and your mates to have an awesome day

castle town

out without the worries of who’s going to

of Conwy this

be the designated driver! Hop on and off in

weekend

Porthmadog anytime you want between 11am and 11pm!

Page 10 NWM 2017

11 th

Great Global Greyhound Walk 10th

The Great Global Greyhound Walk is an annual dog-

NT LIVE: Peter Pan

walking event that brings together greyhounds, lurchers

When Peter Pan, leader of the Lost Boys,

and other sighthounds and their owners to raise

loses his shadow, headstrong Wendy helps

awareness of the breeds and show the public just what

him to reattach it. In return, she is invited to

wonderful pets they make. The walk starts from the Beach

Neverland, where Tinker Bell the fairy, Tiger

Pavillion Cafe Car Park, Llanfairfechan and is suitable for

Lily and the vengeful Captain Hook await. A

all capabilities. Everyone is welcome to come along and

riot of magic, music and make-believe ensues

enjoy a lovely walk with views of the Menai Straits and

at Galeri Caernarfon

Anglesey. The free walk will take around an hour, and walkers are encouraged to bring a picnic and sit and relax

16th

Birds of Bodnant Garden

18 th

on the grass afterwards. All breeds welcome to attend.

Led by a specialist from Birdwatching Trips, find out about the species that live in Bodnant 10 th

garden and how to identify them

The “Snowdonian Limited” The “Snowdonian Limited” is running at

by sight and sound. No experience necessary.

Hector’s Garden Party

17th

the The Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland

The Blackrock Blast

Railway today. Offering an 80 mile round

Jetski group PWC Gwynedd is hosting

have stalls, good company

trip over the whole railway with a variety

The Blackrock Blast today, the primary

and excellent raffle prizes,

of motive power. Tickets are on sale

aim of which is to raise funds for The

all set in the beautiful

now and all proceeds go to The Diamond

Wales Air Ambulance (who will be

surrounds of an amazing

Jubilee Appeal.

attending), and also to promote the safe

garden to relax with your

and responsible enjoyment of Jetskis.

hounds. Entry to the event

The event will entail between 30 and

is £2.00, which includes a

50 of PWC Gwynedd’s jetskis riding out

delicious hot baked potato

from Blackrock Sands to Aberdyfi and

with a choice of fillings plus

This show is a celebration of one the

back - which will be quite a spectacle

refreshments. The event will

greatest singer-songwriters of all time at

in itself. Meanwhile, on dry land at

be held at 5 Heol Heddwch,

William Aston Hall in Wrexham. Featuring

Blackrock Sands, two of the industry’s

Abergele, L22 7UF.

George Michael tribute Wayne Dilks and his

main manufacturers, Yamaha and Sea

eight piece band, this is a musical journey

Doo will have static displays, along

of 35 years of hit records, from Wham! to

with local suppliers.

10th

Faith - George Michael The Legacy

Hector’s Garden Party will

George’s solo career.

11th

Etape Eryri Known as the Snowdonia Cycling Sportive,

17th & 18th

featuring a spectacular route that takes in

Archery weekend

breathtaking scenic routes in the heart of

Fancy yourself as a bit of a Robin Hood?

Snowdonia. The event will have five distance

Come and have a go at Chirk Castle with the

options on offer, Bach at 47 miles long, Canol

Wrexham Bowmen archery club - all ages

at 76 miles, Mawr at 103 miles, Xtrem at 226

and abilities welcome! The price is £1 for six

miles and Teulu, which is a free short family ride of just

arrows with as much or as little help as you

over 6 miles, ideal for kids.

require. There’s no guarantee that you’ll hit the target, but it’ll be good fun trying!

NWM 2017 Page 11

MAGAZINE

What’s on 17th – 25th

Criccieth Festival Spectacular array of musical performances ranging from choirs to Jazz are taking place throughout Criccieth this week

17th & 18th

Teddy Bears Picnic

19th

The Welsh Highland Heritage Railway is hosting a

Stand Up @The Seaside

Teddy Bears Picnic this weekend, with free travel for all

Starting this week, Stand Up @The Seaside will be

children who bring their favourite teddy bear along for

hosting a week long run of Edinburgh fringe preview

a ride.

shows at The Station in Colwyn Bay. The shows will feature special sets from top comedians, including City Life comedian of the year Tony Burgess who starred

18 th

alongside Jonny Vegas in BBC3’s Ideal. Email dcrothnie@ gmail.com to reserve your tickets

The First Hippo on the Moon

20th

From Number One

Jazz

bestselling Children’s

British jazz stars Alan

author David

Barnes (saxes & clarinet)

Walliams comes an

and Dave O’Higgins (tenor

explosively funny

sax) lead this spectacular

space adventure

octet with a five-sax front

for children of three and up. Two big hippos. One

line. Karen Sharp, Judith

ENORMOUS dream. Who can make it to the moon

O’Higgins and Sammy

first? Visit Venue Cymru to find out.

Mayne complete the sax section, with Robin Aspland (piano), Adam King (double bass) and Sebastiaan de Krom

18 th

(drums). A North Wales Jazz presentation

21st

The Tempest at Beaumaris Castle Taking Flight Theatre returns to Beaumaris Castle once again, this time with its unique take on Shakespeare’s The Tempest. Join

Llanberis Lake Railway

the Magic Staff Liner Corporation and indulge yourself with a jaunt on the newest addition to its fleet – The Remembrance.

Llanberis Lake Railway is hosting a Father’s Day

Let the crew take care of your every worry, your every woe on

Special. All Dads (and granddads!) travelling with their

their 10-year anniversary cruise to the Island that Time Forgot.

children today will receive a free slice of Bara Brith and

Expect lots of laughs, physical comedy, live original music and,

a hot drink of their choice in the station café.

most of all, expect the unexpected. (This performance has live integrated BSL interpretation and audio description.)

Page 12 NWM 2017

22nd

NT LIVE: Salome

24th & 25th

Internationally acclaimed theatre director Yaël Farber (Les

The Tournament

Blancs) draws on multiple accounts to create her urgent,

In the ‘Year of Legends’

hypnotic production which will be broadcast live from the

Conwy will see jousting,

stage of the National Theatre to the audience at Theatr

sword fighting, archery,

Colwyn.

living history camps, a medieval market and

23rd & 24th

Pentre Fest

much more

Pentre Fest is a two-day music Festival held at Mcleans Pub, Pentre Deeside, North Wales. Promoters Goodfor Audio Entertainment hand pick the best in unsigned talent from across the region and invite guest bands from all over the UK

24th

to showcase their music to the North Wales and North West

Olly Murs Live

audience.

LHG Live and Orchard Entertainment are proud to

28 th

announce that The Racecourse Ground, home of

Snowdon Rocks

Wrexham FC, Wrexham, will welcome Olly Murs on Saturday 24th June, performing as part of his huge Summer UK Tour

Join Mike and Jules Peters in their quest to raise as much money as possible for North Wales cancer care while hiking and singing your way up Snowdon

25 th

http://byyoursideappeal.org

24th

Foodslam

Llandudno Sea Triathlon A triathlon

To close the Criccieth festival the Foodslam will be taking

incorporating

over the Esplanade once again. A whole day of exciting and

the thrill of a

delicious local street-food, wines and beers, accompanied by

sea swim, a

a brilliant lineup of live artists. There will be others plus art

challenging cycle around the Great Orme and a run

and poetry. It’ll be a great all day event, organized by Dylan’s of

along the Victorian Promenade to Penrhyn Bay

Cricceth

NWM 2017 Page 13

MAGAZINE

What’s on 25th

Music in the Pin Mill

28th – 30th

Family arts weekend Theatr Clwyd is being transformed into an imaginative playground for children of all ages and their families this weekend.

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon listening to talented local

Expect face painting,

harpist Dylan Cernyw in beautiful surroundings at

dressing-up, puppets,

Bodnant Garden

workshops, backstage tours... and lots, lots more!

26th – 1st July

Wonderland Rachael Wooding will guest star

28th – 2nd July

as Alice in the 2017 UK tour of

The ninth Hijinx Unity Festival

Wonderland at Venue Cymru

will take place from 28 June to 2 July 2017 and

this week. Rachael wowed the

will showcase a remarkable range of international

nation on Britain’s Got Talent

inclusive and disability performance in Caernarfon.

in May last year, with Simon Cowell proclaiming her rendition of ‘With You’ from Ghost was “the most beautiful version of the song” he had ever heard. Rachael went on to the live finals and her acclaimed audition has been viewed almost nine million times on YouTube to date.

30th

To Belong To Belong is a raw and untamed

27 th

exploration of what it means to belong

The Ladyboys of Bangkok Theatre Tour

to a group, through dance, live music and an electric soundtrack. A company

The Lady Boys of Bangkok return to the UK with a lavish

of nine dancers come together at Galeri

new production – Who Runs the World! – which is live at

Caernarfon, connect with one another

Rhyl Pavilion today

and lose themselves in this powerful and evocative piece.

Conwy Farmers Market Food that tastes real, direct from the producers. Wander the stalls to buy your fresh vegetables, local meats, cheeses, jams and pickles at RSPB Conwy

28 th

30th – 2nd July

The Snowdonia Challenge The Snowdonia Challenge is a brand new and unique event coming to Betwsy-Coed in 2017. The only event of its kind in the UK, The Snowdonia Challenge is a test of mental and physical resilience and team work and will take you on a journey of self discovery.

It is inspired by multi-day challenges used as military training events in Europe.

Page 14 NWM 2017

NWM 2017 Page 15

The big picture When you think of Caernarfon, its grand castle tends to be what springs to mind, but there’s an awful lot of other stuff going on in this royal town.

The narrow streets and waterfront reiterate the impressive history of the area – in fact it is highly likely that there was a harbour here long before the foundation of the medieval town and castle in the late 13th Century.

MAGAZINE

NWM 2017 Page 18

Tea for two

If you’re going to meet a bestselling author whose latest book is set in a teashop, then it’s only right to indulge in a cuppa yourself. Kate Hamilton clinked china with Trisha Ashley at Anna’s Tea Rooms in Conwy.

The irony was certainly not lost on me. Here I am, arranging a meeting with Trisha Ashley, Sunday Times bestselling author of The Little Teashop of Lost and Found – in a teashop. Well, tea rooms to be precise, but who’s counting?

Actually, Trisha might be. For while she only indulged in one cup of tea, she has had more bestsellers than you and I have had hot dinners. Yet, like all success stories, such achievements didn’t come easily. So where did it all start?

Sunday Times bestselling author Trisha Ashley

“I always wanted to be a writer and a painter from a very young age,” she explains. “I had some poetry published in a local paper and received plenty of encouragement from my English teacher who put me forward for lots of writing competitions. But, the most important thing that she did, was to get me onto a touch typing course – so now typing comes naturally to me.”

Fast forward a few years and Trisha moved to Swansea where she took an art course – specialising in stained glass. She graduated with qualifications in architectural glass and began making leaded lights while indulging in her passion for writing on the side.

NWM 2017 Page 19

MAGAZINE

Trisha with some of the Novelistas at Waterstones, Llandudno Trisha is the founder member of NW Novelistas Ink, a group of 12 novelists, several of whom are bestselling, who meet regularly in North Wales

“I was always writing and sending work out – but it took

“I vividly remember Judith saying: give me some romance –

me a long time to get published,” she says. “I’ve worked

then I can sell your book,” recalls Trisha.

all kinds of part-time jobs in my time in order to support myself – ranging from library requisitions to working at the

So she did. The train journey back from London was spent

National Trust. I’ve sold farm insurance and worked with

deconstructing her novel, and the next couple of weeks

special needs children, but I only really wanted to be an

were dedicated to putting it back together. And the hard

author.”

work paid off, because Judith managed to get not one, but four, of Trisha’s novels published with the new romantic

Then there came a point when Trisha, if you’ll excuse the

interest.

oxymoron, began to get “rave rejections”. Agents, of course, don’t tend to waste their time sending out constructive

And the rest, as they say, is history. Trisha had found her

criticism to lost causes – so Trisha took detailed rejection

niche as an author of romantic satire and, despite a few

letters as a sign of encouragement.

publisher moves, she has certainly found her fan base. But how does she maintain the inspiration? Where do the plot

“Agents don’t tend to give you help if they don’t think that

lines come from?

you’re getting somewhere,” explains Trisha, whose literary style at the time was black satire. “I wrote two Regency

“It just comes,” says a blasé Trisha as she moves onto a

novels out of financial desperation, both of which got

glass of sparkling water. “I’ve got lots of ideas, lots of things

published, but I really wanted to go back to the satire.”

that I want to write about. Not big plots necessarily, but lots of individual strands that seem to come together. I love

So she returned to her dark comedic form – and began to

exploring the characters – I love people.”

get rejected once again.

But, as is always the case, Trisha’s story isn’t about her career “Eventually I met an editor called Diane Pearson, who gave

alone. In fact Trisha, and I quote: “Gave up my fascinating but

me an introduction to a top London agent called Judith

time-consuming hobbies of house-moving and divorce a few

Murdoch and she invited me to her flat in Primrose Hill.

years ago in order to settle in North Wales.”

Judith turned out to be a very blunt lady, and she tore my current novel to pieces. And then she told me how to put it

She’s been here for 15 years now, and seems to have

back together again.”

embraced the region with as much enthusiasm as she has the other areas of her life. In fact, it could be said that

According to Judith, Trisha’s satirical novels were good –

she has brought life to North Wales – certainly in its

they were just missing a romantic thread.

literary scene.

Page 20 NWM 2017

COMPETITION

Trisha at Daunt’s bookshop in London with Peter Davison (a former Dr Who, who has recently released his own entertaining autobiography) and his wife, Elizabeth Heery

Win

Afternoon tea with Trisha Ashley!

North Wales Magazine has teamed up with the When I first moved to North Wales I didn’t know a soul,”

Llandudno Bay Hotel to offer ten lucky readers

explains Trisha. “I’ve moved a fair bit in my time, and so

afternoon tea with a twist…

usually join a novelists association when I arrive in a new area. There wasn’t an established one in North Wales – so I

Trisha Ashley has ten copies of her new book,

set one up.”

The Little Teashop of Lost and Found, to give away. But rather than popping them in the post,

And The Novelistas, as it is known, is now a fantastic

we would like to invite the winners

support group for Trisha and her 11 local, novelist friends.

to afternoon tea at the Llandudno Bay Hotel – with Trisha herself.

“It’s a wonderful group,” she explains. “We meet once a month and really encourage and inspire one another on

The ten winners will get to indulge

a very professional level – and, since the group includes

in a traditional afternoon tea, and

several very successful authors, we always seem to be

a glass or two of bubbly, while

celebrating a book launch! A writer’s life can have a lot of

chatting with the famous author.

ups and downs, so to have such a good support network is

She’ll even sign your copy for you

a Godsend.”

over a slice of cake…

And, while The Novelistas are so diverse in the genres that they write, Trisha is sticking to her unique “satire with a hint of romance” category. In fact, her next novel is set to include her traditional style along with some personal history.

To enter, simply answer the following question:

“Let’s just say that my next book will incorporate some stained glass,” quips Trisha who, like all good authors, likes to bring the story back to the beginning, and incorporate some personal experience.

It sounds enlightening but, quite frankly, I’m looking

What is the name of the lead character in The Little Teashop of Lost and Found?

a) Maggie b) Alice c) Katie

forward to the book about the house-moving and divorce! n Send your answer, along with your name, address and You can find Trisha on twitter at @trishaashley. And do

telephone number to: competition@northwalesmagazine.

visit her Penguin web page at www.trishaashley.com,

co.uk by Wednesday 21st June – making sure you put ‘Tea

or her website at www.trishaworld.com, where you

with Trisha’ in the subject line. Good Luck!

can find a complete list of all her books. The paperback edition of The Little Teashop of Lost and Found is

* The prize will take place at the Llandudno Bay Hotel on

available to buy from June 29th.

Wednesday July 26th at 3pm

NWM 2017 Page 21

MAGAZINE

Page 22 NWM 2017

STAYING

POWER

There is no disputing that the staycation is here to, well, stay. But whatever your reasons for staying put this summer, it doesn’t mean compromising on that allimportant holiday feeling. Kate Hamilton reports.

There are numerous motives for spending your summer holidays at home – ranging from financial, to saving the hours otherwise spent travelling abroad. But whatever your reasons for not getting on a plane, North Wales certainly has the resources to ensure that you still enjoy that well-earned break.

TOP: Haven offers a large choice of family friendly activities ABOVE: Aberconwy Resort & Spa in the stunning Conwy valley

If you live in North Wales but still intend to holiday in the region, then the best way to get that vital change of scene is to get out in the great outdoors. Yes, I mean camping.

Shell Island, near Llanbedr, is a beautiful coastal campsite which has been a much-loved holiday destination for generations. Accessed via a causeway, the island, also known as Mochras, is cut off from the mainland twice a day by the high tide – so you can still feel as though you have escaped from it all.

There are no two ways about it – Shell Island is a breathtaking location. The views to the north are of Snowdon and Snowdonia, with Cader Idris and the Cambrian mountains seen to the south. The majestic backdrop includes a great view of the UNESCO World Heritage listed Harlech Castle, standing proud just a couple of miles up the coast.

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MAGAZINE

The coastal resorts of Porthmadog, Portmeirion and Barmouth

with a laned pool for more serious swimmers.

are a short distance away, and there is plenty to do right on the doorstep from steam trains to cycling, hiking and

Once you’re finished in the pool you can try out Hafan’s Aerial

exploring the region’s medieval castles and other attractions.

Adventure course, which offers stunning views of the Llŷn

And, after a busy day sightseeing, the sunsets looking out to

Peninsula, or have a trip out on the boating lake for some

sea over the Llŷn Peninsula are legendary.

relaxation. The indoor SportsDrome is perfect for those rainy days, or you could have a go on the adventure golf course and

Shell Island is one of the largest camping sites in Europe, and

take in the sea air at the nearby beach.

with over 300 acres available for camping you’re guaranteed to find your idea pitch. It appeals to those who love unspoilt

Also new for 2017 is Hafan y Môr’s theatre company style

countryside, mountain landscapes and peace and quiet, and

entertainment. The theatre company cast is a select group of

the site attracts families from all over the UK and Europe for

handpicked performers including specialist dancers, vocalists

camping holidays and day visits.

and event hosts. Guests can enjoy an exclusive selection of shows including the rock spectacular Evolution Rock,

On site you’ll find shops, a launderette, bar, restaurant and

pop tribute show MJ Legend, MusiKids, The Great British

newly refurbished showers and toilets. There is a children’s

Summertime and more.

play area and a games room, and responsible barbecuing and beach fires are permitted, meaning that all members of the

Talacre Beach Holiday Home Park is another ideal destination

family will enjoy their stay.

for fun family holidays in North Wales. Situated just a stone’s throw away from the sand dunes of Talacre and the North

And if entertaining the kids is your main priority, then you

Wales coast, you can enjoy the nostalgia of a traditional

can’t beat a caravan park. Facilities and amenities abound at

seaside holiday while taking advantage of the high modern

caravan sites up and down the North Wales coast, and inland

standards Talacre Beach has to offer.

for that matter, meaning that there is always something for the little darlings to do.

With its ancient sand dune system, nature reserve and 17th Century lighthouse, Talacre’s 5 Star rating makes it one of

Haven is perhaps the best-known caravan park provider in

the best caravan holiday parks in North Wales. With a vast

the region, and its flagship Hafan y Môr site near Pwllheli has

range of facilities, including an air-conditioned gym, newly

just had a £3million redevelopment of its indoor swimming

refurbished indoor swimming pool and relaxing restaurant, it

pool complex. The new complex, which was officially opened

is the perfect family retreat.

by Olympic swimmer Jazz Carlin last month, includes three exciting new flumes, a multi lane slide to race your friends

So much so, in fact, that a week’s holiday may not be enough.

(or the kids), an exciting wave pool, a lazy river and a fully

Holiday homes here start from just £16,995, and owners get

kitted out children’s pool for younger visitors with fun water

to enjoy a range of facilities and amenities, including the

features including a tipping bucket and water sprays, along

Go-Active activity programme, restaurant, entertainment,

Page 24 NWM 2017

FAR LEFT: Langley’s country club at Aberconwy Resort & Spa

LEFT: Menai Holiday Cottages was established on Anglesey 34 years ago

CENTRE: Haven’s Hafan y Môr site near Pwllheli has plenty of stuff for the kids to do

RIGHT: The indoor swimming pool complex at Hafan y Môr has just had a £3million redevelopment

swimming pool, gym and spa.

And, if you love luxury, you’ll love Aberconwy Resort & Spa. Nestled in the stunning Conwy valley, with the majestic mountains of Snowdonia as the backdrop and the Conwy Morfa Beach just on the doorstep, the keyword here is relaxation. This private and secure resort, with its world-class service, lets you immerse yourself in the total pleasure of your own holiday home.

There is a wide range of holiday homes and static caravans available currently for sale at Aberconwy Resort & Spa. In addition, there are a range of elements here that, when combined, create the ‘Aberconwy experience’. Langley’s country club, Mali’s hair salon, the Aberconwy Spa and the on site restaurant, all add to the luxury and draw of owning your very own handpicked holiday home. (Oh, and it’s worth noting that Signature’s isn’t your average ‘on site restaurant’.

In fact, it has just been nominated for Restaurant of the Year in the 2017 British Restaurant Awards, alongside offerings from Gordon Ramsay and Marco Pierre White.)

But, if you already live in North Wales and so think holiday home ownership here isn’t for you, then it might be time to think again.

“People usually buy here as a springboard into North Wales,”

MIDDLE RIGHT: Hafan y Môr caters for the who family

explains Samantha Lambert of Darwin Escapes. “All of the beauty that it has to offer is suddenly on their doorsteps – I guess that’s why people who live in Wales still buy here.

There are still some built up areas in the region and it’s a way

BOTTOM: Menai Holiday Cottages only chooses cottages that they would holiday in themselves.

to be on the coast, or escape somewhere more remote, every weekend without a long drive. North Wales offers everything from coastal to country, sea and mountains.”

Of course if you aren’t local, then it might be a good idea to ‘try

NWM 2017 Page 25

MAGAZINE

Talacre Beach Holiday Home Park is another ideal destination for fun family holidays

What it costs Shell Island Child: £3.50 per night

Hafan’s aerial adventure course offers stunning views of the Llŷn Peninsula

Adult £7.75 per night www.shellisland.co.uk

Haven

before you buy’. In this instance, a holiday cottage is

Haven is currently offering a four-night self-

the perfect platform to discover the region and see if

catering holiday at Hafan y Môr for £558.75 (saving

it is somewhere that you can truly envisage spending

25%) per family. Price is based on a family of six

plenty of time.

sharing deluxe accommodation on from July 23rd and includes entertainment.

Menai Holiday Cottages was established on

www.haven.com

Anglesey 34 years ago and has gone from strength

Menai Holiday Cottages

to strength to become the largest independent UK holiday cottage company specialising in quality

Prices obviously vary dramatically depending

accommodation across Snowdonia, Anglesey and the

on the cottage that you plump for. But, to give

Llŷn Peninsula. With a superb selection of over 370

an example, the Llys Bach barn conversion near

self-catering holiday cottages it offers a wide choice

Pwllheli, which sleeps five, costs around £700 for a

of quality accommodation across North Wales.

seven-night stay in July. www.menaiholidays.co.uk

Talacre Beach

The philosophy of the company is simple: they only choose cottages that they would holiday in themselves. It also offers bespoke holiday packages

Holiday on the coast whenever you want by

including adventure or activity itineraries, ‘book a

becoming an owner. Holiday home prices at Talacre

cook’ and chef services, cottage meals, weddings and

Beach start from just £16,995.

private events. It even has homes with hot tubs and

www.talacrebeach.co.uk

over 200 dog-friendly cottages to choose from.

Aberconwy Resort & Spa

So what are you waiting for? Cancel that flight and

For that taste of luxury every day… holiday homes at

swap your air miles for fresh air in order to holiday

Aberconwy Resort & Spa start from £34,995.

right here in North Wales. Why would you want to go

www.aberconwyresort.co.uk

anywhere else? n

Page 26 NWM 2017

Gypsy Wood Park is a magical day out for visitors of all ages, which all the family will love.

There are loads of things to see and do at our outdoor park in the foothills of Snowdonia in North Wales, and we’re a must-see attraction for all animal, nature, outdoor, train and fairy lovers.

Open 27th March until Autumn, please check website for specific dates!

We will be open daily from 10.30am to 5.00pm.

HP horizontal - Snowdoniapass copy.pdf

1

Please note that in inclement weather we may close early, or in severe conditions we may remain closed for the day.

23/03/2017 10:45

Bring your wellies to explore the wetlands, meet all the different animals who live here, find the fairies, make a wish, hop on Woody’s train and enjoy one of our fabulous adventure play areas; just some of the events and attractions available at Gypsy Wood Park.

Tel: 01286 673133 Manned 10.30 AM to 5.00 PM during the season

www.gypsywood.co.uk gypsywoodpark@btinternet.com

Snowdonia Pass is the must-have visitor discount card giving you access to over 50 participating attractions, activities, restaurants, shops and accommodation providers.

Each pass costs just £5/person and lasts for 12 months – giving you incredible value for money!

Get yours and start saving today!

T&Cs apply. Visit www.snowdoniapass.co.uk for full details.

NWM 2017 Page 27 www.snowdoniapass.co.uk | www.attractionsofsnowdonia.com

MAGAZINE

The magic of

mountain biking

Mountain biking has evolved dramatically over the last 25 years, and there’s no better place to try it than in beautiful North Wales. Steve Goodier reports.

Throughout the 1990’s and into the 21st century mountain biking moved from a relatively unknown sport to become a mainstream activity with thousands of devotees.

From being few in numbers – and seen almost exclusively on the paths and tracks of North Wales’s mountainous regions – mountain bikers nowadays flock to forests and areas where purpose made biking trails have been opened, backed up by a network of facilities such as car parking and nearby accommodation, cafes and accessory shops.

As a sport, mountain biking provides an outlet for a huge and diverse amount of people – and appeals to both those with competitive instincts (who will quickly drift into the racing side of the sport) and the more recreationally minded outdoor enthusiast who just likes to get into the open air in inspiring Cycling the Loop de Loop route in Denbighshire

and breathtaking surroundings in order to enjoy a physical activity that is lots of fun and gets the adrenalin pumping too.

If you have never tried mountain biking then the later of these two options is a great place to start.

With merely a bike, a helmet, some sturdy footwear

and old clothes you can set off along North Wale’s network of bridleways and B.O.A.T.’s (Byways open to all traffic) where bikes have a legal right to go. There are simply hundreds of miles of these and all you need is an idea of where you want to cycle, the relevant Ordnance Survey map to the area (and the ability to navigate from it) and the world becomes your oyster. From moorland tracks to high level mountain paths, through forests and over rough ground, as well as

Page 28 NWM 2017

WHERE YOU CAN AND CAN’T RIDE YOUR

mountain bike Where you can ride…

J Bridleways J Byways open to all traffic

(known as BOATs and formerly called RUPPs) J Forest tracks (with marked cycle routes) J Green lanes (unsealed country roads, tracks or bridleways) J White roads (referring to their colour on an Ordnance Survey map and often lost public roads that have become disused. Obviously follow any restriction signs you come across ABOVE: The Clwydian Range in Denbighshire RIGHT: Mountain Biking at Coed y Brenin

on specially designated mountain bike trails, you will have more than enough potential to fill several years of activity.

And as well as getting you fit and healthy, mountain biking is also a very social sport and you’ll soon find yourself with a network of friends you meet up with to ride and share a meal and drink.

You will quickly learn to be very self-reliant too. As you will often find yourself far from help and civilization you’ll need to be able to repair your bike and fix punctures - many riders carry a small rucksack containing essential tools and repair equipment as well as a bladder of water. Along with a map, today’s mountain bikers often take along a GPS navigation system which can be adapted to fit to the handlebars of the bike, and takes some of the strain of route finding out of the day.

Surprisingly cyclists have attempted to ride bicycles ‘off road’ for over a century with clubs such as ‘The Rough Stuff Fellowship’ being

Where you can’t…

J Footpaths J Canal tow paths (unless they have dedicated

cycle routes) J Disused railway lines (unless they have dedicated cycle routes)

“

Throughout the 1990’s and into the 21st century mountain biking moved from a relatively unknown sport to become a mainstream activity with thousands of devotees.

”

established in the UK in 1955, and it is believed that the first time the phrase ‘mountain bike’ was actually used was in Oregon in 1966 when A Chemekatan Club Member built a rough terrain trail bike and gave it the title.

NWM 2017 Page 29

MAGAZINE

On the trails North Wales is blessed with great mountain bike venues and as well as the mountains and hills of Snowdonia, there are several dedicated mountain bike centres and bases that offer a variety of riding experiences and opportunities.

J Coed Y Brenin near Dolgellau was the UK’s first dedicated mountain bike trail centre – www.beicsbrenin.co.uk

J Antur Stiniog at Blaenau Ffestiniog – www.anturstiniog.com

J Coed Llandegla (7 miles west of Wrexham) – www.mbwales.com/agents/coed-llandegla

ABOVE: Antur Stiniog at Blaenau Ffestiniog ABOVE RIGHT: Family pausing to enjoy view over lake Llyn Brenig RIGHT: Cycling through forest section of Lon Las Cefni at Llyn Cefni, Anglesey

If you take a look at www.mbwales.com (the official mountain biking website for Wales) you will get plenty of other ideas too ranging from dedicated mountain bike trails to great mountain biking locations such at Betws y

In England between 1968 and the early 1980’s Geoff Apps (a

Coed (surely the outdoor capital of Wales),

motorbike trails rider) began to experiment with off road bicycle

Penmachno, Hiraethog and The Clwyd Hills.

designs and within ten years he had developed a lightweight

There is a whole world out there just waiting

custom built machine that was suited ideally to use in rough, wet

for you to explore if you decide to mount a

and muddy off road conditions.

mountain bike for the first time or just dust off

But it was not until the late 1970’s and early 1980’s that road

the old one in the garage and take it out for a

bicycle companies started to manufacture mountain bikes using

spin again.

high tech lightweight materials.

However, it may be a good idea to just hire a

Today off-road bikers come in many shapes and sizes with

bike for a few hours to ‘test the water’ and

general cross country riding favouring lighter riders who soon

see if you like it. Try Googling something like

develop good endurance and technical off-road ability. Downhill

‘mountain bike hire in North Wales’ and you’ll

riding is more demanding and explosive and favours more

be surprised at what comes up.

powerful riders with very quick reaction times.

Downhill riding tends to be more competitive and is pursued over a set course with riders making timed runs and competing against each other. ‘Four Cross’ racing is a fairly new branch of the mountain biking race scene, where four riders race each other down a course.

Racing is the specialist side of mountain biking and, even if you don’t aspire to take part, it can be great fun just watching it and marvelling at the skills needed to ride as such speeds over obstacles and around tight turns.

One thing the competitive racer and the general ‘out for fun’

Couple cycling on the Cob at Malltraeth, Anglesey

mountain biker have in common is that they both require endurance, core strength and good balance along with superb bike handling skills. As with all new pastimes you start simply and learn from friends and just enjoy going out riding. n

Page 30 NWM 2017

Mountain bikers on the Loop de Loop route, Clwydian Range

Mountain Biking in Blaenau Ffestiniog

Further

information Websites www.bikingconwy.ws www.outdoornorthwales.com/en/pages/ family-cycling www.cycle-routes/isle-of-angleseyroutes-48.html www.greenlinks.org/uk/things-to-do.glanmorfa-p314291 www.mbwales.com/listings/marin-trail/ www.visitllandudno.org.uk/things-to-do/ marintrail-p291351 www.oneplanetadventure.com www.ridenorthwales.co.uk

Books J North Wales Mountain Biking by Pete Steve Goodier is a Freelance Outdoor Writer who specialises in Wales, The Lake District, Yorkshire and Scotland. He has walked and climbed all over the world and produces articles for magazines such as Country Walking, Trail, Camping Magazine, Caravan Magazine, Cumbria, Lakes and Cumbria Today and Dalesman. He is the author of ten outdoor books and his latest ‘Ten Best Pub Walks in Snowdonia’ will be published later in 2017 and 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.

Burnsall J Wales Mountain Biking by Tom Hutton J Lost Lanes Wales – 36 Glorious Bike Rides in

Wales and The Borders by Jack Thurston Images courtesy of Visit Wales.

All rights reserved. © Crown copyright (2013)

NWM 2017 Page 31

Page 32 NWM 2017

EXPLORING

Conwy

UNESCO World heritage town Conwy carries a buzz that is a fusion of ancient history and bustling boutique shops, all set within castle walls and against the backdrop of pastoral beauty. Dave Rothnie reports Conwy is best known for its castle. Its presence dominates the spectacular view as you approach the town from the suspension bridge over the River Conwy. But take a walk around and it becomes clear that while the castle is the focal point, there is much more to discover within the town’s fortified walls.

And walking is the best mode of transport to truly enjoy what the town has to offer.

The tourist information centre offers a handy town trail to ensure you enjoy all that the town has to offer on foot. But to see Conwy in all its glory, then start by climbing

NWM 2017 Page 33

MAGAZINE

Top five shops Vinomondo 19 High St A must for lovers of specialist wines and beers Vinomondo, voted the Best Business in Conwy for two years running, has plans to expand in the summer with a bar and seating area.

Seibiant 8 Lancaster Square Friendly owner Sian Williams has an encyclopaedic knowledge of tea and coffee and will help find the perfect brew to suit individual tastes. Tea lovers should ask for the matte

Baravelli’s Artisan Chocolatier 13 Bangor Road, Upper Gate Quarter Husband and wife team Emma and Mark Baravelli have been hand crafting chocolate for nine years, and have won over 30 prestigious food awards. The pair also run workshops for budding chocolatiers.

Parisella’s Ice Cream 6a Lancaster Square Opened in 2014, Parisella’s ice cream is made with locally sourced Welsh milk a stone-throw away in Lancaster Square, Conwy. It sells a full range of sundae dishes including old favorites like Chocolate Sundae and Knickerbocker Glory. It also sells crepes, waffles, brioche, ice cream milkshakes, slush and hot and cold beverages.

the stone steps up to the castle walls, which extend for three-quarters of a mile around the town and include 22 towers. The battlements are intact from the 13th Century when they were built along with the castle itself by King Edward as part of the iron ring of fortresses surrounding Snowdonia. A glance down reveals an extraordinary range of historic buildings, cobbled streets, places to eat and stay, and a wealth of boutique shops all bursting with individuality and character.

This month, the quayside will be teeming with nautical activities with a week-long River Festival featuring boat and yacht races as well as shoreside entertainment for the family. Meanwhile, theatre lovers can bring a chair and a picnic and spend a glorious summer’s evening at Conwy Castle watching an outdoor production

Page 34 NWM 2017

Food and drink The Albion Formed in 2012 by a unique collaboration between four local brewers, the Albion has already become a local favourite in Conwy’s revamped pub scene.

Bank of Conwy This lively newcomer offers craft beers and fine wines, along with weekly live events. The menu is set for a revamp, with tapas being replaced by burgers and chips. Well-behaved dogs welcome and rewarded with a free sausage.

Watson’s Bistro A family-run bistro serving lunch and dinner with children’s menu available. The restaurant boasts a patio that backs onto the old town walls.

Shakespeare’s comedy of error.

But you don’t need to make a special date in the diary to

Where to stay

enjoy what the town has to offer and aficionados have made

The Castle Hotel, High St, Conwy

their own trails. Starting down at the quayside, visitors can

Now under new owners but with the same

watch boats catching the world-renowned Conwy mussels,

management the Castle is a Conwy stalwart. You

or simply watch the world go by and enjoy the views across

can book in to stay, eat or enjoy afternoon tea.

to Deganwy. Within a short stroll is the High Street, which contains a dazzling array of shops to suit every taste –

The Erskine Arms, Rosehill Street, Conwy

pottery, books, art, flowers chocolate, wine and speciality

A new arrival on the town’s thriving hospitability

tea and coffee all fight for attention on the cobbled

scene, this refurbished Georgian coaching inn

pavement up to the town square, which features a statue

opened on May 26th, and is the last offering from

of Llewelyn ap Iowerth (or Llewelyn the Great) who stands

Stange & Co, a company that also owns the award-

proudly above a fountain painted in his heritage colours.

winning Cottage Loaf in Llandudno. Serves food daily and the ten brand new en suite bedrooms will

The town is easy to get around, and families should head

be available to book from the middle of June

to Yesteryears, a traditional toy shop, as well as Parisella’s Icecream parlour, to keep the little ones happy. There’s even

Gwynfryn B&B

a Knight Shop selling uniforms, swords and shields for the

Located within the town walls just off Lancaster

budding Glyndwr.

Square, this family-run B&B is in a phase of expansion. The owners have bought the local

Points of interest are scattered throughout the town, such

adjoining Tabernacle church and are converting it to

as Aberconwy House, a rare 14th century merchant’s

provide four bespoke bedrooms, breakfast room and

dwelling, or Plas Mawr, the UK’s best preserved Elizabethan

courtyard, in addition to the existing five rooms in

town house. At peak times down at the quayside, the

the main house.

longest queues are often for The Smallest House, a brief but memorable viewing that lives up to its name.

When the feet get tired there’s an abundance of cafes,

NWM 2017 Page 35

MAGAZINE

Places to visit Conwy Castle Built for English King Edward I between 1283 and 1287 and now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Climb one of the eight towers for a view of the Conwy Estuary.

Plas Mawr, High Street, Conwy The best-preserved Elizabethan Town House in Britain and Conwy’s grandest residence. Built between 1576 and 1585 by wealthy trader Robert Wynn whose family seat was Gwdydir Castle Aberconwy House This 14th merchant’s house is thought to be the oldest town house in Wales and shows Jacobean, Georgian and Victorian interior styles.

Thomas Telford’s Suspension Bridge and toll-keeper’s house Located right next to the Castle, the suspension bridge was designed and built by Thomas Telford in 1826. The tiny tollkeeper’s house has been restored and furnished in the style of the 1890s.

pubs, and restaurants to relax in. The town boasts more than

must-visit destination for food and drink fans.

half a dozen pubs, each with its distinctive character, and all of which have been recently refurbished. The town may be

With a broad range of accommodation, from B&Bs to self-

steeped with history, but its louche past and dingy haunts are

catering cottages as well as two hotels, Conwy is an ideal base

firmly behind it.

from which to visit the surrounding attractions, with the RSPB reserve within shouting distance and the spectacular

Visitors can grab a bite to eat in the town’s numerous cafés

Bodnant Gardens a ten-minute drive down the road. Conwy

or for those preferring a snack on the go, there’s a choice of

thrives on its variety and the emergence of new shops among

three fish and chip shops, or you can drop into the award-

the established names, keeps everyone on their toes and

winning Edwards of Conwy, one of the most famous butchers

burnishes the palpable sense of civic pride. Perhaps the only

in Wales, for one of their formidable meat baps. You’ll often find

surprise for such a popular destination is that the town’s

yourself in the queue with serious-looking walkers, calling in

train station is a request stop. Then again, perhaps that helps

for sustenance after a brisk hike to the top of Conwy Mountain,

to preserve the mystique. n

reachable in just 30 minutes from town walls.

If you want to savour the aesthetic, then the take a stroll round the art galleries and pottery shops, or head to Seibiant, where you can sample and buy speciality teas and coffees from around the world. Seibiant – meaning ‘a pause’ in Welsh – is a relatively new arrival on the scene and it joins Vinomondo, a specialist wine merchant and the Cheese Room delicatessen as

Page 36 NWM 2017

Dave Rothnie is a freelance journalist who has a passion for all things North Wales and comedy. He lives in Colwyn Bay with his family

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MAGAZINE

CLAIMS TO FAME

We have one or two rather special claims to fame up here in North Wales. Brush up on your facts so that you can really impress around the dinner table…

Oldest international football ground Wrexham holds the record for having the oldest international football ground still in use – the Glyndŵr University Racecourse Stadium. And, as you might expect, there is something of a story behind the stadium. At the end of season dinner of Denbighshire County Cricket Club on 4th October 1864 the secretary, Edward Manners, announced: “There is one thing gentlemen I wish to name – the great want of amusement in this town in winter time. It is my intention to purchase a football in the course of this week, and I shall expect a good many down to the field next Saturday.” So, Wrexham Football Club played their first ever match on 15th October that very

1

same year against the local Prince of Wales Fire Brigade. The first international match was played at the Racecourse on March 5, 1877, when Scotland visited Wales. Unfortunately, Wales lost the game 2-0 and had to wait until 1882 for their first international victory, when they defeated Ireland 7-1.

Longest place name in Europe

2

Llanfairpwllgwyngyll, or Llanfair Pwllgwyngyll, is a large village on the island of Anglesey, situated on the Menai Strait next to the Britannia Bridge and across the strait from Bangor. Today it is known as Llanfair PG to the locals, but back in the 1860’s the name was actually lengthened to Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch for promotional purposes. With 58 characters it is the longest place name in Europe and the second longest official one-word place name in the world, having been pipped to the post by the catchy sounding Taumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateaturipukakapikimaungahoronukupokaiwhenuakitanatahu in New Zealand.

Page 38 NWM 2017

World’s fastest zip line

Zip World Velocity at Zip World Penrhyn Quarry, Bethesda, is the fastest zip line in the world and the longest in Europe.

This adventure takes you on the Little Zipper to build your confidence before you journey up the quarry on the company’s famous red trucks. Take in the stunning views from the Big Top of Velocity, out towards Anglesey with views of the Isle of Man on a clear day, and take a deep breath before you descend down the Big Zipper over the quarry lake – often reaching speeds well in excess of 100mph.

3

4

First complete coastal path

OK, so while it isn’t placed solely in North Wales, The Wales Coast Path wouldn’t be what it is today without our section of coastal trails. Wales is the first country in the world to provide a dedicated footpath close to most of its coastline.

The Path runs through 11 National Nature Reserves as well as a range of other nature reserves, including those managed

by The Wildlife Trusts or Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB). Offering a 870-mile (1,400 km) walking route from Chepstow in the south to Queensferry in the north, the complete path opened in May 2012 and soon became voted as a Best in Travel destination by Lonely Planet.

The Smallest House in Great Britain

The Smallest House in Great Britain, also known as the Quay House, can be found on the quay in Conwy. The dainty house, which has a floor area just 10 by 5.9ft was used as a residence from the 16th Century until 1900, but now exists as a tourist attraction. It’s last reported occupier in 1900, Robert Jones, was apparently 6ft3 – an impressive height for that time – and the rooms were too small for him to stand up in fully. As a result he was eventually forced to move out when the council declared the house unfit for human habitation, but the property is still owned by his descendants. Open from spring to autumn, you can’t miss the brightly painted red façade located near the Conwy Castle walls. It is open from spring to autumn. A lady dressed in traditional Welsh clothing stands outside when the house is

5

open, and will be able to expand on the fascinating history of this little house.

NWM 2017 Page 39

MAGAZINE

6

Highest aqueduct in the world

The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is a navigable aqueduct that carries the Llangollen Canal across the River Dee in the north east of the region.

The 18-arched stone and cast iron structure, which took ten years to design and build, was completed in 1805. It is now the oldest and longest navigable aqueduct in Great Britain and the highest in the world. The aqueduct, which is now is a Grade I listed building and a World Heritage Site, was to be a key part of the central section of the proposed Ellesmere Canal, an industrial waterway that would create a commercial link between the River Severn at Shrewsbury and the Port of Liverpool on the River Mersey. However, only parts of the canal route

7

were completed because the expected revenues required to complete the entire project were never generated, meaning that the majority of work ceased after the completion of the aqueduct in 1805.

Smallest church in the UK

St Trillo’s Chapel in Rhos-on-Sea was built in the 6th Century on the site of a pre-Christian, sacred holy well. It is believed that the altar is built directly over the pure water of the well, but that’s not this church’s claim to fame. Size matters here, with only six people able to fit in the building at any one time, making it the smallest church in the UK. The chapel is named after St Trillo ¬– a saint from the 6th Century Saint who established his “Llan”, an enclosure of land, in the area of Rhos-on-Sea, and the altar is built directly over a pre-Christian well. Opinion is divided about the exact age of the building, but there is little doubt that it has been rebuilt over the years. Christians have worshipped on the site for nearly 1500 years (King Maelgwn Gwynedd walked the land when the church was established and may have worshipped here) and, to this day, the site is still visited for its holy water and as a place of worship.

World’s first inland surf lagoon

Surf Snowdonia Adventure Parc is the world’s first inland surf lagoon, and the UK’s only artificial surfing lake. The site, which opened in August 2015, cost a total of £12 million and served 14,000 people in its first two weeks of operation – including 3,500 people who surfed in the pool. Built on the former site of Dolgarrog Aluminium, over 25,000 cubic metres of on-site material was crushed and re-used during the construction, including the recycling of 400 tonnes of steel, cast iron and copper. Located in the picturesque Conwy Valley, the completed fresh-water lagoon at Surf Snowdonia is 300 metres long and features a head-high wave that rises at its centre – making it a reliable destination for surfers.

Page 40 NWM 2017

8

9 Britain’s longest running Punch and Judy show While The Punch and Judy show has roots in 16th Century Italian commedia dell’arte, Llandudno is home to Britain’s longest running

10

Punch and Judy show. The Codman family have been entertaining families with their performances for over 150 years – and for over three generations. The seaside favourite has been run by the family of Jacqueline MillbandCodman after she inherited it from her great-grandfather who started the tradition in 1860. The current

Discovering America

show has a few contemporary twists, and is half the duration of

One of the greatest claims to fame to come out of North Wales is that, according

the original, it but it pretty much

to legend, a Welsh prince of Gwynedd sailed from Rhos-on-Sea in 1170 and

sticks to the traditional plot.

discovered America. This amazing journey took place over three hundred years before Christopher Columbus’s famous voyage in 1492, and the event is recorded by a plaque on one of the properties on the sea front. According to folklore, the Welsh prince was Madog ap Owain Gwynedd, a son of Owain Gwynedd, and he took to the sea to flee domestic violence at home.

NWM 2017 Page 41

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MAGAZINE

Page 44 NWM 2017

FOOD & DRINK INSIDE LOCAL CHEESE Restaurant Profile Recipes Wine column

NWM 2017 Page 45

MAGAZINE

Blessed are the

Cheesemakers North Wales has the perfect ingredients to ensure your cheese boards are an object of desire, writes David Rothnie.

The Snowdonia Cheese Company was founded in 2001

Page 46 NWM 2017

South Caernarfon Creameries is the only remaining farm in Wales still to produce Caerphilly

South Caernarfon Creameries produces Dragon Cheese

The lush pastures of North Wales create the perfect conditions for cheese-making

Did you know?

A hunk of generic supermarket cheddar might be just the ticket when you’re home alone after the pub, but serve it up after dinner and you

Cheese was first made in

might find your guests are soon reaching for their coats and mumbling

Sumeria in 5000 BC, probably

about having an early start in the morning.

as an accidental result of the enzyme rennet, which

Fortunately, living in North Wales means your cheese course can be a

is found in a calf’s stomach

showstopper every time, with a wealth of producers from big creameries

curdling the milk which a

to local farmers offering a dazzling variety of flavours, often combined

shepherd as carrying in a

with a colourful backstory that will your guests’ imagination will be as

leather bottle.

stimulated as their palate.

The lush pastures of North Wales create the perfect conditions for the production of protein-rich milk and a tradition of cheese-making. The oldest farming co-operative in Wales is near Pwllheli, where the South Caernarfon Creameries (SCC)

Where to buy

produces Dragon Cheese as well as being only remaining farm

Bodnant food Centre

in Wales still to produce Caerphilly. But as well as tradition

Bodnant Welsh Food Centre,

there is progress. Last year, SCC opened a new facility, the first

Furnace Farm, Tal-y-cafn, Conwy,

new cheese plant in Wales since the 1970s, in order to meet

LL28 5RP

with growing demand from overseas markets including France,

Sells is own range of locally

which are waking to appreciate the quality of British cheese.

produced cheeses

Dragon’s Cavern Cheddar has been on the sort of journey that would propel it to the final of X-Factor. Developed in

Edwards Of Conwy

partnership with Llechwedd Slate Caverns, the cheese is

18 High Street

matured for 11 months then transported from the Creameries to

The shop sells a variety of welsh

the Slate Caverns in Blaenau Ffestiniog and left to age 500 feet

cheeses

underground, literally creating a depth of flavour. The ageing process takes place in original mining caverns which have been converted into cheese caves, which sounds like any cheese

The Cheese Room Deli

lovers’ idea of home.

Expert advice and a range of Welsh cheese from North and South.

3 Rose Hill St, Conwy

NWM 2017 Page 47

MAGAZINE

Head up the coast to Rhyl where the Snowdonia Cheese Company was founded in 2001 and now boasts a range of ten cheeses, all packaged in distinctive coloured livery and available in 200g and 400g truckles as well as a 3kg wheel.

When lined up in a row, and with names like Black Bomber, Green Thunder and Pickle Power, this formidable range resembles the cheese equivalent of a rack of cannonballs ready to blast your tastes buds.

But there are also a number of individual farms turning their hand to cheese-making, as they make a virtue out of a necessity, by finding alternative sources of revenue

ABOVE: The Snowdonia Cheese Company now boasts a range of ten cheeses RIGHT: The phenomenal choice at Conwy’s The Cheese Room Deli

in response to downward pressure on milk prices. The cheesemakers have lifted the cling-film on a revolution that feels similar to what has happened to ale, with ever more providers pushing the envelope. And as with craft ales, Wales is leading the charge. There’s something to cater for

Knowing Brie, Knowing You

every palate and it’s all made locally with the support of the

The soul-mate of cheese is fine

Welsh Assembly and local infrastructure. The Welsh Food

wine, and the two go together like

centre at Bodnant Garden in the Conwy valley has become

Ant and Dec or Pippa Middleton

a cheese making hub and its team uses local pasteurised

and James Matthews. Beyond

Fresian cow milk to create its ‘Aber’ (Welsh for ‘Estuary’)

that, the best advice is to go with

range of traditional, cloth-bound farmhouse cheeses -

whatever you like (or whatever’s

Aberwen (White), Abergoch (Red) and Abermwg (Smoked).

left in the fridge when everyone

Along valley Cilmeityn Farm goat’s cheese is handmade in

else is asleep), but a good rule of

Glanwyddan Farm. Go a few miles in the other direction and

thumb is that red wines go better

you can find Llanrwst oak soaked, a white cheddar.

with hard cheeses, and whites with soft. Desert wines are a

For budding cheese makers, the Food Technology Centre in

particularly good match. “Match

Llangefni on Anglesey runs courses which have inspired

the wine to the country the cheese

a determined bunch of cheese-makers. They include

is from,” said Iwan Williams

Bethesda-based Cosyn Cymru, which collected the best

of Conwy wine merchants

new cheese accolade for its Brefu Bach at the prestigious

Vinomondo. This seems like

British Cheese awards held at the Royal Bath and West

good straightforward advice and,

Show in 2016. Brefu Bach is an artisan-made sheep milk

perhaps surprisingly, it extends to

cheese produced by Dr Carrie Rimes, a former grassland

Welsh cheese too. That’s because

scientist who studied cheese-making at the fromageries of

any cheese and wine fans living in

France before creating her own products at FTC.

or visiting North Wales searching for cheese and wine nirvana need

Rimes, who also won silver for her Olwyn Fawr cheese,

look no further than the Gwinllan

stocks her products at Blas Lon Las, the rebranded Moelyci

Conwy vineyard in Llandudno

Environmental Centre, at Tregarth. Meanwhile Arla Foods’

Junction. Established in 2012, it

Llandyrnog Creamery in Denbighshire won no fewer than

offers a vineyard tour and tastings

12 medals at last year’s event. All are hoping for a repeat of

along with a slate of local cheeses.

this success at the 2017 cheese awards which will be held between May 31 and June 3.

Page 48 NWM 2017

Snowdonia Cheese Company’s produce is all packaged in distinctive coloured livery

Great wine and cheese combos Phoenix & Cilmetyn Farm goat’s cheese Over on Anglesey, Menai Jones is

Enjoy this medium-dry white from the Gwillan vineyard in Llandudno Junction

a full-time history teacher who

with Cilmeityn Farm goat’s cheese from over the hill in Glanwyddan.

spends her weekends, evenings and holidays producing award-

Snowdonia Black Bomber & Casas del Bosque

winning cheeses. Jones Caws Rhyd

This creamy extra mature Cheddar packs a punch and is best enjoyed with a

Y Delyn produces Anglesey Blue as

glass of Casas del Bosque, a 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon from Chile’s Rapel Valley.

well as a farmhouse cheddar and a

Rich yet elegant tannins impart fine structure and a long finish. £10.99 a bottle,

soft cheese, which also includes a

available from Tim Watson at Grape to Glass in Rhos-on-Sea.

version with samphire collected from the Island’s beaches. The cheese

Caws Cavan & Domaine Cazes

is made on the farm less than 30

Made with Ewe’s milk from Tregarth, this nutty Manchego-style cheese is

metres from where the cows are

available from the Cheese Room, Conwy. Delicious with Domaine Cazes red

milked.

dessert wine from Vinomondo just round the corner.

As the General Election looms, dinner party conversations ultimately drift towards politics, and there’s no better way to calm a feisty debate

Black Bomber from the Snowdonia Cheese Company

than a glass of wine and a slate of Welsh cheeses. And it you really want to bridge the party divide, go for cheddar, the ultimate peacemaker - not only can it claim to be strong and stable, but given its presence in 98% of British households, it’s also for the many, not the few. n

Dave Rothnie is a freelance journalist who has a passion for all things North Wales and comedy. He lives in Colwyn Bay with his family

NWM 2017 Page 49

Albion Ale House

MAGAZINE

Founded by four local brewers who believe that there is a place for a drinks-only pub in todays market, The Albion is regarded as one of the finest examples of a 1920's public house in Britain.

We don't have a juke box or television, we'd rather just fill 
 the pub with the sound of conversation. And the clinking 
 of glasses.

Cheers

Albion Ale House Uppergate St Conwy LL32 8RF 01492 582484

Page 50 NWM 2017

THE HIT PARADE As Dylan’s was preparing to open its third restaurant on the East Parade of Llandudno’s seafront, Kate Hamilton went to meet coowner David Evans.

When I went to meet David Evans at Dylan’s new

So, if Dylan’s is set to open the doors of The

restaurant in Llandudno it was exactly a week away

Washington to the public on May 25th, then open

from opening day. Did it look like The Washington

they shall. And, boy, are the people of Llandudno

was ready to open its doors in seven days? Not really,

excited.

if I’m honest. Did David appear concerned? No, not really either.

David and Robin’s ethos is to serve quality food and drink in quality surroundings, thereby providing the

Maybe this air of confidence was because David

best possible dining experience to the good people of

and his business partner Robin have renovated and

North Wales. It’s no coincidence that all three of the

successfully opened two restaurants already, or

restaurants in the Dylan’s chain (Menai Bridge and

maybe it was because it’s David’s own construction

Criccieth are home to the other two establishments)

firm that’s undertaking the renovations. Maybe it was

boast the most outstanding views, for example.

a combination of the two, or something else entirely, but you get the impression within minutes of meeting

“We want to provide the best possible experience,”

David that he is a man that gets things done.

explained David. “All three of our restaurants

NWM 2017 Page 51

MAGAZINE

“Menai mussels are comparable to any in the world,” he command the most spectacular views, and all three of them

enthuses. “The same logic that applies to making good wine,

occupy very unique buildings. The dining experience

in terms of good weather and a suitable location, also applies

begins here – with the building, the view and staff that are

to mussels. We have that magic combination in Anglesey, and

warm and welcoming. Then we move onto the food, which

the mussels speak for themselves.”

is the best that we can possibly offer, with 67% coming from local/regional suppliers.”

So passionate is David about Menai mussels, that he has even hosted a blind tasting in the past with the Anglesey

And local produce is key as far as both David and Robin are

offering coming out on top. And while Dylan’s signature

concerned.

dish of Dyl’s Drunken Mussels (steamed in local Welsh cider, leeks, bacon and cream) certainly sounds tempting,

“We want to really promote North Wales back through the

according to David the best ingredient on their menu is from

local supply chain,” continues David. “There’s always been

“star fisherman” Sion Williams, who provides the best local

something of a food culture over here, but people are really

seafood sourced from his 500 crab and lobster pots located

beginning to talk about it now.”

along the Llŷn Peninsula.

So it will come as no surprise that Edwards of Conwy

The entire menu at Dylan’s is packed with fresh seafood,

provides Dylan’s with its meat, and Halen Môn its salt. But

along with pizzas, burgers and Welsh meat. The seared

it’s when you start discussing seafood that David really

scallops, roasted local lobster and Ferryman’s Platter all

lights up.

sound particularly tempting, if not rather adult, dishes.

Page 52 NWM 2017

But don’t be fooled, because behind the tasteful décor and tempting wine list, lies perhaps one of the most family friendly chains you are likely to come across in the region.

“We have responded to families, and endeavour to make Dylan’s attractive to kids,” adds David, who has five children of his own. “If the kids want to come, then the parents will want to come.”

And getting kids to try new foods is something that’s rather close to David’s heart.

“We [Dylan’s] are heavily involved in numerous school and community projects, promoting healthy, local seafood to local children,” he explains. “Mussels, after all, are the superfood of the sea.”

“

We want to really promote North Wales back through the local supply chain. There’s always been something of a food culture over here, but people are really beginning to talk about it now

”

Investing in the local community comes as second nature to David and Robin, who also invest heavily in their staff – all 180 of them. Dylan’s are gold Investors in People, as they prioritise

NWM 2017 Page 53

MAGAZINE

training and development of their team in order to

similar time that they wanted a change of scene, and

maintain standards.

so moved to North Wales in pursuit of a better work/ life balance. Whether that has been achieved with the

“We offer a range of courses to our staff, and operate a

hours that have gone into renovating The Washington

mentoring system. We invest in our staff so that they

recently is questionable, but the pair have no plans to

feel happy investing in us,” adds David. “We care for

slow down just yet.

our team and hold the belief that we provide the best working environment possible.”

All of the condiments that are served at Dylan’s are homemade – and available to buy. Such is their

David certainly seemed to have a good rapport with

popularity that the next phase in the company’s

the team who were busy preparing The Washington,

growth will be on the retail side of things.

but perhaps that’s to be expected from a guy who goes into business with a lifelong friend.

“We have no plans for a fourth restaurant at the moment,” says David. “We want to concentrate on

“Robin and I met at Wakefield Youth Theatre when

stabilising the business and extending our retail

we were in our teens,” he says. “We then went onto

brand. We want to sell our produce in the finest shops

university together and have been friends ever since.”

and delicatessens throughout the UK and, by the end of 2019, we hope one or two higher end supermarkets

But upon graduating David and Robin went their

might want to stock our produce.

separate ways, in business at least. While David moved to New York to follow a career in the fashion

Big plans indeed. But first there is a restaurant to

industry (he is the former managing director of

open, and ensuring that the residents of Llandudno

fashion label Bench), Robin went to Greece and, upon

become as enamoured as their Menai Bridge and

returning to Leeds, proceeded to open a popular café/

Criccieth cousins. And I, along with Dylan ail Don – a

restaurant.

local sea god that provided the inspiration for the restaurant’s name (it’s also happens to be the name of

Fast forward to 2013 and the friends decided at a

Page 54 NWM 2017

David’s youngest son), wish them all the very best. n

style &quality

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MAGAZINE

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Food for thought North Wales is bagging itself an enviable nationwide reputation as a hot new foodie zone.

Independent artisans are springing up like bluebells, proudly offering their handmade passion projects to an eager, hungry public. A lot of this buzz is attributable to the amazing success story that is the north Wales craft ale industry.

Brands like Orme Ale, Wild Horse and Purple Moose

diluting middle-man interruptions between the cocoa

now have their own ranges of ales in bars, delicatessens

bean and the all-important end product. The finishing

and supermarkets all over the country. In Conwy, a

touches are provided by Emma, a trained fashion

revolutionary pub renaissance got underway when a

designer, whose stunning artist-themed Easter eggs

cabal of local breweries teamed up to by The Albion and

resulted in countless nose and palm prints all over the

The Bridge, which are now thriving, old-school ‘pub-pubs’

shop window as onlookers gazed inside in awe. One

specialising in their own critically lauded, hoppy wares.

might flippantly say that these were the kind of Easter eggs you would normally find in Harrods, but in this case

It isn’t just beer though. Local cheesemakers (blessèd

they really were!

as they are), organic farmers, coffee makers and even homemade skin-care product makers are doing just fine,

This is a strange period for chocolate lovers. Having

thank you very much. Just down the road from The Albion

denied themselves for Lent, they then over-gorged over

in Conwy, there’s an especially sinful treat awaiting lovers

Easter and had to swear off the good stuff again for a

of fine treats and ignorers of calorie-counting charts.

while. Thankfully, equilibrium has now returned, and if you know what’s good for you, or don’t care what isn’t,

Baravelli’s by Conwy’s upper gate is the culmination of

make Baravelli’s your next destination.

nearly a decade spent making chocolate to the highest possible standards. Before they realised what was

Not only do they offer a bewitching array of fantastically

happening, Emma and her husband Mark (proud owner

inventive flavours (Mango & black onion seed, Lychee

of the greatest moustache since Salvador Dali hung up his

liqueur and a new range of gin-choccies), but they offer

paintbox) were winning prestigious food awards by the

tasting evenings and workshops, in which you can create

dozen.

your own masterpieces under the stewardship of some genuine local food heroes. n

One of the keys to their success has been their insisting on using a bean-to-bar process that cuts out any quality-

www.baravellis.com

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

NWM 2017 Page 57

MAGAZINE

Recipes UF DE DE BOE CARBONOACAL WELSH BEER WITH L ke used to ma

mum a dish my n old ariation on based on a e, n n sa This is a v y a P ed en rst op when we fi ssic. a cl h is Flem ed butter ick 1/3-inch-th oons unsalt J 3 tablesp braising steak cut into of ks.’

J 2 pounds ‘minute stea e k li , es ic sl pepper d n u ro freshly g d an t al S J ed. ove, crush J 1 garlic cl onions ed J 350g slic our fl in la e) p g 0 J5 sed pale al beer (we u of ls m 0 5 4 e J n dried thym J 1/2 teaspoo es J 2 bay leav sley. par ed p op h C J e hob e dish on th st casserol

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d den ad ol d g an e l they ar eat a bit after Drop the h inutes unti m en 8 th or c, 7 li t ar abou dd the g A . g n so stirring for r rs ou le e fl the Strang s, stir in th brown like 30 second e beer. th in r ou p then slowly ute, then in m ng for a Keep stirri eat back lace the m carefully p

ATE & SSE CHOCOLM LOW MOU L A H S R MA mousse

chocolate igella a fantastic is is ed’ from N th , rt ean ‘borrow For desse m allow I … m h ed rs k a ic t we n ttle pink m li e os recipe tha th se the whole here you u hich makes w Lawson, w g, eg w ead of ra Angels inst t shop. like a swee e thing tast lows i marshmal

J 150g min er utt J 50g soft b elli’s dark chocolate av ar B J 250g led) d water (coo J 60ml boile of double cream pot J A 284ml od p J 1 vanilla

s, butter, arshmallow Place the m a pyrex d water in chocolate an ucepan sa a lace over p d an l ow b ling water. freshly boi half-full of d slowly the heat an Turn down h it as all hing until stir everyt d all. w shmallo an melted, mar e. il h w a ol for Leave to co into e vanilla pod eds from th your se h e it th W e . k ap ic Scr ip until th h w e en th th eam into the cream , fold the cr la u ing is at h sp yt er te favouri until ev re tu ix ur m e olat Pour into yo cooling choc nsistency. co d d oo an g r e u lo o cups ar an even co s - espress er d in an ta n u co yo choice of if it’s all for a pint glass d a half. an r ou for this, or h r an e fridge fo ild place in th nearest ch e th to l ow b e th s Pas n. licked clea for it to be

Don’t fancy cooking?

01492 582079 @PaysanneDeganwy www.paysannedeganwy.co.uk

Page 58 NWM 2017

NWM 2017 Page 59

MAGAZINE

Open 7 days a week 129 Mostyn Street, Llandudno, LL30 2PE 01492 871813 www.jdoughspizzas.co.uk HP horizontal - PaysanneDeganwy HR.pdf

1

23/03/2017

14:28

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

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

We look forward to seeing you soon.

Photos Š Jamie Stevens

Page 60 NWM 2017

01492 582079 www.paysannedeganwy.co.uk @PaysanneDeganwy

Raise your glass The basics on ‘All Things Wine’

IN THE VINEYARD: Vines can be grown commercially,

expensive sparkling wine region, but most wine producing

wherever conditions allow all around the world. Most

areas will make a sparkling wine. In recent years, the Italian

vineyards fall between 30 to 50 degrees latitude either

Prosecco has become the fizz of choice in the UK, but there’s

North or South of the equator. The style of wine produced

always something new an exciting around the corner. n

depends on the combination of climate, landscape, soil and grape variety. Some vineyard practices, particularly in Europe, are influenced by local wine laws, while countries in the New World have more opportunity to experiment taking many of their ideas from the historic regions of Europe.

IN THE WINERY: There have been huge changes in

Wines of the month Here are a few new additions at The Grape to Glass for you to try out. Salut!

winemaking since the first wines were made, with many wineries adopting technology to ensure that the grapes

WHITE WINE: PECORINO IGT TERRE DI CHIETI, ITALY

grown in the vineyard reach the drinker in perfect

Don’t be fooled, Pecorino is not just relegated to a cheese! The

condition. While good wine cannot be made from poor

nose is complex with hints of exotic fruits and soft spices.

quality grapes if the winemaker doesn’t control the

The palate is well structured with a beautiful fruitiness and

production process, the perfect harvest can be turned into

mineral note.

bad wine.

RED WINE: RIBERAL ROBLE, RIBERA del DUERO, SPAIN RED WINE: Red wines are made from red grape varieties.

Elegant strawberry and blackcurrant fruit has been given

The colour comes from the skins which are allowed to mix

the merest hint of vanilla and spice from a short spell in

with the juice until the desired colour is achieved. Different

oak. Smooth and powerful on the palate, with an elegantly

varieties have a range of characteristics which can add

appetising finish.

colour, body and tannin to the wine. The use of oak can also influence the final taste and the winemaker has the choice

ROSE WINE: ROBERTSON WINERY, NATURAL SWEET ROSE,

whether to use oak or not.

SOUTH AFRICA Deep coral pink colour, packed with delicious sweet berry

WHITE WINE: White wines are mostly made from white

flavours. Made by blending varietals to showcase fruity and

varieties, although it is possible to make a white wine

fresh, floral flavours. Packed with natural sweet flavours and

from red grapes as the pulp is colourless and the skins are

low in alcohol!

removed early on in the process. The variety, climate and option of fermenting or maturing in oak also plays a big part

SPARKLING WINE: PIGNOLETTO FRIZZANTE, DOC COLLI

in the final wine.

IMOLA, ITALY An attractive and delicately floral spritzy wine, leading to

ROSE WINE: Rose wines are made from red grape varieties

a crisp, refreshing flavour with a soft, full and harmonious

but range in style depending on the market they are aimed

palate. Delicately sparkling, this is a cross between Pinot

at, the variety and the place the grapes are grown. The

Grigio and Prosecco in style.

winemaker can choose how pink he wants the wine to be by the length of time the juice spends with the skins. They also decide whether to ferment the wine dry or leave some sugar

Tim Watson runs The Grape to

to make a sweeter style.

Glass Wine Shop and Tasting Room in Rhos-on-Sea which, as

SPARKLING WINE: Sparkling wine undergoes a second

well as offering wine from far reaching lands, also

fermentation in either the bottle or tank which traps the

stocks locally produced beers, wines and spirits

carbon dioxide bi-product within the wine, which makes it fizzy. Champagne in France is the most prestigious and

NWM 2017 Page 61

MAGAZINE

Linney Cooper are a long established and highly respected carpet and oor covering company, with a history that can be traced as far back as 1949.

Our reputation is such that we enjoy a nationwide reputation for quality, not only of the carpets and other oor coverings we provide, but also of the installation work we undertake.

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Carpet featured Castlemead colour Yellow Submarine from Adam Carpets

Page 62 NWM 2017

Ask the Dietitian

This month our resident dietitian, Belinda Mortell, answers your questions about general health, and offers advice on how we can reduce our risk of heart attacks, stroke, respiratory diseases, type 2 diabetes, cancers and mental health disorders.

What do we know about how our

What the current advice on alcohol?

behaviour impacts our health?

Be a role model for your children, and

In the UK we know we have a problem

ensure that your children know that an

which is affecting us all, even our

alcohol free childhood is best for them.

children. One in three Year 6 children

Be honest though, as your children

Make some small changes today

are either overweight or obese, while

will notice how much you drink and

The Change4Life Food Smart

58% of women and two thirds of men are

that your drinking patterns change

Campaign helps you make smarter

overweight or obese. Every day we make

depending on circumstances – such as

food choices

decisions such as what we eat, whether

parties. Explain to your children what

www.nhs.uk/change4life

we drink alcohol, how much we drink,

alcohol does and what the safe levels

if we smoke and how much exercise we

are for adults. Remember the guideline

Find out your risk of type 2 diabetes,

take. All this affects our health and the

is the same for men and women now,

with help from Diabetes UK

likelihood of us having chronic long-

with the latest advice being that it is

https://riskscore.diabetes.org.uk/

term diseases which affect our quality

safest not to drink more than 14 units a

of life and mobility as we get older. They

week on a regular basis. This is about

Check your heart age

also have an impact on the health of our

six pints of 4% ale, or six 175ml medium

www.nhs.uk/Conditions

children – both now and in their old age.

sized glasses of wine a week.

For more information on a healthy

Is the government taking this issue

How much does my family need to

lifestyle speak to your GP or your

seriously?

exercise?

dietitian through your medical

Yes! The government has instructed

Adults need to be moderately active for

centre. For private consultations look

that the food industry reduce the sugar

at least 150 minutes a week, and do

for a dietitian in private practice

content across nine food groups by 20%

some strength activities two or more

through their website. https://

by 2020. The Sugar Tax will begin in

times a week. Children aged 5-18 years

freelancedietitians.org

2018, and the ÂŁ1 billion raised will be

old need to take at least an hour of

used to fund school sports. Under the

physical activity a day. We should be

Childhood Obesity Plan all public sector

encouraging our children away from

services, such as leisure centres and

televisions and playing computer games

hospitals, will be encouraged to provide

towards cycling, walking and playing

healthy food options.

outside. n

Belinda Mortell is a Registered Dietitian with an interest in family health. She lives in North Wales with her two small children and running obsessed husband.

NWM 2017 Page 63

MAGAZINE

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PROPERTY of the month There are very few properties in the world that boast their very own working train platform, but Plas y Dduallt in Blaenau Ffestiniog has just that. North Wales Magazine had the grand tour.

Located in the heart of Blaenau Ffestiniog lies Plas y Dduallt

‘Cromwell’s House’, being one of the many places where he

– a small Welsh manor house with a private platform onto the

is alleged to have stayed during the Civil War.

Ffestiniog Railway. And while that has an interesting story all of its own, the history of the property actually goes back quite

The current owners have researched and documented the

a bit further.

history of Plas y Dduallt which has been tree ring dated to construction starting in 1559. It was built for the Lloyds,

In fact when you first see the house, which dates back to

a family of minor nobles which, according to Griffiths’

the 16th Century, with its rugged stonework and arrow slits,

Pedigrees, can trace their ancestry back to Llewelyn

you get the feeling of being in a historic place. Locals call it

the Great.

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MAGAZINE

For over 250 years the property was passed down the

Campbells Came by Rail’.

generations of Lloyds until it was bought by Lord Tottenham, a bishop from County Wicklow, as a ‘buy-to-let’ investment.

Plas y Dduallt is a classic example of regional architecture

At the time of the first census (1841) the grand house had

and was used as the front cover for the definitive book, The

been subdivided into three units, one of which was home to

Houses of the Welsh Countryside. In particular it illustrates

a railway foreman and his family.

the unit system whereby two houses built at separate times are joined together – in the case of Plas y Dduallt, the second

Construction of the railway began in 1832, and was

unit was built forty years after the first, probably by the son.

completed just four years later, which makes it the oldest operating railway in the world. In the early days it was

Fast forward to 2017, and the house offers spacious living

powered by gravity and pony; the brakes of the slate wagons

accommodation to go with its characterful history. Situated

would be released in Blaenau to freewheel the 700 feet

on the south-facing slopes of Moelwyn Bach, and standing

of descent over 13 miles to the ships at Porthmadog. Once

within its own gardens and grounds, Plas y Dduallt is now a

unloaded, the empty wagons would be hauled back up the

Grade II listed property.

line by ponies until in the 1870s, when the ponies were replaced with steam engines.

Accommodation within the manor house comprises six bedrooms which are currently configured into a main

When Colonel Campbell bought the house in the 1960s, in

house, with two reception rooms and four bedrooms, and

the days before there was a driveway, there was no vehicle

an adjoining self-contained two-bedroom wing. There are

access and the volunteers rebuilding the railway from

spectacular views from just about every window.

Porthmadog to Blaenau had just reached this part of the line.

In return for providing the volunteers with a barn, and for

The property is approached by a private tarmac drive that

helping with explosives, the Colonel was provided with a

winds up the hillside through ancient oak woodland, which

siding and a ‘running powers’ agreement. This agreement

has been designated a National Nature Reserve, and is

allowed Campbell to use his own engine, called the ‘Colonel’,

mostly owned by the National Trust.

to commute between home and his office in Dolgellau, where he worked as the solicitor for the county council. On his

Plas y Dduallt is of stone construction with a slate roof and

journey home, he would park his car at Tan y Bwlch station

most of the rooms have exposed stone walls with access to

and drive the diesel-powered ‘Colonel’ one mile up and

the first floor by way of spiral stone steps. There is a wealth

through the woods to his platform where he would park it on

of features including large oak beams, an impressive four-

the siding.

poster bedroom, stone flagged floors, a minstrels’ gallery in the kitchen, a cellar with arrow slits, a balcony, studded

The story of his eccentric commute sparked the interest of

and linenfold solid oak internal doors and large inglenook

the BBC which made a 30-minute documentary called ‘The

fireplaces. n

Page 68 NWM 2017

Plas y Dduallt is currently on the market for ÂŁ795,000 with Walter Lloyd Jones & Co. For more information call 01341 422278 or visit www.walterlloydjones.co.uk

NWM 2017 Page 69

MAGAZINE

LUXURY OUTDOOR LIVING

Complete your garden with some quality furniture set and/or a Weber Barbecue.

Our experts are always on hand to find the perfect combination for each individual customer and there is something for everyone. Summer is the perfect time to buy, ensuring that every precious heatwave is appreciated to the full. Alongside our Weber range, we stock a variety of garden furniture suites from three fantastic companies: 4Seasons, Hartman and Kettler.

Snowdonia Nurseries Page 70 NWM 2017 & Garden Centre, Glan Conwy 01492 580703 www.snowdonianurseries.co.uk

Property roundup

Goetre Uchaf, Bangor

3 Wainwright Close, Rhos on Sea

Redrow’s Goetre Uchaf development enjoys a great

This immaculately presented four bedroom detached home

location on the outskirts of Bangor, away from the

is situated in the sought after location of Wainwright Close,

hustle and bustle of the town. While set in a peaceful

just off the Cayley Promenade with easy access to Rhos On

location, Goetre Uchaf is well placed for excellent

Sea village and part of an attractive well maintained modern

commuter connections, and a large range of high

development with an open aspect to the front. Accommodation

quality sports and leisure opportunities can be found

includes a lounge with a lovely aspect over The Green, which

locally. Part of Redrow’s Heritage Collection, the homes

leads into a dining room which in turn leads into a spacious

here boast traditional craftsmanship and modern

conservatory, a study, kitchen/breakfast room with French

interiors. Prices start from £266,995 for a four-

doors to the rear garden and further dining room with access

bedroom family home. Visit www.redrow.co.uk for

to an integrated garage. To the first floor there is a galleried

further information

landing with four bedrooms and a family bathroom. Two of the bedrooms have en suite facilities with the master bedroom benefitting from a dressing area and range of fitted wardrobes. To the outside of the property there is a driveway to the front and well maintained rear garden which is mainly laid to lawn with stone paved seating areas and border surround. 3 Wainwright Close is on the market with Fletcher & Poole for £365,000. www.fletcherpoole.com

NWM 2017 Page 71

MAGAZINE

Parc Hendre, Abergele Perfectly located on the outskirts of the market town of Abergele, Parc Hendre is a new development of three-, four- and fivebedroom homes and two-bedroom bungalows from local housebuilder Anwyl Homes. Thoughtfully designed, the properties at Parc Hendre are aesthetically attractive and benefit from flexible floor layouts. There is a range of homes currently available including the Clwyd; a three-bedroom detached house, ideal for family living. For considering moving, a visit to the development is recommended to view the Brecon showhome, a four-bedroom detached family home. Parc Hendre is located close to good schools, is just a short drive from the town centre and boasts easy access to the motorway.” Prices start from £145,950, and Help to Buy and Part Exchange schemes are both available. For further information visit www.anwylhomes.co.uk

Derwen Deg, Llechwedd Derwen Deg is an impressive five bedroom detached period property enjoying superb countryside and mountain views.

Located Llechwedd within the Conwy Valley, and part of the Snowdonia National Park, this lovely house offers a rural location yet is just a short drive into the neighbouring town of Conwy. Set over four floors with ample reception rooms, modern fitted kitchen and bathroom, the property has been carefully refurbished by the present owners to include installation of uPVC double glazed sash windows and doors.

Ample parking, garage and mature grounds complete the package. Derwen Deg is currently on the market with Beresford Adams for £625,000

47 Tal y Fan, Glan Conwy This attractive four-bedroom new-build home is situated in an exclusive cul-de-sac location in Glan Conwy. The property, which was built by Anwyl Homes, has neutral decor throughout, an above average specification and a spacious feel. This property comprises dining room, spacious kitchen/ utility, lounge with double doors leading out to the patio and garden. Upstairs you can find four double bedrooms (master en suite), and a high quality bathroom. The property has a larger than average garden to the rear with views over the mountains. Gas central heating and upvc double glazing throughout. Chain free, this family home is on the market with Fletcher & Poole for £269,950. www.fletcherpoole.com

Page 72 NWM 2017

The Reserve, Glan Conwy The Reserve at Glan Conwy is a development of eight luxury houses being built to take in the magnificent views across the estuary, from the mountain range of Snowdonia to the beauty of the Conwy Castle.

Perfect to relax and enjoy from the privacy of your own roof terrace, these privately developed houses are going to be ready to move in this November. All fittings are of the highest standard, with German fitted kitchens, Porcelanosa tiles, Duravit bathrooms and underfloor heating throughout the properties. Built for the contemporary lifestyle and ease of maintenance, these lovely three-storey properties use plenty of natural light in each room to provide you with a real sense of space.

Visit www.thereserveconwy.com for further information

Pentre Felin, Eglwysbach This impressive five-bedroom Grade II listed 17th Century house is located in the idyllic village of Eglwysbach. With stunning countryside views, the three-storey former corn mill has been beautifully restored and still retains a wealth of the original internal mill workings. The property comprises of five bedrooms, four with en suite, a family bathroom, lounge, dining room, kitchen, utility room and snug. The versatile layout could however be used as a main residence and annexe/ holiday let. Externally there is a gravel driveway with ample parking and rear garden. This fabulous family home with a difference is on the market with Anthony Flint for £440,000. www.anthonyflint.co.uk

2 Herb Garden, Llangefni The Herb Garden is a lovely small development situated in the Anglesey hamlet of Pentre Berw. The properties are of modern closed panel construction with thermal insulation ensuring they exceed the current requirements of building regulations. These superb houses have been constructed by Dan Wood homes, pioneers in turn key housebuilding. Number 2 is a light and spacious detached family home with off-road parking and garden. The accommodation comprises good size lounge, fitted kitchen/diner, three double bedrooms (master with en suite shower room), and family bathroom. There is upvc double glazing throughout and electric heating. To the side of the property a driveway provides off-road parking and the rear garden is laid to lawn creating a lovely outside space. Available for £159,950, more information can be found via agents Fletcher & Poole – www.fletcherpoole.com

NWM 2017 Page 73

Island

Life

Where space allows, an island is today’s musthave kitchen feature. Kate Hamilton reports.

RIGHT: Bkoncepts provides quality German kitchens from Nolte Küchen BELOW: Bkoncepts has a wide range of Nolte kitchens on display in its Wrexham showroom

When it comes to designing your dream kitchen, it is essential to tick all of the boxes that will make you happy on a daily basis. And, before you even start to think about units, appliances and worksurfaces, there is another dimension that needs addressing – the layout of the room itself.

“A number of people rely on a kitchen designer to come up with the layout options based on the existing room dimensions together with water and electrical routes,” explains Pete Sherry, kitchen category manager at Faith Furniture Company. “The more the designer works with the homeowner, the more freedom there is to create stylish kitchen ideas as the rooms are given a lot more consideration.”

And one idea that today’s buyers want to make a reality is that of the kitchen island. Not only does it serve the purpose of being the hub of the home, but it provides a wealth of storage benefits too.

“Homeowners will never regret the inclusion of an island or dining space as the kitchen is no longer merely just a preparation area, but also a relaxing and communal area for whole the family,” continues Sherry. “An island or breakfast bar can also work as both a storage area and place for dining. While from first glance an iconic design element has been created for the home, the cupboards that fit beneath the island are also a useful place to keep pots, pans or food.

NWM 2017 Page 75

MAGAZINE

A kitchen island is at the top of everyone’s wish list, says Lida Cucina

manager Dudley Ruler. “We ensure that the design is just Reginox’s Manhattan is an innovative accessory storage workstation which is designed to complement high-end kitchen design

what the customer wants, and while we provide a full fitting service as part of our package, we can also recommend a local builder or tradesperson to undertake any other work that might be needed in order to make sure that the layout is just what the customer wants.”

And this is an essential part of good kitchen design – you don’t want to be spending thousands of pounds on a new kitchen that has been arranged around a wrongly situated pipe for example.

Bkoncepts, which provides quality German kitchens from

Larger islands or breakfast bars also mean that a hob or sink

Nolte Küchen, prides itself on its kitchen expertise.

can be fitted in as well, again utilising every inch of surface space.”

“We can make the most of limited space kitchens through to stunning showcase feature kitchens that add wow to the

But what do you do if you can’t include an island, the holy

most prestigious of luxury homes,” continues Ruler. “Each

grail of the modern kitchen? Well, like in all areas of life, you

and every kitchen we create and install is a true design

compromise. And if you’re not sure which design will work

statement.”

best with the space that you have, it’s recommended that you get professional kitchen designers on board as soon as

And if you’re not convinced then its state-of-the-art

possible.

showroom in central Wrexham will certainly reassure you of the quality on offer – just ask Ruler to stand in a pan drawer

Every kitchen project that Wrexham-based bkoncepts

and you’ll soon get the idea…

works on has a dedicated team assigned to it, supporting the project throughout design, quotation, delivery, installation

Once you have the design of the room sorted then it’s time

and aftercare.

to start looking for ways to make your daily chores as easy as possible. It’s no surprise then that, multi-function taps,

“We take the time to ensure that the design of the kitchen

such as hot water taps or filtered water taps, are becoming

meets the full potential of the room,” explains showroom

more popular. A hot water tap provides hot water on demand,

Page 76 NWM 2017

GROHE’s Blue water system range, makes it easier than ever for consumers to enjoy filtered chilled still, semi and sparkling water on demand

Bkoncepts has a state-of-the-art showroom in central Wrexham

providing customers with a time – and energy – saving alternative to the everyday kettle.

AEG’s ProSource hot water tap, for example, uses just under 50% less energy to heat water than an electric kettle, and uses up to 85% less water. This not only benefits the

But it’s obviously not just the sink where stone can be

environment, but also reduces home bills and payments for

found – today’s buyers are shunning laminate worktops in

the consumer.

favour of more natural materials. Quartz is a shrewd choice for worktops in new homes as it has many applications

Meanwhile, on the cold end of the tap spectrum, GROHE’s

and is guaranteed to last the test of time.

Blue Home chilled and filtered water tap, dispenses sparkling, semi, and still water on demand, so it’s much like

“Quartz is one of nature’s hardest materials and is more

having a fresh spring in your kitchen. Blue Home also makes

durable than most stone, marble and granite,” explains

having to buy bottled water a thing of the past.

Jonathan Stanley, VP of marketing at Caesarstone UK. It [quartz] is impervious to stains, scratches and cracks and

And if you’re going to splash out on a luxury tap, then it

is highly heat and cold resistant. It is a desirable material

would be silly to ignore the sink that it sits on.

for buyers.”

“Sink design has come a long way in recent years and, whilst

And providing desirable materials, appliances and designs

stylish looks are an important selling factor, it [the kitchen

is what creating the ultimate kitchen is all about. Just

sink] is still seen as a largely functional item on the whole,”

ensure that all of the different factors compliment each

says Dave Mayer, sales and marketing director of Reginox

other on both a practical and aesthetic level, and you could

UK. “The kitchen sink remains sadly low on the list of

also also have a slice of your very own island paradise... n

priorities and is usually one of the last items to be chosen, which strikes me as ironic bearing in mind that it is often found under the window, an area of the kitchen to which the eye is naturally drawn.”

Contacts

While stainless steel remains the most popular sink

AEG

Faith Furniture Company

material, due to its timeless appeal, longevity and ease of

www.aeg.co.uk

www.faithfurniture.co.uk

in both ceramic and granite sinks. With the more modern

bkoncepts

Grohe

designs that are now available, ceramics can look stunning in

www.bkoncepts.co.uk

www.grohe.co.uk

available is more interesting than ever before, with a plethora

Caesarstone

Reginox UK

of creative designs and colours on offer.

www.caesarstone.co.uk

www.reginox.co.uk

maintenance, the industry is now seeing a sustained growth

contemporary developments, and the range of granite sinks

NWM 2017 Page 77

MAGAZINE

Mae croeso cynnes i bawb yn BOCS! If you need storage for your home or business, then look no further than BOCS Self-Storage. We offer a wide range of secure, clean, accessible and affordable storage units.

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

Galwch heibio a gweld sut y gallwn eich helpu.

Page 78 NWM 2017

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

Driving design

Made to measure Bespoke freestanding furniture and interiors specialist Mufti is leading the way in the resurgence of rich materials for furniture, furnishings and accessories in luxury interiors. It’s new Camera oval coffee table has been handcrafted with a blue marble top and leather-clad metal frame, and costs £2,650. Meanwhile Muft’s new Milton sofa features a beautiful classic button-back and modern styling and can be made to measure with a beech wood frame and covered in a fabric of your choice for £2,540. www.mufti.co.uk

Leading kitchen appliance manufacturer, Gorenje, is revving up for the launch of a special edition retro fridge inspired by the famous Volkswagen VW Bulli.

Combining the iconic design of the 60’s with the sophisticated technology of today, the model is part of Gorenje’s best-selling retro collection and is based on its ORB freestanding product. Available in both baby blue and bordeaux colourways, the new special edition model has a gross capacity of 260 litres and includes IonAir and DynamiCooling food preservation technology. Not just for passionate drivers, it will add an instant touch of individual style, freedom and adventure to any kitchen, while keeping food fresh and full of vital nutrients. www.gorenje.co.uk

Bathing beauty Combine the beauty of a luxurious, freestanding bath with the space-saving practicality of a back-to-wall model with Cove, one of the latest additions to Waters Baths of Ashbourne’s comprehensive bath range.

The perfect choice for design-savvy buyers looking for an indulgent bathing solution, the curvaceous Cove back-to-wall bath features gently sloping sides and soft, organic lines that will transform any family bathroom into a relaxing sanctuary. The practical, minimal back shelf is perfect for toiletries and other items, which will enhance your bathing experience even further, such as candles or even a glass of wine.

Cove has also been created to accommodate an overbath shower if required, and is priced around £1,795. www.watersbaths.co.uk

NWM 2017 Page 79

MAGAZINE

Dual purpose

On the tiles The brand new Annabelle tile collection from the Stone & Ceramic Warehouse is full of beautiful designs and colours, ideal for turning your walls and floors into works of art. The new tiles will add a splash of personality and style to any project. Full of delicate designs and fresh colours, they join together perfectly to create dynamic geometric and floral patterns that will transform any room. “The key for pulling off this unique look is to let the tiles be the main focus of the room,” commented Chris Grainger, managing director of the Stone & Ceramic Warehouse. “We’d recommend furnishing the rest of the space with streamlined, minimalist pieces and lighting to create a modern look full of character and artistic flair.”

Furl’s collection of multi-functional tables are the ideal solution for anyone wishing to combine practicality with expert design. With nine models available, Furl has utilised its passion for making everyday objects more practical, space saving and usable, they have developed a range of beautiful multi-functional tables. These ingenious designs mean that almost any space can be transformed into a family dining room within seconds. From coffee tables that lift and extend into larger tables, to a console that’s just as happy as a small desk as it is seating 12 people, there’s an option for every household. Whether you’re shopping for a compact, contemporary studio flat or a grand country abode, having furniture that folds or extends means that you can have a flexible table arrangement when needed. www.furl.co.uk

www.sacw.co.uk

Mirror mirror Newtons Furniture’s full length, French leaner mirrors are sure to make a statement.

With opulent Baroque French frames, these handmade mirrors feature intricate carving and are available in four luxurious finishes including matt cream, satin black, silver leaf and gold leaf. Aptly named ‘Through the Looking Glass’, these extravagant mirrors are large enough to admire your whole reflection but will also help to make a room feel more spacious, reflecting lots of light or a decorative area of interest; perfect for any dressing area or bedroom www.newtonsfurniture.co.uk

Perfect pair These botanical fern prints by Pastel Lane are sold in pairs and come in striking, black fir wood frames.

Measuring 40 x 58 x 2 cm in size these botanical fern pictures depict different ferns mounted in clear glass. They look gorgeous hung as a pair – or why not create a stunning focal point with the other fern print set in the series. Beautiful arranged as a group of four, or for real impact, repeat the designs and create a wall feature using eight prints, as pictured. The prints cost £75.00 for each pair. www.pastellane.co.uk

Page 80 NWM 2017

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NWM 2017 Page 81

MAGAZINE

APRIL 2017

E! FRE

MAGAZINE

MAGAZINE

On the trails

great mountain is blessed with and North Wales the mountains and as well as ated bike venues are several dedic donia, there a hills of Snow bases that offer centres and ties. rtuni mountain bike oppo and experiences variety of riding UK’s llau was the n near Dolge trail centre – mountain bike first dedicated n.co.uk www.beicsbreni – iniog Ffest at Blaenau J Antur Stiniog iog.com – www.anturstin of Wrexham) (7 miles west J Coed Llandegla -llandegla om/agents/coed www.mbwales.c

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(the .mbwales.com look at www If you take a ite for Wales) tain biking webs official moun too ranging y of other ideas you will get plent to great trails bike mountain from dedicated at Betws y g locations such mountain bikin al of Wales), the outdoor capit Coed (surely The Clwyd Hills.

Hiraethog and Penmachno, just waiting there out e world There is a whol e to mount a re if you decid for you to explo or just dust off for the first time mountain bike it out for a take and e the garag the old one in to, . t spin again

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e u her g p t alla n is ayin thait may be a good idea to just hire tio r st on ver, m fro‘tests the water’ and g rts. few hours yca fo Howe ingto ason sta sonsmisinbike ng po for a something like e e r re ling r a – ra Try h re pro n you Goog still me it. tt olike er ou s’ and you’ll y Wale ha your com milto see ifsyou t t at h hatev hire North a in g r n Ha ayntainwbikere th ‘mou olid . But utin eve ea te nsu what comes up. rh ad ised isp hat ’t m Ka to e at surpr me be get abro rces um o d t w esn ng. y to rs ing ou wa is n . Bu it do feeli you vell res est ing nt tra s the y g. ere ay r, eb nd ha Th ll, st mme olida n th mpin spe spe e ly d e r ca th e is ain n ove n, s fo w is su ant h gio I mea ive otherw s cert ch-l as u t ot re h , r le t po s m a rs a m own l as the us . Ye in hou orth W e een o kn ero im ors ll fe day the sb N ls um tdo

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Ca acco owdo ŷn Pe sou ch Sn e Ll rle d th Ha an

What’s on?

Your monthly guide to local events

u Ffestiniog Stiniog at Blaena ABOVE: Antur g to enjoy : Family pausin ABOVE RIGHT Llyn Brenig view over lake section of g through forest ey RIGHT: Cyclin Llyn Cefni, Angles at Cefni Lon Las

Wales, all ght (2013) Visit ed rights reserv

© Crown copyri

(a ’s Geoff Apps the early 1980 bicycle een 1968 and t with off road In England betw to experimen eight rider) began oped a lightw motorbike trails he had devel in rough, wet within ten years use and to ns ly desig was suited ideal machine that custom built . road conditions 1980’s that road and muddy off 1970’s and early until the late bikes using re mountain But it was not to manufactu anies started comp le bicyc eight materials. lightw tech high with sizes and es in many shap soon bikers come r riders who Today off-road g favouring lighte hill country ridin ad ability. Down general cross technical off-ro endurance and rs more good favou op and devel explosive demanding and . times riding is more reaction s with very quick is pursued and e etitiv powerful rider more comp eting g tends to be runs and comp Downhill ridin making timed of e with riders new branch over a set cours ’ racing is a fairly other. ‘Four Cross riders race each against each , where four biking race scene the mountain course. other down a g and, even if of mountain bikin ing it specialist side fun just watch Racing is the it can be great over e to take part, such speeds you don’t aspir ed to ride as at the skills need and marvelling turns. around tight obstacles and ral ‘out for fun’ gene the J Home competitive racer and re One thing the s & Interiors on is that they both requi comm with superb biker have in tain moun J balance along Resta uran gth and t revie stren w good pastimes you start simply endurance, core As with all new J Property skills riding. n out of .the bike handling going mont h enjoy friends and just and learn from

The best family da ys Where to take the kids

TOP 10

out

this Easter

Castles to visit thi s spring

INSIDE

A laughing matter THE REGIONAL COMEDY

SCENE IS NO JOKE

Read all about it!

2017 Page 30 NWM

If you enjoyed this issue of North Wales Magazine why not subscribe?

For just £2.99 you can have each and every copy delivered straight to your door.

For further information email: subscribe@northwalesmagazine.co.uk

Page 82 NWM 2017

MAY 2017

!

EE FR

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th One for

e icons Mik rth Walian er – and ks to No ght milton tal , love, lau Kate Ha cer care. about life e of can s Peters nam Jule the and in 130 miles walking

MAGAZINE

n?

What’slyoguide th Your mon ents l ev a c lo to

Festival fever

et and High Stre Prestatyn Well rs met on and roll?

Jules Pete nd rock rm, a Mike and The Ala k later. Sou success. singer of d a wee rnational e is lead hope and got engage t on to inte ause Mik wen GE: Love very bec but t’s MAIN IMA Rhyl Beach locally t actually maybe tha on ever, isn’ e started c Strength later, how d of topi t may hav e Peters 31 years band tha is the kin LEFT: Mik ool run together ABOVE of sch still (the are ing in 1984 s ket load mix perform e and Jule into the and a buc just T: Jules, that Mik s and I), ng boys RIGH you Jule fact all.

VE rapy, The ABO roll at Add two between g chemothe – and no roll at all. ondence beginnin of rock corresp rock and 2016 e’s a lot ing the ir October denly ther s up dur and in the that pop g and sud careers r’s in their fundraisin each othe cess – both charitable They are suc t. s’ cen e and Jule r 100 per key to Mik t each othe ause the y suppor that the This is bec ded to be. the fact d for the ship – is y have nee relation e relapse nately, the lump in aemia, Mik , unfortu found a rocks and g with leuk ds, Jules rs of livin yea of the woo 20 out 5, after t he was mer of 201 ught tha tho sum he the In when h cancer. spin e. And, just positive nosed wit a diag put third tim also d to cancer, manage and was ering from her breast s have both others suff e and Jule life, Mik now to help in their d’etre is . all things ir raison sibly can But, like ney. The pos y jour the t view it cancer of life tha “I always on their most out s Jules.

Mike ing the ential,” say t or left. while gett tude is ess to turn righ itive atti h. This is ortunity sible, a pos g gets toug the opp having the goin t, if it’s pos en and tha n wh k t ctio “I thin turn righ road jun ching a deep and rea dig to like as effort 19 make an 7 Page and I both NWM 201

May brings music to your ears

TOP 10

Experiences for adrenalinE junkies

Lights, camera, action!

ON LOCATION IN NORTH WALES

INSIDE J INTERVIEW WITH MIKE PETERS J Homes & Interiors J FOOD & DRINK

NWM 2017 Page 83

D I S C O V E R

Wales O N A PA D D L E B O A R D

P S Y C H E D PA D D L E B OA R D I NG . C O M

ENJOY A HERITAGE TRAIN RIDE THROUGH THE DEE VALLEY

SUPS ad hp

WHERE WILL YOU GO TODAY?

Page 84 NWM 2017

www.llangollen-railway.co.uk

XXXXXX

Latest addition to Zip World opens

Llangollen Railway launches share brochure

Zip World’s latest addition opened at the

Llangollen Railway hosted a visit by Susan Elan Jones MP for Clwyd South

end of May. Tree Hoppers is a zip line and

for the launch of the Corwen The Big Push share brochure. During the

adventure course designed specifically for

course of the train journey Susan was reminded of the huge volunteer

5 to 12 year olds, where they can climb,

effort that has taken place over the past 40 years in order to rebuild

jump and zip through the trees at Zip World

Llangollen Railway. On arrival at Corwen Susan was escorted around the

Fforest in Betws y Coed.

site by project manager Richard Dixon Gough, who explained about the

The Tree Hoppers course includes balance

work that had been completed to date, which has been done in the main by

beams, hanging logs, a French hammock

volunteer effort, and the construction that is still required to complete the

bridge, tyre tops and matchsticks – plus

terminal station. The Corwen Central project was costed at approximately

a castle. Junior adventurers can gain

£500,000 of which Llangollen railway anticipate some funding from The

confidence on the Green course before

Welsh Government European Development Fund. The remaining funds will

moving on to the more challenging Red

come from share purchases and donations. “I am most impressed with the

course. Tree Hoppers takes between an

progress that has been made since my last visit in 2016 and the effort of all

hour and an hour and a half to complete.

the volunteers who have been involved in this project,” commented Susan

More details can be found at: www.

Elan Jones. “I note that for work to continue financial support is imperative,

zipworld.co.uk

and an essential part of this support is the launch of the share brochure to encourage much needed funds.” For further information email: info@ llangollen-railway.co.uk

NWM 2017 Page 85

MAGAZINE

Signatures shortlisted for prestigious award Signatures, the fine dining restaurant located in Conwy’s Aberconwy Resort & Spa, has been shortlisted for a prestigious restaurant award. The Restaurant of the

Runners needed to support local school

Year category at the inaugural British Restaurant Awards also saw nominations from Restaurant Gordon Ramsay in London and Marco Pierre White Steakhouse in Newcastle. “We couldn’t believe it when we saw the list,” commented head chef Jimmy Williams, who runs the restaurant with his wife Louise. “This small restaurant on a holiday park in North Wales up against Gordon Ramsay and some Michelin star restaurants. We don’t know how we got on there, we hadn’t entered but apparently we were nominated by our customers.”

Signatures, which has recently been

Ysgol Pen Y Bryn in Colwyn Bay celebrated its 25th

awarded two AA rosettes, has also been

Anniversary in 2012 and, as a way of raising funds, an annual

nominated for the Best Restaurant in

fun run was launched. “I wanted to promote wellbeing and

Wales. To vote in the awards visit: http://

ensure the London 2012 Olympic Legacy was real at our school

britishrestaurantawards.org

so, as a result, the 5k and children’s fun run evening was born – featuring three runs on one summer evening,” commented teacher and Healthy Schools co-ordinator Darren Dentith.

“I insisted on a well-organised event – a safe, marshalled, marked course for the 5k and a fun run for the children. Help was sought and money invested. Over 50 children and 30 adults took part and numbers have continued to grow.” But there is still room for numbers to grow further, and the school is encouraging as many local people to enter as possible.

All runners are welcome (beginners, fun runners and club members) at the event that takes place on Friday 7th July from Ysgol Pen Y Bryn to Bryn Y Maen and back – a very picturesque but challenging course. Details and entry forms can be found on: www.ysgolpenybryn.com

Page 86 NWM 2017

Host a coffee morning in aid of St David’s Hospice During June 2017, hospices across the UK will celebrate ‘Hospice Awareness Month’ to promote the significant work undertaken

Help local man raise funds for lifesaving treatment

by more than two hundred local hospices

Local resident Mark Bryant

throughout the country. Each Hospice

has launched a Go Fund Me

provides unique palliative care services

campaign in order to raise

to their local communities, which are not

funds for lifesaving leukemia

available on the NHS.

treatment in the USA. North

To celebrate Hospice Awareness Month, St

Wales Magazine would like to

David’s Hospice is appealing to the local

share the following message

communities of North West Wales to host

from him in a bid to help him

an array of fundraising and awareness

reach his target.

activities to raise vital funds for the Hospice, so that it can continue to care

“Hi, I’m Mark Bryant. I live in

for people in the local community. “Care

Rhos-On-Sea, I have an incredible wife, and two beautiful little

provided by the Hospice is completely free

girls. Life changed overnight for all of us when I was diagnosed

of charge to the community,” explained

with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in June 2015. It’s very rare

Head of Fundraising, Margaret Hollings.

at my age and chance of survival was only 50%. I had a full-

“This year, however, it will cost more than

intensity stem cell transplant receiving my brother’s stem cells in

£3 million to provide all of the hospices

September 2015 following an extremely toxic treatment protocol.

services. Since just 14% of funding is

I had a relapse in March 2016, and the prognosis from this point

received from the NHS, it means that

was only six months. With some additional treatment and serious

the charity is extremely dependant on

lifestyle changes, I had two all-clear bone marrow biopsies in

the communities it serves to raise the

August and November 2016. Unfortunately, recent bone marrow

additional 86% which equates to over £2.5

biopsies indicated low-levels of cancer. I carried out extensive

million per year.”

research and decided that immunotherapy is my best chance

The Hospice is appealing to people in the

of survival, so for my three girls, and my life, I decided to fly to

community to fundraise during June and

Florida a few weeks ago to commence treatment on the 1st May.

raise the awareness of the Hospice’s vital

A week into my stay and my health insurance company declined

work at the same time. The easiest way is

my foreign treatment request. I would like to raise £100,000 as

to host a tea party or coffee morning – for

quickly as possible, please help in any way that you can. Thank

your Hospice Awareness Coffee Morning/

you.”

Tea Party Fundraising Pack, please email Andrew Everley on: andrew.everley@

To read the full story and to support Mark’s campaign visit: www.

stdavidshospice.org.uk

gofundme.com/markbryant-tv?r=87350

NWM 2017 Page 87

O UT Y A L & N DESIG

ING ADVERTIS

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ESIG DIGITAL D

S S E R P D WOR N ORIGINATION DESIG

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FLYERS

CORPORA

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ab afford

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esign

lity d le qua

N MARKESTINI ESS WEBSITES SMALL BU OCIAL MEDIA S

BUSINESS

S S E N I S U RB

U O Y E V O PR

M DESIGN/BRANDING/LOGOS/PRESENTATIONS/ IPRINT

BROCHURES/MARKETING MATERIAL/FLYERS/ADVERTS www.smarriott.co.uk

design@smarriott.co.uk

07957 325 154

www.smarriott.co.uk

Three places to visit in June Puffin Island, from Beaumaris

Getting back

to Nature

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

You can’t land on Puffin Island, but a boat trip from Beaumaris gets you great views of Atlantic Grey Seals hauled out on the rocks, hundreds of noisy seabirds on the cliffs, plus the most southerly breeding Eider Ducks and Black Guillemots in Britain. But, of course, you really want to see Puffins. For the best chance, leave it until later in the month, or even July, when they leave their burrows and

Up the Blues

sit on the water.

June is a great time to see butterflies, and despite a reputation for rain,

Credit: Ben Porter

North Wales has some special species.

One type is found nowhere else in the world: the caernensis Silver-studded Blue occurs only on the Great Orme

Credit: Tony Pope

and near Llysfaen, flying on sunny days in June. Butterfly enthusiasts from across the country come to see this unique form, so you probably won’t be looking alone. The grassland above Marine Drive on the west side of the Great Orme is a good place to look, or try Gogarth at the north end of Llys Helig.

Cemlyn lagoon, north Anglesey Another special butterfly is the Marsh Fritillary, which has been struggling in Wales

Home to Wales’ only colony of

in recent years. With its orange and brown checker-board wings, it’s a stunning little

Sandwich Terns, plus Common and

butterfly, wholly reliant on the caterpillar’s foodplant Devil’s Bit Scabious, which is

Arctic Terns, a chance of the rare

equally fussy, needing just the right kind of grazing by cattle. Cors Erddreiniog (with

Roseate Tern, and a host of other

its orchids), Morfa Harlech and Tir Stent (near Dolgellau) are three sites to try – if you

waterbirds on this lagoon protected

do see them, consider yourself very fortunate.

from the sea by a shingle ridge.

Wardens from North Wales Wildlife

Bum’s on fire

June is a good month to see Glow-worms. These beetles use bioluminescence to communicate, the females’ two rearmost segments shine to attract flying males. Street lighting has caused the loss of Glow-worms from many places, because it outshines the beetle’s bum. So, look in remote and genuinely dark places. Llandudno’s Great Orme is a well-known spot, and local wildlife groups organise late evening walks to see them.

Glow-worms eat snails, but don’t be tempted to catch and relocate them into your garden, as they’ll die. Leave them in their natural habitat, and enjoy this Summer spectacle.

The Goatsucker is back

Trust will show you the wildlife.

Great coastal walks too.

For a really special wildlife experience, pack the mozzy-repellent, and listen for

Eyarth Rocks nature reserve, near

Nightjars. These nocturnal birds arrived

Ruthin

from Africa in May and ‘churr’ until July,

This Butterfly Conservation-managed

a long buzzing trill that continues for up

site is limestone pavement, a rare

to 10 minutes, rising and falling with a

habitat whose narrow gulleys

ventriloquial quality. And the goatsucking?

provide a sheltered home for a range

An old myth suggested that Nightjars

of rare plants. In June, a sunny

suckled the milk from goats, causing them

day will bring out a wide range of

to cease production. Hear this amazing

butterflies, including Brown Argus

sound in forest clearings across the region,

and Small Heath.

such as Llandegla, Gwydir and Gwaith Powdr. Local wildlife groups run guided walks to hear Nightjars in June. But don’t bring your goat.

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

NWM 2017 Page 89

HP photo course HR.pdf

1

22/03/2017

09:38

Learn how to get the best out of yourself and your camera in this half day photography course in Conwy. Covering composition and the exposure triangle, this beginners course will show you how to use all of the settings on your camera – therefore leading you towards going fully manual.

The course is divided into two parts – two hours of theory and two and a half hours of photography, where you can put the theory into practice! £30. Small classes are guaranteed. Individual classes are also available, please email for further information.

BEGINNERS PHOTOGRAPHY COURSE Page 90 NWM 2017

deshkapur@outlook.com

www.deshkapur.com

For the love of all things

vintage...

The confessions of a modern day Magpie This month Tatty has been on a steep learning curve about one of our Welsh treasures – the celebrated tapestry blanket.

Now I consider myself to have a bit of a penchant when it

Welsh blanket from being cut up and made into cushions. I

comes to blankets and quilts, I have them scattered and stacked

spotted the blanket with my eagle eye vision in an antique shop

throughout the house and I get attached to them, rather like

in Anglesey and I immediately recognised it to be old and of a

comfort blankets.

pattern that I had never seen before. The colour had badly run, which was why it was going to be cut up and the good bits

Being Welsh and living in North Wales, we are in serious

salvaged.

blanket territory. And the Welsh tapestry bedspread (as it is known) is my absolute favourite, the

Anyway to cut a long story short, I bought the blanket but

most highly prized blanket of them all!

couldn’t find any relevant history or information on it – so after

I do not speak as an authority on the

a while I gave up and sold it on to another dealer. The dealer by

Welsh woollen industry, but I do have a

chance happened to be a bit more savvy about Welsh blankets.

good understanding of its heritage and

The blanket turned out to be a rare historical piece and worth

what the tapestry blanket represents

considerable money. Am I irritated by this? No, I am thrilled.

to the people of Wales.

In my eyes I did a good thing. I rescued the blanket from the Welsh blankets are almost instantly

blade and sold it onto a specialist, therefore hopefully securing

recognisable with their fabulous bold

its future. I had an instinctive feeling and I acted on it, although I

colours, strong geometric reversible

couldn’t quite get to the finishing line, someone else did. Which

designs (two looks for the price of one)

is why in this game “knowledge is king” and I aim to learn

and, above all, their unrivalled quality. The craftsmanship and

more! Lesson learnt.

knowledge that goes into making a Welsh tapestry is what allows them to survive generations and be passed down as

Tatty x

family heirlooms. The look of a Welsh blanket is as current and versatile today as it was over a hundred years ago, making them highly desired by interior designers throughout the

Tatty is always on the lookout for lovely Welsh blankets,

world.

antique quilts and pretty vintage eiderdowns. If you have anything of interest, please call 07940 730421, or contact

My good friends at Craig Hughes Upholstery Colwyn Bay

me through my website tattydivine.co.uk

often take on commissions working with, amongst others, the inspired decorative antiques dealer Drew Pritchard. Re-

Photography courtesy of Eleri Griffiths. elerigriffithsphotography.co.uk

working vintage tapestry blankets and kissing furniture back

Welsh Tapestries as featured, kindly supplied by drewpritchard.co.uk

to life, with the beautiful, vibrant Welsh fabric.

I have bought and sold many a Welsh blanket, upgrading the

Alison Hough is a specialist vintage

one I have at home every time I come across a better one. With

dealer with a passion for decorative

each blanket I buy, I learn a little more. Research is difficult as

antiques and a flair for interiors,

there really aren’t that many books on the subject.

based in Old Colwyn, North Wales

You see this was my learning curve… Recently I saved a rare

NWM 2017 Page 91

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North Wales Magazine is looking for home-based sales agents to work with us on a commission-only basis. With training, support and sales materials provided, we’re looking for people to work from home and take 20% of all the business they do.

Work the hours that suit you in order to get your work-life balance just right.

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Page 92 NWM 2017

learning by heart At the time of writing, we are in the midst of momentous

On 23 April the chief executives of YoungMinds, a mental

political events. Hot on the heels of Brexit and the US

health charity, published a letter calling on political parties

Presidential elections we see local elections here in North

to recognise the problem of child mental health in their

Wales, the French Presidential elections and of course the

manifestos. The letter stated: “Children and young people face

forthcoming General Election on 8 June.

a huge range of pressures – from exams to cyberbulling, from body image to finding a job when they finish education. An

It’s essential that my pupils and young people all across the

estimated three children in every class have a mental health

UK understand just how fortunate they are to be in a country

condition, one in four experience emotional distress, and rates

and a continent that values and protects free speech and

of self-harm are skyrocketing.

democracy. Part of that process is periodic elections but it’s not, in my opinion, enough to simply be aware of them. Of

“While it is not the role of schools to replace the specialist

course, the majority of school-age pupils are not yet of voting

support that mental health services provide, they can and

age and nor may they be eligible to vote for residency reasons,

should play a crucial role in developing the skills young people

if they are at a boarding school like Rydal Penrhos.

need to cope and flourish in today’s world. But at the moment the education system is fundamentally unbalanced, with

Obviously I could not vote in the French Presidential

an over-emphasis on exams and too little focus on student

elections, for example, but it’s vital that, as global citizens,

wellbeing.”

we understand the issues, the views and the policies such elections involve. Ignorance can lead to alarming results. Today

As a Headmaster of an academic school I see the challenges

news and information has never been more widely available

of juggling academic performance, to fulfil a university offer,

– but we must arm our young people with the knowledge and

for example, with a pupil’s need and wish to have time to

skills to recognise that it is not all balanced, nor accurate.

switch off and enjoy other pursuits (or simply do nothing).

Here at Rydal Penrhos I think pupils, staff and parents work

Simply by widening our range we can succeed in filtering

excellently together to get the balance right, but it is not easy

the bias or the ‘fake news’ and form a considered opinion.

nor must we be complacent. Encouraging pupils to take an

An opinion that may be different from the person next to

active interest in politics and current affairs can naturally

you in class or Chapel or your fellow PlayStation challenger

heighten anxiety in some but we must help them to realise

sitting on the sofa, but one that is valid nonetheless. I implore

that all the world’s problems do not lie on their shoulders.

young people to find the time to discover and discuss, with parents or teachers or each other, the political issues of the

An open dialogue between staff and pupils is crucial to grow

day. There can be little more important than knowing about

understanding and encourage the sharing of particular

the movements and personalities leading us into the 2020s,

concerns. This is not just true in the classroom, tutor periods

a world that will be theirs – and for which we are preparing

and boarding houses – but must be embodied by the people

them.

and supportive environment of a true school community.

I am looking forward to our own school Mock Elections, next

Far better to reveal a point of interest or confusion and open a

month, a process I imagine will take place across many schools

conversation than to live in an ivory tower. As one of my wife’s

in the region and beyond, involving pupils representing the

favourite authors, Terry Pratchett, once said: “They say a little

views of a range of political parties. Such events always have

knowledge is a dangerous thing, but it’s not one half so bad as

a touch of theatre about them but I anticipate healthy debate

a lot of ignorance.” n

on issues relevant to young people. The future government’s commitment to school funding, grammar schools, university tuition fees, getting on the housing ladder, apprenticeship schemes, environmental issues, exam reform and, as

Simon Smith is the headmaster of Rydal

highlighted by Mental Health Awareness Week, commitments

Penrhos in Colwyn Bay. He is married

to promoting mental health.

with two teenage children and has a passion for rugby

NWM 2017 Page 93

MAGAZINE

COMPETITION

Win

Win a three-course lunch for two people at Bodysgallen Hall

Bodysgallen Hall & Spa The Royal Welsh Way Llandudno North Wales LL30 1RS 01492 584 466 www.bodysgallen.com

of As there is nothing quite like an al fresco lunch during the month May, Bodysgallen Hall has teamed up with North Wales Magazine people, to give you the chance to win a three-course lunch* for two that has including coffee and fudge at its award-winning restaurant 3 AA Rosettes.

For your chance to win simply answer the following question:

How many acres of gardens does Bodysgallen Hall have?

a) 17 b) 31 c) 200 Send your answer, along with your name, address and phone number to: competition@northwalesmagazine. co.uk by Friday 19th May – making sure you put Bodysgallen Hall in the

KSG PUBLISHING

subject line. Good Luck!

If you would rather eat indoors however, the Dining Room at enjoy Bodysgallen overlooks the gardens, within which guests can

imaginative food prepared from the best and freshest local produce.

Hall has Many hotels boast of their beautiful gardens but Bodysgallen in over even more reason to boast! The National Trust hotel is located 200 acres of gardens and parkland with Snowdonia as its backdrop

restored – perfect for a relaxing stroll after lunch. The award-winning and a gardens feature several follies, a walled garden, lily-pad ponds sweet rare 17th Century parterre of box hedges filled with colourful chef herbs. An extensive kitchen garden is also available, and head John Williams creates seasonal dishes with the garden’s produce. * Valid Tuesday – Saturday. Subject to availability

NWM 2017 Page 95

And the winner is…

Massive congratulations goes to the winner of last months competition, who has won a three-course lunch for two people at Bodysgallen Hall in Llandudno. Enjoy!

Kay Halker from Deganwy

Congratulations

from us all at North Wales Magazine!

Page 94 NWM 2017

ALL YOUR PUBLISHING NEEDS IN ONE PACKAGE CONTACT US NOW ON: 07904 155943 EMAIL: HAMILTONKATE@BTINTERNET.COM

COMPETITION

Win

Win an Adventure Day for 4 at Zip World Fforest!

Zip World Fforest, Llanrwst Road, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0HA Tel: 01248 601444

Website: http://zipworld.co.uk

For your chance to win, simply answer the following question by email to competition@zipworld. co.uk – making sure you put North Wales Magazine in the subject line – by Wednesday 21st June:

How long is the new Fforest Coaster?

Nestled in the spectacular Conwy

Tree Hoppers is a zip line and

Valley, Zip World Fforest offers an

adventure course designed for ages

idyllic woodland setting for all your

5-12. The course has 12 zip lines and

adventurous wishes. Enjoy a journey

obstacles like a balance beam, organ

through the canopy of the trees on Zip

pipes and net bridge. It is a 1 to 1.5 hour

Safari, or bounce and explore to your

mini adventurer’s dream! Children can

hearts content on Treetop Nets. Free

test their abilities on the Green Course

fall from up high on Plummet or soar

then step up to the challenge on the

over the tree tops on the giant five-

Red Course if they want!

a) 1 km b) 2 km c) 3 km

seater swing, Skyride.

After all that adventure, why not relax, Two new adventures opened in May,

re fuel and watch the action from Zip

the Fforest Coaster and Tree Hoppers.

World Fforest Caffi, famous for its homemade cakes, delicious paninis and

The Fforest Coaster is the only Alpine

fresh roasted Welsh Poblado coffee.

Coaster of its kind in the UK! Based on the traditional toboggan but runs on

The Adventure Day prize includes

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four tickets to: Fforest Coaster, Treetop

experience. Start your journey in

Nets, Tree Hoppers & Skyride. The

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package also includes lunch for four at

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the Fforest Caffi. Terms and Conditions

will then fly through the forest at

apply (see zipworld.co.uk/contact/

exhilarating speeds on a 1km course!

terms-and-conditions)

NWM 2017 Page 95

Book a Nearly New Stall for £12

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The Last Word

1

2

3

4

9

10

11

12

5

6

18

19

7

8

13 14

15

16

17

20 22

21 23

24

25

26

27 28

29

30

31

Across 9 Corpulent (5) 10 Extreme surprise (9) 11 Souvenir (5) 12 Inherent (9) 13 Possess (3) 14 Hebrew minor prophet (5) 15 E.g. wine goblets (9) 16 Bush (5) 18 Double birdie (5) 22 Large mass of sliding snow (9) 25 Renounce (5) 27 Open mesh fabric (3) 28 Staff (9) 29 Mistaken (5) 30 Weaken insidiously (9) 31 Passageway (5)) Down 1 Highest singing voice in women (7) 2 Affluence (6) 3 Recent arrival (8) 4 Saw (6) 5 Book end, perhaps (4,4) 6 Exceptional intellect (6) 7 Convince (8) 8 Adhesive label (7) 16 Frenzied rush (8) 17 Single-celled organisms (8) 19 Conceal with decorative paper (4,4) 20 Neither solid nor liquid (7) 21 Abrade (7) 23 Part of a group (6) 24 Followed (6) 26 Cardiff International Airport (6)

Down: 1 Soprano, 2 Wealth, 3 Newcomer, 4 Saying, 5 Last page, 6 Genius, 7 Persuade, 8 Sticker, 16 Stampede, 17 Bacteria, 19 Gift wrap, 20 Gaseous, 21 Roughen, 23 Aboard, 24 Ensued, 26 Rhoose.

Across: 9 Obese, 10 Amazement, 11 Relic, 12 Intrinsic, 13 Own, 14 Nahum, 15 Glassware, 16 Shrub, 18 Eagle, 22 Avalanche, 25 Forgo, 27 Net, 28 Employees, 29 Wrong, 30 Undermine, 31 Aisle.

NWM 2017 Page 97

MAGAZINE

NEXT

ISSUE

July What’s on?

Your comprehensive guide to local events this July School’s out for summer!

Keeping the kids entertained Top 10...

Galleries Safety first Staying safe this summer It’s gin o’clock!

Making sure your favourite tipple is a local one Plus…

Interviews | Restaurant profile | Recipes | Property roundup | Readers homes

Page 98 NWM 2017

Your View

A DEVELOPMENT ON THE BANKS OF THE CONWY ESTUARY WITH VIEWS THAT TAKE IN THE MOUNTAINS OF SNOWDONIA TO THE CASTLE OF CONWY. Imagine waking up and opening double sliding glass doors onto your large private terrace presenting a perfect view of the Mountains of Snowdonia spanning across to the Castle of Conwy. This is all within reach of your morning panorama as you rise to take that early morning coffee, yours to enjoy and relax before the day wakes up. Why not prepare a shower or bath in one of the beautifully Porcelanosa tiled en-suites. Then….

A few steps down will take you to the middle floor and another breath-taking view from the balcony that is just a pace outside your open-plan living area, each day ever-changing seasons enhancing the surrounding scenery. Walk across the warmth of the underfloor heating to prepare your breakfast in the beautifully fully fitted German equipped kitchen as you plan your day. Perhaps visit some of the sensational parts of this country, here in North Wales. You are now living in the 4th best place in the world to visit, according to the ‘Lonely Planet’ and with the view from Snowdonia voted the ’Best View in the UK’ just on your doorstep….now that is unique!

Pause for a moment to observe the Nature Reserve sitting on the edge of the estuary, watch the ponies and varied wildlife enjoy the surroundings…it is beautiful.

Contemporary and elegant throughout with the very finest fittings in every room. A truly relaxed, gorgeous environment waiting for you.

Welcome to The Reserve, visit our office and experience the view and learn more about this fabulous development.

The Reserve. Llanrwst Road. Glan Conwy. Conwy. LL28 5SR Tel: 07956 966590 www.thereserveconwy.com Email: thereserveconwy@outlook.com NWM 2017 Page 99

BREWED WITH

SNOWDONIA WATER

www.greatormebrewery.co.uk