Monday, June 15, 2015

First Hand UK Travel - Wales

It is unfortunate to say, but as little as I saw in England I saw even less of Wales. However I did spend a delightful day exploring the area around Conwy Castle in the Northwestern part of Wales. 

Traveling back to Ireland from England I had decided to take the Ferry at Holyhead, Isle of Anglesey, in Wales vs. flying back in a puddle jumper.  As we traveled through Wales I began to lament the fact that I had not done any research on areas to visit. After we crossed the Irish Sea on the ferry, I decided to drop my traveling companion off in Ireland and return for a day trip to Wales. I might have enjoyed the three hour ferry ride a bit too much and by ferry we are talking a small cruise ship with mall, bars, sleeping quarters and movie theater. When I returned to Holyhead I asked a few questions of the staff and found that I could take an hour train ride to a nearby castle. I will never regret that decision. 

As I traveled I was greeted by and spoke to many locals, who were all very happy to share interesting information about the area. The following covers my trip to Conwy, Wales and places you might find interesting to visit.

Conwy Castle
Wow! This castle is amazing.  It is a medieval fortification in Conwy, on the north coast of Wales. It was built by Edward I, during his conquest of Wales, between 1283 and 1289 and was constructed as part of a wider project to create the walled town of Conwy. The town itself still rests within the fortifications although it has since spilled further beyond the walls. Climb to the top of one Conwy castle’s 8 towers to get a stunning view of Conwy, and then explore the inner and outer wards with their many rooms. You can also explore the castle walls with their 21 towers that enclose Conwy town.


Britain's Smallest House
Not sure if I'd say cozy or claustrophobic, known as the Quay House, this red painted "house" is only 10 x 6ft and was last lived in by Robert Jones who was 6ft 3 inches tall. Squeeze in and see what it would be like to live in Britain’s smallest house. 

Plas Mawr 
This magnificent 16th century town house stands in the heart of Conwy on the High Street, and is said to be the finest standing house of it’s era. See how wealthy merchant Robert Wynn lived and styled this splendid Elizabethan house.

Conwy Mountain
Just over the Sychnant Pass, you can wander around a great network of paths and picturesque lakes. Visit the summit to see some amazing views and an Iron Age hillfort. Keep an eye out for a wide range of wildlife including ravens.


Conwy Quay
Conwy Marina and Quay is a great place to sit and watch the world go by, whether it’s with fish and chips from a local shop, or a drink outside the Liverpool Arms. Take a stroll and simply take in the stunning views.

Conwy Nature Reserve
With lots of wildlife to see, including birds of all shapes and sizes, Conwy Nature Reserve is a great place for the whole family. And there is usually an event of some description taking place too, from bird watching and guided walks, to farmer’s markets and fun activities for kids.

Aberconwy House
Built in the 14th century, this is the only medieval merchant's house in Conwy to have survived the turbulent history of the walled town over nearly six centuries. Enjoy the character of this fascinating house as it casts you back in time to a different way of living.

Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you with all your business and leisure travel needs. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com.

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