A September Day in North Wales
Since many of you seem to enjoy our adventures, I thought I'd share what Dave and I got up to last week on our day trip to North Wales!
We started the morning in Betws-y-Coed. We'd driven through this beautiful village a few times when leaving Snowdon; now we wished we'd stopped prior! It was very busy, but that's to be expected with it being such a touristy area.
We sat for a few by this beautiful river before checking out the rest of the village. It was so tempting to dip my toes in, but I resisted!
The lovely train station...my goodness. Can you see the dragon (the symbol of Wales) gargoyle on the roof?
I'm still a sucker for the red post boxes here..
Then we were off to Hanes Ty Hyll (also known as the "The Ugly House"). Their machines were down so we couldn't eat there since we didn't have cash (note to future self, always bring some cash for backup!). But we did have a walk out back to admire the house from outside..and the surrounding views..and it made for beautiful photos. We'll save the cafe and shop for next time. As Dave says, always leave a reason to return!
No one knows who built it, or when, but John Roberts, a local shepherd, was the first person to live there in 1900. Edward and Lilian Riley lived there the longest, from 1928 to 1961, and they gradually improved the house. Later, they invited visitors and entertained them along with their pet cockatoo!
I love how it's just snuggled nicely in the surrounding woodland..
On the way home we stopped in Llanrwst to see this beautiful 15th century leaf-covered tea room, Tu Hwnt I'r Bont (just to the right on the other side of the bridge).
Funny story, the incredibly gorgeous but tiny bridge you see above is one lane. We were coming from the town's side to go to the tea room, but the majority of traffic was coming from the opposite side.
This meant that every time we tried to drive over, a few cars would be coming from their side, so we'd have to reverse and yield to them. But, while very awkwardly stuck amongst the busy town traffic behind us, too. I'm not good in these situations so kept sinking down further into my seat while closing my eyes and saying many prayers. 😂 Finally Dave asked an oncoming driver (because this happened a few times when we attempted to drive over) if it was one way. She thankfully said "that's just the way it is!". 🤷♀️
No one seemed bothered by us, so indeed..that's just the way it is. Thanks to the kind folks crossing that bridge since no one honked or yelled at us..ha!
Now, back to more pretty photos of this beautifully leafy gem...
They were closed so we weren't able to take a peek inside, unfortunately. Maybe next time..
Until our next adventure....take care!
Jessica
xo