As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Northumberland Coast, Jo Keeling picks out a selection of walking, wildlife and adventure activities in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) along the coast of northeast England. The North Sea coastline is fascinating on many levels – the water may be cold but it’s clear and filled with marine life; the ancient rocks give an insight into a former world of giant amphibians and vast deltas crowded with tree ferns; and the waves are oh so tempting for adrenaline junkies. Here you can surf the waves in a kayak; traverse the cliff face on a coasteering adventure; swim through the crankshaft of a submerged wreck; marvel at the sight of underwater pillars of dolerite encrusted with plumrose anemones, sponge and deadmans fingers and play with the largest seal colony in the North Sea (watch out, they nibble your fins). Back on dry land, take a guided walk with a geology expert; a wild swimming ramble to Linhope Spout; explore St Cuthbert’s Cave, where the Lindisfarne monks brought the body of St Cuthbert in 875 AD while fleeing Viking raids and seek out wild goats and red grouse in the northern Cheviots. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to the Northumberland Coast: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Outdoor activities on the Northumberland Coast Footsteps Northumberland Delve deeper into the Northumbrian landscape on a guided walk with Patrick Norris, a former countryside ranger with over 20 years experience and a passion for sharing his knowledge. Patrick hosts walks most days, including a wild swimming ramble to Linhope Spout in the the Ingram Valley; a chance to explore St Cuthbert’s Cave, where the Lindisfarne monks are said to have brought the body of St Cuthbert in 875 AD while fleeing Viking raids and a moorland hike in the northern Cheviots, seeking out wild goats, red grouse and an Iron Age hill fort. footstepsnorthumberland.co.uk/ Explore Northumberland Take a guided walk along Berwick’s Elizabethan walls, delving into 700 years of turbulent border history. One of the main attractions of this tour is that it allows you to peep inside buildings not normally open to the public such as a 16th-century gun emplacement, 18th-century garrison gunpowder magazine and an ice-house built in the 1780s for the salmon trade. Check the website for self-guided walk descriptions and maps including a Fishy Trail, which seeks out Berwick’s seafaring heritage, stopping in at the home of a 19th century whaler complete with harpoon heads over the doorway and a number of ice houses. explore-northumberland.co.uk Holy Island Hikes Holy Island in Northumberland is a nature reserve of international importance for both bird and plant life. It also has a rich history, being the “cradle of Christianity” for pagan Northumbria. There is always something interesting to see here and these walks, led by an experienced local guide, will introduce you to the many facets of life on the island. The walks leader Mary Gunn is a member of one of the traditional fishing families and has a deep knowledge of and passion for her island home. Whatever your interests, there will be a walk to suit you: follow in the footsteps of the Celtic pilgrims along the Pilgrims Way, discover the remains of a medieval village hidden in the dunes or hunt for a rare Northumbrian orchid. holyislandhikes.co.uk Northumbrian Earth - Geo Walks Something large and boring happened on the coast at Seahouses, and this is an opportunity to find out what and why. So starts one of the imaginative introductions to a family geowalk with Dr Ian Kille, expert and enthusiast on all things geological in Northumberland. Take a walk to investigate a “pavement which has been sprinkled with fossilised sea-urchins-up-a-stick and mint humbugs and find fossil zip-fasteners and polo mints, looking for pebble stories and taking massive steps of thousands of grandmothers each. Along with local providers Dr Kille can also help you plan an entire landscape-themed holiday. You could find yourself exploring the Whin Sill, a great slug of igneous rock on which Bamburgh Castle, Lindisfarne and Hadrian’s Wall were strategically placed, investigating the area’s industrial archaeology and finding out why the rich bio-diversirty of the area is linked to the rocks underlying it. northumbrianearth.co.uk Northumberland Coast Path Running from Cresswell in the south up to Berwick in the north, the Northumberland Coast Path hugs the coast of the UK's most northerly county for 64 miles. This has to be one of the most stunning stretches of scenery in the UK, a seascape of dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches and hidden coves, peppered with colourful fishing villages and ancient castles. The path is mostly well signposted, following bridleways and footpaths, occasionally dipping down to walk along stretches of beach or veering off along unmarked tracks and paths. If you're not up to tackling the whole trail in one go, the path can be easily divided into six day-long sections. northumberland.gov.uk Golden Gate Farne Islands Boat Trips, Northumberland With Golden Gate you have a choice of five tours: Inner Farne (3hrs) with St Cuthbert’s tiny chapel hermitage; Staple Island to see the breeding seabird colonies (3hrs); an island cruise with a chance to observe the largest seal colony in the North Sea (1.5 hours) and an all day excursion pitched at ornithologists, photographers and local history enthusiasts. Exclusive to Golden Gate is a guided tour of Longstone Lighthouse, former home of local heroine Grace Darling, who at 22-years-old risked her life in rowing out to reach the wrecked SS Forfarshire in raging seas. farneislandsboattrips.co.uk Adventure Northumberland This Alnwick-based activity outfit has a wide range of experiences: hire an electric bike; surf the North Sea waves in a kayak; take a gentle paddle down the River Coquet passing Warkworth hermitage; traverse the cliff face on a coasteering adventure; practice your navigation skills and master rock climbing. If you’re feeling more intrepid, you can even embark on a 2-day microadventure to sleep out on the less-explored side of Kielder Water under the UK’s clearest skies. adventurenorthumberland.co.uk Coquet Shorebase Trust, Northumberland Coast This community focused water sports venture, based in Amble, leads courses in sailing, kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing, powerboating and raft building. 8-14 year olds can try out pirateering by searching for Blackbeard’s treasure and paddling a boat to a lost island. Older adventurers might like to seek out eider and shelduck duckling creches by kayak or take a guided tour to Coquet Island, a tiny RSPB reserve that’s home to 35,000 nesting terns, kittiwakes, fulmar, gulls and eider duck in summer. coquetshorebase.org.uk Sovereign Diving, Northumberland Coast The water around the Farne Islands may be cold but it’s clear and filled with marine life. This is your chance to explore sheer cliff faces and deep fissures fringed with kelp; swim through the crankshaft of a submerged wreck; seek out conger eels and wolfish in a scuppered ship; marvel at the sight of underwater pillars of dolerite encrusted with plumrose anemones, sponge and deadmans fingers and play with the largest seal colony in the North Sea (watch out, they like to nibble your fins). Along the way, you can look out for spider crabs, brittle stars, sea urchins and sun stars. sovereigndiving.co.uk Billy Shiel's Farne Islands Tours, Northumberland Coast The Shiel family have been guiding visitors around the Farne Islands since 1918, when the odd ornithologist would ask for a lift out on the lobster boats. Today, Billy Shiel Junior leads a fleet of seven passenger boats and a high speed RIB with a choice of 11 tours. Observe the cliff face colonies on Inner Farne (2.5 hours); observe 10,000 nesting pairs of puffins on Staple Island (2.5 hours); explore the priory, castle and winery on a Holy Island Cruise (4 hours) and keep an eye out for white-beaked dolphins, harbour porpoise, minke whales and orcas on a Pelagic Cruise (4 hours). The most unusual tour is 3-hours trip in a traditional coble fishing boat, which lets you haul in lobster pots and practice hand line fishing for mackerel or pollack. farne-islands.com Serenity Boat Tours, Northumberland Coast Serenity Boat Tours are well-suited to wildlife enthusiasts, with plenty of space for photography equipment, a 360º stable platform and an onboard naturalist. As well as the usual tours to Inner Farne, Staple Island and all-day birding trips, you can join a wildlife photography workshop with conservation photographer Alan Hewitt; take a whale watching tour or embark on a sunset cruise to take full advantage of the warm light of the ‘golden hour’. In winter, you can seek out seals, black guillemots and waders before heading along the coast to Holy Island in search of long-tailed ducks, scoters, grebes and divers. farneislandstours.co.uk For more ideas for green holidays in the area, see our Green Traveller's Guide to the Northumberland Coast

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Northumberland National Park, Jo Keeling picks out a selection of gardens, animal centres and other family fun experiences in this glorious protected area in northeast England. The most dramatic section of Hadrian’s Wall cuts through the southern edge of the national park – a slug of hard igneous rock that reaches as far as Holy Island on the coast. The fortifications and settlements here give a rare and compelling insight into life on the Roman Frontier. It was at Corbridge that Romans and civilians stocked up on provisions while at nearby Housesteads; you can stroll through the barracks, seek out the oldest toilets you’re ever likely to see and examine rare Roman artefacts such as hobnail boots and Dutch cooking pots. The county’s independent spirit runs through its museums and heritage attractions. At Cragside, step into the eccentric world of an Victorian inventor who became the first person to light their home by hydroelectricity. Mr George’s Museum of Time houses a wide selection of timepieces from chain-wound pocket watches, gadgets and tools, or descend into a Saxon crypt below Hexham Abbey to explore England’s oldest purpose-built prison and unravel the brutal history of the Border Reivers. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to Northumberland National Park: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to visit in Northumberland National Park Hexham Abbey Set in the centre of Hexham, the abbey welcomes pilgrims and visitors who would like to spend time in a place that has offered solace and refuge to worshippers for over 1,340 years. To explore the oldest part of the building, descend into the Saxon crypt – tunnels and rooms left intact ever since Queen Etheldreda granted the land to Wilfrid, Bishop of York in 674 AD. In Norman times, Wilfrid’s original abbey was replaced by an Augustinian priory and the choir, transepts and cloisters date from this period (1170-1250) and are built in the Early English style. Touch the weathered Acca’s Cross, commemorating Acca, the abbey’s second bishop; enjoy the rich, jewel-like colours of six tall stained glass windows and follow the 35 worn stone steps of the Medieval Night Stair, leading to a broad gallery behind a stone parapet or simply take your time to soak up the atmosphere. hexhamabbey.org.uk Housesteads Roman Fort Housesteads is Britain’s most complete Roman fort, a once self-sufficient fortress set on a dramatic escarpment near to Hadrian’s Wall. Here, you can imagine what life was like for the 800 soldiers living on the edge of the Roman Empire by strolling through the barracks to the military hospital and granary, seeking out the oldest toilets you’re ever likely to see and learning more about the artefacts unearthed on the site in the interactive museum. The items found give a thoughtful insight into the culture and values of the Roman Army: see a rare Roman hobnail boot, a cooking pot made in a native Dutch style to remind the soldiers of home and an amber talismen said to bring the wearer good health and protect them from danger. english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/housesteads-roman-fort-hadrians-wall/ Chillingham Castle Chillingham Castle is an 12th century stronghold and home to Sir Humphry Wakefield and his family. Following a Scottish raid the previous year when William Wallace allegedly burnt women and children to death in the local abbey, Chillingham Castle became base-camp for King Edward’s 1298 counter attack. Since 1246, the castle has been in the hands of the same bloodline and each heir have put their mark on the castle: the Earl Grey lords added dungeons and torture chambers; in 1344 King Edward III’s gave permission for battlements; the Elizabethans added long galleries; Capability Brown landscaped the grounds in 1752; Sir Jeffrey Wyatville designed a glorious Italian garden in the 19th century. Today, this family home is open to the public and for events. The grounds are also home to the only wild cattle in the world, more endangered than the Giant Panda and Mountain Gorilla. These are wild and fascinating beasts, so don’t approach without a warden. chillingham-castle.com Tosson Tower and Woodhouses Bastle The remains of these two fortified buildings – the 15th-century Tosson Tower and 16th-century bastle (meaning fortified farmhouse) – are impressive sights. Thousands of bastles were built in response to the raids from the Border Reivers, with walls a metre and a half thick and stone spouts for pouring molten lead on enemies below. The Tosson Tower's walls are two metres thick, and would have had owners' quarters above, and possibly an attic. Both remains can be viewed on guided tour days. northumberlandnationalpark.org.uk/places-to-visit/coquetdale/tosson-tower-woodhouses-bastle/ Corbridge Roman Town (Hadrian's Wall) Not all the sites on Hadrian's Wall were fortresses. Corbridge was a bustling town 2.5 miles south of Hadrian’s Wall developed around AD 160 as a base for legionary soldiers; it was here that Romans and civilians stocked up on provisions. It now offers a tempting time-capsule of Roman life at the Wall. Walk down a once bustling Roman high street; seek out granaries, workshops and a fountain house; and marvel at the Corbridge Hoard – unbelievably preserved armour, tools, weaponry, wax writing tablets and papyrus found within an iron-bound, leather-covered wooden chest. english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/corbridge-roman-town-hadrians-wall/ Cragside House, Gardens and Estate Step into the wonderfully eccentric world of Victorian industrialist, inventor and landscape design genius Lord Armstrong. In 1863 Armstrong, an eminent engineer, scientist and philanthropist, bought a steep-sided narrow valley where the Debdon Burn flows towards the River Coquet at Rothbury. He then proceeded to build a new home perched on a ledge of rock overlooking the burn and set about covering the rocky hillside with plants and mosses. He had five artificial lakes dug, which he then used to generate hydroelectricity (Cragside was the first house in the world to be lit by hydroelectricity). This also meant that the house boasted incompatible luxuries – hot running water, a rain shower, Turkish baths and a plunge bath. Nowadays, the house is crammed with gadgets and the gardens are a delight with a labyrinth and rhododendron tunnels to explore. On Wednesdays, house chefs in costume cook up Victorian recipes: if you’re lucky you might see the ‘Scotch Mill’ water turbine turning the meat in front of the range. nationaltrust.org.uk/cragside The Heritage Centre at Bellingham Next door to the Carriage Tea Room, this small museum documents the lives and traditions of many generations in the North Tyne Valley and Redesdale. Explore a working forge, (donated by local blacksmith Arthur Grimwood), complete with tools, hearth, bellows and a bottle of his favourite tipple; examine railway memorabilia celebrating the Border Counties and Wannie Lines; listen to heritage recordings of locals talking about their lives in Northumberland and dress up in replica military costume to find out more about the Reiver raiders. bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ Hexham Old Gaol Step inside the oldest purpose-built prison in England, constructed in June 1330 and ruled over by the fearsome Archbishop of York. The building has since been used as a bank, solicitor’s office, watchtower during the Second World War and billiard’s club. Today, you can explore all four floors – descend into the dungeon and imagine what it must have been like to await trial in the gloom; meet a fearsome gaoler; try on a prisoner’s shoe stocks for size and learn about the history of the Borders laws and Reiver families. museumsnorthumberland.org.uk/ Vindolanda (Chesterholm) Hadrian's Wall Vindolanda offers a tempting insight into life on the Roman wall in the exposed north eastern edge of the empire. You can split your trip into two halfs. First, visit the Roman Army Museum where you can learn about the different types of soldier stationed here; investigate artefacts and sit in a Roman classroom while a holographic teacher delivers you an 18-minute lesson in citizenship, geography and numeracy along with some light Latin. There’s also a cinema space where you can watch a 3D film that follows the life of a young recruit and a chance to see countless Roman artefacts. The shoes, textiles, coins and incredible wooden writing tablets give a rare and compelling insight into everyday life on the Roman Frontier, covering matters from birthdays and underpants! After you’ve absorbed all the facts, you’ll be all set to explore this well-excavated Roman auxiliary fort complete with military buildings, stores, house and two bathhouses. vindolanda.com/ Mr George's Museum of Time This watch and clock museum in Haltwhistle centres around the 'Mr George the clock man' series of children's stories written by local author Diana Bell, which charted the adventures of a watch repairer and his daughter as they travelled around Northumberland. The museum houses a wide selection of timepieces from chain wound pocket watches of the 18th and 19th centuries to mechanical wristwatches of the 1980s, along with a collection of gadgets and repairing tools. timeforgeorge.co.uk/ Kielder Castle Visitor Centre Sitting on the far northern tip of Kielder Water, this 18th-century hunting lodge now houses a series of exhibitions exploring the surrounding forest and its wildlife. Peep inside a raptor’s nest with the live osprey cam or explore the lifecycle of the rare red squirrel with an interactive display. In the grounds, you’ll find a Minotaur maze leading to a glittering room made from basalt and recycled glass, a red squirrel hide and bird watching platform as well as a tempting array of mountain biking trails. visitkielder.com/visit/kielder-castle-visitor-centre Tower Knowe Visitor Centre Tower Knowle is one of three visitor centres on the shores of Kielder Water and a fantastic entry point from which to explore the lake and Forest Park. You can park here, use the facilities and grab a cup of coffee at the Cafe on the Water, before boarding the Osprey ferry or setting off on foot or by bike along the 26-mile Lakeside Way. If you’d like to try your hand at fishing, you can also pick up a starter pack here and set out in search of wild brown trout and resident rainbows. visitkielder.com/visit/tower-knowe-visitor-centre Once Brewed Motorists travelling along the Military Road (B6138) from the east will see a sign for Once Brewed when they reach this small village, YHA Hostel, pub and Tourist Information Centre, while those arriving from the west will see a sign for Twice Brewed. There are many stories explaining the names, from Yorkist foot soldiers demanding stronger beer on the eve of the Battle of Hexham in 1464, to the way Hadrian’s Wall snakes its way along the brows (or brews) of two hills. The dual Visitor Centre and National Park Centre sits in the heart of Hadrian’s Wall country, on the route of the Pennine Way National Trail and close to the most spectacular parts of the Wall. The AD122 bus stops here so you can hop on and off to explore the Roman sites and viewpoints. Inside the centre, there are interpretive displays, free wifi and a cafe serving tea and sandwiches. For more information on characterful places to stay, local food and drink, and nearby outdoor activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Northumberland National Park

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Northumberland National Park, Jo Keeling picks out a selection of restaurants, cafés and markets in this glorious protected area in northeast England. Northumberland prides itself on an independent spirit – and this is expressed abundantly in their love of local food. The national park is surrounded by some of the best livestock producers in the UK and not far from the bountiful North Sea, so expect hearty portions of organic lamb, Galloway beef, fresh crab and more kippers than you can shake a net at. To get a flavour of the region, head to the farmers’ markets where welcoming producers peddle locally-grown vegetables, freshly-caught trout, home-baked bread, chutney and cheese. Cyclists and walkers can refuel at a number of quirky pit stops across the region, including a renovated 1957 train carriage and a tea room that doubles as a post office, village store and garden centre. Keep an eye out for local delicacies such as the border tart, singing hinnies (a Northumbrian bannock), and Doddington’s ice cream in real ‘regional’ flavours: Newcastle Brown Ale, Alnwick Rum Truffle and Roman Britain. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to Northumberland National Park: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to eat in Northumberland National Park Carriages Tea Room A real treat, this cafe at Bellingham Station is housed in a renovated 1957 MK1 train carriage. The carriages were brought up from Okehampton and restored by volunteers. You can sit in original seats (or the driver’s cab) and tuck into a light lunch, freshly-baked scone or homemade cakes, while surrounded by original heritage railway fixtures. The ‘Wannie Line’ exhibit in the rear carriage has displays exploring local history and wildlife. carriages-tearoom.co.uk Otterburn Mill Otterburn Mill is an historic weaving mill that has been in the Waddell family for generations. It is renowned for its pram rugs, which gained royal approval when Buckingham Palace requested a baby blanket for Princess Elizabeth in 1926. The Weavers Coffee Shop has a choice of locally-sourced dishes and a 2-mile Otterburn Village Trail to help you walk it off. otterburnmill.co.uk Fountain Cottage Café Although it looks rather plain from the outside, it’s well worth pulling in to the Fountain Cottage Cafe when you see the quirky teapot ‘cafe’ sign. This busy little cafe is run by a friendly bunch who serve up hearty portions of home-cooked food at reasonable prices and with a warm smile. On the Pennine Cycleway and Sandstone Way, it’s a popular pit stop for cyclists who can take advantage of their £5 meal deal for cyclists - soup and roll, cake and unlimited tea and coffee. visitnorthumberland.com/food-drink/cafes-tearooms Tomlinsons Rothbury This homely hub, right by the river in Rothbury, is likely to be bustling with Lycra-wearing tourers, bunkhouse guests, ramblers and their dogs. You’re in the heart of Northumberland hill farming country here, surrounded by some of the best livestock producers in the UK, and not far from the bountiful North Sea so expect hearty portions of seasonal, locally-sourced burgers, big breakfasts and fresh salads. It’s a quirky but warm and welcoming place, with solid wood tables, deep purple wood-clad walls and soft velvet sofas beside a wood burner. The cafe and bunkhouse, housed in a former old school, is run by keen cyclists, so expect prints of two-wheeled adventures and characterful sculptures. tomlinsonsrothbury.co.uk Hexham Farmers' Market If you happen to be in Hexham on market day, you’re in for a treat! Everything sold in this long-established market, sandwiched between the abbey and the imposing Moot Hall, comes from within 50 miles of the town and is sold by 30 farmers and producers who are passionate about what they do. Shop for locally-grown organic vegetables, cheese, rare breed pork, local honey, Galloway beef, organic lamb and a wide range of sausages. This vibrant market takes place 9am-2pm on the second and fourth Saturday of each month, with occasional extra events over the summer. hexhamfarmersmarket.co.uk Boat Inn Restaurant The Leaplish Waterside Park is a handy entry point to Kielder Water and the Forest Park. The modern Boat Inn offers generous lunches with lakeside views, made by a chef who’s passionate about North East produce. After you’ve had your fill, you can hop on the Osprey Ferry to explore the lake, visit the Bird of Prey Centre, hire a boat, seek out red squirrels or take a stroll along the 26-mile Lakeside Way. visitkielder.com/pubs-inns/boat-inn-restaurant The Pheasant Inn Near to Kielder Water, this family-run 17th-century inn offers a warm welcome, hearty food and good ales along with an abundance of old-world charm: rich red upholstery and dark wood tables, brass beer taps and 100-year-old photos of the local community, farm tools and bellows over an open fire. The food is freshly-made with seasonal produce, picked from the pub’s kitchen garden or sourced from the national park that surrounds it. Readers of The Observer rated their Sunday lunch ‘Best in the North’. The Kershaw family, who have been running the pub since 1985, have an intrinsic respect for the pub’s history and traditions. In the mid-1600s, the inn was a farmhouse and the hub of the community – locals gathered to socialise with the farmer and his family; even the post was delivered here. A quarter of a century later, the Kershaws extend this warm welcome to locals and travellers, fishermen and cyclists, walkers and families. thepheasantinn.com Red Lion Inn This village pub, four miles from Hadrian’s Wall, was originally an old coaching inn dating back to the 1190s and it still has plenty of original wood and stonework remaining after recent renovations. The restaurant menu focuses on local-produce with seasonal homegrown vegetables: expect Northumbrian pub classics such as twice-cooked belly pork with black pudding, homemade burgers and cod and mackerel caught at nearby Seahouses. We particularly liked the Stanegate Room, which celebrates local history and showcases the work of emerging crafters in the neighbourhood. By all accounts, the owners are exceedingly welcoming, the atmosphere friendly and the ales local. Upstairs there are five neat B&B rooms. It’s also dog-friendly. redlionnewbrough.co.uk The Garden Restaurant The aptly-named Garden Restaurant sits in within the National Park, close to Bellingham and takes full advantage of its position in the heart of Northumberland. The chef and his team make everything from scratch, from the bread to the butterscotch sauce: they grow fruit and vegetables in their kitchen garden, source meat and fish from local producers and forage for ingredients to add those unusual touches to the menu. garden-restaurant.co.uk The Queens Head Hotel Restaurant Marking the geological boundary between the sandstone heather moorlands of the south and the volcanic Cheviots to the north, the Coquet Valley is surely one of Britain’s most spectacular yet serene landscapes. In its upper reaches, it is bleak and beautiful, scared with bloody border reiver history and peppered with shaggy-coated feral goats. On the gentler plains of the river valley you’ll find Rothbury, a creative little market town with an abundance of galleries and tearooms as well as the ever popular Queen’s Head. Owners Bill and Terry pride themselves on taking full advantage of the best local produce on offer, from the humble Northumbrian turnip to chicken cooked in Lindisfarne mead, local game, sustainable fish from Seahouses and the pub’s own award-winning homemade sausages. ourlocal.pub/pubs/the-queens-head-rothbury For more information on characterful places to stay, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Northumberland National Park

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the Clwydian Range & Dee Valley, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of places to stay in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in north Wales. From beautiful B&Bs to country cottages and smart townhouse hotels, there's plenty of choice of places to rest your head in the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley. Stay in a gem of a country house with gorgeous woodland views, curl up under goosedown duvets in a pretty market town hotel, or how about a converted chapel in the grounds of one of Wales' most beautiful manor houses? All these places have been chosen to help you get the most out of your visit to the region and explore the landscape: there's walking, cycling and horse riding available nearby at most of these places, and lots of the region's must-see cultural and heritage sites are within easy reach. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to the Clwydian Range & Dee Valley: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to stay Glan LLyn, Mold, Clywdian Range Glan Llyn in North Wales is a guest house on a farm and more! 3 bedrooms ensuite with a breakfast basket every morning, a 2 bedroom self-catering cottage and a 4 berth caravan in the Clwydian Hills, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty guestinourhouse.co.uk Old Rectory, Ruthin, Wales Rooms look out to the edge of the forest or the surrounding countryside. You can dine here, feasting on homecooked traditional dishes sourced as locally as possible, such as roast dinner, beef bourguignon, lasagne and pork in pepper and orange sauce. oldrectoryclocaenog.co.uk Midlist Farm Bed and Breakfast, Holywell, Wales On your doorstep is the Halkyn Mountain, a 2,000 acre open access moorland with an Iron Age hill fort. Walkers, cyclists and horse-riders welcome (includes stabling for horses and secure storage for bikes). midlistfarm.co.uk Old Police Station, Corwen, North Wales Come here not just for novelty of staying in a former Police Station, but to enjoy a characterful Grade-II listed thoroughly modern but cosy and unfussy property conveniently in the centre of Corwen. Quirky but brilliant. Great for groups. corwenoldpolicestation.co.uk Llangollen Hostel, Denbighshire, Wales A 32-bed hostel conveniently in the centre of Lllangollen with excellent facilities, including laundry, kitchen, lounge with log fire, wifi, bike and canoe storage, drying room and luggage drop. Dorms, as well as double and single rooms available. llangollenhostel.co.uk Gwenoldy, Mold, Wales Self-catering farm cottage converted from the stable and forge of an adjacent 17th-century Welsh long house. Have a barbecue in the garden with views across the valley to the Bronze Age hill forts of Penycloddiau and Moel Arthur. gwenoldy.com For information on local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to the Clwydian Range & Dee Valley

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the Clwydian Range & Dee Valley, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of local attractions in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in north Wales. The Clwydian Range and Dee Valley may be relatively unknown outside the UK but it has some pretty impressive world-class heritage sites within its borders. Most notable is Telford's Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, which forms part of the Canal World Heritage Site – at 1000 feet long and 126 feet high, it's one of the most awe-inspiring engineering creations in the the world. But that's not all: this hilly landscape has supported settlements of all shapes and sizes: there's a medieval fortress, a Cistercian monastery and umpteen prehistoric settlements to explore atop the region's peaks. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to the Clwydian Range & Dee Valley: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places of interest Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Canal World Heritage Site, Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Spanning the River Dee some forty metres high, Thomas Telford’s aqueduct was completed in 1805 and remains one of Wales’ most iconic pieces of civil engineering. You can walk the 1000 foot-long structure (look down if you dare), or take a leisurely boat ride across. The Canal World Heritage Site stretches for 11 miles in both directions and includes tunnels, castles, and pretty canal-side villages, all explored via the peaceful towpaths on foot or by bike. The fabulous Horseshoe Falls – a manmade weir, another Telford creation – is an awesome sight on a bright day. pontcysyllte-aqueduct.co.uk Valle Crucis Abbey, Llangollen, Clwydian Range and Dee Valley A wonderful abbey ruin surrounded by hills and close to the Eglwyseg River off the A542 from Ruthin. Founded in the 13th century, this was an abbey of some standing: according to Cadw (Welsh Government's historic environment service), in 1535 Valle Crucis Abbey was ranked the second richest Cistercian monastery after Tintern Abbey in the Wye Valley. Although now a ruin, many original features remain, including the glorious west front and chapter house. cadw.gov.wales/visit/places-to-visit/valle-crucis-abbey Castell Dinas Bran, Llangollen, Clwydian Range and Dee Valley As you make the steep climb up to the foreboding medieval fortress, you can all too easily appreciate the struggle met by any would-be attackers: it’s a challenge to the top but worth the effort. Its name roughly translates as ‘Crow Castle’, and you certainly get a superb birds-eye view over the surrounding landscape. Incredibly, Dinas Bran’s 'working' life only lasted a couple of decades until it was destroyed by Edward I’s troops. These days the ruins offer inspiration to artists and writers and there’s plenty of information giving visitors an insight into the history of the castle and what life was like for those that inhabited it castlewales.com/dinas.html Chirk Castle, Llangollen, Clwydian Range and Dee Valley A magnificent 14th Century castle overlooking the Ceiriog valley south of Wrexham near the Welsh English border. Although still lived in, the estate is now owned by the National Trust - the state rooms include a 17th-century Long Gallery, grand 18th-century saloon with tapestries, and the restored East Range, containing the library and 1920s style Bow Room. The 480-acre estate has over 5 acres of manicured lawns, clipped yews, herbaceous borders, rose, shrub and rock gardens, and has also been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest as an important habitat for rare invertebrates, bats, fungi, and wild flowers. nationaltrust.org.uk/chirk-castle Llangollen Wharf, Llangollen, Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Soak up the beauty of the Llangollen Valley just as visitors would have in Telford’s heyday, on a horse-drawn canal boat. Or take a motorised aqueduct boat across the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct – the trip lasts for 2 hours. They also There’s also a 32-ft canal boat for hire which can accommodate 10 passengers. An enjoyable way to experience the heritage site, whatever the weather. horsedrawnboats.co.uk Tŷ Mawr Country Park, Llangollen, Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Situated by the dramatic Cefn Viaduct on the banks of the River Dee (five miles south of Wrexham in the village of Cefn Mawr), Tŷ Mawr is home to animals such as donkeys, pigs, goats, free-range ducks and chickens. The recently refurbished Barn is used for environmental education by school groups, and can also be hired for children's birthday parties, as well as meetings, conferences and local community events. The park has help from volunteers who clear vegetation as well as help with the animals and with conservation. Volunteer afternoons are held every Wednesday. There's more information at the visitor centre or telephone: 01978 822780. old.wrexham.gov.uk/english/leisure_tourism/TyMawrCountryPark.htm For information on characterful places to stay, local food and drink, and nearby outdoor activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to the Clwydian Range & Dee Valley

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the Clwydian Range & Dee Valley, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of places to find local food and drink in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in north Wales. Who'd have thought the heather-clad hills of the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley could inspire so much wonderful local produce: from frangrant honey and ice cream to rich, tangy ales, the humble heather flower has influenced food and drink producers across the region. We've picked out some of our favourite spots for you to enjoy the local bounty: there's the custom-made shepherd's hut selling tea and tasty cakes and farm shops where you can get your hands on all sorts of fabuolus Welsh produce, like creamy cheeses and delicious laverbread. Don't forget to check out the Clwydian Range Food Trail – a fantastic foodie route which passes some of the region's top producers. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to the Clwydian Range & Dee Valley: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to eat The Shepherd's Hut, Ruthin, Clwydian Range and Dee Valley A very cute pop-up cafe in a custom-made Shepherd's Hut that the owners say is "a homage to the part-time homes of 19th and 20th century shepherds". You can find it in the foothills of Moel Famau, near Loggerheads Country Park HQ - head to the top car park of Moel Famau, in between the two trails that lead up to the Jubilee Tower. It sells excellent coffee, cakes, chocolates and local artisan products, including rugs, cushions and ice-cream. shepherds-hut.com The Druid Inn, Mold, Clwydian Range and Dee Valley In the pretty Welsh town of Pontblyddyn the old stone-built Druid Inn is popular for its good quality pub grub, friendly service and welcoming atmosphere. The beamy bar is warm and inviting and there’s a large terrace outside. Tuck into juicy burgers, homemade pies, steaks and sandwiches; the daily lunchtime Special menu is great value at £7. Their generous Sunday roasts are deservedly popular – make sure you book. Little diners get their own menu, too. Try to coincide your visit with one of their weekly music nights – see their website for more details. druidinn.co.uk The Cherry Pie Inn, Mold, Clwydian Range and Dee Valley On the banks of the Wheeler river in the tiny hamlet of Melin-y-Wern you’ll find the Cherry Pie Inn, a welcoming pub and firm favourite with locals thanks to its great selection of ales and no-nonsense food. The menu features plenty of pub classics such as roast Welsh lamb, steaks and deep-fried scampi; round it all off with a slice of cherry pie – definitely worth leaving room for. The snug wood-clad bar with crackling log fire is perfect for colder days, and there’s a large restaurant for groups – they cater for weddings and parties too. If the sun’s out, grab a table in the riverside garden and watch the world wander by. thecherrypieinn.co.uk The Raven Inn, Ruthin, Clwydian Range and Dee Valley The community-run Raven Inn is a welcoming pub serving great local produce and run by a cheerful bunch of local volunteers. Their guiding principle is to support local microbreweries and they have a range of local guest beers on tap throughout the year. The food is local, simple and delicious – try slow-braised beef stew or fillet of Fleetwood haddock; Friday is the popular fish and chips night. There are three newly refurbished bedrooms upstairs, all with spectacular views over the village's medieval church. All of the profits go to fund village community projects. raveninn.co.uk For information on characterful places to stay, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to the Clwydian Range & Dee Valley

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the Clwydian Range & Dee Valley, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of outdoor adventure activities in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in north Wales. Those with an adventurous spirit will find endless amounts of fun in the Clwydian Range. The limestone cliffs and gorges are great for abseiling and climbing, whilst the steep wooded valleys are a real draw for mountain bikers. The region's two rivers – the Dee and Alyn – offer up some fantastic canoeing and kayaking opportunities, and thrill seekers will love the white water sports, such as body boating and stand up paddle boarding. There's plenty on offer for those after a gentler experience too: the Clwydian region is home to some of Wales's best walking and cycling routes, and there are heritage tours if you want to polish up on your cultural knowledge along the way. Or learn how to keep bees on a woodland skills and craft course. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to the Clwydian Range & Dee Valley: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Activities Ty Nant Outdoors, Llangollen, Clwydian Range and Dee Valley This friendly, family-run outfit specialises in all sorts of outdoor adventures, from kayaking and rafting to hill walking and abseiling. Canoe over Telford’s magnificent aqueduct, tackle raging rapids in a kayak, swing through the trees on ropes or bounce around the hills on a quad bike. Families are catered for too – children can have a go at most of the activities on offer on tailored family days, and there are steam train rides and narrow-boating for tinier ones. Andy and team also run a series of courses and workshops, such as whitewater rescue and first aid. tynantoutdoors.com Bodyboating, Clwydian Range and Dee Valley If you think you’ve tried every water-based activity under the sun, think again. Body boating is the new white water craze to hit Wales, offering adreneline junkies a unique way to experience the raging rivers in this corner of Wales, essentially involving paddling a surfboard-like boat down rapids face first. Sound fun? It certainly is, and one day on the River Dee with these guys and you'll be as hooked at they are. And if you can tear your stare away from the menacing rapids ahead, there's some stunning countryside to gawp at too. bodyboating.co.uk Stand Up Paddle Board UK, Corwen, Clwydian Range and Dee Valley One of the only UK companies providing stand up paddle boarding on white water, their fun and friendly sessions are run on the beautiful World Heritage Site, the Llangollen waterways. If paddling down rapids seems like a daunting prospect you can opt for a session on flat water, or how about getting a group of friends together for an evening social on the water? You can even bring your pooch along for a doggy paddle boarding session – water pups will love it! Choose from half-day taster sessions or a full day lesson. standuppaddleboarduk.com Pro Adventure, Llangollen, Clwydian Range and Dee Valley You couldn’t find a better base for outdoor adventure: the Llangollen Canal – a World Heritage Site – runs straight through the town, and the centre is surrounded on all sides by wooded valleys, fast waters and rocky crags. If you’re itching to get out and put your muscles to the test, the enthusiastic team at this not-for-profit enterprise are the guys to turn to. As well as all the usual activities – climbing, abseiling, canoeing – they also run bushcraft weekends, target sports such as axe throwing, and canoe holidays. proadventure.org Woodland Skills Centre, Denbigh, Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Ever fancied learning how to keep bees, spot British native trees or create a beautiful sculpture from a pile of stripped willow? This outdoor crafts and skills centre runs a huge range of woodland skills and crafts courses from their fabulous forest school hidden deep in the Dee Valley, from basket weaving and spoon carving to more practical workshops on hedge laying and how to manage a small woodland. They also run bushcraft weekends introducing children to the woodland and its wildlife. Their fabulous new eco-build centre is the ultimate inspirational place to learn about all things sustainable. woodlandskillscentre.uk Heritage Tours North Wales, Llangollen, Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Experienced guide and storyteller, Heather’s walking tours combine invigorating hill walking with an insight into the area's cultural and historical legacy. Join her for a gentle stroll around the charming streets of Ruthin and learn intriguing stories of past inhabitants, or discover the geology and mining history at Loggerheads Country Park. There are various tours on offer, suitable to all ages and levels of fitness. heritagetoursnorthwales.com TREKsmart, Clwyd, Clwydian Range and Dee Valley At the helm of this hill walking holiday company is Mike Smart, an experienced and passionate mountain walker, and a qualified guide, photographer and artist. Mike can tailor his trips to suit you, whether you’re after a single day or a multi-day adventure. Mike also runs the Llangollen Walking Festival each spring, a fabulous 3-day event with a programme packed with fascinating walks covering all sorts of subjects, from history to photography. treksmart.weebly.com Oneplanet Adventure, Llandegla, Clwydian Range and Dee Valley With over 40km of biking trails set within the 650-acre Coed Llandegla Forest, this mountain biking centre is the place to go to for seasoned pros or total novices alike. On site there's a friendly shop selling every item of biking equipment you could possibly want, and the award-winning café serves great coffee and an ever-changing specials menu. And you don't have to own your own bike – rent a top-of-the-range model from their hire shop oneplanetadventure.com For information on characterful places to stay, local food and drink, and nearby visitor attractions, see our Green Traveller's Guide to the Clwydian Range & Dee Valley

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Llŷn, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of hotels, B&Bs, campsites and manor houses in this wonderful Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in northwest Wales. Whether you’re here for a whole action packed week or just a relaxing mini-break, Llŷn has a huge variety of eco-friendly accommodations to choose from, suiting all tastes and budgets. We've put together this list of the best places to stay in the region, from a luxurious manor house to a rustic self-catering cottage and frills-free caravan park; be lulled to sleep by the sounds of the sea. Whether you choose to start the day with a home cooked, locally sourced Llŷn breakfast, or leave the car behind to explore the coastline on foot, you can be sure that you’re helping to preserve this wonderful region for the future. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to Llŷn: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to stay in Llŷn Gwesty Ty Newydd, Aberdaron, Wales Located on the magnificent sandy beach of Aberdaron, this contemporary hotel has a terrace that looks over the ocean with sunning views of nearby islands. Enjoy freshly caught seafood and scrumptious homemade cakes or stroll along the gorgeous coast. gwesty-tynewydd.co.uk The Ship Hotel, Aberdaron, Wales Looking out across to the Gwylan islands and Aberdaron Bay, this modern and comfortable hotel offers the perfect resting place after a stroll along the coastal paths, serving freshly caught, award-winning lobster and crab for dinner. theshiphotelaberdaron.co.uk The Nanhoron Arms Hotel, Nefyn, Wales A family-friendly hotel close to the beach and the clean and clear waters of the Llyn peninsula. Popular with holidaymakers who come to explore this historic spot and with locals who love the 'Back Bar'. nanhoronhotel.com Plas Bodegroes, Pwllheli, Llŷn This luxurious 'restaurant with rooms' is surrounded by beautiful gardens, unspoiled countryside and is not too far from the beach. The award-winning food is sustainably sourced and rooms beautifully decorated. bodegroes.co.uk Organig Parc, Carnguwch, Wales These old stone stables have been renovated using local materials to transform them into charming holiday cottages. With breathtaking views of the mountains, river and Cardigan Bay in the distance, this is the perfect retreat to unwind. organigparc.co.uk Carrog Farm Cottages, Pwllheli, Wales Formerly a milking parlour, cowshed and stables, these spacious cottages are situated on the beautiful Llŷn Peninsula. From Nintendo Wii's to scenic coastal walks this peaceful sanctuary is ideal for families. carrogfarm.co.uk/self-catering Castellmarch, Pwllheli, Wales From a converted 18th century stable to 'log pod', these five farm properties are only a 10 minute walk from the stunning, wide sandy beaches of Abersoch. castellmarch.co.uk Ty Coch, Llyn Peninsula, North Wales Ty Coch, a former coastal farm in an area of outstanding natural beauty, is the perfect place for families or groups of friends to unwind. It is purpose-designed for sharing and within 5 acres of grounds running down to a private beach. red-welly.com Hafan Y Mor Holiday Park, Pwllheli, Wales This Havan holiday park is the perfect place for a family break; with a range of accomodation available (including adapted caravans for the disabled), Hafan y Môr features a water park and has a range of outdoor activities on offer. haven.com/parks/north-wales/hafan-y-mor/ Ecodomes, Pwllheli, Wales These Eden Project-like domes nestled on a small sheep farm near Snowdonia and Abersoch take the term 'glamping' to a new level. With wood-burning stoves and double beds inside, these futuristic tents are ideal for a luxurious family camping holiday. away-from-it-all.co.uk Bolmynydd Camping Park, Llanbedrog, Wales Just a stones throw away from the glorious, golden sand beach of Tyn Tywyn, this tranquil, dog-friendly campsite is in the perfect location for an action-filled family holiday. From wakeboarding to pony rides, there is something for everyone. bolmynydd.co.uk The Willows, Mynytho, Wales An award-winning, beautiful caravan park and campsite just a short walk from the stunning beaches of Abersoch has excellent facilities and plenty of space for each pitch. A very quiet and peaceful site, superb for couples and small families. the-willows-abersoch.co.uk The Old Rectory, Boduan, Wales A grand Georgian manor house located in the heart of the scenic Llŷn Peninsula offering award-winning breakfasts, spectacular countryside views and beautifully decorated, comfortable bedrooms. theoldrectory.net For information on local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Llŷn.

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Llŷn, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of beaches, nature reserves and visitor centres in this wonderful Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in northwest Wales. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in Welsh history and culture, or to admire some of the finest coastal scenery in the country, you won't regret a visit to the Llŷn peninsula. From a cute little country house with pretty gardens to the best preserved Iron Age hill fort in Britain; from a Victorian gothic mansion with exhibitions of fine art to a community of green pioneers constructing buildings from cob, hay and stone; the range of attractions on the Llŷn peninsula spans more or less the whole of human history and society. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to Llŷn: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places of interest in Llŷn Bardsey Island nature reserve In the middle ages, three pilgrimages to Bardsey chalked up as many brownie points as a trip all the way to Rome. In Welsh, the island is known as Ynys Enlli, sometimes translated as island in the current and other times as island of the Saints. It is said that 20,000 Celtic Christians are buried in ‘the porch of heaven’. Today it’s much easier to make a pilgrimage to the island, usually to worship Mother Nature. Bardsey is famed for birds, including a breeding colony of 16,000 Manx shearwater, choughs, and a small number of puffins. Around the shores, Atlantic grey seals breed. Harbour porpoises and Risso’s dolphins are frequently spotted. Heaven indeed. There are eight rustic holiday cottages to rent. bardsey.org St Hywyn's This ancient stone church, dating from the 12th century, teeters on the cliff at Aberdaron, its cemetery slipping over the edge. For centuries before the stone building was constructed, there was a place of worship for Celtic Christians here, with close connections to the community on the Island of Bardsey, known as the island of the saints. A 20th century priest at the church, RS Thomas, wrote poetry. As well as his poems being on display in the building, there are regular readings and meditations of his work on the theme of pilgrimages. Books and postcards are for sale in the church shop. st-hywyn.org.uk Pen Llŷn a'r Sarnau The sea around Llŷn thrives with varied sea life thanks to its many different habitats. There are sandbanks, estuaries, reefs, lagoons, sea caves, mud flats and more – where endangered species such as Atlantic seals and bottlenose dolphins make their homes and otters and visiting basking sharks and leatherback turtles feed. It’s no wonder that the area, known as Pen Llŷn a’r Sarnau – from the Llŷn peninsula to the Sarnau reefs – is one of Britain’s largest ‘Special Areas of Conservation.’ You can help by recording any interesting marine sightings – whether it’s dolphins or jellyfish – and by keeping the seas and beaches free of litter that not only looks unsightly but can kill. penllynarsarnau.co.uk Llŷn's Beaches There are dozens of beaches along the nearly 100 miles of coast on the Llŷn peninsula. From vast expanses of sand perfect for exploration to bays only accessible by steps down the cliff face (Porth Ysgo), from calm waters (Llanbedrog) to barrelling surf (Porth Neigwl also known as Hell’s Mouth), from sand so fine it squeaks (Porth Oer) to shingle and pebbles, there is something for everyone and every activity. Some beaches, such as Porth Dinllaen, have picturesque cafes or pubs, others have no facilities at all; some allow dogs, others don’t. Llŷn's Towns and Villages It’s not just wildlife and beaches on the Llŷn peninsula, there are towns and villages to visit too, linked with regular bus services. Aberdaron was the last stop for medieval pilgrims on their way to Bardsey Island. This former fishing village is still a stop-off for visitors on day-trips. Take time to explore the ancient church on the cliff top. Another former fishing village, Abersoch, on the south coast of the peninsula, is popular with the sailing community. There are cafes, bars and, in the height of summer, a music and wake-boarding festival, Wakestock. Nefyn is a little town on the north coast, with a small but pretty harbour away from the urban area. The market town of Pwllheli is the main urban centre of the peninsula and the site of the westernmost train station. The weekly Wednesday market draws crowds from all over the peninsula. Llŷn Maritime Museum, Nefyn, Wales The Maritime Museum, based at St Mary's Church that was founded in the 6th century, was the brainchild of locals who were keen to showcase the area's rich maritime history. There is an exhibition space, a cafe and a shop and entry is free. Find maritime artefacts and many stories of the shipbuilders and sailors that were based in and around Nefyn. Did you know that Nefyn was once called 'Penwaig Nefyn' (Nefyn herring), as over 100 years ago it was famous for its herring industry. llyn-maritime-museum.co.uk Porth y Swnt, National Trust Visitor Centre, Aberdaron, Llŷn Llŷn is an area rich not only natural beauty but in culture and history, too, and the National Trust has created an interactive learning centre for those wanting to learn more about the area and get the most out of their visit. There's stacks on information on the peninsula and activity ideas for all ages. The centre is in the Aberdaron fishing village so there's plenty right here to explore, too, including the church that was the last stopping off point for pilgrims on the way to Bardsey Island. Porth y Swnt translates as the 'gateway to the sound'. nationaltrust.org.uk/porth-y-swnt Nant Gwrtheyrn In a secluded valley on the north shore of the Llŷn peninsula, this former quarrying village has had a £5 million makeover to become a centre for the Welsh language. 580,000 people speak Welsh and several hundred more learn to speak it each year at courses held here, beside the sea (môr). There is comfortable group accommodation in former terraced houses (tai), now refurbished with underfloor heating from air-source-heat pumps. If you don’t have time to attend even a three-day course, you can visit for a day to look at the heritage centre and learn about the life of a quarryman before stopping for tea and bara brith in the licensed café (caffi). nantgwrtheyrn.org Plas Glyn-y-Weddw This spectacular Grade II* listed Victorian gothic mansion on the south coast of the Llyn peninsula was built in 1857 to house the private art collection of one Lady Elizabeth Jones Parry. It is still a venue for art, with work displayed by local artists in ten original gallery spaces. The tall hammerbeam ceiling, impressive Jacobean staircase and stained glass all make for a perfect backdrop for concerts too, such as an annual acoustic guitar festival. There’s a bright, airy café serving homemade food, with further seating in a pretty garden with views across to Snowdonia and Cardigan Bay. For classy souvenirs, the gift shop sells handicrafts – woodwork, textiles - by local artists. A private wing of the house has been converted into a holiday let, sleeping ten. oriel.org.uk Plas yn Rhiw This unpretentious 16th century manor house, with Georgian additions, has spectacular views over Cardigan Bay from its exquisite gem of an (organic) ornamental garden: flowerbeds of hydrangea and unusual yellow clematis are framed by neatly trimmed box hedges. It all looks superb, whatever the weather but even if it’s raining, the unusual two-seater garden loo will make you smile. The property is now owned by the National Trust which has added some 150 acres of adjoining woodland. The previous owners, the Keating sisters, bequeathed their much-loved home to the Trust, after having spent many years restoring it from dereliction in the 1930s. nationaltrust.org.uk/plas-yn-rhiw For information on local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Llŷn.

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Llŷn, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of restaurants, festivals and farmers' markets for local food and drink in this wonderful Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in northwest Wales. Llŷn AONB is rich in fresh produce with a variety of organic produce also available. There are a growing number of excellent restaurants, pubs, tea-rooms and farm shops all offering the best produce the area has to offer. Traditionally it’s a mixed farming area, so you’ll often find delicious local lamb on the menu, as well as beef, pork and game. Some farmers are choosing to rear traditional breeds and using traditional production techniques, to ensure the best quality and flavour. The surrounding sea also provides a rich harvest of fish and seafood, especially crab and lobster. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to Llŷn: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to eat in Llŷn The Ship Hotel Restaurant With its open fireplace and local ales – meriting a regular mention in the Good Beer Guide – this cosy bar and restaurant harks back to its roots as the original village inn. The Harrison family that owns the hotel also go lobster potting, so they can guarantee that those bright red claws on your plate are as fresh as the village’s sea air. The emphasis is on local ingredients. The crab is caught locally and the lamb and beef comes from local farms. theshiphotelaberdaron.co.uk The Dining Room This small, family-run restaurant, with sea views, changes its menu weekly to make the most of fresh local produce. You might find yourself choosing between starters of potted crab with tomato, red onion and mint chutney or carrot and ginger soup followed by pan-fried sea trout with warm samphire salad and laverbread dressing or Welsh rib eye steak with brandy and black pepper sauce. To round it all off, how about strawberry and elderflower trifle? The restaurant, which is, literally, the dining room in a detached family house, is ‘small and intimate’ and does not cater for young children. Vegetarian choices are available. thediningroomabersoch.co.uk Tremfan Hall, Pwllheli, Llŷn The lovely views of the Llŷn sea and Snowdonia mountains and the artfully arranged food will vie for your attention at Tremfan. What a position. Tremfan Hall prides itself on a big welcome and its wide range of food, from Sunday lunch specials, 2-course set price dinners and children's menu. You can stay here, too. tremfanhall.webs.com Y Gegin Fawr Y Gegin Fawr means ‘the large kitchen’, an appropriate name for this white-washed stone cottage that was once a communal kitchen where 13th century pilgrims were given food and a welcome on their way to Bardsey Island.
Today’s travellers can treat themselves to homemade cakes such as the traditional Welsh tea-and-fruit loaf, bara brith (whose name literally means ‘speckled bread’) or scones, served with fresh, local cream. There is locally caught crab and lobster to eat in or take away. Dogs are welcome on the outside terrace and by an attractive riverside area. Continue on your pilgrimage refreshed, praying to return one day. penllyn.com Treddafydd Organic Farm This small family-run organic farm in Llinthfaen supplies local hotels and restaurants with their fresh, seasonal fruit and vegetables including raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, blackcurrants, potatoes, artichokes purple-sprouting-this, pink-that and a whole rainbow of colours more. They produce organic jams and chutneys under the Treddafydd Organic label, supply delis, including Rhug Farmshop, and attend markets and food fairs. If you’re walking the Llŷn Coastal Path and are feeling peckish, the route goes right past the back of the property. It might be worth making a detour to their farm gate, where they sell surplus produce. After all, they are the holders of a Gwynedd Taste and Talent Award. treddafyddorganic.co.uk Glasfryn Farm Shop Glasfryn Farm Shop employs two butchers fulltime to hang, cut and cure the meat reared on one of the largest farms on the Llŷn peninsula. Bacon is smoked over a fire of local oak – rather than painted with liquid ‘smoke’ extract as sometimes happens. There are no shortcuts with the beef either which is hung for at least 21 days until it’s ‘black’. It’s not surprising that the produce – such as Welsh black beef burgers - has won national ‘Great Taste’ awards. The farm shop is bulging with other produce from Wales – organic flavoured milk from Pembrokeshire, Anglesey salt, vegetables, fruits and ice creams. You could fill a holiday hamper here and enjoy an exquisite taste of Wales. glasfryn.co.uk Cadwalader's Ice Cream Back in 1927, this small shop in Criccieth, half-way up to the castle, began selling vanilla ice cream. Now the growing number of flavours is unstoppable and the Italian style ice cream is going global (well, almost) with cafes in Criccieth, Porthmadog, Portmeirion and as far away as England. As well as ice cream sundaes as colourful as the Llŷn coast in springtime, the cafes serve speciality teas and coffees, cakes and sandwiches. You can sit overlooking the beach at the Criccieth café. As they say, whether you’re half-way up to the castle or half-way down to the beach, you deserve an ice cream. It’s not a holiday without one. cadwaladers.co.uk Pwllheli Markets The market in Pwllheli, the main town of the Llŷn peninsula, was established over 600 years ago under a charter granted by Edward III in the 14th century. Today, organisers claim it to be one of the largest markets in the country. Held every Wednesday, rain or shine, this outdoor market sells everything from local produce to cheap clothes, cleaning products to plants. If you’re on a self-catering holiday, this is the place to come to stock up your larder (and your cleaning cupboard) at reasonable prices. During the summer, between May and September, there is a smaller market on Sundays, with more of an emphasis on crafts and local produce. On the first Saturday of the month there is a produce market at Sarn Village Hall. visitwales.com/things-do/attractions/some-best-markets-wales For information on local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Llŷn.

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Llŷn, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of walking, coasteering and boat trips in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in northwest Wales. You’re never more than four miles from the sea on the narrow Llŷn peninsula AONB, so it’s no surprise that the coast and the sea take centre stage in the range of activities available. There are boat trips to the car-free island of Bardsey, famed for wildlife, wild flowers and its history as a place of pilgrimage; 91 miles of coastal walking, horse-riding, surfing, sailing and more or less any watery activity you can think of from coasteering to kayaking. Inland there are mountains (well, high hills) to climb up and a high ropes adventure course. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to Llŷn: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Activities in Llŷn Day trips to Bardsey with Enlli Charters If you’re lucky you might spot dolphins playing in the bow-waves of the small boat, Highlander II, as you motor over clear blue sea to Bardsey Island, otherwise known as Ynys Enlli or island of the Saints. With its wildflowers, seabirds and seals, it’s no wonder pilgrims considered this a holy place. The full day-trip, run according to demand, starts with a 70 minute morning crossing to the car-free, quiet island, where you have three hours ashore to wander, picnic, swim and bird-watch. On the return boat trip, you stop to spot puffins and other birdlife on the smaller St Tudwal’s islands in Aberdaron Bay, before returning to Pwllheli marina about 4.30pm. enllicharter.co.uk Bardsey boat trips The Evans family has been captaining boats from Aberdaron Bay across to Bardsey island for generations. They have farming, fishing and lighthouse-keeping connections with the island, home to choughs, seals, shearwaters and a dozen or two humans. The journey from Aberdaron takes just 20 minutes, with room for 11 passengers on the boat. You then have four hours to explore the wildlife, heritage and tea and craft shops on Bardsey before returning. Colin Evans, fluent in Welsh and English, is a mine of information on the history and wildlife of the island. He’ll teach you how to say “Beautiful” (hardd). bardseyboattrips.com Llŷn's Surfing Beaches Surfers come from across Britain to hang ten on the waves crashing against the shores of the Llŷn peninsula. The reef at the northern end of Hell’s Mouth, a four-mile stretch of sand also known as Porth Neigwl, is especially popular and has a surf school for beginners. After storms, experienced surfers ride barrelling wedges at Porth Ceiriad, at the tip of the peninsula. You can always seek advice on where the surf is up at the West Coast Surf shop in Abersoch. In this village there is also a sailing school that offers lessons in windsurfing and sailing, not only in small dinghies but in large keelboats too. Cilan Riding Centre The 300-acre Cilan Headland, three miles from Abersoch, is a site of special scientific interest – heather moorland where you can see rare, red-billed choughs. In the distance, Bardsey Island, Snowdon and the bay of Hell’s Mouth beckon. What a perfect place for a gallop. Whether you’re a nervous novice or experienced equestrian, this family-run riding centre will have the horse for you. You will be escorted by an experienced rider and there are no roads to worry about, so you can concentrate on improving your technique or just canter off into the distance, to those views and the call of choughs. abersochholidays.net Edge of Wales Walk, Llŷn Wales now has a footpath for some 800-mile along its coast. One of the prettiest sections must be that on the northern edge of the Llŷn peninsula. This 47-mile trail crosses moorland and fields, sandy beaches and cliff tops, with only 2% of it anywhere near a ‘main’ road. Starting from Clynnog Fawr and finishing on Bardsey Island, the route follows in the footsteps of Celtic pilgrims who fled to Bardsey, known as the ‘porch of heaven’, to escape advancing Saxons. These days, it’s more likely you’ll be hiking for pure pleasure but the 6th-century churches and holy wells established by the pilgrims add intrigue to the serene coastline. Edge of Wales Walk works to promote this way-marked footpath and the accommodation along its route, offering tailor-made itineraries including B&B accommodation, luggage transfers and local knowledge. edgeofwaleswalk.co.uk For information on local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Llŷn.

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Snowdonia, here is our guide to travelling to and around Snowdonia National Park without a car. Getting to Snowdonia without a car By Train: North Wales is well connected by rail from most parts of Britain. Trains run as far as Bangor, on the north-western edge of Snowdonia. From the mainline station in the resort town of Llandudno, the Conwy Valley Railway provides connections down into Snowdonia National Park, stopping at various places, including the tourist hub of Betws-y-Coed en route to Blaenau Ffestiniog. Additionally, rail services via the Midlands to Shrewsbury and Machynlleth connect on to Porthmadog and the Llŷn Peninsula with the Cambrian Lines. Both these mainline railways offer wonderful views of the coast and the stunning Snowdonia mountains on routes inaccessible to cars. By Coach or Bus: National Express run buses to Llandudno and Bangor, from London, Manchester, and other destinations. From South Wales, Arriva operates buses to Porthmadog, Caernarfon and Bangor. Getting around without a car By Train The Conwy line offers a viable option for destinations along the Conwy valley from Llandudno to Blaenau Ffestiniog, however train services do not connect up the whole National Park. The train is, however, an option for those wanting to scale the heights of Mount Snowdon without destroying their leg muscles: Snowdon Mountain Railway links Llanberis to the summit – Llanberis is accessible by bus from Bangor (no. 85), thus linking into the national rail network. In addition, there are seven heritage railways in and around Snowdonia National Park: each offers access to the countryside and could be incorporated with a walking or cycling visit. By Bus There is a dedicated visitor bus network in the National Park, known as the Snowdon Sherpa, which that passes around the foot of Snowdon linking up the six main walking routes up Snowdon, as well as the main car parks, villages and tourist attractions. The journeys are operated by Low Floor buses with wheelchair space and ramp for accessible vehicles. Here's a handy map of the Snordon Sherpa network (PDF). In addition, 8 different services (on the following five principal routes) link key destinations within Snowdonia, with single fares from £2 and combined hop-on, hop-off £5 day tickets available: S2, S3, S6: Llanberis – Pen y Pass – Betws y Coed - Llanrwst S1: Llanberis – Nant Peris – Pen y Pass ( S4: Caernarfon – Waunfawr – Beddgelert S6: Bangor – Bethesda – Betws y Coed S97: Porthmadog – Beddgelert – Pen y Pass A more regular service runs in the summer months than in the winter, so if you're planning a summer trip it’s advisable to have a check the timetables nearer summer on the local bus operators’ timetables on the website of Gwynedd county council. By bike Snowdonia is popular for avid off-road mountain bikers, however its varied and dramatic terrain is criss-crossed by valleys and skirted by gorgeous coasts, along which you can find relatively flat, well-maintained roads and paths for cyclists who aren’t ready to push their limits on mountain slopes. Mainline train services usually offer space to keep your bikes, however these spaces are limited and should always be reserved in advance to avoid disappointment, by calling up the train operator, or heading to your local railway station ticket office. Whilst most local bus services do not have space to carry bikes, the Snowdon Sherpa S2 has been equipped for two bikes along the route from Llanberis to Llanrwst via Pen-y-Pass and Betws-y-Coed. Should you want to hire a bike once you get to Snowdonia, or pick up more information, maps and advice, there are several cycle providers in and around the National Park, including: Beddgelert Bikes, Beics Brenin, Beics Antur, Dolgellau Cycles, and R. H. Roberts Cycles. Visit Snowdonia has a great selection of cycle routes in Snowdonia with downloadable maps, plus easier recreational routes for those looking for a gentler cycle. For more information about cycling and sustainable travel in Snowdonia and the rest of Wales, check out Sustrans Cymru. Maps and further information There are maps on the websites of Snowdonia National Park and Visit Snowdonia, or head to one of the few remaining visitor information centres to pick up maps, guides, more information and expert local advice. Two of the remaining centres can be found in Llanberis and Pwllheli. There are also visitor centres at Conwy, Llandudno, Betws-y-Coed, Aberdyfi and Beddgelert. For information on where to stay, eat, local attractions and outdoor adventure activities, see: Green Traveller's Guide to Snowdonia

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Snowdonia, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of B&Bs, hotels, self-catering and campsites in this glorious National Park in northwest Wales. We have scoured the region to find places to suit every perference and every budget. Whether you're after a home-from-home B&B experience with owners on hand for local recommendations, a remote cottage with sweeping valley views where children can run riot, or a romatic break for two in a luxury hotel, we're pretty sure you'll be able to find something that suits you in our collection of green and gorgeous places to stay. And whilst the region's jagged peaks and beautiful, lonely valleys draw climbers in their thousands annually, it's easy to forget about the sandy coves and towering cliffs of North Wales' stunning coastline, so we've included a sprinkling of places along Snowdonia's beautiful coast for beachseekers, too. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to Snowdonia National Park: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to stay in Snowdonia Bryn Elltyd Eco Guesthouse, Snowdonia, North Wales Homely eco guesthouse in a picturesque setting where ALL energy is from renewables, with easy open access to the mountains from the door. The wonderful Ffestiniog steam train curls around the grounds. Bus & mainline trains 2km at Blaenau Ffestiniog. ecoguesthouse.co.uk Bryn Bella Guest House, Snowdonia, Wales A quiet, friendly 5-room B&B that's a great base from which to explore the picturesque Snowdonia National Park and the rest of North Wales. Delicious hearty home-made breakfasts in the pretty dining room overlooking the valley towards Betws-y-Coed. bryn-bella.co.uk The Old Coach House, Machynlleth, Mid-Wales A 1 bed, self-catering holiday cottage in the peaceful Dyfi Valley and Snowdonia National Park. Ideal for walkers, cyclists and bird-watchers. Evening meals can be provided in the dining room in the main house with prior notice theoldcoachhousecottage.co.uk Graig Wen, Snowdonia, Wales Stylish four-star B&B, yurt camp, holiday cottages and award-winning campsite in the stunning Snowdonia National Park with breathtaking views of mountains and the Mawddach Estuary. Connect with nature on this wild yet perfectly comfortable escape. graigwen.co.uk Coed Cae, Snowdonia, Wales Looking out over the beautiful Mawddach Estury, this rural B&B offers cosy accomodation, delicious food and an abundance of breathtaking walks nearby. Come for some rest and relaxation, or get active and hire one of their bikes. coedcae.co.uk Y Goeden Eirin, Snowdonia, Wales With a beautiful mountain backdrop, be pampered in this homely B&B and delight in the breakfasts served by a Sunday Times Cook of the Year winner. Alternatively, you can get some added privacy and opt for the Beach Cottage, located a few miles away. ygoedeneirin.co.uk The Hilary Guest House, Llandudno, Wales A quiet and peaceful family owned and run guest house in a peaceful tree lined avenue. With a beautiful garden, amazingly comfy beds and delicious breakfasts- including the world famous fried bread. Near to the town centre, beaches and the theatre. the-hilary.co.uk The Dunoon Hotel, Snowdonia, Wales This charming hotel is situated in a prime location, being in easy reach of mountains, forests, rivers, beaches and National Trust properties. The Dunoon Hotel prides itself old-fashioned hotel values, and boasts an award winning restaurant. dunoonhotel.co.uk The Imperial Hotel, Snowdonia, Wales With views across Llandudno Bay, this four star hotel prides itself on being a fantastic base for many of the attractions of North Wales. The hotel itself features comfortable rooms, award winning food, a gym, swimming pool, sauna and spa. theimperial.co.uk Yr Hen Stablau Self-Catering, Dyfi Valley, Wales, UK Unfussy, renovated stables overlooking the peaceful Dyfi Valley woodland near Machynlleth. It has impressive eco credentials including solar energy, underfloor heating and woodburning stove. Dogs are welcome and it is wheelchair accessible. selfcateringcottagewales.co.uk Crashpad Lodges, Snowdonia, Wales Located right at the foot of Mount Snowdon, this bunkhouse is the perfect place to stay for those wanting to be right out in the wilderness. There are opportunities for hiking, climbing, cycling and canoeing right out of the door. crashpadlodges.com YHA Idwal Cottage, Bangor, Wales Perfectly located between the Glyder and Carneddau mountains, Idwal Cottage, Bangor, is great for strolls to the Cwm Idwal nature reserve and Devil’s Kitchen or for walking holidays on the Cambrian Way or the Welsh 3,000ft peaks. yha.org.uk YHA Conwy, Snowdonia, Wales An ideal base for those wanting to explore North Wales on a budget! Families and groups will love it here, or anyone wanting to get to the coast or those after an activity break in Snowdonia. A great option for a car-free break. yha.org.uk Eco Retreats, Powys, Wales Way out west in the wilds of Wales, deep in the forest and miles from anywhere, find some peace and quiet in the sumptuous surroundings of these well-furnished tipis (and one yurt). Good for a romantic getaway or family holiday. ecoretreats.co.uk Hafan y Môr Holiday Park, Gwynedd, Wales This Haven holiday park is the perfect place for a family break; with a range of accomodation available (including adapted caravans for the disabled), Hafan y Môr features a water park and has a range of outdoor activities on offer. haven.com/parks/north-wales/hafan-y-mor/ Pant y March, Feather Down Farm, West Wales Ideally located within the Snowdonia National Park and boasting unrivaled views out over Lake Bala, Pant y March Farm offers countless walking opportunities through the Welsh countryside, a Farm Tour for children and lambing in the Spring. featherdown.co.uk Cae Wennol Yurts, Conwy, North Wales A fabulous "glamping" experience offering a quiet retreat and gateway to Snowdonia's mountains and coasts. Relax by the beautiful nature gardens and wildlife pools, watch out for feathered friends and share stories around the campfire. Magical! caewennolyurts.co.uk For information on local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Snowdonia

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Snowdonia, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of family fun and eco visitor centres in this glorious National Park in northwest Wales. Whilst it's true that the rich and rugged landscape of Snowdonia is an adventure playground for walkers, climbers, cyclists and bikers, don't be put off if you're planning a trip with little ones. There is endless amounts of fun to be had amongst the thick forests which blanket great swathes of the national park. Children can scramble along rope bridges and climb up treetop towers at adventure parks dotted throughout the region. And there are opportunities for white-water rafting, coast-steering, caving and gorge-scrambling for older children and adults. If you are after a more educational experience, why not sign up for a course on bee-keeping whilst you're here, or head to the Centre for Alternative Technology for some sustainable inspiration. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to Snowdonia National Park: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places of interest in Snowdonia Centre for Alternative Technology CAT is an internationally renowned visitor centre, research and residential centre, entirely powered solely by wind, solar and hydro technology. Covering all aspects of green living - from woodland management to renewal energy and environmental building - the centre runs courses on sustainable living, as well as educational programmes for schools and graduate training programmes. There are seven acres of interactive displays, and a shop and vegetarian restaurant on site. There are also two eco cabins on site – hot water is heated by the woodstove or solar panels, and wind and water turbines provide electricity. cat.org.uk Ty Hill (the ‘Ugly House’) Don’t be put off by the name – this has got to be one of the loveliest little places in the whole of Snowdonia! The Ugly House, owned by the Snowdonia Society, is home to the National Beekeeping Centre for Wales which focuses on the protection and promotion of the Welsh honey bee. In June 2012 it opened its doors as a tearoom and visitor centre. Visitors can learn about the history and ecology of the honeybee, wander the wildlife-friendly gardens and acres of woodland, or enjoy delicious local food in the tearoom, Pot Mêl. snowdonia-society.org.uk/about-ty-hyll/ Plas Tan y Bwlch The Snowdonia National Park Environmental Studies Centre is located in a beautiful 16th-century house in the heart of the National Park - perfectly positioned to get the most out of the surrounding landscape. The centre provides an incredibly diverse range of nature courses, from winter walking courses and Welsh Natural History weekends, to courses on botanical painting and jewellery-making: so whether you're interested in rambling, painting, crafts, wildlife, or photography, the centre will sure to have a course that interests you. eryri-npa.gov.uk Greenwood Forest Park Family-packed fun for kids and adults alike in the heart of Snowdonia. From climbing up treetop towers and having a go forest theatre, to den building and scrambling through tunnels in the undergrowth, everyone will love getting back to nature at this activity centre. They are admirably green too: used cooking oil is processed into biodiesel and they have planted over 500 trees every year since opening in 1993. greenwoodfamilypark.co.uk For information on characterful places to stay, local food and drink, and nearby outdoor activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Snowdonia

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Snowdonia, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of cafés, pubs, shops and delis to help you find local food in this glorious National Park in northwest Wales. People have farmed the land in Snowdonia for almost 9,000 years; agriculture has a strong heritage and remains one of the most prominent industries in the region today. With so much locally-sourced and home-grown produce on its doorstep, it's little wonder that pubs, cafés, and delis in the region are bursting with fantastic ingredients which have notched up very few food miles along the way. From salt marsh lamb and black beef, to crab, lobster and mussels from Cardigan Bay, to creamy local cheeses, and breweries scattered throughout the national park - if sampling local flavours is high on your holiday to-do list, Snowdonia won't disappoint. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to Snowdonia National Park: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Where to find local food and drink in Snowdonia Blue Sky This beautiful café, located just moments away from Bangor’s lively high street, focuses on local, seasonal food. Cosy up by the woodburner and tuck into a Welsh beef burgers, homemade Welsh beef brisket (which is, by their own admission “amazing”), or sandwiches made using local artisan bread. Lovely interiors – old wooden floorboards, terracotta walls, fresh flowers – are welcoming and inviting. They also run evenings of live music throughout the year. blueskybangor.co.uk Caban In the late 1990s, a group of local artists recognised a need in the community for a shared, creative environment where local enterprises could flourish. The result is The Caban, built in 2004, and now home to a variety of local small companies, from those specialising in fine arts and crafts to publishing and outdoor activity companies. In the heart of the building is a café, a large curved room with sweeping oak floors and huge mountain views. Head chef, Aled Davies, serves local, organic food, much of it coming from the on-site kitchen garden. caban-cyf.org Cemlyn Teashop Colourful hanging baskets welcome you through the door of this multi award-winning teashop, located in the village of Harlech, just moments from the coast. You’re almost touching distance from the village’s magnificent 13th-century castle (fantastic views from the terrace). Friendly staff serve homemade bread, cakes, and cream teas using locally-made cream, plus a great selection of teas and coffees. cemlynteashop.co.uk Alpine Coffee Shop One of North Wales’ most popular spots for a cuppa and a slice of cake, the Alpine Coffee Shop prides itself on being Palm oil-free. It serves award-winning coffee and a huge selection of teas – they are members of a committee of Welsh businesses which promote positive relationships with tea growers by funding schooling for children within these communities. The huge menu features all sorts, from sandwiches to salads and wraps, and hikers on the go can opt for a takeaway picnic. All the meat and eggs comes from the local free-range farm. A lively, welcoming, dog-friendly place to graze away an afternoon. alpinecoffeeshop.co.uk Enochs Fish & Chips Established in 1969 by a local fish merchant, Enochs, which has recently had a bit of a facelift, has become somewhat of an institution in Llandudno. As big supporters of the Fish Fight, their aim is to get mackerel on the menu at fish and chip shops throughout the country. Traditional fish and chippers will enjoy light and crispy hake, pollack or mackerel, but there are daily specials, including things like smoked haddock rarebit, for the more adventurous. They have also launched their own sustainability project. Have a peek at their funky website (complete with bobbing boats and darting fish) for fishy news and menus. enochs.co.uk Conwy Falls Café There has been a café on this site since the beginning of the last century, when it was little more than a wooden hut (the owner has pictures to prove it). Backing onto acres of ancient, wildlife-rich woodland, which lead to the Conwy Falls, you get fantastic views from the café. Everything on offer at this kid and dog-friendly café is “fair to the grower and fair to the consumer”. Stop off for homemade pizza and a glass of homemade lemonade, or indulge in tea and cake before heading out to work it all off exploring the woodlands and falls. conwyfalls.com Caffi Gwynant Pews and pulpits are still in situ, but worshippers have been replaced by hungry hikers getting ready to make their ascent up Snowdon. This old chapel, at the foot of the path leading up Wales' biggest peak, was converted into a café by local residents ten years ago and serves an exciting menu of local Welsh produce, from light bites to more substantial meals, like Welsh lamb tagine. The area is popular with birdwatchers, mountain bikers, and day trippers enjoying the stunning local scenery. cafesnowdon.co.uk The Bryntirion Inn ‘The Bryn’, as it’s affectionately known, is a 17th-century inn serving award-winning ales and good food; it also has an extensive wine list, with some organic options. The owners, Linda and Martin, are supporters of fair trade and are committed to green issues: loos are flushed with rainwater and they are keen recyclers and composters. You’re well placed for the coast and the glories of Snowdonia. They have rooms upstairs for those wishing to extend their stay here. bryntirioninn.co.uk Iechyd Da Deli Don’t expect to pop in for a quick peek and leave empty-handed; every inch of this family-run deli is crammed with delicious things to eat. From locally-made patés, chutneys, Welsh cakes and biscuits, to potted shrimps and scallops from the local smokery, local meats and cheeses, and wicker baskets piled high with tempting morsels, foodies will be spoilt for choice. Located in the middle of pretty Betws-y-Coed, a trip to this super deli is well worth a detour – they’re right next the train station so convenient for those without a car, too. They also do fantastic, unusual Christmas hampers. delinorthwales.co.uk For information on characterful places to stay, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Snowdonia

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Snowdonia, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of mountain biking, caving and birdwatching in this glorious National Park in northwest Wales. If you're after a varied landscape, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better national park than Snowdonia. Whether you're visiting in the midst of winter or the peak of summer, whether you're blessed with blue skies or have to endure heavy clouds (Snowdonia is one of the wettest places in the UK!), the forests, peaks, lakes and coast will keep you entertained. Snowdonia has become something of a biking mecca. The forest at Coed-Y-Brenin is crisscrossed with biking tracks providing a perfect playground for adrenaline junkies on two wheels. If you prefer to head underground for the action, you can explore Snowdonia’s disused slate mines by crossing zip lines, climbing rock faces, boating across water and abseiling off ledges. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to Snowdonia National Park: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Outdoor Adventure in Snowdonia Go Below This adventure activity company uses Snowdonia’s disused mines as a playground for adrenalin-fuelled underground adventures. There are two adventures to chose from: ‘the underground challenge’ explores an old slate mine by crossing zip lines, climbing rock faces, boating across water and abseiling off ledges. The ‘Challenge Xtreme’ takes you down to 1000m below sea level (the deepest point in Snowdonia) to explore 50 miles of tunnels – definitely not for the faint-hearted! go-below.co.uk Coed Y Brenin Coed Y Brenin was the first forest to be developed for mountain biking; the area has now become a biking mecca. The ever-expanding network of routes has varying levels of difficult, from flat, easy tracks for families and novices, to challenging and rocky trails for the more advanced. There’s bike hire on site if you come without your own wheels, and accommodation too if you are planning to stay for more than a day. If you can take your eye off the track to look up, the scenery is simply stunning: deep in the Snowdonia National Park, views looks out across glaciated valleys, untamed rivers and huge expanses of forests. mbwales.com Plas y Brenin In the heart of Snowdonia, this activity centre offers all types of training opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Hone your winter skills on the Welsh Winter programme, located deep in the snowy mountains, paddle your way around the Welsh coast on a five-day sea-kayaking adventure, or spend a weekend snapping away on a landscape photography course. There are nature courses, rock climbing, family adventure holidays, and much much more! They also have qualification courses, from orienteering to canoe coaching to first aid. pyb.co.uk Dyfi Ospreys Cors Dyfi is a wonderful nature reserve which is teeming with wildlife year-round and is home to the Dyfi Osprey Project. Most people visit between April and September when the magnificent Ospreys – named Monty, Nora and Scraggly – are around, but there are lots of other plants and animals to spot throughout the rest of the year, including water buffalo. There’s an elevated bird hide, a visitor centre and a small shop onsite. dyfiospreyproject.com For information on characterful places to stay, local food and drink, and nearby visitor attractions, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Snowdonia

As part of our series on the eight Welsh Protected Landscapes, Paul Bloomfield visits Anglesey's food market and Halen Môn that produces world-class sea salt Like a pirate captain flinging open a chest of loot, David lifts the lid on a barrel to reveal the treasure within: a mound of glistening white crystals, like the freshest powder snow on a crisp winter's day. And treasure it is, of sorts: salt, in antiquity as valuable as gold. Roads were built just to transport it. Salt led to the collapse of empires. Even the word 'salary' is derived from its Latin name – Roman soldiers who didn't earn their ration were not 'worth their salt'. And this salt is more valuable than most. Halen Môn, the Anglesey Sea Salt Company, has been producing arguably the world’s finest for over 15 years, refining the brine from the pristine waters of the Menai Strait and harvesting the crystals by hand. David Lea-Wilson, co-founder (with his wife, Alison) of Halen Môn, is showing me the ropes – or, rather, the pipes, tanks and evaporators – of the operation in the company's new, eco-friendly saltcote on the south-east coast of Anglesey, opposite Caernarfon Castle and with views of Snowdon in the distant east. In fact, the work starts out in the Menai Strait – and molluscs do it. Mussels, to be precise: huge banks of mussels, which filter the water swept up from the Atlantic past Wales by the Gulf Stream, making it incredibly pure. Each day, 20,000 litres of that clear seawater is pumped into the saltcote where, over a period of nearly two weeks, it's filtered, warmed in an vacuum evaporator to increase salinity, blended to the right level of saltiness, and transferred into shallow tanks. In these heated vessels salt crystals slowly form on the surface of the water then sink to the bottom, from where they're harvested each day. "It looks simple," David says as we watch Keith gently shovelling crystals from the tanks into shallow trays. "But it's quite an art: each harvester undergoes four months of training to learn the techniques." The crystals are then washed (in super-saturated brine), sieved and sorted, blended or smoked before being packed and sent to customers around the world. It’s an updated version of the process that was followed for centuries on the Anglesey coast till the late 18th century. If you think salt is just salt, think again. The table salt we take for granted is industrially produced and treated with anti-caking agents, while rock salt is mined or forced from underground reserves under high pressure. This sea-sourced organic beauty, though, is lovingly crafted and could come only from here; indeed, it's been awarded European protected designation of origin status, like Champagne or Parma ham. It all stems from the passion – well, obsession, really – that David has for salt. Before launching Halen Môn, he travelled France, Africa, the South Pacific and Japan to research salt-making; no wonder he's particular about his product. "We harvest each morning without fail between 6am and 9am," he tells me. "Too early and there's too much calcium in it; leave it too late and the flavour will be bitter from excess magnesium. Experts say our salt is slightly sweet, which is why it's prized by chefs, chocolate-makers and of course cooks at home." Outside the ultra-clean harvesting room, David takes me to the tasting area and picks out a single crystal to show me: a perfect square, slightly pyramidal, a centimetre across. "This is what we're after, and what chefs prize: slow-formed and flakey," he smiles. "If the crystals look right, they taste right." No wonder top restaurateurs buy individual crystals as garnish. Even Barack Obama enjoys Halen Môn salt on his chocolate: "From the farm house to the White House," David grins, recalling his early experiments with a saucepan and the family Aga stove. The island's gastronomic delights don't finish with salt, though. In past times Anglesey was known as Môn Mam Cymru – Mother of Wales – in recognition of its agricultural productivity, and today there's a resurgence among small food producers. By serendipity, I've visited on the third Saturday of the month, when Anglesey Farmers Market sets up in nearby Menai Bridge. Alison, co-founder of Halen Môn, introduces me to some of the stallholders. There's Mrs Teague's Emporium, where Ginny tidies rows of handmade chocolates, fruit syrups and pies, Ebon Ac Eifiori fudge in a dozen flavours, and tubs of sinful puddings – chocolate, lemon melt, crumble and more – stacked in neat ranks at the Wooden Spoon. Butcher's chill cabinets are stocked with tempting sausages from Pedigree Welsh pigs, and beautifully marbled steaks from Welsh black beef cows. Edwina's Eggs include those from free-range ducks and hens, while moist bricks of bara brith – delicious traditional Welsh fruit loaf – sit alongside rich chocolate tiffin at Gwenda's Pantri Bach, and a couple of dozen flavours of chutneys at the Celtic Kitchen, where I succumb to Pat's crumbly Welsh cakes. I mingle with regulars trading pleasantries in Welsh, and visitors sampling Adamson's hazelnut liqueur, Petros olives and, of course, Halen Môn salt products, from salted caramel sauce to smoked water – perfect for pimping cheap whisky, Alison tells me. But then I'm inclined to take whatever she says with a pinch of Anglesey salt – after all, it's probably the best in the world. Join a tour of Ty Halen Saltcote and Visitor Centre to discover how sea salt is made (01248 430871, halenmon.com) Anglesey Farmers Market is held on the third Saturday of the month; the website lists producers with stalls at the market (angleseyfarmersmarket.co.uk). Look out for summer Food Slams organised by the market, with gazebos, hot food and music. This article was written by Paul Bloomfield

As part of our series on the eight Welsh Protected Landscapes, Paul Bloomfield takes a stunning walk full of historical treasures in the Anglesey Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, from the Breakwater Country Park to South Stack It's hard to tell when a chough is happy. Of all bird calls, the outraged caws of this red-billed crow family sounds least content. But the quartet wheeling above me must be fairly rapt about Holy Island, at Anglesey's western tip – last year a pair nested in Holyhead Breakwater Country Park for the first time. That this bird, whose numbers plummeted to almost nothing across much of Britain, chose to breed here says much about this spot. I'm learning quite a bit about what makes birds – as well as adders, seals and indeed humans – happy here on a walk with countryside warden Gareth Evans, who's showing me the delights of the Breakwater Country Park and neighbouring South Stack Cliffs reserve. Both are part of the Anglesey Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, designated half a century ago in 1966 and encompassing 85-square miles – about one third of the whole island, and 95% of its coastline. And what a coastline! Punctuated by craggy cliffs, sandy beaches and the wooded shores of the Menai Strait, no wonder it's popular with walkers who trace the Anglesey Coastal Path circum-ambulating the island. Gareth and I will be tackling just a handful of its 124 miles, albeit some of the most dramatic and historic. Watch our short video about the eight Welsh Protected Landscapes: We start in the unlikeliest of areas of natural beauty (though beautiful it is): a disused quarry. The country park is based on the site where countless tonnes of rock were hacked away, first to build the base of Holyhead breakwater – at 1.5-miles long, the UK's longest – then, after that was completed in 1873, for silica-rich rocks used by William Wild & Co to make heat-resistant bricks for steelworks.Today the disused crusher building is lined with information boards telling the story of the breakwater and quarry, while a mosaic on its exterior is a mini-timeline of the area, depicting a mammoth (a mandible was found during dredging for the breakwater), a Celtic triskeli, a Roman helmet and a sailing ship, as well as a modern ferry and a family out for a stroll. Nearby, the now-roofless Brick Shed houses a gallery of vintage photos and paintings of the park's flora and fauna. Some of these photos and paintings were produced by Charles Tunnicliffe, long-time Anglesey resident and renowned nature artist for numerous Ladybird books; his charming pictures of porpoises, cormorants, razorbills, gannets, peregrines, hares and adders show a small selection of the species commonly found on the island. Paintings by the well-to-do Massey sisters show squill, thrift and the endemic (and curiously named) South Stack fleawort – though not, Gareth laughs, the spotted rock rose that is the county flower of Anglesey. "The petals fall off by midday," he says, "but the Masseys were wealthy ladies of leisure, so didn't get up early enough to paint them!" We set out west, through delightfully hobbity gates created by sculptor Dominic Clare, and past the pale rock faces exposed when the flanks of Holyhead Mountain were chomped away by the quarrymen. From a viewpoint high above the shore, we gaze east past diving cormorants to where Carneddau ponies graze, part of a project to restore heathland. "They've done a great job," Gareth says. "They're selective grazers, eating grasses and stuff we don't want, allowing heather and other plants to thrive. They've been here for five or six years, and now in spring the area is just carpeted with thrift and squill blooms – lovely." Gradually we climb rocky steps towards a small stone building that looks like a little chapel, but was in fact a powder magazine for the fog warning station at North Stack, which I could make out at the end of the headland. Up we clamber, passing the clearly discernible remains of an Iron Age hillfort and the Roman watchtower built on it late in the 3rd century. It's easy to see why successive cultures chose this eyrie: from high atop Holyhead Mountain views stretch for dozens of miles out to sea and inland. With Holyhead town hidden behind a headland and no noise save the wind, waves and seabirds, there's a timeless feel to this rugged spot at the very edge of Britain. Around the corner, the light of South Stack lighthouse flashes from its barren island, facing sheer cliffs where thousands of seabirds nest in summer. Beneath, tucked into the rock, is Parliament House cave – "the racket the birds and breeding seals that inhabit it are like the uproar at Prime Minister's Question Time," Gareth grins. On a clear day, he tells me, from here you can see Ireland's Wicklow and Mourne Mountains, the Isle of Man and Cumbria beyond. Humans flock to this craggy shore, too. Anglesey is a natural adventure playground, with opportunities for rock-climbing on these daunting cliffs, coasteering off them or kayaking around them. Nearby, thrillseekers whizz down the world's fastest zipline at ZipWorld near Bangor, and there's even an artificial surf lake just to the east. I'm content to continue on foot, passing the RSPB seabird centre at Ellin's Tower that offers terrific views of the cliffs and lighthouse. We pause at the visitor centre for a reviving tea and cake before exploring the well-preserved hut circles of Ty Mawr – an Iron Age hamlet. It seems an appropriate place to finish our hike through history – natural and otherwise: a stroll into the past, from Victorian industrial heritage to the lives of farmers over two millennia ago. === Download leaflets and audio trails for Holyhead Breakwater Country Park from anglesey.gov.uk or visitanglesey.com. The park has a cafe and a visitor centre with artworks dotted around and lots of information on the area and walking trails.RSPB South Stack Cliffs reserve visitor centre has an excellent cafe and shop, and the seabird centre at Ellin's Tower has binoculars, telescopes and CCTV cameras for watching nesting puffins, razorbills and guillemots nesting on the cliffs, and dolphins, seals and porpoises out at sea. Find details at RSPB.org.uk This article was written by Paul Bloomfield for our Greentraveller's Guide to Anglesey AONB

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Anglesey, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of places to stay in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in North Wales. Staying in the Anglesey AONB means you're likely to be within touching distance of the sea, wherever you wind up. Here are some of our favourite places to stay in the region, from warm and welcoming B&Bs to characterful old inns, from gorgeous self-catering cottages to tipi and yurts hidden in lush wooded valleys. These places have been chosen because they offer more than just a bed for the night: they'll help you connect with the landscape, so whether it's tucking into kippers caught off Anglesey's coast, striking out with a map to explore the coastal path or taking part in a green woodwork day, all of these owners will help you get the most out of your visit to Anglesey. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to Anglesey: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to stay in Anglesey Outdoor Alternative, Anglesey, Wales Stay in a 4 star, family-run, green tourism gold award winning accommodation – a relaxed & informal base to explore Anglesey. Your hosts provide comfortable year-round group accommodation for 16 to 45 people in 2 adjacent buildings and activities. outdooralternative.co.uk House in the Yard, Anglesey, Wales A collection of old farm buildings are now 3 beautifully furnished cottages with lots of original features. Gorgeous gardens and space for kids to roam. The bijou cottage for 2 is perfect for honeymooners. Close to beaches and pine forests. houseintheyard.co.uk Plas Lligwy Farm, Anglesey, Wales Four spacious stone cottages on a working farm near fishing village Moelfre with hand-crafted farmhouse kitchens and private gardens. 90 acres of farmland and woodland on your doorstep, and the beach and the village are a short stroll. lligwy.co.uk Victoria Cottage, Anglesey, Wales Jeff and Carole spotted this 19th-century townhouse whilst on holiday in the area – and that, as they say, was that. Fast-forward several years, the husband and wife team now heads up one of Beaumaris’ finest small B&Bs. victoriacottage.net Black Lion Inn, Anglesey, Wales Wedged between Valley and Cemaes Bay, this 18th-century pub has been renovated by owners Leigh and Mari who have a flair for design and a passion for good food: ingredients come direct from local producers. Two light and bright doubles upstairs. blasmwyblacklion.cymru Anglesey Tipi & Yurt Holidays, Anglesey, Wales A cluster of off-grid tipis and yurts in a secluded woodland setting just a mile from the coast. Beautifully furnished with beds or futons, sheepskins and lanterns, and stoves to keep you cosy. Pick-your-own veggies and eggs available on site. angleseytipis.co.uk Anglesey Outdoors Centre, Anglesey, Wales An outdoor activity centre with a collection of comfortably furnished yurts and cabins, with woodburners, shelves packed with games for rainy days, driftwood mirrors and rugs and lanterns. Try sea kayaking, coasteering or windsurfing at the centre. angleseyoutdoors.com For information on local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Anglesey

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Anglesey, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of places to find local food in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in North Wales. Believed to be fertile enough to produce food for the whole of Wales, Anglesey was once known as Mon, Mam Cymru, or 'Mother of Wales'. Today, this little isle's kind climate and good soil supports Europe's most northerly olive grove and vineyards to rival those of southern Europe. You'll discover dairy farms producing creamy Welsh cheeses and ice cream, and many ingredients unique to the island, such as Halen Mon sea salt. Pubs, restaurants and cafés across the region serve up this local bounty with flair: try mussels steamed in local cider, tender Welsh mountain lamb, and fabulous cakes and scones. Or you can head straight to the farm door, deli or market to stock up on Anglesey goodies. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to Anglesey: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to eat in Anglesey Halen Môn It all started as an experiment with a pan of saltwater on the family aga; today, David, Alison and their devoted team produce some of the world’s finest sea salt, adored by chefs and food lovers the world over. You can learn about the history of the salt industry and the fascinating processes involved on a tour at the fabulous new visitor centre, or pop into the shop to stock up on produce, from salted caramel sauce to sea salt soap and hampers packed with kitchen essentials. halenmon.com Môn ar Lwy The secret to the success of Anglesey’s best-loved ice cream makers is the creative mind behind the business – Helen, endlessly passionate about flavours and a fervent supporter of local producers and suppliers. This is a family business through and through, and everything’s as local as can be: the milk comes from a farm two miles away, and fruit is sourced from nearby orchards. The list of tantalising flavours includes some old favourites with a twist, such as Saucy Strawberry and Toffee and Welsh Fudge, as well as some more unusual ones, like Basil and Chocolate and Rhubarb and Ginger. Helen and team cater for weddings and will even create a bespoke flavour for your event. monarlwy.co.uk Te Bach Tea Rooms A beautifully restored 18th-century cottage, byres and barns is this cosy tea rooms. where pretty china rests on embroidered linen, plump cakes , Tuck into a cream tea under the oak beams, or curl up in front of the log burner by the inglenook fireplace. Light lunches are served with homemade coleslaws and chutneys, sandwiches and salads. There are two B&B rooms onsite and a self-catering cottage too. rhosboeth.co.uk Ann’s Pantry This bright and breezy café and restaurant is a great place to wind up at whilst tackling the coastal path. There’s been a café in this spot, in picture postcard Moelfre, for 100 years. On sunny days, grab a table under a parasol in the garden, or head inside to the inviting, bunting-strewn room with exposed stone walls, bright blue paintwork and nautically-themed paraphernalia dotted around (a ship’s wheel, lanterns). Cream teas are generous, and lunches and evening meals are filled with delicious local treats. No dogs inside, but there’s a cosy hideaway at the bottom of the garden for dogs and their owners in wet weather. annspantry.co.uk Dylan’s The contemporary wood-clad building juts out over the water; the upper terrace is a lovely spot for light lunch on a fine day. There are lots of tempting fish dishes at this restaurant in lovely Menai Bridge: try Dyl’s Drunken Mussels, steamed in local Welsh cider, or herb encrusted hake – or go all out with the Ferryman’s Platter, piled high with prawns, potted mussels and smoked trout. There’s a sense of fun to everything, from the endlessly cheerful staff to the playful presentation of the food: burgers arrive in mini wooden pallets, chips in miniature frying baskets. Deservedly popular so make sure you book, especially in summer. dylansrestaurant.co.uk Marram Gras Stroll across the vast empty beach at Newborough before clambering over dunes to this village restaurant, run by two brothers with a passion for the provenance of ingredients. Here, it’s all about the food (you’d be forgiven for missing the unprepossessing exterior altogether). Inside, it’s welcoming and rustic, with scrubbed wooden tables, beams and the odd brightly-painted wall. Tuck into fish of the day with triple cooked chips, fresh oysters, roast lamb from nearby Bodior Farm and almond-stuffed courgettes. A great selection of local ales, too. themarramgrass.com The White Eagle In 2005, John and Alex bought this pub – then abandoned and unloved – and set about on a major transformation. The pub has been entirely rebuilt, and has become one of the region’s best-loved places to eat and drink. Here, the emphasis is on the food: you’ll find a map of suppliers on the wall, and the menu showcases the likes of Welsh mountain lamb and hand dived scallops off Anglesey’s west coast. Inside, it's contemporary and cosy, and there’s a lovely play area to amuse children – and a great kids menu, too. white-eagle.co.uk The Lobster Pot Perched above Church Bay on Anglesey’s west coast, this seafood restaurant has been in business since the 1940’s. It’s a strictly family affair – one of the owner's sons provides the mussels, the other (a shellfish merchant) supplies the crab and lobster. It would be rude not to indulge in a lobster feast: try the lobster pot paella, the lobster Granville – cooked with prawns, cream and brandy – or the lobster Thermidor, cooked with wine, cream, mustard and parmesan. The unpretentious interiors lend an informal air to the place, and there’s a wonderful terrace where you dine with views out to sea. There are plenty of non-fish dishes, too, such as steaks and vegetable risottos. thelobsterpotrestaurant.co.uk For information on characterful accommodation, nearby visitor attractions, and outdoor adventure activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Anglesey

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Anglesey, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of outdoor adventure activities in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in North Wales. Getting out and about – on boats and footpaths, on horseback and bike – is what Anglesey is all about. Its low cliffs, empty beaches and endless stretches of sand dune make it the perfect landscape for an adventure holiday. It's also a great place to give some of the UK's best loved high octane activities a go, such as coasteering or abseiling. The whole of the island, and the entire AONB, is lined with the fantastic Anglesey Coastal Path, which follows dramatic clifftops, dips down into hidden coves and beaches, and links some of the region's loveliest landmarks, such as South Stack Lighthouse and Beaumaris Pier. There's some great cycling to be had on the numerous cycle routes and footpaths too. We've given details of some cycle hire places for those travelling without their own wheels. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to Anglesey: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Activities in Anglesey Anglesey Rib Rides Skimming across the water at breakneck speed on a RIB is one of the most exhilarating activities you can do on open water. Fast and fun, they’re not for the faint-hearted but there’s more to these trips than Bond-style manoeuvres. There are various tours on offer: you’ll get the chance to spot seals, puffins and guillemots on a wildlife tour, soak up the area’s rich maritime history as you pass castles and historic monuments, and learn about Anglesey’s engineering feats as you whip under the isle’s iconic bridges. A bit of high-speed fun that the whole family can enjoy. ribride.co.uk Anglesey Riding Centre This riding school has five miles of private coastal bridleways all to itself in the surrounding area – great for those who are new to riding or lacking in confidence. Whether you’re a complete beginner or you’ve been riding for years, you’ll find a trek to suit you, from a gentle lead rein walk along the banks of the Menai Strait to a hack across open fields and sandy beaches. angleseyridingcentre.co.uk Anglesey Adventures Those with an adventurous appetite to satisfy should try this outdoor pursuits provider, a one-stop shop for all manner of high-octane activities, be it on water, dry land, or deep under ground. The friendly team run various adventure days, from coasteering and abseiling to rock climbing and sea kayaking, but even those who think they’ve done it all may find something they haven’t tried before, such as Tyrolean Traversing, which uses ropes to scramble along the cliffs above the breaking waves. angleseyadventures.com Anglesey Outdoors If a single day kayaking or climbing does little to quench your thirst for adventure, Anglesey Outdoors Centre provides a whole package of outdoor adventure suited to you. Spend the days catching waves, scrambling down cliffs, discovering underwater shipwrecks, or ambling along the beautiful coastal path. Head back to centre for an evening of local food and entertainment, before spending a cosy night under the stars in your tipi or yurt. A budget-friendly option, perfect for groups and family get-together. angleseyoutdoors.com For information on characterful places to stay, local food and drink, and nearby visitor attractions, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Anglesey

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Anglesey, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of local attractions in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in North Wales. Meet Myfanwy, a woolly mammoth dredged up in Holyhead harbour, in the town's maritime museum, wince at torture chambers at the gruesome Beaumaris Gaol, or discover some of Wales; loveliest gardens at Plas Cadnant – hidden from the world since the 1930s but now open for visitors to enjoy once again. The coastal landscape of the Anglesey AONB may be the island's biggest draw but there are plenty of wonderful heritage sites and family-friendly things to see and do which deserve your attention too. There are nature parks to keep children entertained, museums where you can brush up on local heritage, visitor centres for rainy days and stunning gardens to wander around. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to Anglesey: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places of interest in Anglesey Pili Palas If you wake to rain and the kids are itching for something fun to do, a trip to Anglesey’s favourite nature world could be the thing. Let your little ones loose in the verdant butterfly garden, get close up to tarantulas and other hairy creepy crawlies, meet a host of feathered friends in the birdhouse, have a fluffy cuddle with a rabbit and take a stroll through the farmyard and pet pygmy goats and pigs. Toddlers can let off steam at the soft play area whilst bigger kids can tackle the adventure playground. pilipalas.co.uk Anglesey Sea Zoo Let the kids get up close to 150 species of Britain's most spectacular marine life in Anglesey’s compact award-winning sealife centre on the banks of the Menai Strait. Little ones will enjoy the thrill of being splashed by the waves and spotting small sharks underfoot on the grid walk. There are interactive displays and exhibits, and children can help feed the creatures or take part in a sea safari. There's a playground with bouncy castle and a super little café serving homemade snacks and lunches. A great place to while away an hour or two. Families can use the same tickets for 7 consecutive days making this one of Anglesey's best value attractions. angleseyseazoo.co.uk Foel Farm Park Get involved in farm life at this friendly animal park in Anglesey. Kids will love getting their hands mucky feeding and petting the animals, trundling along on the tractor rides and riding the ponies – there's a trailer ride pulled by a quad bike for older ones. If there's any unspent energy at the end of the day, there's always the fantastic playground with bouncy castle to tire them out. Head home with some choccies purchased from the chocolate shop onsite. foelfarm.co.uk Holyhead Maritime Museum Housed in Wales' oldest surviving lifeboat house, this museum offers a fascinating insight into the rich maritime history of Holyhead and the Irish Sea. Learn about local shipwrecks and the tragic story of HMS Thetis – a submarine which flooded on its first sea trial in 1939 killing 99 men. Meet Myfanwy, the woolly mammoth dredged up in the harbour in 1863, and find out about the impact of the world wars on Holyhead and its inhabitants – there's even an air raid shelter next door to wander around. Round off your visit off with a bite to eat at the Harbourfront Bistro. holyheadmaritimemuseum.co.uk Swtan National Trust-owned Swtan (a name believed to be derived from a local species of fish which was caught here) is a fully restored 17th-century thatched cottage – the last of its kind in Wales. Delve back into history to discover what life was like for families living here in the 19th century, what they ate, how they slept, what they did for work. swtan.cymru Beaumaris Gaol Take a detour from Anglesey's sunny shores and delve into the chilling world of Victorian prison life. Pick your way around a network of bleak cells, torture chambers and work rooms; learn about breakouts and punishments and wince at the merciless treadmill and whipping posts, still in situ. Plenty of informative exhibits and displays and a fantastic team of volunteers to help you get the most out of your visit. A brilliant museum detailing an intriguing and fascinating, albeit rather grim, aspect of Anglesey's social history. visitanglesey.co.uk/en/about-anglesey/heritage/ RSPB South Stack Visitor Centre This granite islet of South Stack, cut off from Holyhead Island from 30 metres of turbulent water, supports one of Anglesey's most iconic landmarks. Scale down 400 steps cut into the steep cliff to the visitor centre where you can take a tour of the lighthouse's engine room and exhibits, before climbing the steps to the top. It's also a great place to get the binoculars out and watch flocks of guillemots, razorbills and puffins. rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/south-stack-cliffs/ Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens Lost to the world for most of the 20th century, these glorious gardens on the banks of the Menai Strait – originally the private estate of local gentry, the Price family – have now been restored to their former glory. Along the way, waterfalls have been discovered, as well as walled gardens, pools, a folly, and an endless series of footpaths which crisscross the estate – it's easy to lose the crowds, even on a hot summer's day. Fringing the formal gardens are wild woodlands and magical hidden valleys which beg exploration. There's a tea room serving homemade cake and tea in proper silver teapots. A real hidden gem. plascadnant.co.uk Plas Newydd The history surrounding the ancestral home of the Marquess of Anglesey can be traced back to the 14th century; the 7th Marquess still retained rooms at the house until his death in 2013 – you can now visit his cluttered study, with pens scattered, notebooks open and the faintest whiff of cigar smoke, just as he left it. Wander the maze of rooms in the main house and see how the family lived – don't miss artist Rex Whistler's 58-foot mural in the dining room. The gardens include 169 acres of parkland and woodland, an Italiante terrace, an Australasian arboretum, and an adventure playground with a treehouse for kids. There's a courtyard tea rooms and gift shop, too. nationaltrust.org.uk/plas-newydd-house-and-garden For information on characterful accommodation, local food and drink, and outdoor adventure activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Anglesey

As part of our celebration of the eight Welsh Protected Landscapes, Abi Whyte visits the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and cycles along the Peregrine Path to discover an historic market town, the limestone gorge and the majestic river I’ve lived in the Wye Valley for 15 years, but had never cycled the riverside path straddling the Welsh border from Monmouth to Symonds Yat (National Cycle Route 423). At just over five miles long, and relatively flat the whole way, the path is ideal for a family outing and of course there is a special sight to look out for - Peregrine falcons launching from the limestone outcrops above. Before I set off on my bike I had a good nosey around Monmouth – one of my favourite things to do. The old market town was once a popular destination for visitors undertaking the fashionable Wye Tour in the 18th century, when Britain was at war with France and the European Grand Tour was off limits. It's clear to see what brought people here in their droves, including William Wordsworth, Samuel Coleridge and JMW Turner; each found inspiration while in search of the 'picturesque' among the forested hills and romantic ruins. Monmouth retains much of its old-world charm, from its historic streets lined with independent shops and cafes, the Medieval gated bridge over the River Monnow (the only bridge of its type remaining in Britain), the Norman castle and Nelson Museum where you can see a collection of Nelson's letters and gifts to Lady Hamilton, as well as find out more about the history of the Wye Valley. But I was here for a bike ride so, helmet on, I joined the Peregrine Path at Hadnock Road, following an old railway track – a remnant of the Ross & Monmouth Railway that closed in 1959. I soon came to Hadnock Halt, a sweet little railway platform on the edge of the path and old trackbed. Across the river I could see Wyastone Leys, a grand country estate now owned by a record company that hosts classical music concerts in its grounds. Soon I was venturing into the Upper Wye Gorge under canopies of beech, oak and ash, hoping to catch sight of the bobbing tails of fallow deer. No joy, but there were plenty of grey squirrels, and I could hear the distant rattle of a woodpecker. I soon came to Biblins Bridge, an Indiana Jones-style suspension bridge that I couldn’t help bouncing on as I peered into the salmon-rich river below. I didn’t cross the bridge, although hikers on the Wye Valley Walk often do, I continued on the same side of the river, before long coming to Symonds Yat – a canoeist’s and climber’s paradise split in two by the river into Symonds Yat West and Symonds Yat East. ‘Symonds’ came from a 17th-century local sheriff Robert Symonds and the regional dialect for ‘gate’ or ‘pass’. A hand-pulled ferry connects the two villages and you can take your bike over and follow Route 423 to Goodrich Castle on the other side. I stayed put at Symonds Yat East, where I locked up my bike and climbed the steep path up to the famous Yat Rock viewing platform where, in the nesting season, it’s possible to view Peregrine falcons by telescope. I sipped from my flask of hot chocolate, calves burning from the steep climb, but feeling fully rewarded with panoramic views of the Wye Valley. It was time to head back to Monmouth and on the way I decided to climb the steep and windy road up to The Kymin, not far from the end of the cycle trail at Monmouth. At the top I found a gleaming white castellated tower called the Roundhouse, built in the 18th century at the whimsy of local gentry who wanted somewhere to picnic in inclement weather. From its beautiful wooded grounds you can see out over Monmouthshire and across to the Brecon Beacons. On the recommendation of a local friend, I called in at Bistro Pregro in Monmouth, tucked away on a little street straight out of a Dickens novel. As well as Italian dishes and sumptuous seafood, this elegant yet cosy eatery serves up local fare with seasonal vegetables and is a popular pre-theatre venue for those heading to the Savoy Theatre, the oldest working theatre in Wales. I opted for the braised rabbit with mustard cream and a pint of local ale and while soaking up the atmosphere of this vibrant little place felt rather proud to call this stunning part of the world my home.

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the Wye Valley, Jackie King discovers valleys swooping down to sparkling rivers, gentle paths that trace the passage of the River Wye, and walking trails that lead up to eagle-eye views over ancient forests. Three counties lay claim to the majestic landscape of the Wye Valley: Monmouthshire, Herefordshire and Gloucestershire. This glorious protected landscape is dotted with history-laden ruins, mysterious castles, sacred sites, ancient pastures and reminders of a dynamic industrial heritage. The special lushness and rich earth give succour to wildlife and farmland. The cider, beer, cattle and cheese produced here are legendary and visitors who flock to the pubs, cafes and restaurants get to savour the land’s bounty with their taste buds as well as their eyes. Parts of the Wye Valley form an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and are protected for the enjoyment of the nation. It is the only one of England’s 46 AONBs that spans two countries, England and Wales. In the north the river winds through the Herefordshire meadows and runs on down to Ross-on-Wye, Symonds Yat and Tintern where gorges and cliffs frame it with drama and rugged beauty. It’s said that the Wye Valley is the birthplace of tourism. In the mid-1700s, a John Egerton organised river trips; poets Coleridge and Wordsworth were inspired and artists were captivated by the contrast of deep valley and soaring cliffs. The ‘Wye Tour’ was conceived and piqued the curiosity of the nation, drawing many to explore by water or foot. Tourists today still most definitely have a place here and can take a special pleasure in exploring an area that is preserved and protected, yet alive with agriculture, forestry and conservation work. Where to stay The Wye Valley is awash with truly welcoming places to stay, from B&Bs where the owner pays you special attention and may even conjure up your own choice of breakfast, to charming hidden inns with log fires and candles. There is such an abundance of excellent local produce that many places to stay do outstanding food, too. In our collection there are some pleasing surprises for, among the wonderfully pastoral cottages, houses and barns there are some stunning architectural gems, too. Robin’s Barn in Tregagle falls in to the first category – the rustic charm of the barn sits among the designated Local Wildlife Site where bees and birds pollinate and peck. Tintern Abbey Cottage is on the road that passes by the village, yet is similarly bucolic: 18th-century with a sheltered garden, oodles of comfort and a view of the Abbey that will stop you in your tracks. And then on to the surprises, such as The Chicken She in Trellech – eponymous, radical and repurposed, there is a sense of loft-style living with space, light and stacks of style. Where to eat The lush pastures of Wales are excellent feeding land for livestock and as you might expect Welsh lamb and beef is among the finest you'll taste... Find innovative meat dishes, slow cooked until meltingly tender or flash cooked with flair, alongside field mushrooms, foraged herbs, sauces and cheeses such as tangy Caerphilly, Peri Wen and Golden Cenarth, plus wonderful breads from locally milled grains. It’s no surprise to find excellent restaurants, pubs galore and countless cafes – indeed, there is something for the flush and the frugal. For a flavour of the community you could head to the Anchor Inn – a pub that has its own sports field and regularly hosts local football and cricket matches. The backdrop is stunning, with the Abbey towering in the distance. There are excellent meat and fish dishes and good vegetarian cooking, too, such as butternut squash, caramelised red onion and spinach crumble. Good quality children’s meals are £5.95. The ancient mill that’s centre piece in the bar speaks of the fact that the bar was originally the cider mill for the Tintern Abbey orchard. From traditional pub fare to a continental café experience at Green & Jenks. These guys produce handmade gelato, sorbet and frozen yogurt produced with local ingredients – yum – and you can savour it inside or outside. You may feel it would be rude not to visit what is described by The Telegraph as “one of the best real ale pubs from the last 30 years”… at The Boat, Dorothy Goodbody and Butty Bach are regulars – beers not customers – and there are local ales, cider, perry and English fruit wines that are equally popular. Good pub grub is appreciated by ramblers and dog walkers. Where to visit Many agree there is a mystical feel to the Wye Valley and that has to be borne not only from the quiet magic of the meandering Wye River, but also from the layers and layers of history. Majestic castles and curious standing stones invite you to imagine the work and the lives of those who placed them there and the gatherings and celebrations that might have taken place. Stunning viewpoints created when tourism was 'invented' attract those wanting an eagle's eye view of the valley and rewards them with vistas that remain largely unchanged. Breweries keep alive the nine-centuries-old tradition of creating world-class drinks from local barley, wheat and fruit. Vineyards are not two a penny in this country, so snaffle the chance to Parva Farm Vineyard and try its hugely popular wines that have won many awards, including a gold for the 2013 Parva Bacchus at the Welsh National Wine Competition. Judith and Colin Dudley who run the vineyard tend the 4,500 vines. A vineyard tour is a must, as is trying the fruits of the Dudley’s labours. Go home armed with mead, cider, perry, honey, preserves and plants as well as wine. Something for the little ones, too – in Spring there are lambs to feed. For a spot of architecture, artwork and garden magic head over to Wyndcliffe Court Gardens in St Arvans near Chepstow. There are manicured and formal gardens sitting alongside woodland walks and sculpture exhibitions and engaging artwork are brought here every year. What is an outing without a tea room! If you need shelter from the sun or rain you can have a light meal in the Wyndcliffe ballroom and there’s plenty of cake, too which, with luck, will be laden with Welsh butter. For a mind-expanding view head up to Eagles Nest, a lofty viewpoint where you can take in the sweep of the Wye river on its way out to the Severn. This is one of the viewpoints discovered by those early pioneers of tourism who took great pleasure in bringing people from other parts of the country to their find. This spot was loved by Valentine Morris who owned Piercefield House and who later constructed many paths through the woods ready for ‘his’ visitors. You’ll find detailed instructions online for the Eagles Nest walk. Nearby, Chepstow Castle is a great place to ignite the imagination about past derring-do… it has an enduring majesty and beauty and has been added to and modified many times since 1067. This is one of Britain’s first stone-built strongholds and inside you’ll discover more about its history in an exhibition that includes the 800-year-old castle doors (the oldest in Europe). Worth a mention for those that come towards the end of April is the Wye Valley River Festival – a kind of floating carnival from Hereford to Chepstow. It celebrates nature, culture, landscape and life. Things to do The Welsh section of the Wye Valley AONB is a relatively small area, yet this little corner of Wales packs a big punch when it comes to keeping all age groups entertained. Centre to much of the activity is the River Wye of course, meandering in the AONB from Monmouth to Chepstow. It can seem there are two sides to the river's personality: on the one hand it offers serenity and hours can be spent in virtual silence on its banks watching wildlife, bird spotting, fishing, picnicking and snoozing; on the other, when you're in the mood for action and fun, it rises to the challenge and resounds to the sound of people splashing about in canoes, taking on its white water or taking their chances on questionably buoyant rafts. Humble by Nature certainly adds to the area’s sparkle and offers a great range of courses and activities. Conceived by wildlife presenter Kate Humble, it’s an inspiring enterprise that hosts courses in rural skills and smallholding and has food and cookery pop-up events, too. For the aspiring smallholder there are few better places to learn about such things as hedge laying, animal husbandry, beekeeping, pig care or cider making. Opening hours are seasonal for the café, shop and adventure playground but you can do the courses or stay all year round. If a little of adventure is what you are seeking, check out Way2Go Adventures. You’ll be in good hands as you get to grips with canoeing, Nordic walking or geocaching and more. Their trips even include an overnight camp if you want and all ages and levels of fitness are managed well. Their motto is ‘get up, get out, get active’. If you’re travelling in a group, perhaps an open canoe trip from Monmouth to Redbrook appeals? Half-day trips include tuition, instruction and safety advice. There are team-building-type activities if you fancy, too. Children 10 and above welcome. Whatever your levels of fitness, there’s a bit of the Offa’s Dyke Path to suit and you can’t really go home without exploring at least a little of it. The internationally renowned walking trail ambles through 177 miles of border country. Choose your spot from its length, which begins in Prestatyn and ends just beyond Chepstow, touching eight counties in between. From the Wye Valley AONB stretch, catch sight of Tintern Abbey from Devil's Pulpit, Redbrook, Kymin Hill and the 13th-century Monmow Bridge in Monmouth. Getting to the Wye Valley by public transport There is a good train service to Chepstow and, then, buses between Chepstow and Monmouth. Outside of bus routes, short taxi rides would link you with most places to stay, places to eat, attractions and recommended activities mentioned in this guide. To find taxi services for the main railway stations, see traintaxi.co.uk. By rail
: The closest railway station is Chepstow. For information and timetables call 08457 484950. Arriva Trains cover much of Wales and for ticket reservations call 0870 9000 773. If you have mobility issue and need special assistance call 033 300 50 501 or 0845 758 5469 (Textphone). For train times and fares: Tel: 03457 48 49 50 (24-hour National Rail Enquiries line) Tel: 0345 60 40 500 (National Rail Enquiries Welsh Language) Tel: 
0345 60 50 600 (Textphone) By coach and bus: 
There are nationwide coach services to and from Chepstow and Monmouth. Call 0871 781 8181. The National Express Disabled Persons Travel Helpline can be contacted on 0371 781 8181. Getting around Further information for getting around the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean: http://www.wyedeantourism.co.uk/travel Ordnance Survey guides: Map of Wye Valley: Explorer OL14 Map of Wye Valley & Forest of Dean: Landranger 162 For more idea of where to visit in the Wye Valley: Green Traveller’s Guide to the Wye Valley

As we launch our Green Traveller's Guide to the Wye Valley, Jackie King picks out a selection of characterful places to stay in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on the English/Welsh border. The Wye Valley is awash with truly welcoming places to stay, from B&Bs where the owner pays you special attention and may even conjure up your own choice of breakfast, to charming hidden inns with log fires and candles. There is such an abundance of excellent local produce from the Welsh section of the Wye Valley AONB that we focus on in this guide that it is no surprise to find one of the country's best restaurants with rooms right here. What better than to top off a first-class meal with a luxurious sleep in a splendid bedroom just a few steps away? Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to the Wye Valley: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to stay in the Wye Valley Chateau Terrace B&B Homely B&B in a Georgian townhouse with views of Chepstow Castle thrown in. Have a restorative cup of tea on the balcony overlooking the Castle and the Wye Valley, knowing that you and your dog and your bikes will be equally well looked after. The double has a two-seater sofa so you can relax in your own space. A 9-minute walk from Chepstow train station. chateauterracebandb.co.uk Inn at Penallt With a relaxed vibe and a big welcome, the 17th-century farmhouse-turned-inn is child- and dog-friendly, has two AA Rosettes and won the AA Pub of the Year in 2012. Rooms are cosy rather than capacious and a plate of homemade Welsh cakes to go with your tea hit the right note on arrival. Two rooms are in the separate barn and two at the inn. The bar is cosy with a wood burner and if you like to keep things informal you can eat by the fire. There are a restaurant and conservatory, too. From Chepstow train station the number 65 bus is the quickest, taking about 45 minutes. facebook.com/pg/innatpenallt The Whitebrook For a full-on foodie break, head for Wales’s first restaurant with rooms and one of only a handful of places with a Michelin star. Set amid wooded hills, brooks, and Wye Valley loveliness, The Whitebrook is a mecca for those who like to combine a stay with an outstanding food experience. Many of the rooms are newly refurbished and have sumptuous double-ended baths and top of the range mattresses. Rooms 5, 6, 7 and 8 are smaller and all have a garden view. Menus feature innovative dishes and foraged food – maybe suckling pig with wild onions and caramelised celeriac or Brecon partridge with quinoa, hedgerow herbs and baked apple. thewhitebrook.co.uk Clare's Cottage Traditionally furnished, woodburner-ed, spacious cottage with a very pretty large cottage garden and patio. Helen the owner has recently installed a biomass boiler and solar panels for low impact toastiness. She can arrange baggage transport for hikers and doesn’t mind if you bring your dog. There are two pubs within a mile that both do food and are dog friendly, too. There is plenty to explore – this area is said to have more castles per square mile than anywhere in Europe and there are plenty of food markets too where you’ll find Welsh lamb for the BBQ, heritage varieties of fruit and veg and Welsh wines and ciders. Next door, equally pretty Dolly’s Barn for 2 can be hired too – perfect for mixed age groups. monmouthshireholidaycottage.com The Chicken Shed The building was once home to chickens and they’d not recognise it now… the “radically repurposed agricultural shed” is now elegant, light-filled and with huge windows set into its cedar-cladded exterior. What a great combination of innovative architecture, head-clearing space and great views; the Chicken Shed is set on a ridge between Monmouth and Chepstow. It sleeps 8 in four bedrooms, all with gorgeous Welsh blankets; there are two en suites and one family bathroom, along with an open plan living area and a snug with its own large sofa and TV. Underfloor heating keeps everything toasty in this super stylish base that’s perfect for a big group. thechickenshedatparkhouse.com Robin's Barn Your surroundings positively hum with happy wildlife and the birdspotting opportunities are manifold. Unsurprisingly, Tre-gagle is a designated Local Wildlife Site and the setting is appropriately peaceful and unspoilt. At Robin’s Barn you’re sure to be drawn to the view – expansive and stunning – and all around there are 12 acres of wooded countryside and unforgettable walking. Inside find a spiral staircase, colourful sofas atop wooden floor, pretty rugs, woodburner, one double and one single room. Books, games and logs are left for you so you’re set up well for less sunny days, too. robinsbarn.co.uk Tintern Abbey Cottage A brilliant little base just across the road from the majestic Tintern Abbey – what a view! The cottage was winner of the Best Self Catering Place to Stay in Wales in 2010 and you’re sure to slip into the comfort of the 18th-century home very easily. There are three bedrooms and two bathrooms and a sweet little sheltered garden bursting with planting that attracts wildlife and fragrant with lavender and santolina. Tintern is a popular spot thanks to its rich history and you’ll be spoilt for choice at mealtimes – find pubs, cafes, hotels and even a vineyard and microbrewery! The cottage is brilliantly set up for little ones and is very family friendly. monmouthshirecottages.co.uk