Ask Shaun
Published on April 25th, 2008.
Welcome back loyal readers to the first official spring edition of Ask Shaun! I trust, like me, everyone is thawing out from the long, cold winter and you’re now all in full swing of planning an exciting UK excursion (and for those of you who aren’t, feel free to live vicariously through me).
This month, your beloved British correspondent followed the winds East to Wales, so I could report back to you on the must-sees of the magical Welsh countryside (actually, it wasn’t so much the winds as it was the mass of emails I receive inquiring about Wales – but who’s taking notes?) What is important is that you all see Wales first hand; I promise if you follow my lead, you won’t be disappointed!
One thing that the Welsh countryside is not short of is castles. I swear, you can throw a rock in any direction and you’re bound to hit a manor, abbey or castle (perhaps a slight exaggeration, but you get the point). To see all of them could take ages and would be quite costly, unless of course you have the Cadw Explorer Pass (hint hint, pick one up if you’re going to Wales). As a result, I’ve concentrated on a choice few Welsh locations.
Wales’ capital, Cardiff, is a fine place to begin your tour. When you step off the train at Cardiff Central Station you’ll already be smack in the heart of the city. Take some time to enjoy the superb restaurants and greats shopping before heading over to the impressive Cardiff Castle. Not only will you enjoy the Gothic architecture and opulent interior, but also be sure to take a stroll on the castle grounds, where a variety of geese, ducks and peacocks walk about freely!
For something a bit different, but no less exciting, use a BritRail Pass and hop a train to Llangollen Station, in North East Wales. From there, travel roughly 1 mile north to visit the remarkable Valle Crucis Abbey (Abbey of the Cross). Built in 1201, the abbey may not be nearly as large or grandiose as many of Wale’s castles, but, I promise, it is no less intriguing. There’s an almost magical serenity that radiates from the site and you can’t help but feel relaxed and at ease while you are there.
Finally, my last recommendation would be to stop over in the sea-side town of Caernarfon (a simple train ride to Caernarfon Station), where you can enjoy not only the stunning coastal scenery, but also the extraordinary Caernarfon Castle. This is one of, if not the most massive, imposing, awe-inspiring castles I have ever seen. Believe me when I say its sheer size alone is worth the trip.
I wish I could go on more since Wales has so many great sites, but I’m afraid that’s all the time we have. Remember if you have any questions or comments about any and all things British, you can send them over to AskShaun@BritRail.com. We’ll see you all in May – have a great month everyone!
Filled under Attractions, Wales.
