A Few Days In Wales

We saw a lot of this in Wales. Which normally wouldn't put much of a damper on things, except we had hoped to get out into the Welsh countryside and have some good long walks. Never mind, perhaps we may venture there again in the Summer months. I don't think we will be staying at Llangoed Hall though if we do go back.

The hotel was quite spectacular, but dare I say it? Not worth the price tag. Our spacious room was just to the left of the picture with a double aspect and a decanter of sherry. All very nice, especially as we got a good deal for the three day break. But the evening meal which in my opinion was not quite up to standard, cost us the equivalent of two weekly shops. YIKES, and me a thriftanista!

Of course we still had a good time. On our first full day day we popped into nearby Hay-on-Wye. Mooching about the book shops was a real joy for both of us. The Folio Society Reading Room, is probably the best book shop I have ever been in.

I half expected to see young Wizards and Witches amongst the tall bookcases looking for their Winter spell books.

Lots of other fun bookshops too. Like this 'Murder and Mayhem' crime bookshop.

We also 'discovered' a new and thirst quenching craft beer shop atop the castle. The Mister had to bring a few bottles home of course. And a superb shop, probably the best shop in Hay-on Wye, called The Great English Outdoors. No, it wasn't like Millets.

They are specialist conservators and dealers in Welsh textiles, working with fine leathers and sourcing ethical and beautiful objects. I would say most, if not all the items for sale are hand made and most importantly are made from natural materials. We splurged out on some horn porridge spoons, a hand printed shirt for The Mister and some delightful Spanish cologne.

I'll tell you about day two in the next post. We visited a very unusual and quirky Gothic Revival house. It really deserves a post of it's own.

An update on the UK Blog Awards.

Unfortunately my blog wasn't short listed to go through to the next phase of the awards. Many thanks though for all of you who did vote for me in the first round. (And anyone who didn't is now on the naughty list, natch).