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GLYN-YR-AUR EVENTS 2010 MARCH MUSIC NIGHTS First Friday of every month George III Hotel,
Penmaenpool Why not head along to the
George III Hotel on the first Friday of the month, when some outstanding
local bands and musicians take to the stage to perform. THE WHOLE HOME: ECOLOGICAL
BUILDING FROM NEW (3 DAYS) 5-7 March 2010 Centre for Alternative
Technology, Machynlleth, off A487. Tel: 01654 705952 Website: www.cat.org.uk Course fees: Company £360,
Waged £250, Unwaged £185 As the world's natural
resources continue to dwindle to an all-time low, it will be essential for
people to make major adjustments to their homes and very lives in a bid to
become more environmentally friendly. This three day course at the Centre for
Alternative Technology (CAT) will demystify ecologically sound building methods
and will show people how to construct an energy efficient house from scratch. MAWDDACH GOLDRUSH CHALLENGE 7 March 2010 Coed-y-Brenin Visitors
Centre, Coed-y-Brenin, Ganllwyd, Dolgellau, Gwynedd E-mail:
dervic@tiscali.co.uk Website:
www.mawddachgoldrush.org.uk Last year, organisers of
the Mawddach Goldrush Challenge were overwhelmed by the number of applicants
for its gruelling mountain-biking test. This year, however, they want to go
even further by having the highest number of entrants ever, in addition to
the fastest recorded time. Competitors will be
chip-timed as they negotiate a variety of terrain, around the Coed-y-Brenin
mountain-bike trails, some of which run very close to Glyn-yr-aur. But they won't have to show
off their skills just the once, three laps of the tough 50km course will be
needed to win the champion's title outright. (or a lap each for a team
of three). A biker from last year's
event said it was just fantastic and continued on the organiser's website,
'events like the Goldrush bring people into the sport'. Another added that he would
definitely be back this year and stated, 'The trail was good, it was really
well organised and the marshalls were all great'. And lastly another
competitor posted:'The third lap was very hard work, but there was some
excellent single track in the Mawddach Goldrush Challenge. Well done to all
those who took part and helped run this event.' Bikers will also have the
chance to win an extra prize, and could win the hidden 'pot of gold' if they
guess its location on the Goldrush Challenge map. For more details, e-mail
the organisers at the address listed or go to the website shown above. The
whole event is organised by the Mawddach Rotary Club, and all funds raised
will go to support local charities. Pre-registration is required. LOOK
BACK IN ANGER by
John Osborne 11
- 13 March 2010 Aberystwyth
Arts Centre, Penglais, Aberystwyth SY23 3DE Box
Office: 01970 623232 Website:
aber.ac.uk/artscentre Tickets:
£6.50 - £7.50 Start time: 7.45pm This
angst-ridden play marked a paradigm shift in British theatre and gave rise to
the kitchen-sink drama which became a mainstay of the modern UK arts scene. First
performed in 1956 it examined at close range all the emotional turmoil,
comedy and tragedy that could arise in a typical working class family. This
new performance by Bold Productions has been updated for a modern audience
and uses socio-political themes that have more relevance today. THE MONKS' TROD 14 March 2010 Elan Valley Visitors'
Centre, Elan Valley, Rhayader, Powys LD6 5HP Tel: 01597 810898 E-mail: fiona@elanvalley.org.uk Time: 10.30am - 2.30pm Pre-booking essential (Bring drinks, a packed
lunch, waterproofs and walking boots) This six mile walk around
the Elan Valley follows in the footsteps of Cistercian Monks, who were based
very close to this area in Medieval times. Pre-booking is required and those
interested in going along, are advised to book early because numbers are
limited. CATRIN
FINCH & CIMARRON 14
March 2010 Theatr
Harlech, Harlech, Gwynedd Box
Office: 01766 780667 Website:
theatrharlech.ticketcolve.com Tickets:
£7 to £12.50 Start time: 7.30pm Renowned
Welsh harpist Catrin Finch reunites with Colombian band, Cimarron to bring their
fresh ethno-fusion sound to Gwynedd once again. Be sure to book early,
because all previous shows have been sell-outs. LLYR
WILLIAMS - BEETHOVEN SONATAS 19
March 2010 Y
Galeri Caernarfon, Caernarfon Tel:
01286 685222 Website:
www.galericaernarfon.com Time:
7.30pm Tickets: £10 - £17 Celebrated
Welsh classical musician Llyr Williams will be appearing once again at Y
Galeri Caernarfon and promises the audience a magical evening of music from the
works of Beethoven. RAS YR ARAN/ ARAN FELL RACE 20 March 2010 Eagles Inn, Llanuwchllyn,
nr Bala Tel: 07917 001173 Website: www.run-meirionnydd.co.uk Start time: 1.00pm Entry on day only at cost of £4.00 Over 18s only (challenging
10 mile fell race for fit and experienced runners) Experienced runners should
head down to the Eagles Inn at Llanuwchllyn on this Saturday in March to try
their luck in the Ras yr Aran. The race follows some of
the magnficent mountain tracks and peaks that tower above the pretty lakeside
town of Bala. There will also be a junior
race of 2 miles in duration, with 500ft of ascent starting at 1.15pm. It's
said to be suitable for enthusiastic beginners and youngsters from 10 years
and upwards. (Children under 16 need to have a signed consent form from a
parent or guardian). THE
MAGIC OF MOTOWN 26
March 2010 Aberystwyth
Arts Centre, Penglais, Aberystwyth SY23 3DE Box
Office: 01970 623232 Website:
aber.ac.uk/artscentre Tickets:
£19.50 Start time: 8.00pm Diana
Ross and the Supremes, the Temptations, Lionel Ritchie and Stevie Wonder are
just some of the big-name acts that started out on the Motown music label. They
and their music have been forever immortalised on vinyl, CD, DVD and film,
but there's perhaps nothing quite like a real show to bring this music alive
to its devoted and loyal fans. So
for a true taste of the Detroit Sound, why not head along to the arts centre
Aberystwyth this March and feast on a rich and varied menu of songs such as
Blame it on the Boogie, Dancing in the Street and I Heard it through the
Grapevine. PS: Don't forget to take your dancing shoes. GO
APE HIGH WIRE FOREST ADVENTURE 27
March - 31 October 2010 Coed-y-Brenin,
Ganllwyd, Dolgellau, Gwynedd Tel:
0845 604 0845 Website:
www.goape.co.uk Cost:
Adults (gorillas) £30 per session
10-17 yrs (baboons) £20 per session "Aaaaah Aaaauuaaaah Uuuh Aaww, "
bellowed silver screen hero Johnnie Weismuller in the 30s and 40s. In
his role as super action adventure hero Tarzan he would swing from vines in
the supposed African jungle and walk around his complicated tree house with
his sidekick Cheetah - who was until recently living out his retirement with
his carer in a Hollywood home. Well
visitors to the Coed-y-Brenin can now act like Tarzan and his menagerie of
monkey friends and put their strength, stamina and agility to the test with
the newly built Go Ape high wire adventure and assault course. People
have literally been going bananas over the walkways, bridges and zip-lines
that have been created at five sites across the Coed y Brenin forest. And you
too can now have the perfect excuse to go wild and reconnect with the long
lost spirit of your primeval ancestors. To
book a session at the all new adventure site, go to the website shown above
or ring the Coed-y-Brenin vistors' centre on the number shown. APRIL EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA 3 April 2010 Penrhyn Castle, Bangor
,Gwynedd Tel: 01248 353084 Website:
penrhyncastle@nationaltrust.org.uk Time: 12.00pm - 4.00pm Celebrate Easter at Penrhyn
Castle this spring by following a superb easter egg trail, sponsored by
Cadbury. There will also be craft-making classes and face painting for
youngsters during the afternoon aswell. WALES
INTERNATIONAL HARP FESTIVAL (Sponsored
by Camac Harps and Vining Harps) 3-10
April 2010 Y
Galeri Caernarfon, Caernarfon Tel:
01286 685222 Website:
www.galericaernarfon.com or
www.wales-harp-festival.com Times
vary Y
Galeri Caernarfon will be the epicentre for the fourth Wales International
Harp Festival which will also celebrate the tercentenary of legendary 18th
century Welsh harpist, John Parry (who was born in 1710 and lived until
1782). Internationally
acclaimed harpists have signed up for the week long event. Among them will be
US jazz harpist Deborah Henson-Conant who has opened for Ray Charles and
jammed on and off stage with the likes of Steve Tyler, Bobby McFerrin and
Rufus Reid. Popular
home-grown talent such as Catrin
Finch will also be appearing at the festival in addition to Isabelle
Perrin from France and Mara Galassi from Italy. In
addition to the various concerts, there will also be master classes,
workshops and five competitions run throughout the week; the latter events,
it is hoped, will reward all levels of harp playing from the beginners' stage
to the more professional. Check out the websites above for exact dates, times
and prices. HARLECH MEDIEVAL
SOCIETY 4 & 5 April 2010 Harlech Castle,
Harlech, Gwynedd Tel: 01291
677617 Website: harlechknights.com Time: 11.00am -
4.00pm Be transported back in
time to the Middle Ages during Easter weekend, when the Harlech Medieval
Society will be out in force at Harlech Castle. The group of re-enactors were founded in the mid 80s and have
performed regularly at their namesake castle as well as at other heritage
sites around the country. Champion knights will engage in one-on-one combat
with authentic weaponry that has been duplicated from the era. There will
also be be a whole host of other displays and Medieval regalia, in what
promises to be a great weekend out for all the family. THE GEOLOGY AND
SCENERY OF CWM IDWAL 7 April 2010 Ogwen Walking Centre
SH649604 Tel: 01690
720287 Website:
www.snowdonia-society.org.uk Time: 10.00am Walking expert and
writer, Paul Gannon, will be teaching people how the dramatic glacial scenery
of Cwm Idwal came into being on the date shown above. All those interested in joining in this
walk, should meet at the Ogwen Walking Centre at 10.00am and take a packed
lunch with them, in addition to suitable walking clothes and boots. BUSH CRAFT 8 April, 26 July
& 16 August 2010 Coed-y-Brenin
Visitors Centre, Coed-y-Brenin, Ganllwyd, Dolgellau, Gwynedd E-mail:
hilary.malyon@forestry.gsi.gov.uk
Website: www.forestry.gov.uk Time: 10.30am Cost: £3 per person Age range: 8-12 (must be accompanied by a
responsible adult) Advance booking
required Youngsters can learn the
secret to surviving in the wild courtesy of outdoors expert Dawson Heath on
the above days in spring and summer. Dawson will show course
participants how to forage for their own natural food, build an open fire and
construct an outdoor shelter, among other things. For more details go the
forestry website. Sturdy footwear and waterproofs should be taken along on
the various days. LLYR
WILLIAMS - BEETHOVEN SONATAS 16
April 2010 Y
Galeri Caernarfon, Caernarfon Tel:
01286 685222 Website:
www.galericaernarfon.com Time:
7.30pm Tickets: £10 - £17 Visitors
to Glyn-yr-aur will have no excuse not to get to know the work of well known
Welsh pianist Llyr Williams as he will be appearing once more at Y Galeri
Caernarfon this year with recitals from the works of Beethoven. ALLAN YN Y FAN & DELYTH
JENKINS 16 April 2010 Theatr Harlech, Harlech Tel: 01766 780667 Website:
www.theatrharlech.ticketsolve.com Start time: 7.30pm Tickets: £1- £8 When people think of Celtic
music, they more often than not think of Irish and Scottish-influenced songs
or melodies. But Wales has its very own burgeoning folk music scene and among
its most influential musicians are group Allan yn y Fan and harpist, Delyth
Jenkins. Catch them both for one night only at Theatr Harlech on 16 April. NATURE'S LARDER: FOOD FROM
THE WILD (3 DAYS) 30 April - 2 May 2010 Centre for Alternative
Technology, Machynlleth, off A487. Tel: 01654 705952 Website: www.cat.org.uk Course fees: £360 company,
£250 waged, £185 unwaged Want to learn how to
survive Ray Mear's style and live off the proverbial 'fat of the land'? Then be
sure to be a place on the above three-day course at the Centre for
Alternative Technology - which is incidentally just a short drive away from
our holiday cottage, Glyn-yr-aur. Course participants will be
given a thorough grounding in how to forage for wild food, and how to use it
to enhance a meal or make it become a central part of a main dish. Moreover
the properties of various plants will be studied and advice given on how they
can be turned into effective cough and cold remedies. MAY PLAS TAN Y BWLCH OPEN
GARDEN (National Gardens
Scheme Open Day) 1 May 2010 Maentwrog, Gwynedd Tel: 01766
772274 Website:
www.snowdonia-npa.gov.uk Admission: £4.50
Adults £1.00 Children The National Open Gardens
Scheme is hoping for a bumper crop of visitors to its various open days this
holiday season. Victorian-style mansion,
Plas Tan y Bwlch, which is about a 35 minute drive from Glyn-yr-aur, will be
opening its grounds as part of the scheme in a bid to raise funds for
charity. The centre in Maentwrog
also happens to be the environmental studies' headquarters of the Snowdonia
National Park authority. Many delegates spend
time improving the gardens as part of their course. The gardens typically
feature exotic species in addition to more local plants and have several
woodland paths running through them. MYSTIC MEGALITHS AND
MANGANESE MINES 9 May 2010 Meet at the layby off
the A496 north of Harlech near to the B4573 junction SH607350 Tel: 01690 720287 Website: www.snowdonia-society.org.uk Time: 10.00am Walking time: 5-6 hours For experienced fell
walkers only Our holiday cottage,
Glyn-yr-aur, is very lucky to have uninterrupted views of the Rhinog mountain
range and Moel Ysgyfarnogod. Looking out from the large living room windows,
you can see the three mountain peaks, almost straight ahead, looming large on
the horizon. Snowdonia Society member Max Grant will be leading a walk
through this area which will also take in remains of a manganese and some
megalithic monuments. All those interested in this advanced level walk should
meet at a layby close to junction B4573, north of Harlech. Appropriate
walking clothes, waterproofs, boots and a packed lunch should been taken
along on the day. THE
WILDERS 11
May 2010 Aberystwyth
Arts Centre, Penglais, Aberystwyth SY23 3DE Box
Office: 01970 623232 Website:
aber.ac.uk/artscentre Tickets:
£8.50 - £9.50 Start time: 8.00pm Acclaimed
as that 'hillbilly hurricane from Kansas City, Missouri', this four piece
roots music band will be appearing at the arts centre Aberystwyth as part of
a month long spring tour of Wales and Ireland. The
Wilders had extensive exposure throughout 2009 and appeared at major
festivals across the world including one of the biggest stateside folk and
roots event, MerleFest in North Carolina. So for a real slice of good ol'
country music and Americana, make sure you head along to the arts centre on
the date shown above. Stetson and cowboy/person boots are optional. GADJO JAZZ 14 May 2010 Theatr Harlech, Harlech Tel: 01766 780667 Website:
www.theatrharlech.ticketsolve.com Start time: 7.30pm Tickets: £1- £7 There are few nights out that
can be had throughout Britain for under a fiver. However, Theatr Harlech is
perhaps one of the few places that is keen to make its wide-ranging programme
of theatre, music, cinema and song as accessible to the general public as
possible. Tonight ethno-fusion jazz
band, Gadjo Jazz will be performing a range of music that has been
affectionately dubbed acoustic gypsy swing with a Celtic twist. With tickets starting from £1.00 what's not to
like? LLYR
WILLIAMS - BEETHOVEN SONATAS 14
May 2010 Y
Galeri Caernarfon, Caernarfon Tel:
01286 685222 Website:
www.galericaernarfon.com Time:
7.30pm Tickets: £10 - £17 Firm
favourite at Y Galeri Caernarfon, Llyr Williams, has made sure he will not be
neglecting the people of Wales this year as he has organised three other
concerts this year at the same venue. His
work normally seems him collaborate with BBC Radio 3, the Halle Orchestra and
the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, among others. Be
sure to book a ticket for this evening, if you've not already heard him
play. He has also recently been
critically acclaimed by The Guardian who described his performances as
overwhelming and spot on. CADER IDRIS RACE 29 May 2010 Eldon Square, Dolgellau Tel: 07917 001173 Website: www.cader-race.co.uk Start time: 1.00pm Entry fee: £7 in advance, £10 on the
day Age restrictions: Over 18s
only The ever popular Ras y
Gader, or Cader Idris Race, has now reached a major milestone in its history,
as it celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. This category A fell races
requires competitors to run from Dolgellau's town square to the summit of
Snowdonian 'Munro' (mountain over 3000ft), the Cader Idris. The record to beat for male
competitors is 1 hr 21 minutes and 18 seconds. And this was set in 1996 by Colin
Donnelly of the local Eryri felling running club. In 2006 Mary Wilkinson, of
Skipton Athletics Club, achieved the best ever female record when she managed
to complete the course in 1 hr 33 minutes and 58 seconds. The run is open to over 18s
only and there will be a limit of 250 entrants. The race route is 10.5 miles
long and follows the Pony Path up the Cader. There are well marked roads and
pathways on the lower reaches of the ascent, but the open fells further up
may require some navigational work. Competitors should carry
with them waterproof full body cover, a map, compass and whistle. A series of junior races
for under 18s, under 16s, under 14s and under 12s will also be organised
earlier on the day from 11.00am. People should just register on the morning
for these. CORSETS AND COLLARS 30 May 2010 Penrhyn Castle, Bangor
,Gwynedd Tel: 01248 353084 Website:
penrhyncastle@nationaltrust.org.uk Time: 12.00pm - 4.00pm Fashions come and fashions
go, and in a little more than a hundred years, fashion throughout the UK has
changed beyond all recognition. Hemlines got decidedly
shorter, longer then shorter again. And corsets and the many layers that were
once deemed essential 'for the sake of propriety' have now been consigned to
the history books forever. Travel back in time to the
Victorian age on the date shown above, when curators at Penrhyn Castle will
be bringing some clothes typical of the period out of the closet, and firmly
into the limelight once again. CRUG FARM OPEN GARDEN
(National Gardens
Scheme Open Day) 30 May 2010 Crug Farm,
Caernarfon, Gwynedd LL55 1TU Time: 10.00am -
5.00pm Admission: £3.00
Adults No charge for children Gardening would possibly
rank as the number one passtime throughout the British Isles, and the National
Gardens Scheme's Open Days offers people a fantastic opportunity to catch
upon on all the latest horticultural trends. Visitors to Crug Farm on
the date shown above will be able to tour 3 acres of an enchanting country
garden, which has been cultivated and developed by expert, garden
enthusiasts. C13TH TOURNEY AND
MILITARY LIFE By Escafeld 30 & 31 May 2010 Caernarfon Castle,
Caernarfon, Gwynedd Tel: 01286
677617 Website:
www.escafeld.org.uk Time: 11.00am -
4.00pm Sheffield-based
re-enactment group, Escafeld has been reliving Medieval Britain for nearly 40
years. In fact living in the past has become something of of an all-consuming
passtime and passion for them.
"We try to bring our particular period of history to life and
display the lives of our ancestors as authentically as possible," says a
group spokesperson. On the above days,
people can expect to see the group's knights re-enact a typical Medieval
tournament where one-on-one combat with a broadsword, mace and other weapons
will be central to the day's action.
Archery displays, dancing, arts and crafts will also be showcased
throughout the above weekend. JUNE MORECAMBE - THE MAN WHAT BROUGHT US SUNSHINE 1 June 2010 Y Galeri Caernarfon, Caernarfon Tel: 01286 685222 Website:
www.galericaernarfon.com Start time: 7.30pm Tickets: £12-£16 Eric Morecambe and Ernie Wise are perhaps two of the 20th century's
greatest comedy heroes. This play, direct from the West End, pays tribute to Eric,
who was known for his perfect comic timing, infectious smile and an his
un-erring ability to make people laugh. Bob Golding stars as the eponymous
hero in this play written by Tim Whitnall, and directed by Guy Masterson. ARCTIC ALPINES ON
SNOWDON 6 June 2010 Meet at Nant Peris
car park Tel: 01690
720287 Website:
www.snowdonia-society.org.uk Time: 9.45am For experienced fell
walkers only Booking essential Walk leader Rob
Collister will quite literally be taking people off the beaten track in this
walk around Crib Goch and Crib y Ddysgyl on the hunt for rare plants
and flowers left behind after the last Ice Age. Waterproofs, walking clothes,
boots, sticks and a packed lunch should be taken along on the day. VICTORIAN TRAIN 10,17 & 24 June
- 1, 8, & 15 July - 9, 16 &23 September 2010 Talyllyn Railway,
Gorsaf Wharf Station, Tywyn, Gwynedd LL36 9EY Tel: 01654
702653 Website: www.talyllyn.co.uk Departure time:
11.00am Do you want to visit a bygone
age and immerse yourself in the glorious age of steam? Then why not head
along to the Talyllyn Railway on the any of the dates listed above when
authentic Victorian rolling stock will be running on the lines. A spokesperson
explained: "The Talyllyn Railway is probably alone in being able to run
its complete original passenger train dating from the 1860s, and invites you
to enjoy a conducted tour featuring the unique train travelling in the
original coaches behind an original locomotive. "The train will
make photographic stops, allow time for lunch, forest walks as well as a
visit to Pendre Works and other railway features." The railway was
initially opened in 1865 to serve the Bryn Eglwys slate quarry at
Abergwynolwyn. Several years later it was developed as a passenger train
service and carried on in this guise until the end of the Second World War
when demand for slate plummeted. The railway would have
closed if author of Thomas the Tank Engine, the Rev Wilbert Awdry, and other
notable supporters had not rallied to the Talyllyn's cause. Since 1951 it has been
operating purely as a leisure line. And as such as it was among the first
ever narrow gauge railways to be opened in the UK, and has been a firm
favourite among visitors to Snowdonia ever since. The railway also has a
museum at Tywyn which features a recreation of the Rev Awdry's study with
authentic personal items that belonged to him. His study is where he
typically dreamt up many of his Thomas the Tank Engine series of stories. DRY STONE WALLING
COMPETITION 13 June 2010 Llan Farm, at the
foot of Snowdon Tel: 01690
720287 Website:
www.snowdonia-society.org.uk Dry stone walling has a
history and heritage that goes back centuries. These skills are sadly dying
out in many parts of rural Wales and England and in a bid to keep them alive,
the Snowdonia Society holds an annual competition which is open to amateurs
and professionals alike. Anyone
interested in taking part, no matter what their skill level, should go to the
above website and fill in a registration form. Visitors in general are also
warmly invited to attend the day out and cheer the candidates on or join in
the day's other varied events. THE TEMPEST Performed by the Lord
Chamberlain's Men 23 June 2010 Caernarfon Castle,
Caernarfon, Gwynedd Tel: 01492
872000 Website: www.cadw.org Time: 7.30 pm Tickets: £8.50 - £12.50 Recently formed acting
group the Lord Chamberlain's Men specialise in performing Shakespearean plays
around the country. As regular visitors to Wales, they will be performing
their rendition of The Tempest this year at Caernarfon Castle. Using
an all male cast, as would be typical in Shakespeare's day, the play should
be well worth going to see. THE BARMOUTH KITE
FESTIVAL Barmouth Beach, Barmouth 26 - 27 June 2010 Tel: 01562 66102 Head down to Barmouth on
the above summer weekend to see some world class kites take to the sky. THE BLACK UMFOLOSI 5 26 June 2010 Y Galeri, Caernarfon Tel: 01286 685222 Website:
www.galericaernarfon.com Start time: 7.30pm Tickets: £8-£13 Direct from Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, this group of five school friends has
been touring the world with their energy-driven and fast-moving show since
the 80s. The Black Umfolosi 5 promise to deliver an excellent show with a broad
range of intricate rhythms and harmonies, aswell as choreography that is
second to none. Surely a night to note down in your diary. HEDGEROW HERBALIST 26 June 2010 Centre for Alternative
Technology, Machynlleth, off A487. Tel: 01654 705952 Website: www.cat.org.uk Time: 10.30am - 4.30
pm Course fee: £45 In little more than a
century, many people have totally lost touch with the natural world, and are
far removed from the processes that go into the growing, production and ultimate
distribution of food. As the effects of Peak Oil
and Climate Change kick in, it has been predicted that there will be massive
food shortages and insufficient resources to sustain current populations and
the global infrastructure. People will need, more than
ever before, to relearn long lost skills and re-educate themselves on how to
forage for plants and herbs, and how to cultivate crops in their own garden. This excellent short course
at the Centre for Alternative Technology will help people learn all-important
survival skills by taking a closer look at common hedegrow herbs - and how
they can be used in food and natural medicine. Additionally, delegates will
also be taught how to use herbs in the creation of massage oils, creams, lip
balm, vinegar and syrup. BARMOUTH TO FORT WILLIAM
THREE PEAKS YACHT RACE 19 June 2010 In and around Barmouth Tel: 01341 247533 Website: www.visitmidwales.co.uk The Three Peaks Yacht Race
has been running for over 30 years and has seen over 500 teams set new records
in scaling some of the highest mountain peaks in all of Britain. The current
record is 3 hrs and 6 minutes for running up and down the peak of Snowdon
(achieved in 1983). The race is claimed to be
one of the toughest in all the world, and requires teams of three sailors and
two runners, to complete 389 miles of sailing, 18 miles of cycling and 72
miles of running. Beginning at Barmouth, the
teams set aboard a yacht and sail for Caernarfon where the runners, cycle to
Snowdon, then run up to its summit and back down again. After returning to their
boats, competitors then sail to Whitehaven, where they then cycle to Scafell
Pike, and sprint to the very top. Fort William is the next port of call and
its onwards from there to the top of Ben Nevis and then on to the finish
line. It's a race that certainly
separates the 'men from the boys' and typically has around 25 teams competing
each year. In the very first year, however, only 7 teams registered, of which
only 4 completed the overall course. DEN BUILDING 20 June, 25 September
2010 Coed-y-Brenin
Visitors Centre, Coed-y-Brenin, Ganllwyd, Dolgellau, Gwynedd E-mail:
hilary.malyon@forestry.gsi.gov.uk
Website: www.forestry.gov.uk Time: 10.30am Cost: £5 per family Advance booking
required Get back to nature with
the forestry team at the Coed-y-Brenin on the dates planned above, when
families can learn how to construct their own den out of branches, shrubs and
trees. People are advised to bring strong footwear, waterproofs and
insect repellent with them. JULY COUNTRY MUSIC AND
LINEDANCER FESTIVAL 3 - 4 July 2010 Talbot Square,
Barmouth Tel: 01341 280925 Can't afford to holiday
in Nashville or a take a trip to the Grand Ol Opry this year? Then let a
large slice of Americana wend its way over to you. Throughout the 4th of July
weekend, Barmouth will be celebrating all things country. So get out your
cowboy boots, stetson and head on down to Talbot Square. HAVE-A-GO ON THE
TALYLLYN RAILWAY 3-4 July 2010 Talyllyn Railway,
Gorsaf Wharf Station, Tywyn, Gwynedd LL36 9EY Tel: 01654
702653 Website: www.talyllyn.co.uk If you've ever dreamed
of being an engine driver in your younger days, then the Talyllyn Railway is
offering you a once-in-a-lifetime chance to make those dreams come true. On the above weekend,
people won't just have to be mere passengers but can help fire up the
locomotives and even learn how to operate them in person. For more
information, please visit the website indicated. CHICAGO 22 July - 26 August
2010 Aberystwyth Arts
Centre, Penglais, Aberystwyth SY23 3DE Box Office: 01970
623232 Website:
aber.ac.uk/artscentre Tickets: £16.50 to
£20.00 Start time: 7.30pm
eves, 2.30pm Sat, Tues, Thurs matinees Make Aberystwyth your
kind of town this summer when Broadway blockbuster, Chicago takes to the
stage for more than a month. Let the musical razzle
dazzle you as your transported back to the Chicago of 1920s where the story's
main temptresses Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart fight tooth, claw and nail
to get what they want, and to be famous any which way they can. 35TH INTERNATIONAL SNOWDON
RACE 24 July 2010 Electric Mountain Visitors'
Centre Start: Llyn Padarn at
2.00pm Registration: 10.00am -
1.00pm Website:
www.snowdonrace.com Pre-booking required The International Snowdon
Race has gone from strength to strength since its inaugural race some 35
years ago in the mid 70s. Now a draw to runners from
many parts of Europe, the event has become one of the most popular in Wales' annual
fell-running calendar. Starting from Llyn Padarn,
competitors will take in a steep climb up to the very summit of Snowdon, and
then head back down again to finish the 10 mile long course. FRIENDLY FAIRBOURNE
ENGINES FUN DAY 26 & 27 July 2010 Fairbourne Steam
Railway, Beach Road, Fairbourne, Gwynedd Tel: 01341
250362 Website:
www.fairbournerailway.com A narrow gauge railway
has been running at Fairbourne since
1895. Throughout the last century or
more its fortunes have been revived several times when imminent closure was
threatened. However, after several track gauge changes, and a series of
different owners, the light railway is now under the control of charitable
trust in order to preserve it well into the future. On the dates shown
above, the railway will be offering an excellent day out to families or
groups of friends when Lord Bart, the Stout Director and his assistant Mrs
Frendly will be offering an extra special welcome and tour of the locomotives
and trains. NATURE'S LARDER: FOOD FROM
THE WILD (3 DAYS) 30 July - 1 August 2010 Centre for Alternative
Technology, Machynlleth, off A487. Tel: 01654 705952 Website: www.cat.org.uk Course fees: £360 company,
£250 waged, £185 unwaged Due to popular demand, the
Centre for Alternative Technology is running its wild food course a second
time this year, in a bid to show people how to forage for food in the height
of the summer months. Course delegates will be
given an indepth insight into wild plants, fungi and berries, and learn how
they can be incorporated successfully into everday snacks and meals. AUGUST KNIGHTS AND PRINCESSES DAY 12 August 2010 Penrhyn Castle, Bangor
,Gwynedd Tel: 01248 353084 Website:
penrhyncastle@nationaltrust.org.uk Time: 12.00pm - 4.00pm Youngsters are invited to
an afternoon of summer fun at Penrhyn Castle on the date shown above, when
they can step back in time to a bygone age and became say a brave knight of
the realm or a beautiful and dainty princess. A prize will be awarded for
the best costume on the day. FOOD FESTIVAL 22-23 August 2010 Penrhyn Castle, Bangor
,Gwynedd Tel: 01248 353084 Website:
penrhyncastle@nationaltrust.org.uk Time: 11.00am - 4.30pm Relive the market days of
yesteryear at Penrhyn Castle on the days shown above, when local producers
will be selling the very best of their seasonal produce. MACHYNLLETH FESTIVAL 22-29 August 2010 Moma, Y Tabernacl, Penrallt
Street, Machynlleth, Powys SY20 8AJ Tel: 01654 703355 Website: www.momawales.org.uk The Machynlleth Festival is
an amazing celebration of music and literature and has exceeded all
expectations in recent years with its ever-growing fanbase. Hosted by the Museum of
Modern Art (Moma), the festival will deliver a wide-ranging programme of events
which will range from classical concertos to poetry readings and jazz. For more details about the
full itinerary and schedule, please visit the museum's official website at
www.momawales.org.uk/english/festival.htm. SEPTEMBER BALA STANDARD DISTANCE
TRIATHLON 12 September 2010 In and around Bala,
Bala Lake and Dolgellau Tel: 01978
761582 Website: www.visitbala.org
or www.wrecsamtri.org.uk Bala is reportedly a
magnet for triathlon enthusiasts and this early autumn competition certainly
sets out to ensure that only the fittest and most dedicated will survive. A
swim across Bala Lake, a bicycle ride to Dolgellau and then a run in the
surrounding countryside should definitely separate the proverbial 'men from
the boys'. BARMOUTH WALKING
FESTIVAL 18 - 27 September
2010 In and around
Barmouth and Snowdonia www.barmouthwalkingfestival.co.uk This 10 day walking
festival offers people the perfect opportunity to explore some of the best
parts of Snowdonia, under the care and guidance of an experienced and
seasoned walking guide. With a wide range of walks planned, people should
find something to suit their age level and ability. For more details, please
go to the website listed. OCTOBER SNOWDONIA WALKING FESTIVAL 13-17 October 2010 Betws-y-Coed Memorial Hall,
near Pont-y-pair bridge Website:
snowdoniawalkingfestival.co.uk Start time: 10.00am each
day Due to the unprecedented
success of the first Snowdonia Walking festival last year, the 2010 festival
is being extended by two days, and will now last a full five days in all. Walkers from all over
Europe are expected to join in this eagerly anticipated event, which promises
a variety of walks around Snowdonia, which have been designed to cater for
all ages and abilities. Walkers will also have to
book a place in advance for their preferred walk, and should go to the
website above for more details. DECEMBER TYN-Y-GROES HILL RACE 26 December 2010 Tyn-y-Groes Inn, Ganllyd,
Dolgellau, Gwynedd Organiser: Bob Chilton:
e-mail: onygena@tiscali.co.uk Race open to those aged 14
years and above Boxing Day has
traditionally been a day when country folk used to ride with the hounds,
plunged into icy cold waters or celebrated it with other some wacky stunt or
event. Well in these hereparts, 26
December has traditionally been marked by a fun hill race, which has a
history going back almost 100 years. Revived in 2005, the
Tyn-y-Groes Hill Race has rocketed in popularity and sees many runners flock
to the Tyn-y-Groes pub in Ganllwyd to take part. The challenge for runners
and walkers alike is to finish the approximately two mile long course, which
takes in a steep climb, in the shortest possible time. Celebrations
are held afterwards at the Tyn-y-Groes which includes a light festive lunch
of soup and mince pies. Entrants
are also encouraged to wear fancy dress. So be sure to dust off those
Superman and Wonder Woman costumes (no kryptonite or meteor freaks!)
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