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A week in North Wales – my Travelogue Part 2 – South Stack Lighthouse and Cemaes Bay

January 5, 2015 by manjirichitnis Leave a Comment

After a fabulous day spent walking and lazing on a sandy beach, we had an early start the next day , highly excited that we were off to to see a lighthouse. Now for this excursion we booked a cab as that’s the only way to get there of you do not drive, or you could take bus no 22 from Summer Hill in Holyhead town to the RSPB South Stack Cliffs bird reserve housed inside the delightful Elin’s Tower.

An interesting memory from the day at beach before I tell you all about South stack – The previous evening (Day 2 – 28th July’13 -Sun) we went looking for a place to get some dinner and chanced upon a cute little Italian place on the tiny high street called Graces Bistro which is now closed, I’d imagine it would have had issues surviving because even when we went there, they were out of many things early in the evening and the wine was overpriced. I must admit though that the food was delicious – an Indian – Bangladeshi place called Saffron is now open in it’s place .

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We also had an interesting time at a place called the The Edinburgh Castle – The EddieBar, – which is just opposite the ferry line and was packed on Day 2 – Sunday – 28th July’13 – we had a very satisfying lunch of Spaghetti Bolognese and Burger and chips, the way the locals were there in great numbers and enjoying the roast I’d say we missed some brilliant Sunday Carvery…

Which also reminds me that the day we reached Holyhead (Day 1 – 27th July’13 – Sat)  we found only one pub open close to LIDL near the railway station – The Boston Arms, very welcoming, we were served hot food and decent beer even late in the afternoon, nothing makes me happier than good fish-n-chips after a long train journey – wouldn’t you agree?

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Day 3: Major Sightseeing – South Stack Lighthouse – A 19th century gem

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There is a 400 step stone stairway that leads to a suspension bridge over a dead drop that leads to the lighthouse. A mixture of fear and awe filled me while walking this stairway – fear of being on a bridge that is the only support – a sturdy one – not to worry – that leads to this stunning 28 m structure across a chasm  and awe for the aluminium bridge that was re-built and opened to people in 1997. In the early days an aerial hempen cable ropeway to bridge the deep chasm between the rock on which the lighthouse stand and the mainland –  a hempen cable which was 21 metres above sea level (!!!) was used along which a sliding basket was drawn which carried a passenger or stores- brrrr (shudder – shudder!) finally replaced by a sturdier iron suspension bridge in 1828 – this was replaced in 1983 but replaced by the new aluminium one for safety reasons.

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Built in 1808 to facilitate better navigation in the area of the surrounding waters.The lighthouse is now automated and remotely controlled and monitored from the Trinity House Operational Control Centre in Harwich, Essex.

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(In the photograph above, notice the white aluminium bridge like a closed cage)

We took a guided tour of the lighthouse, where we were given a peek into the history and fascinating facts were shared. We also climbed up a very narrow stairwell as far as visitors are allowed to go and I was the last to go down this one – praying hard – while giggling kids stood downstairs wondering why I was making such a fuss 😉

After a relaxed walk down 400 steps we strolled to Elin’s Tower which now doubles up as an RSPB information centre and an awesome place for bird watching – for several breeding seabirds, including puffins – we even spotted one – bobbing about on the water, what a treat it was spotting it with the help of the staff and their binoculars- loved it! And a great spot for amazing views of the lighthouse.It also has a cute tourist shop and cafe where we sat outside and ate some food- much needed sustenance I’d say – if you sit outside watch your food like a hawk or one of the many naughty birds is going to steal it before you can say the word hello!

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Its good to know that: Ellin’s Tower and the Visitor Centre are open all year, with viewpoint, are wheelchair and pushchair accessible and a network of footpaths provides access to the whole reserve.

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( In the top left hand side of this collage – check out the wings of the sea gull as it is flying away after robbing someone’s lunch – naughty bird!)

Hubster and me were really feeling adventurous so after the cab dropped us back at Holyhead we boarded bus no 61 to Cemaes Bay. I was really not sure if it was wise doing this considering the buses back are not very frequent after 6pm and we were really cutting it very close.

But again we have done this thing before, not the journey I mean literally but yes hopping onto a bus going pretty much anywhere, it’s mad thrilling especially if it’s late evening – sometimes in various places we just wait for the bus to turn back and drop us off into town close to our place of stay for the night. But we have ALWAYS met very chatty and fun locals, including the bus drivers, have seen the most amazing spots like when we took a bus into the villagey part at Brighton, it was mad fun, we saw rolling hills and the setting sun and that part of Brighton which is away from the madness of peak touristy places – it is always fun and totally worth it! 🙂

The bus dropped us close to a lovely beach at Bull Bay, Amlwch Port, we walked along the quiet beach and drank in the stunning views…..few families swimming, walking along the fabulous beach and admiring the pretty little harbour in the distance.

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A long dreamy walk along the Anglesey Coastal Path later, as we made our way to the bus stop,located on a quite street, all shops shut for the day, very quiet and no sign of any one about we chanced upon a fabulous cafe – Coffee Cups-  at the Cemaes Heritage Centre, run by a very friendly couple, who happened to have lived in Surrey at some pint, what fun, and while they made us a really quick cream tea, I went crazy with my camera taking pictures of the lovely cafe and well-maintained back garden. Both husband – wife duo -Carole and Roy Kearey – knew the area well and shared many tips with us, even offered us a ride back into Holyhead if the bus didn’t show up, that was so kind of them. But mostly importantly they saved me from a rather persistent BEE that insisted on joining in our little tea party – humpfh… we took cover indoors and managed to finish our Welsh tea, locally made cones, fresh jam and clotted cream with yummy strawverries – in peace.

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Did I mention I fell in love with the china they used too? 🙂

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Safely back in Holyhead by the trusty bus service that arrived right on time, we spent the evening strolling around the Maritime Museum, watching the sunset and listening to the noisy sea gulls…amazingly in that quite setting their screams were part of the calm…

Of course dinner was fish and chips – fresh and delicious – most fun I had was saving my meal from the sea gulls…

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Stay with me as I take you the beautiful Llanberis, home to the tallest peak in England and Wales – the majestic Snowdon.

*References :
  • Wiki
  • Anglesey Hidden Gems
  • Anglesey Holidays
  • Anglesey Visitor
  • Wonderfully Wild Wales

**All hyperlinks in the post lead to information websites – check out bus routes before planning a journey. All information is correct to my knowledge but would advise anyone using this post as a guideline to please check for updated information.

Filed Under: Featured Travel Adventures, London and rest of U.K, Travel Tagged With: 19th century, Amlwch Port, Anglesey Coastal Path, Bull Bay, bus no 61 Holyhead to Cemaes Bay, Cemaes Bay, Cemaes Heritage Centre, Coffee Cups- at the Cemaes Heritage Centre, Essex, fish and chips, Globe Cafe, Graces Bistro, homepage-slider, Maritime Museum, puffins, RSPB South Stack Cliffs, seabirds, south stack cliffs, South Stack Lighthouse, The Boston Arms, The Edinburgh Castle, Trinity House Operational Control Centre in Harwich

Cheap day out in London? 5 places to visit this Summer!

June 16, 2014 by manjirichitnis 8 Comments

The Great British Summer is here and the weather is brilliant, sunny and perfect for days out in the park , at the beach or out exploring with the family on a weekend. There are many brilliant places that you can go to on a budget even if you don’t drive and have a really fun day out in the sun with the family.

Last year my 5 favourite day out spots were places where we did one day trips using public transport and carried a few essentials, there is always scope to go in groups and stay overnight in one of the quaint English Bed and Breakfast places – O.D on the morning Full English for breakfast  and generally have a blast .

So here’s my list of my Top 5 picks for best places to spend a day out in the Great British Summer 2014, not too far from London,easy on the pocket,family friendly options and easily approachable by public transport!  Let me know what you think :

Pebbled Shores of Brighton

This is trip down memory lane for me now, seems like yesterday though. my very first spring in the U.K and on a fine morning we set out for Brighton. Sun,fish and chips and noisy seagulls yes , sandy beach – no!But there is nothing a comfy deck chair can’t solve.

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We hopped onto a 45 minute coastal cruise  aboard the Rossana.Most enchanting view on the cruise was of the skeletal structure or what’s left of the West Pier.Something very fascinating and mysterious about this relic.

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Walked past the Brighton Marina to admire the many beautiful yachts.Many bars and restaurants along the quayside we choose a rather cosy looking one and had a leisurely drink watching the yachts bobbing around on the water the bright late evening sunlight bouncing off yatch decks.

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We stumbled upon the extraordinary palace  the Royal Pavilion  built for the Prince Regent, later King George IV.This royal ‘pleasure palace’ is remarkable for its exotic chinoiserie style . It was revered by fashionable Regency society and is still a distinctive landmark for vibrant Brighton & Hove today.

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Fishing,Sailing or taking a journey on the oldest electric train from the smallest station I’ve seen yet – Marina Station , there’s loads of fun activities to do with the family on a day out. Just after we hopped off our bus to the station and  on an impulse we took another bus into beautiful  the coastal village of Saltdean. Whatever you do ,don’t go away from Brighton without seeing Saltdean if only you do it on a plus bus journey like we did,especially since there is a road called Marine Drive at Saltdean , reminded me of Bombay it did.

Day out for 2 at  Brighton will cost you approximately under £65 if you had to really budget yourself.

  • Train Tickets :£20 if booked in advance via The Train Line
  • Plus Bus:£3.30 adult ie.£6.60
  • Boat Ride:£8.50 adult
  • Fish and Chips:Approx £5 each at The Regency Restaurant
  • Sundry (Ice Cream,Water,using public loo’s): £15

Soft sandy beach at West Wittering

To me a beach always meant soft white -brown sands and warm waters to splash around in , well that was until I visited a pebbled beach of course. So after Brighton , I was aching to go to a beach where I could just spread a blanket ,lie down and snooze off with the sound of waves in the distant background- ermm yes yes that sounds lazy , but heck thats me! Just walking along the soft sandy beach of West Wittering in West Sussex is very calming and watching kids screaming as they run into the bearably cold water, dogs digging busily into the sand and people generally soaking up the sun and hoping to tan evenly 😉

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West Wittering Beach is one of these 4000 beaches and marinas in 48 countries across Europe, South Africa, Morocco, Tunisia, New Zealand, Brazil, Canada and the Caribbean that has cleared the strict criteria dealing with Water Quality, Environmental Education and Information, Environmental Management, and Safety and Other Services and is therefore a BLUE FLAG BEACH. So not only is this beach a highly picturesque place of natural beauty,wildlife and birds  to enjoy but very safe too.

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With beautiful views of the Chichester Harbour and the South Down its a great place for adventure sports like windsurfing or kitesurfing.

After a long stroll along the beach and having clicked a few pictures especially the beautiful and colourful cabins at the back where we spotted a huge family gathering having fun around a tempting BBQ and lots of chilled beer – perfect! Ice cream at the beach is customary and after we got ourselves some at the beach cafe – braving a long queue we decided to just sit down n enjoy the sights and sounds. To find a quieter spot we walked past the area full of families and hyper excited kids and went to the area where pets are allowed, relatively fewer people and a spot just perfect to lay down a picnic blanket ! Before we knew it we were dozing and I think I dreamt I was part of Tintin’s adventures in Sussex- oh , well don’t you remember he snowy and he headed there in ‘The Black Island‘ .I have been a huge fan of Tintin ever since I first read Herge’s adorable imaginary whodunits as a kid ! I have spent endless summer holidays snuggled up in bed in the afternoon reading Tintin with my cousins or seated in a corner of my local library – such pageturners I tell ya!

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  • How To get there:Train,Road,Bus,Cycle
  • Toilets Available: Yes
  • Food and Drink:Beach Cafe
  • Parking:Minimal charges ranging from £1 to £8 apply depending on what time of the year you visit.

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Trekking Near Box Hill

Have climbed the Snowdon last year with hubster it might seem that trekking up Box Hill is nothing but heck its a good climb with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.Salomons Memorial (viewpoint) offers views upto 26 miles away including   Chanctonbury Ring and Devil’s Dyke, Sussex,also towards  Gatwick airport and the South Downs.

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If you are a trigger happy camera aficionado then this place offers huge scope for taking some great shots. If your a history buff then check out the Box Hill fort built in 1896 ,similar to 12 forts in the south east of England.There’s also an upside down grave where Major Peter Labellière was buried upside down in the belief that the world was ‘topsy turvy’.

Another interesting tidbit about Box Hill is that it was home to the inventor of the television!John Logie Baird, the inventor of television, lived at Swiss Cottage on Box Hill from 1929 until 1932. He carried out his initial experiments by sending a TV signal from the top of the hill to the valley below,he also conducted experiments using his Noctovisor an infra-red viewing device.

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You do do one of the many walks around Box Hill, there is even a trail suitable for toddlers where you can be sure to fire their imagination and get plenty of exercise and fresh air ,who knows they might just discover some interesting flowers,birds or creepy crawlies! There is also a Butterfly trail but the most amazing walk is the superb stepping stones walk which we did.Its something out of a picture pop up book and there is great scope for me time as you walk past the River Mole on a 2 mile circular walk which will take you under 2 hours. Lined by Apple and Cherry trees the stepping stones dating back to 1841 were destroyed in WWII and reinstated in 1946.

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This is Broadwood’s Folly – built in 1815 for the piano maker Thomas Broadwood.

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Due to its historic importance and stunning natural beauty Box Hill is a site protected by the National Trust.Once is not enough, Box hill is the kind of place that draws you in and you want to go back for more. One lazy sundays when I don’t feel like walking too much we do a mini picnic tea with a thermos, a blanket and our imagination for company – the views are strangely relaxing and I suspect its the clean mountain air and the exercise that is relaxing.

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Walk and relax at Richmond Park

The biggest enclosed space in London ,Richmond Park is largest of London’s eight Royal Parks.It is a National Nature Reserve, a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation in south-west London. It is also where I saw first set eyes on freely roaming deer – something I shall never forget. We were dozing (again!) on our picnic blanket in a nice little woody nook in the park and I had dozed off over a book when hubster urgently jabbing his fingers into my rib – ouch in an attempt to draw my attention to a curious bystander – a huge Red stag! Its massive antler had us awestruck and a bit worried at once. It just gave us a stare and then settled down on a patch of grass munching on something -Phew! Wide awake now, we packed our things as quietly as possible and went for a stroll ….

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With over 650 red and fallow deer roaming freely one must always bear in mind that though they are immensely beautiful they are wild and we must respect their space.

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  • Entry:Free
  • Cafe:Yes
  • Toilets:Yes
  • How to get there:Interactive Map

Caves at Reigate in the historic town of Surrey

Thinking of a fab day out with the family under £15? This is the place to go.Ammunition storage during WWI and air raid shelters during WWII these caves have seen it all.Local folklore has it that the barons held a secret meeting at the Barons’ cave on their way to Runnymede to sign the Magna Carta.

These are actually old sand mines which include the Baron’s Cave in the Castle Grounds and the Tunnel Road caves in the Western Caverns.The castle which is now long gone is only a  mound overlooking Reigate town centre and is composed of soft sandstone and has been mined over several centuries.Many excavations of the castle still remain.For as low as £ 2 per adult and £1.50 per child you can tour the caves with an experienced guide who will share details about the history of the caves. Disabled persons can be accompanied by upto 2 carers who go free of charge.

Visit the official website of the The Wealden Cave & Mine Society , a charitable organisation  here.Read more on the Reigate History website here.

Barons’ Cave. Castle Grounds, Reigate, Surrey

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 Image credit :Howard Walden from The Wealden Cave & Mine Society website

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Image credit  Nick Catford from The Wealden Cave & Mine Society website

If you want a more relaxed day out why not consider a trip to Denbies Vineyard? Read my post about my day trip here.

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: London and rest of U.K, Travel Tagged With: 12 forts in the south east of England, 1815, 1841, 1896, 1929, 1932, 1946, 2 hours, 2 mile circular walk, 26 miles, 5 ideas for fun days out near London this summer, 650 deers roaming freely, Adventures of Tintin, Apple and Cherry trees, Barons’ cave, bars, bbq, birds, Blue Flag Beach, boat ride, Box Hill, Brazil, Brighton, Brighton & Hove, Broadwood’s Folly, buried, bus, Butterfly trail, cafe, Canada, caribbean, Castle grounds, Caves at Reigate in the historic town of Surrey, Chanctonbury Ring, Chichester Harbour, chilled beer, chinoiserie, Clubs, coastal cruise, creeks, creepy crawlies, Cycle, Denbies Vineyard, Devil’s Dyke, distinctive landmark, Environmental Education and Information, Environmental Management, europe, exciting days out, exotic, explore, facilities, fish and chips, flip flops, flowers, free parking, Gatwick airport, Guilford, Herge, John Logie Baird, King George IV, Kitesurfing, late evening sunlight, London’s eight Royal Parks, Magna Carta, Major Peter Labellière, Morocco, mountains, National Nature Reserve, National Rail, National Trust, New Zealand, Noctovisor, old sand mines, pebble beach, Pebbled Shores, piano maker Thomas Broadwood, Prince Regent, Red Deer, Regency society, relaxation, restaurants, River Mole, Royal Pavilion, royal ‘pleasure palace’, Runnymede, Safety, Salomons Memorial (viewpoint), Sand, sea, seagulls, Site of Special Scientific Interest, Snowdon, snowy, Soft sandy beach, South Africa, south-west London, Special Area of Conservation, stepping stones walk, style, summer holidays, sun, sun screen, Sussex, Swiss Cottage, The Black Island, the Great British Summer, the inventor of television, the South Down, The Train Line, The Wealden Cave & Mine Society, toilets, Tram, tranquil, travel, travel blogger, travel bloggers, travel ideas, travelsfortaste, Trekking Near Box Hill, Tunisia, Tunnel Road caves, upside down grave, Walk and relax at Richmond Park, Water Quality, West Sussex, West Wittering, Western and Caverns, whodunits, Winsurfing, WWII, yachts

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