Bodelwyddan Castle - 20th-23rd January, 2017
Have Ken, Will Travel!
Yet another fab away week end organised by Ken Kennedy, our travel guide guru.
We went by train to Rhyl, then onto Warners' Bodelwyddan Castle Hotel, which was delightful.
Wonderful food, accommodation, and terrific evening entertainment.
We enjoyed sunny conditions to begin with on the Saturday, but cloudy weather with a cold chill were our constant companions thereafter.
Paul Ferris, with the O.S. map on his phone, was our trusty navigator. Well done, Paul.
One of our walks led us into the Kinmel army training camp; we hoped to skip through it, but it was not to be.
We beat a hasty retreat from the entrance to the firing range, and continued on a 7-mile walk to Rhyl!
Saturday evening was a jolly affair with a live band, followed by songs from the musicals by the in-house song and dance team.
On Sunday, we explored the castle, which hosted many portraits of local worthies, finely decorated rooms in the William Morris style,
and a photographic studio with vintage clothing that could be worn for a picture or two of your own.
This was followed by a walk to St Margaret's, the nearby famous "Marble Church".
Many Canadian soldiers from World War One, who were based at the army camp, were buried here.
Inside, we found many "therapy" dogs, which had been blessed during the service.
These dogs are taken to care homes and hospitals as a comfort for residents and patients.
This was followed by a 5-mile cross country walk to St Asaph, the local cathedral city, completed by myself, Paul, Ken and Jinan.
On the way, we took refreshment at a local cafe.
They were pleasant folk, but the service was araf, which is Welsh for slow.
I guess it must have been gourmet beans on toast.
Back on the bus, to a delicious evening meal, followed by opera performed by two excellent singers called II Destino.
Wonderful mix of opera, musical and pop songs, and humour.
Trouble free return journey to London the following day completed a super away week end for nine happy efogies!
Dave Townsend 2nd February 2017