Dave Jepson

Schlösser

We have a remarkable collection of castles, built by both native Welsh leaders and by the descendants of Normans, who, after 200 years of resistance, were finally successful in their invasion.
I doubt that the original builders were thinking of scenic value, but could not have done a better job even if they had been commisioned by the romantic artists who popularised their grandeur in later centuries.
The stories of these castles, and how they fit into the greater history of Wales and indeed Britain, are truly fascinating - I'd love to share them with you.

Küstenlinie

I live near Criccieth, a picturesque coastal town with a ruined castle taking pride of place between the twin beaches. It's at the start of the stunning Llŷn peninsula, which has hills, cliffs, beaches and fishing villages all the way to the farthest point, where you look out onto the island of Ynys Enlli (Bardsey), according to legend the resting place of 20,000 saints.
Also, just north of here is Ynys Mon, the Isle of Anglesey, with another 120 miles of remarkable coastline, all within less than an hour's drive, and to the south the sand dune backed Ardudwy beaches.
Let's go!

Landleben

There's nothing I love more than being out in the countryside here. I've been up practically every hill & mountain over the years, along the way learning many of the legends and the more down to earth heritage of the people who worked here over the centuries. The scenery here is spectacular - all the more remarkable when you compare it to the gentle scenes of rural England.
And then there is the coastline. Let me guide you straight to the best bits.
We can go for a gentle walk, or just drive & relax.

Gärten und Herrenhäuser

North Wales is blessed with some beautiful gardens and remarkable houses, some grand, some more modest.
In addition to the cultural & horticultural interest, the mountainous landscape eccentuates the beauty, which the creators worked with to their best advantage.
I'll be happy to take you on a tour of your choice, perhaps in addition to the grand houses of Plas Newydd & Penrhyn you may be interested in some of the smaller gems such as Cadnant and Plas yn Rhiw.

Geographie und Geologie

Having spent a lifetime roaming the hills, mountains, and coastline around North Wales, I guess it was inevitable that I should start to wonder how these wonderful landscapes developed.
Anyway, the area is particularly fascinating. The mountains are, by a long way, some of the oldest on earth, having been created around 500 million years ago, and the 140 different rock types of Anglesey have earned it the status of an international geopark.
The long & ever changing views mean that with a casual sweep of the hand there are a myriad of tales to tell.

Geschichte und Vorgeschichte

Where shall I start?
We have neolithic burial chambers, the largest bronze age copper mine, and spectacular iron age hillforts.
There are the foundations of Roman forts, then through medieval times we have castles and early churches.
The grand houses of Tudor times lead into the more grand stately homes of more recent centuries.
Oh there is a lot of visible history still to see, and all wrapped up with the stories of the struggles of the Welsh people to retain their independence & culture.
How long do you have?

Natur und Tierwelt

Schiefer und Schieferlandschaften

Slate is considered "the most Welsh of its industries".
Travel around North West Wales and the visible signs of this huge enterprise are everywhere. Get into conversation with any local and you'll soon hear of members of their family who worked in the quarries.
Softened perhaps by nature now, through the 19th century this was the home of the largest slate production in the world, shipped around the globe.
Recognised as a World Heritage Site in 2021, it actually comprises many locations.
Come with me and I can show you some of the most unique parts in a dedicated tour.