Huw Davies

Castles

Castles are abundant and some of the largest buildings which can seen in Wales. There are numerous castles in the part of Wales where I am most involved with - those built by native Welsh princes and the invading Norman leaders.

Countryside

I am lucky enough to have lived most of my life in the Welsh countryside. Its varied nature is most interesting and often unexpected. You will notice on any visit to Wales the diverse and extensive nature of this countryside. The natural environment is linked to this area.

Gardens and Stately Homes

Carmarthenshire claims to be the location of most gardens in Wales, however numerous gardens are also to be seen in Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire.
I have a keen interest in the built environment and I refer to the homes of the wealthy and those less so - this makes for the interesting mix in Wales.

Geography and Geology

Being a qualified Geographer I believe it is important to consider the effect of humans and other animals on the landscape. The diverse nature of the underlying rocks is also of importance.

History and Prehistory

The diverse history of Wales and the various areas within it must be a foremost consideration on any visit. The cultural diversity of the people make for an interesting mix and places such as south Pembrokeshire are of particular importance.

Industrial Heritage

South Wales is notable as being one of the birthplaces of the Industrial Revolution and although much of the heavier industrial activities have by now ceased, there is much interest in revisiting the history of the areas and people involved.

Music, Culture and Poetry

Being a male singer I am happy to lead musical groups around the “land of song”. The culture is diverse and the history and continued use of the Welsh language (from Celtic origins) means that we have institutions and events which reflect this diversity. Poetry and poets is of importance in history and current culture.

Politics and Government

I have a keen interest is both national and local politics. Whilst the main National Government institutions are located around Cardiff, there are also important ones throughout Wales related particularly to the environment and nature. I take part in my local community and am also involved with village institutions.

Family History/Ancestral Tours

I have been involved with tracing my ancestors for over 40 years and I am aware of where to go for information and most importantly the pitfalls which need to be avoided. A most important source of information is found at Aberystwyth, the National Library of Wales and a visit there is a must for family historians.

Welsh Language

Whilst only about 20% of the people of Wales currently speak Welsh, I would say that its importance to our lives in Wales is far more. As stated above many institutions depend on the language - Eisteddfod is a cultural event held is the most Welsh areas and it involves competing in singing, recital, dance and poetry primarily in the Welsh language.