A GHOST HUNTERS DIARY: Beaumaris Town, Goal and Castle A GHOST HUNTERS DIARY This site is all about my investigations. I have travelled around the country and abroad. I have visited some amazing places. With the help of my two paranormal groups, Paranormal research and Spectre Analysis, also the magazine Ghost Voices. I will take you on a journey through graveyards, ancient burial mounds, murder sites, haunted pubs, castles and other so called haunted sites. So sit back, relax and travel with me on my paranormal adventre. How I started my paranormal journey. I would sit up late at night watching those old black and white horror shows. Then I was brave enough to move onto colour. I was always interested in ghost stories, old legends and stories from our past. Then my nan told me a story that would put me on my journey into the paranormal It was about a headless man that walked a country lane next to my nan's childhood home. In fact, she had seen him herself. I had always remembered the story and a few years ago, I found, quite by chance, a newspaper cutting about a murder in the area my nan lived.

I researched my nan's story and found out the true facts. I realised that I enjoyed researching as much as an investigation. With this in mind, every area I visit, I research and you will be surprised what information can be found. So thanks to my nan, I lead an exciting life as a paranormal investigater. I would like to point out that I do take this very seiously. I am out to prove, one way or the other, IS THERE ANOTHER LIFE WHEN WE PASS or is it just our imagination. Saturday, 6 March 2010 Beaumaris Town, Goal and Castle Beaumaris GROUP ... MYSELF Beaumaris was orignally a Viking settlement known as PORTH Y WYGYR (Port of the Vikings). The town itself began to develop in 1295, when Edward 1st of England (after he conquered Wales) built Beaumaris Castle as part of his chain of fortifications around the North Wales coast. Shipbuilding was a major industry in Beaumaris and during the Saxon times, Beaumaris was one of the three important Saxon ports in the UK. Extending into the Menai Strait, is a piece of land nicknamed GALLOWS POINT.

This is because the town's gallows ere erected there, originally named Osmund's Eyre. RED HILL is so named because during the second Civil War in 1648, the hill leading north from the town was said to have been covered in blood from The Siege of Beaumaris. Notable buildings in the town include the castle, a courthouse (built in 1614), St Mary's Church (14th century), town goal, timber framed Tudor Rose (14th century) and The Bulls Head Inn (built in 1472). Beaumaris Pier was opened in 1846, rebuilt in 1872 after a storm. There was also the site of an old Franciscan friary just to the east. Beaumaris was also famous for pirates, many lived in the town. It was a great place to land their smuggled goods either near the town or along the coast. BEAUMARIS CASTLE Beaumaris Castle was the last of the castle's that Edward 1st ordered to be built during his campaign to conquer North Wales (others included Denbigh, Conway, Caernarfon and Harlech).

He commissioned the building in 1295. The castle was designed by Master James of St George but it was never completed. This site was choosen because it ensured control of the Menai Strait and it stood looking down on GARTH CELYN, the headquarters of The Prince of Wales prior to the Edwardian conquest of 1283 on the opposite shore. Beaumaris was awarded a Royal Charter by Edward 1st (which was similar to what he had done in his other towns). This meant that the native Welsh residents of Beaumaris were not allowed to carry weapons, buy houses or land, hold meetings and hold any civil office. Work began on the castle in 1295 and continued for 35years. Over 3,500 workmen were employed but finances and materials ran out when King Edward turned his attentions towards Scotland, as his Welsh Conquest was nearly over and he needed his money for The Scottish campaigns. Such work as the towers of the inner ward or the great gatehouse were built to their full height. Many other buildings were left unfinished but smaller jobs were still carried out into the early part of the 14th century.

During The English Civil War, the last battle was fought here and if the Royalist had won, Beaumaris may have been the capital of Braitain, as local landowner Colonel Bulkeley had invited Charles 1st to rule from his home at Baron Hill and he may have used the castle as his base. But the Parliamentarins won. The castle itself did not suffer during the civil war and it is now run and managed by CADW. PARANORMAL ACTIVITY IN THE CASTLE --- Figures seen walking around the grounds --- Footsteps heard This was not an investigation as such but a family day out. But whenever I visit a place such as this, I always try and conduct my own mini investigation. I go off on my own and ask questions. I always carry my recorder and camera. I look a little more closely at my photos because you just never know. This time I came away empty handed but I would love to do a full investigation here. BEAUMARIS GAOL The gaol was built in 1829 and designed by Joseph Hansom (designer of the Hansom cabs).

It was expanded in 1867 due to an act which meant that the gaol could add more solitary confinement cells. The gaol could now accommadate approx 30 inmates but it closed just 11 years later. The building has since been used as a Police Station until the 1950's, a child's clinic and since 1974 a museum. The town's air raid siren was located here during the second world war and it was still in operation during the Cold War, incase of nuclear attack. Punishment was brutal and harsh. Punishment through hard labour was its main aim. The prison's most brutal methods included the whipping room with a whipping frame, stretching racks and chains. There was also a treadmill outside in the courtyard. This treadmill pumped water to the top of the building. So it was a job as well as a punishment. The Nursery This was for women who had babies and brought them in with them and for women who gave birth in prison. Women were able to rock the child's cradle from the workroom below using a rope without stopping their work. The Woman's Workroom The women worked from 6am (8am in winter) till 6pm.

Their work included spinning, sewing, knitting and in other parts of the gaol they did the cooking, cleaning and washing. Kitchen Their diet included oatmeal, bread, meat, potatoes and soup. The quanity of food given depended on the work you did and the lenght of your sentence. Food was prepared by the women prisoner's. It was served in the workrooms or cells. Stoppage of meals was a punishment. Prisoners confined in the punishment cell were only given dry bread and water. Punishment Cell This was completley sound proof and dark. You were sent here for refusing to work, speaking to other prisoners in the exercise yard and bad behavior. Condemned Cell This was twice the size of the ordinary cells. And this also had a fireplace. On the morning of execution, the person would leave the cell, walk along a corridor to the door in the wall and along a wooden ramp to the gibbet. Cells These were 10feet by 6feet. There was a hammock or wooden bed, a seat, table, enamel washbowl and toilet (which was flushed by water from the washbowl) in the cell. Other rooms in the gaol included The Governor's Office and a Chapel.

ESCAPES Only one person was able to escape from the gaol. His name was John Morris. He escaped on the 7th January 1859, using rope he had stolen. His escape was slightly amazing because he broke his leg whilst escaping but he still made it out of the town before he was recaptured. EXECUTIONS There were only two hangings that took place here. The first was William Griffith in 1830. He was sentenced for the attempted murder of his first wife. William tried to barricade himself inside his cell on the morning of his execution. He was dragged to the gibbet. The second and last hanging was Richard Rowlands in 1862. He had been found guilty of murdering his father in law but always protested his innocence. Legend has it that he cursed the church clock from his gallows, saying that if he were innocent the four faces of this clock would never show the same time. Which for a while after his death they did not. Both men were buried within the walls of the gaol, in a lime pit. But no one knows the exact location. PARANORMAL ACTIVITY IN THE GAOL.

--- Dark shadows seen in corridors --- Flashing lights --- Doors open and close with a bang --- Keys heard rattling --- Heavy footsteps --- Figure of a man seen in the Governor's office It is no surprise with the history of this building that there are tales of ghosts. From Pirates to the last Civil War battle, what other events have happened in this area before the gaol was built. Even as a gaol, there has been misery, confinement and death here. The walls and the land the gaol is built on, must hold some fantastic tales. Walking around this building, it is quite easy to imagine the harsh life that the prisoners use to have. Even though I caught nothing on camera or my recorder, I did get the feeling of being watched esp as I walked down the corridors. I would love to walk this building on my own just to see if anything happened. Fantastic building. Posted by Sights in North Wales | Fodor's Travel Aberconwy House House/Mansion/Villa Thought to be the oldest complete medieval house in Wales, Aberconwy House's rooms have been restored to reflect three distinct periods...

Bala Lake Railway Transportation Site (Airport, Bus, Ferry, Train) The steam-powered train runs along the southern shores of Bala Lake (Llyn Tegid, or "Lake of Beauty"), a large natural reservoir just... Beaumaris Castle Castle/Palace/Chateau The town of Beaumaris dates from 1295, when Edward I commenced work on this impressive castle, the last and largest link in an "iron... Beaumaris Courthouse Building/Architectural Site Opposite Beaumaris Castle is this courthouse, built in 1614. A plaque depicts one view of the legal profession: two farmers pull a cow,... Beaumaris Gaol Jail To learn about the grim life of a Victorian prisoner, head to the old jail, built in 1829 by Joseph Hansom (1803–82), who was also... Bodelwyddan Castle Castle/Palace/Chateau Between Abergele and St. Asaph, this castle is the Welsh home of London's National Portrait Gallery. Paintings on display include works...

Bodnant Garden Garden/Arboretum Undoubtedly one of the best gardens in Wales, Bodnant Garden is something of a pilgrimage spot for horticulturists from around the world. Bryn Celli Ddu Archaeological Site/Ruins Dating from around 3000 BC, this megalithic passage tomb is the most complete site of its kind in Wales. You enter via a narrow opening... Bwlch y Groes Viewpoint/Scenic Overlook One of the great drives of North Wales, the sweeping, vertiginous panoramas of Bwlch y Groes (Pass of the Cross) form the highest mountain... Caernarfon Castle Castle/Palace/Chateau The grim, majestic mass of Caernarfon Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, looms over the waters of the River Seiont. Numerous bloody...

Beaumaris Beaumaris Beaumaris OS grid ref:- SH605765 Beaumaris was founded by the Vikings and was once referred to as Porth y Wygyr ("Port of the Vikings"), but was renamed Beaumaris (Norman-french for 'Beautiful Marsh') in 1295 when Edward I of England, during his conquest of Wales, commissioned the building of Beaumaris Castle as the last link in a chain of fortifications around the North Wales coast. Beaumaris Castle and the fourteenth century house in the high street Places of interest in the town include the castle, the courthouse was built in 1614 and even though alterations were made in the 19th century, the original character remains the same, Beaumaris Gaol, the 14th-century Tudor Rose (one of the oldest original timber-framed buildings in Britain) and the Bulls Head Inn, built in 1472, which General Thomas Mytton made his headquarters during the "Siege of Beaumaris" during the second English Civil War in 1648.

St Mary's and St Nicholas' Church dates to the fourteenth century, it contains the stone coffin of Joan, Princess of Wales and Lady of Snowdon (c. 1191 – 2 February, 1237). Joan was the legitimate daughter of King John of England and at the age of twelve was married to Llywelyn the Great. Joan was originally buried in the Franciscan Friary founded by Llywelyn at Llanfaes, to the north of Beaumaris. The Friary was destroyed at the Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1537. Above the empty coffin is a slate panel inscribed: "This plain sarcophagus, (once dignified as having contained the remains of JOAN, daughter of King JOHN, and consort of LLEWELYN ap IOWERTH, Prince of North Wales, who died in the year 1237), having been conveyed from the Friary of Llanfaes, and alas, used for many years as a horsewatering trough, was rescued from such an indignity and placed here for preservation as well as to excite serious meditation on the transitory nature of all sublunary distinctions.

By THOMAS JAMES WARREN BULKELEY, Viscount BULKELEY, Oct 1808". At the west end of the north aisle is the fine alabaster 15th century table tomb of William Bulkeley, and his wife Elen Gruffydd of Penrhyn (near Bangor), a descendant of Ednyfed Fychan the seneschal of Llywelyn the Great, who was the ancestor of the Tudor dynasty. The stone coffin of Joan, wife of Llywelyn the Great at the church St. Mary and St Nicholas and Beaumaris Beach A native of Anglesey, David Hughes, founded Beaumaris Grammar School in 1603. Beaumaris Pier, opened in 1846, was designed by Frederick Foster. Beaumaris is a major centre for yachting and also boasts two golf courses within one mile of the town. Beaumaris Gaol Beaumaris Gaol in Steeple Lane dates back to 1829 and was designed by Joseph Hansom, designer of the Hansom cab. It served as the jail for the whole of the Island of Anglesey.

The building was extended in 1867 to accommodate approximately 30 inmates but closed down 11 years later. The building then became the town police station until in the 1950s when it was used as a children's clinic. It is now a museum with exhibits revealing what life was like for prisoners in the Victorian era. Methods of punishment at the jail included chains, whippings and isolation in a dark cell for up to three days. It has one of the last working treadmills in Britain. The treadmill at Beaumaris is unusual in that it pumped water to the top of the building for use in the cells. Only two hangings took place at Beaumaris Gaol. The first prisoner to be hanged there was William Griffith, in 1830, for the attempted murder of his wife. On the morning of his execution, he barricaded himself in his cell, the door was forced open and he was half dragged and half carried to the gibbet. The second and final execution was that of Richard Rowlands in 1862, Rowlands was found guilty of murdering Richard Williams, his father in law.

He protested his innocence right up to his final moments and legend records that he cursed the church clock from the gallows, saying that if he were innocent the four faces of the nearby church clock would never show the same time, which they did not for a time, although this has been attributed to the wind buffeting the southern face. Both men were buried in within the prison walls in a lime pit, but its exact location is not known. The metal rivets which held the gibbet in place, along with the two doors which the condemned men passed through can still be viewed from the street outside the Gaol walls. Throughout its time as a gaol there was only one instance of a prisoner escaping. The prisoner, John Morris, escaped on 7 January 1859, using rope he had stolen. Although he broke his leg whilst making his escape he did make it out of the town, before being recaptured.

Anglesey Cottages | Wales Cottage Holidays Cottages on Anglesey Cottages on Anglesey The 125 mile Anglesey Coast Path follows much of the islands coastline and varied landscape, and is also a part of the 870 mile long Wales Coast Path (the first path in the world to offer a formal trail all the way around the country’s coastline). Walk along the path and come across broad sandy beaches, soaring sea cliffs, tranquil villages and buildings with high historical importance. Whatever you would like to see when walking in Wales, the Anglesey Coast Path has it all. If you're staying on Anglesey, make sure to visit the following attractions. For further information on activities and attractions, please visit the Anglesey Guide using the link below. Beaumaris Castle. Situated in the village of Beaumaris and looking out to Snowdonia, this castle was Edward I largest and last impressive build. After 35 years of building works which started in 1295, money ran out. Unfortunately this left the castle incomplete. From an architectural point of view, Beaumaris Castle is the most technically perfect castle in the UK with its superb symmetrical concentric design of “walls within walls”.

If you’re visiting, walk along the top of the castle walls where soldiers would have paced ready for battle, and take in the stunning surrounding scenery. Beaumaris Courthouse. Built in 1614, the courthouse still takes pride of place in this history-rich community. Many suspects have walked though it’s doors over the years, ranging from a petty this to murderers and notorious criminals. A formal court is now only held there once a year, but the courthouse has become a popular attraction among visitors. Open from April to October, visit the courthouse and follow in the footsteps of previous criminals. Enter the prisoner’s room and walk the path that they would have taken to the dock. Once inside the court room, wander around and take a seat in the mayor’s box and the jury area, as well as visiting the Grand Jury room where the Jury went to deliberate their verdict. Beaumaris Gaol. Built in 1829, and expanded in 1867, this former jail has now become a popular museum. Showcasing how prisoners were brutally treats in Victorian times. Trace the prisoners footsteps by exploring the darkness of the punishment cell and wondering the corridors.

You can also learn the history of how prisoners were sent to the Gaol for execution. Most prisoners who had received the death punishment were given very hard labour or transported to Australian penal colonies. However, two hangings did take place with both men buried within the gaol’s walls, although it is not known in which exact spot their remains lie. Copper Kingdom. Located on Parys Mountain near Amlwch, Copper Kingdom refers to what was once the largest copper mine in the world. Visit the award-winning Copper Kingdom Centre and wander around the interactive displays to learn about the history of copper mining in the area. Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrhdrobwlllantysiliogogogoch, or Llanfair PG for short, is a really popular tourist spot for obvious reasons. The town name is actually a sentence that was put together in the 19th Century in an attempt to turn the town into a commercial and tourist centre. In English the name translates to: St Mary’s Church in the hollow of the white hazel near to the rapid whirlpool of Llantysilio of the red cave.

Many tourists visit the town just to have their photo taken in front of the Railway Station, with the name plaque behind them. LlanfairPG is the longest place name in Britain and is it made up of 58 characters, therefore making a space for it in the Guinness Book of Records. South Stack Lighthouse. Situated on a small rocky island just off the northern coast of Anglesey, South Stack Lighthouse was completed in 1809 and is classed as the most famous and picturesque lighthouse in the area. To reach the lighthouse, you would need to walk down 400+ steps, but don’t forget that it’s the same amount back up! Once you’ve reached the bottom of the steps, you would need to walk a small distance across a bridge which takes you over the sea and rocks below. You can then wander around the small island and see the exhibition about the 200 year history of the lighthouse, before taking a guided tour 28 metres to the top. After learning all about the lighthouse, make sure you visit Elin’s tower. The tower is an RSPB visitor centre where you can educate yourself about the different birds that nest in the area.

Related pages Add to Wishlist near Beaumaris - Anglesey Willow Cottage is a pretty little single storey property set within the attractive grounds of the owners' house, in what was formerly part of a much larger estate, a few hundred meters to the Anglesey Coastal Path and 1... Saturday changeover Nearest shop: 1 mile away Coast: 0.3 mile away Add to Wishlist near Moelfre - Anglesey One of a pair of top quality cottages near Moelfre in the owners' grounds facing lawned areas with landscaping, one mile from Lligwy beach. Saturday changeover Equipped with a washing machine No smoking Nearest shop: 2 miles away Coast: 0.75 mile away Add to Wishlist near Moelfre - Anglesey A top quality single storey cottage near Moelfre adjoining the owners' detached house by an archway, one mile from the beautiful beach at Lligwy.

Friday changeover Equipped with a washing machine No smoking Nearest shop: 2 miles away Coast: 0.75 mile away Add to Wishlist near Beaumaris - Anglesey Beautifully presented luxury and boutique style 2 bedroom self-catering holiday cottage between Beaumaris and Menai Bridge on Anglesey with WiFi. Saturday changeover Equipped with a tumble dryer Equipped with a washing machine No smoking Nearest shop: 0.5 mile away Coast: 2 miles away Nearest pub: 0.5 mile away OUR CUSTOMERS ALWAYS GET THE BEST PRICE You will always get the best price on your self-catering holiday cottage when you book direct with Wales Cottage Holidays Add to Wishlist near Moelfre - Anglesey Within a mile of the beach at Lligwy, 2 miles from Moelfre, this rather special cottage has several features for ease of use by less able guests.

Saturday changeover Equipped with a washing machine No smoking Nearest shop: 2 miles away Coast: 0.75 mile away Add to Wishlist near Llanfair PG - Anglesey Enjoy a truly warm welcome at this interesting cottage near Llanfair PG, 0.75 mile out of the village of Brynsiencyn, 5 miles SW Llanfairpwllgwyngyll. Saturday changeover Equipped with a tumble dryer Equipped with a washing machine No smoking Nearest shop: 0.75 mile away Coast: 4 miles away Add to Wishlist near Moelfre - Anglesey Delightful stone Anglesey holiday cottage near the beach standing in private, peaceful location with beautiful views across surrounding fields to nearby sea, a special coastal cottage retreat. Friday changeover Equipped with a tumble dryer Equipped with a washing machine No smoking Nearest shop: 1 mile away Coast: 0.75 mile away Add to Wishlist near Moelfre - Anglesey This delightful two-bedroomed stone cottage near Moelfre is on a working farm less than a mile from the beautiful sandy beach at Lligwy Bay.

Friday changeover Equipped with a tumble dryer Equipped with a washing machine No smoking Nearest shop: 1 mile away Coast: 0.75 mile away Add to Wishlist near Moelfre - Anglesey Delightful converted 19th-century coastal holiday barn near unspoilt Lligwy beach on Anglesey, beautifully presented with vaulted ceilings, underfloor heating, large enclosed garden. Friday changeover Equipped with a washing machine No smoking Nearest shop: 1 mile away Coast: 0.75 mile away Add to Wishlist in Treaddur Bay - Anglesey Situated on the stunning North West coast of Anglesey, this semi-detached house is just a stroll away from the large sandy beach, restuarants, cafes and shops at Trearddur Bay, a perfect spot for family holidays. Friday changeover Equipped with a washing machine No smoking Nearest shop: 0.5 mile away Coast: 0.5 mile away Add to Wishlist near Moelfre - Anglesey Situated on a 300 acre sheep farm, this charming cottage near Moelfre is one of a pair less than a mile from the beautiful sandy beach at Lligwy.

Friday changeover Equipped with a tumble dryer Equipped with a washing machine No smoking Nearest shop: 1 mile away Coast: 0.75 mile away Add to Wishlist in Moelfre - Anglesey Tyn Coed is the top floor apartment of a detached house, in a superb elevated position above the pretty village of Moelfre on Anglesey's east coast, with panoramic sea views. Saturday changeover Equipped with a tumble dryer Equipped with a washing machine No smoking Nearest shop: 1 mile away Coast: 0.8 mile away Snowdonia Snowdonia proper, the mountain ranges that include the highest peaks and the most beautiful valleys, the largest lakes and the grandest scenery, also gets the busiest in the summer months. From Llwyndu it is all within easy reach, with Holyhead on the northern tip of Anglesey only an hour and a half away. Taking such drives is a pleasure in itself as the journeys are always so diverting. This section will give a hint of what to expect. There are three principal gateways from the south.

Blaenau Ffestiniog, centre of the North Wales slate industry will lead you through the beautiful Lledr Valley, after passing Dolwyddelan Castle and onto Bettws y Coed, Llanrwst, the Conwy Valley, the largely Victorian town of Llandudno and Conwy with is superbly restored Elizabethan town house, Plas Mawr. The town also boasts Conwy Castle and the smallest house in Britain. Near Conwy is Bodnant Gardens (NT), something of a Mecca for green fingered tourists Going via the Aberglaslyn Pass Beddgelert, (famous for the legend of the dog), is a popular centre for walking the surrounding hills like Moel Hebog, and the Sygun Copper Mine is nearby. Beddgelert also has associations with Rupert the Bear! There is a long railway tunnel here, cut through the mountain that used to make an interesting walk but a project is underway to restore this disused narrow gauge track back into use so people will soon have to use the train. The train will run from Porthmadog to Caernarfon.

Travelling north east from the village takes you winding up the Nantgwynant valley and skirts the Snowdon range. You can elect to take the Llanberis Pass towards Caernarfon and in Llanberis alight the Snowdon Mountain Railway that crawls up to the peak of Snowdon, or Yr Wyddfa.In Llanberis the huge lake of Llyn Padarn is skirted by another small railway, the Electric Mountain Centre and the Welsh Slate Museum are well worth the visit. If you choose the road to Capel Curig and then up towards Bangor, this wilder, more desolate valley cuts between the Glyder mountains and the brooding Tryfan on your left and the Carneddau mountains on your right. Driving past Llyn Ogwen and then dropping sharply down into Nant Ffrancon towards the slate town of Bethesda provides an exhilarating change of scene. Porthmadog opens the coastal route to Caernarfon and views of Caernarfon Bay as you head north. Caernarfon is one of several medieval towns on the North Wales Coast.

It has the best preserved castle, a pleasantly gridded town layout and a number of museums, the Maritime being on the old Victoria Dock, recently restored as a Marina. You can gaze across the Menai Strait and look at Anglesey. On the outskirts of the town is the Roman Fort of Segontium. Along the coast, the university town of Bangor has a cathedral, a fine suspension bridge by Brunel and a more recent one of plain concrete to connect to Anglesey. The National Trust's Penrhyn Castle is also just outside Bangor. This is not a medieval castle but a rather distasteful reminder of the local Bethesda slate quarry owner's oppression of his workforce in the nineteenth century - a family still reviled in local memory. Anglesey, or Ynys Mon, was known as Mam Cymru, the 'mother of Wales' and testifies to its importance in supplying food to the region in earlier times. It was the last Celtic Stronghold to fall to the Romans in Wales. The Island is scattered with early sites and much archaeological work is going on. There are two main characteristics of Anglesey. It is relatively flat and rather featureless but it has a marvellously interesting coastline.

Crossing one of the bridges, the A5 will take you straight to Holyhead. But go round the coast and it is delightful. Almost opposite the bridge you will come to the most well known but least pronounceable Welsh place-names - Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllandysiliogogoch - quite easy when you know how but like many local names of more than three syllables it is truncated, in this instance to Llanfair P.G. This is very useful to know if your are looking for it but find yourself lost and need to ask directions! The name was actually invented in around 1880 to stimulate tourist interest but there isn't much here apart from the sign and a couple of shops. Plas Newydd, is a NT house and home of the Marquess of Anglesey that everyone seems to make and is nearby.

This modest pile was built from the proceeds of the one time largest copper mine in the world at Parys Mountain, Amlwch (NW tip of the island)- now travel anti-clockwise direction, head for Newborough and Llanddwyn, or Lover's, Island a small jut of land reached by a long walk along the sandy beach, with a Celtic site, an old windmill and spectacular views of Snowdonia. Enchanting! The turtle below didn't quite make it, but what a spot to spend your last moments. A very good display of Marine life is waiting at the Anglesey Sea Zoo near Brynsiencyn. Heading on northwards, exploring the many inlets and beaches, at Maltraeth Sands, Llangadwaladr and while at Aberffraw, ponder this home, from the seventh century onwards until the Edwardian conquest, of the Princes of Gwynedd. Onto Rhosneigr and Cymyran Bay. Holyhead itself can be visited but it's best to head on round to Church Bay, Cemaes Bay, Bull Bay and south to Red Wharf Bay where you can find another good pub on the beach.

The best is almost last on Anglesey, if you have travelled clockwise around the island. Beaumaris -'beautiful marsh' probably has more of interest in it than the rest of the island. It is an attractive town with nice buildings and is popular for it. The unfinished castle (started in 1295) of Edward I is the biggest attraction, but there is also the Courthouse (built 1614), and Beaumaris Gaol (1829) and a short way off is the Augustine Penmon Priory. Trips to Puffin Island can be had to see the razorbills, guillemots and puffins. The way back to the mainland is via Menai Bridge. Heading back to Llwyndu, guests can now take a different route with the opportunity of yet more dramatic scenery on the home ward journey. Fancy owning 'haunted' gaol on Anglesey? - Daily Post Fancy owning 'haunted' gaol on Anglesey? Anglesey council steps up efforts to find buyers for gaol, windmill and roundhouses Share The Old Gaol at Beaumaris Share Get daily updates directly to your inbox + Subscribe Thank you for subscribing!

Could not subscribe, try again laterInvalid Email A 'haunted' Victorian prison, a windmill and roundhouses could be snapped up after being put on the market by Anglesey council. Beaumaris Courthouse and Goal, which has a reputation for hauntings due to its grim past, and Melin Llynnon and Roundhouses, near Llanddeusant are being advertised for sale from the local authority. The council said it will consider alternative/additional uses whilst protecting and preserving the "special character, appearance, architectural and historic features" of the Gaol, Courthouse and Llynnon. What's up for grabs: Beaumaris Gaol The Old Gaol at Beaumaris prison This Victorian jail was built in 1829. The gaol features the only original tread wheel in situ in Britain and a gibbet is still fixed to the outer wall. Visitors can walk along the dimly lit corridors and explore the old cells and places of punishment. They can even visit the punishment cell and the condemned cell. Beaumaris Courthouse Built in 1614, Beaumaris Courthouse is one of Anglesey’s most fascinating buildings and one of the oldest courthouses in Britain.

Although alterations were made in the 19th century, its original character remains the same. The old courthouse at Beaumaris (Photo: Richard Birch) Throughout the centuries the courthouse has witnessed various cases from petty misdemeanours to murder. Visitors can walk through the large rectangular courtroom, stand in the original dock and view the splendour of the grand jury room. Llynnon This is the only working windmill in Wales. Built in 1775, Melin Llynnon operates as an agricultural museum, and produces stoneground wholemeal flour using organic wheat. The site also has two Iron Age roundhouses providing a unique insight of the life of farmers more than 3000 years ago. Llynnon Mill, LLanddeusant, Ynys Mon (Photo: obert Parry Jones) Proposals are now being sought from town and community councils, social enterprises, businesses, trusts and organisations with the appropriate resources, expertise and experience needed to run: Last year, Anglesey’s Executive agreed to review and consult on the way the Council provides museum and cultural services as it continues to seek significant financial savings. The process has begun with adverts now online and appearing in the local press shortly.

The closing date for any proposals is June 3. Head of Learning Delyth Molyneux said: “The County Council is inviting proposals for the future management of three of the island’s heritage assets: Beaumaris Courthouse, Beaumaris Gaol and Melin Llynnon. READ: Film of Denbigh's North Wales Hospital shows how the site has deteriorated “Due to the growing financial constraints facing us, we’re investigating new ways of working with partners to deliver an exciting, engaging visitor experience at these heritage sites and willing to consider various agreements. "All proposals which address the long-term financial sustainability of the sites while providing vibrant, dynamic visitor offers will be considered carefully.” Read More - Anglesey Council seeks 'take-over' proposals for Beaumaris Gaol, Courthouse and windmill Read more articles by Mike Williams Email reporter Beaumaris Gaol ANGLESEY Council has asked other organisations to take over three of its key heritage sites, including a Victorian prison, one of the oldest courthouses in Britain and the only working windmill in Wales.

The authority has invited town and community councils, social enterprises, businesses, trusts and organisations to run Beaumaris Gaol, Beaumaris Courthouse and Melin Llynnon. The council is happy to consider all types of lease, license, transfer and sale agreements. The move will help the cash-strapped authority as it seeks to make ”significant financial savings.” Anglesey’s head of learning Delyth Molyneux said: “Due to the growing financial constraints facing us, we’re investigating new ways of working with partners to deliver an exciting, engaging visitor experience at these heritage sites and willing to consider various agreements. “All proposals which address the long-term financial sustainability of the sites while providing vibrant, dynamic visitor offers will be considered carefully. “Our main aim is to develop a new and sustainable business model to safeguard the future of these sites, and protect and preserve the island’s culture and heritage.” Beaumaris Courthouse was built in 1614 and is one of the oldest in Britain. Beaumaris Gaol is a Victorian jail built in 1829, featuring the only original tread wheel in situ in Britain and a gibbet is still fixed to the outer wall.

Melin Llynnon is the only working windmill in Wales built in 1775 and operates as an agricultural museum, producing stoneground wholemeal flour using organic wheat. The site also has two Iron Age roundhouses providing an insight into the life of farmers more than 3,000 years ago. All three sites are currently managed by the council’s museums and culture service. Anglesey’s Executive agreed last year to review and consult on the way the council provides museum and cultural services in the face of budget cuts from the Welsh Government. The council invited expressions of interest for the sites and Oriel Ynys Mon, Llangefni, in September last year. The gallery will be run in-house by the council in a bid to make it profitable, but adverts for the other three sites have now been place online and in local press. The closing date for any proposals is June 3. The authority will consult with Anglesey residents before any final decision on the sites is made. For more information and advice on making a proposal, visit e-mail culturalassests@ynysmon.gov.uk or telephone 01248 752174.

For more news from across the region visit newsnorthwales.co.uk Family-friendly Attractions in North Wales From people-powered rollercoasters to giant underground trampolines, these are some of our favourite days out. Family-friendly days out in North Wales North Wales is packed full of great days out for the whole family. Whether you're staying on Anglesey, the Lleyn Peninsula or in Snowdonia you're never far away from a fun-filled day everyone can enjoy. There are loads of brilliant ways to keep families of all shapes and sizes amused whatever the weather in North Wales. From people-powered rollercoasters to giant underground trampolines, these are some of our favourite days out ‘en famille’. Below you'll find some of our favourtie days out. If you want more detials on anything you see or have any questions please do give us a call - we love to chat . Family-friendly days out on Anglesey Family-friendly days out in Anglesey include a wonderful sea zoo,fantastic heritage sites and fun all round. Llynnon Mill , Llanddeausant Built in 1775, Llynnon Mill is the only working windmill in Wales.

Powered by the winds gusting off the Irish Sea it produces delicious organic stoneground wholemeal flour. It’s fascinating to watch the miller at work, and there’s an interesting exhibition that tells the story of farming and milling on the island. There’s a 2-mile nature trail to follow around the mill, and a tearoom and a shop where you can buy the freshly milled flour – why not have a go at making your own Anglesey bread? You can also visit two reconstructed Iron Age roundhouses which give an insight in to the Iron Age settlers who lived and farmed at Llynnon 3,000 years ago. Anglesey Sea Zoo , Brynsiencyn You’ll find the Sea Zoo on the shore of the Menai Strait looking out across the water to Caernarfon Castle and the mountains of Snowdonia. It’s a great weather-proof day out, where friendly biologists will teach you about the scores of species that are native to the North Wales coast. You can watch feeding times, diving displays, fish for your own pearl oyster or even go on a sea safari! Great for helping adventurous little minds to learn about what they find in rockpools.

You’ll also find a café, giant octopus bouncy castle, a pirate’s playground, gator swamp boats and Captain Jake’s crazy golf. Beaumaris Castle , Beaumaris It is one of the world’s finest examples of medieval military architecture and it’s right here on Anglesey. Designed by royal architect James of St George, this was the last of King Edward I’s ‘Iron Ring’ of fortresses which he built as part of his conquest across North Wales. Beautifully proportioned and constructed to a concentric wall design, it’s fantastically well preserved. It last saw military action during the English Civil War when it was held by forces loyal to Charles I from 1642 until they surrendered to the Parliamentary Armies four years later. The view from the top of the walls across to the towering mountains of Snowdonia will fire your imagination. Along with the castles of Conwy, Caernarfon and Harlech, Beaumaris is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A must-see. Beaumaris Gaol and Courthouse , Beaumaris The atmospheric Gothic courthouse, which you’ll find opposite Beaumaris Castle in the centre of the town, is open to visitors from April to October.

Built in 1614 it has an original hammer-beam roof which must have hung heavy over prisoners as they stood in the dock awaiting their fate. Over at the Victorian gaol you get a reminder of the harsh treatment of prisoners in the 1800s. Its tread wheel, designed for hard-labour prisoners, is the only one in Britain still in place. A nursery above the women's workroom has a slit in the floor through which mothers could, by pulling a rope, rock their babies' cradles without stopping working. The dimly lit corridors and spartan punishment cells will run a chill down your spine. Foel Farm , Brynsiencyn This is a great place for children to experience the sights, sounds and smell of a real working farm. Everyone is invited to meet, touch and feed the animals, and in the spring and early summer you might even be able to bottle-feed the lambs and calves. There are tractor and trailer rides as well as quad bikes and pony rides. You’ll also find a café, gift shop and a delicious chocolate workshop where you can see chocolate being made by the expert chocolatier. The chocolate shop offers a wide selection of handmade chocolates.

Just remember to leave the willpower at home, you’re on holiday! Miri Mawr Soft Play Centre , near Llangefni In the centre of the island, near Llangefni, this soft play centre is perfect for letting of a little bit of steam. There’s an action-packed jungle play experience for older children with slides, ball pools, crawl tubes, rope nets, bridges and much, much more. Toddlers can enjoy a small, designated softplay area. There’s a cafe area for parents to relax in whilst keeping an eye on the children. Pili Palas , near Menai Bridge Exotic butterflies, quizzical meerkats, giant bugs, slithering snakes, chameleons, rabbits, guinea pigs, singing parrots (he’s called Elvis) and pygmy goats. You’ll find all creatures great and small at the Pili Palas. There is also an adventure playground, giant bouncy castle, indoor soft-play area, shop and a café. Hours of family fun.

Family-friendly Lleyn and Snowdonia Zip World, Bounce Below, world-class steam trains and some of the best castles in the UK are in store when you visit the Lleyn and Snowdonia. Snowdon Mountain Railway , Llanberis If the idea of walking up Snowdon feels a little too much like an uphill struggle then the Snowdon Mountain Railway might just be for you. Between March and November it runs daily services to the summit of Wales’ highest mountain from Llanberis. You can buy a return journey (you get a 30 minute stopover) or a one way ticket so you can walk back down the mountain at your own pace. It’s a journey like no other – an average gradient of 1 in 7 over the five mile track gives you unique and breath-taking views of the Snowdonia National Park and beyond. A recorded commentary will give you an informative account of the geology, history and mythology of the mountain, and there’s visitor centre and café at the summit where you can enjoy a steaming mug of hot chocolate, tea and cake as well as the magnificent views. The journey takes around 1 hour each way. Train times vary according to season, check here before you travel.

Beacon Climbing , Caernarfon Excellent indoor climbing facilities including roped climbing walls up to 17m high, multiple low level bouldering areas, a dedicated kids' climbing area and 'CrazyClimb' - a series of wacky climbing challenges. Also features a new 10m 'FreeFall' activity. Suitable for ages 3+, up to and including experienced climbers. Hot meals and snacks served at the on-site Beacon Café. Open seven days a week. Bounce Below , Blaenau Ffestiniog Bounce Below is a sister attraction to Zip World and you’ll find it at Zip World Titan in Blaenau Ffestiniog. It’s a unique underground playground set within an historic disused slate cavern which is just about twice the size of St Paul’s cathedral. Your journey to the centre of the earth (well, actually just 100ft underground) starts with a short train ride which will take you down to the belly of the cavern. Once you’re off get ready to bounce on what will almost certainly be the biggest trampoline nets you have ever seen.

The nets are strung at different levels within two vast chambers, linked together by walkways and a succession of tubular slides. The caverns are lit by an LED light show; expect much delighted squealing as you bounce around this crazy rainbow coloured adventure. You need to be aged 7 or over to take part, and all bouncers must wear a jumpsuit and helmet which are provided for you. Caernarfon Castle , Caernarfon The mighty colossus of Caernarfon Castle is the biggest of Edward I’s fortresses in Wales. It was designed not just as a military stronghold, but as a seat of government and a royal palace. It’s where King Edward and his family lived when they visited Wales. Caernarfon Castle still packs a powerful punch. It’s a brute of a fortress and its tall, imposing walls dominate the streets below. It would have been like an ever-watching eye over the medieval townsfolk. You certainly wouldn’t have wanted to pick a fight with it. Its banded walls and polygonal towers echo the architecture of Constantinople, which Edward had visited on Crusade.

It’s fantastically well preserved, and you can still visit many rooms, towers and passageways which wind their way through the castle. Look out for the imperial eagles on the top of the Eagle Tower: this is where tradition says that Edward’s wife Eleanor gave birth, in 1284, to the future Edward II. Edward declared that his son was the first Prince of Wales. It’s a tradition that the British monarchy still carries to this day – in 1969 the investiture of the current Prince of Wales, HRH Prince Charles, took place at Caernarfon Castle. Maybe one day it will see the investiture of Princes William and George, too. You’ll find frequently changing exhibitions at the castle, as well as the Regimental Museum of the Royal Welsh Fusiliers. Opening times vary according to season, check here before you visit. Conwy Castle , Conwy Conwy Castle is a fantastically well-preserved medieval fortress which, along with the castles of Beaumaris, Caernarfon and Harlech, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s easy to see why.

Built on the orders of King Edward I, it’s one of the finest examples of 13th century military architecture in Europe. It is enormously impressive and formidable. Hard to believe it was completed in just six years. Edward built Conwy as part of his fearsome ‘iron ring’ of fortresses which were designed to help him crush resistance to his conquest of Wales. It was designed to convey some powerful messages – strength, power, permanence and absolute dominion. Those messages still hold firm today. It’s hard not to feel just a little bit awe-struck by the castle’s soaring curtain walls and huge stone towers as you approach it. The views from the battlements, across mountain and sea, are breath-taking. It’s a place to allow your imagination to enjoy a little wander. Maybe you’ll indulge in a little make-believe sword fighting or dragon slaying, or imagine cooking up a feast fit for a king in the medieval kitchens. Opening times vary according to season, check website for details. Criccieth Castle , Criccieth Set on a commanding headland overlooking Tremadog Bay, Criccieth Castle's history is deeply entwined in the medieval conflict between Wales and England.

Built by Llywelyn the Great around 1230 it was heavily modified when it was captured by King Edward I in the late 13th century. The castle was used variously as a fortress and then as a prison until 1404 when, with the help of a French Naval blockade, Owain Glyn Dŵr – the last native Welshman to hold the title ‘Prince of Wales’ – recaptured it from the English and burned it to the ground. You can still see evidence of the scorching today. There’s a visitor centre and bookshop where you can learn more about the castle’s turbulent past, and you can enjoy a walk around the castle walls, breathe in the history and atmosphere of the place and imagine the many scenes that have played out right where you stand. The far-reaching views into the wilds of the Irish Sea add to the captivating atmosphere. Glasfryn Parc , near Pwllheli Glasfryn Parc is a brilliant day out for all the family, with a brilliant range of indoor and outdoor activities.

Activities on offer include cable wakeboarding, go-karting (junior and senior tracks), quad bike treks, archery, skating, ten-pin bowling, soft play centre, kayaking, SUP, clay pigeon shooting, archery, dining, and there's even an award winning farm shop too! All instruction equipment is provided for all activities. Parking and entry are free, activities are priced individually. Glasfryn is open from 9am every day fo the year, apart from Christmas day. Glasfryn Parc near Pwllheli is a brilliant day out for all the family, with go karts, quad bikes, archery, wakeboarding, clay pigeon shooting and plenty more besides. - See more at: #sthash.lyexNtgy.dpuf Greenwood Forest Park , near Bangor / Caernarfon This family-friendly adventure park features the world’s only people-powered roller coaster, den building, mini tractor rides, a barefoot trail and forest theatre. All the rides and activities are designed to have minimal environmental impact and whilst generating maximum fun! Children big and small can test their skills and coordination with the Crocodile Maze, the WildWeb and long bow archery.

Based on the edge of the Snowdonia National Park it regularly gets voted as the best family friendly attraction in North Wales. Check the Greenwood Forest Park website for the What’s On calendar as well as information on opening times and prices. Llanberis Lake Railway , Llanberis The delightful narrow-gauge Llanberis steam train will take you on a five-mile journey along the edge of Lake Padarn, right in the heart of Snowdonia. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the stunning landscapes of the region without breaking too much of a sweat, and a great activity for wet-weather days, too. Your journey will take you past the 12th century Dolbadarn Castle, across what is possibly Britain’s shortest river and past Llanberis’s twin lakes. From Llanberis the train runs non-stop though the Padarn Country Park to Penllyn and on to Cei Llydan, a beautifully tranquil place which is ideal for a lakeside picnic. At Gilfach Ddu you can get off to visit the National Slate Museum . There are themed rides throughout the year including Santa trains, Halloween trips and Easter Egg Hunts.

The five-mile return trip takes around one hour, and the service varies according to the season. Check the website for details. Llechwedd Slate Caverns , Blaenau Ffestiniog At Llechwedd Slate Caverns you get to experience life as it was for a Victorian mining family. Tours start with a ride on the UK’s steepest cable railway which will take you 100s of feet underground to explore the old mine workings. On your way you’ll hear tales of the miners’ family life – children as young as 12 would work down in these dark caverns. They helped make North Wales the slate-capital of the world in the 19th century. Make sure you’re wearing stout footwear as after descending in to the mine the tour underground is around half a mile long and includes over 100 steps. Once you’ve enjoyed your underground adventure you can visit the Llechwedd Slate Workshop and see craftsmen splitting slate and making a range of slate goods – from table mats to wine racks to plant pots. If you’re staying close to Porthmadog you can travel here on the Ffestiniog Railway .

There’s just a short connecting bus ride from Blaenau Ffestiniog railway station. National Slate Museum , Llanberis This museum, in the pretty mountain village of Llanberis, tells the story of the Welsh slate industry. And what a story it is. North Wales was once the slate capital of the world and people have been quarrying slate here for over 1,800 years. Slates were used to build parts of the Roman fort in Segontium in Caernarfon, as well as for parts of Edward I's castle at Conwy. Victorian workshops are presented as though quarrymen and engineers have just put down their tools and left the courtyard for home, and an array of talks and demonstrations, including slate-splitting, give you a real insight into quarry life. Fron Haul, a row of four quarrymen’s houses shows you just how the mining families used to live. Entry to the museum is free, check here for visiting times. Tree Top Adventure , Betws y Coed Experience a fantastic family adventure, but don't forget to bring your head for heights!

Tree Top Adventure is a unique, fully equipped high ropes centre which is guaranteed to deliver a memorable and adrenalin-packed day out. Take your pick from the Tree Top Tower - a 106ft 'parachute simulator' plummet, a 5-seater giant Skyride Swing which will sweep you 120ft in to the air above Conwy Valley, or the Adventurers High Ropes Tour (height restrictions apply). Junior Tree Trail for the under 8s. All brilliant fun. Welsh Highland Railway , Caernarfon Sister to the wonderful Ffestiniog Railway, but by no means in her shadow, the Welsh Highland Railway is the UK’s longest heritage railway. It runs 25 miles from its start next to the awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Site of Caernarfon Castle. From there it steams forth into the foothills of Snowdonia passing lakes, forests and stunning mountain scenery. You’ll descend into the pretty mountain village of Beddgelert before swooping through the Beddgelert Forest and crossing the remarkable Aberglaslyn Pass. The journey ends at Porthmadog.

The ride is an absolute joy – from the beautifully upholstered period carriages and first class Pullman luxury to the freshly-cooked food which you can have delivered to your seat. Another day out that’s guaranteed to generate big smiles. Zip World Velocity and Zip Titan , Bethesda and Blaenau Ffestiniog How do you fancy the idea of flying 500ft above some of the most beautiful landscapes in the UK at speeds of up to 100mph? This adrenalin-fuelled attraction guarantees a completely unique and memorable holiday experience in North Wales. Zip World Velocity won international acclaim when it opened at Bethesda in March 2013. It features a pair of zip lines, a mile long, where riders can experience something that is very close to flying. The birds-eye views across the Menai Strait to Anglesey and beyond are just stunning. You’ll find Zip Titan close to Llechwedd Slate Caverns near the historic slate mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog. It’s the first four-person zip line in Europe and features 8km of zip lines to race down. Great for enjoying a thrilling holiday experience with your friends.

The combination of Zip World Velocity and Zip World Titan makes North Wales the zip line capital of the world. Discover more of what North Wales has to offer... Things To Do On A Rainy Day In North Wales With so many things to do there's no need to let the weather ruin your plans. Things to do on a rainy day in North Wales There’s no need for rain to stop play in North Wales – there are plenty of brilliant places to visit whilst the clouds blow over. Whether you’re staying on Anglesey, the Lleyn or in Snowdonia, here are our top tips on where to head when the heavens open. Anglesey Anglesey Sea Zoo , Brynsiencyn You’ll find the Sea Zoo on the shore of the Menai Strait looking out across the water to Caernarfon Castle and the mountains of Snowdonia. It’s a great weather-proof day out, where friendly biologists will teach you about the scores of species that are native to the North Wales coast. You can watch feeding times, diving displays, fish for your own pearl oyster or even go on a sea safari! Great for helping adventurous little minds to learn about what they find in rockpools.

There’s a café, and if the weather clears a giant octopus bouncy castle, a pirate’s playground, gator swamp boats and Captain Jake’s crazy golf outside. Beaumaris Gaol and Courthouse , Beaumaris The atmospheric Gothic courthouse, which you’ll find opposite Beaumaris Castle in the centre of the town, is open to visitors from April to October. Built in 1614 it has an original hammer-beam roof which must have hung heavy over prisoners as they stood in the dock awaiting their fate. Over at the Victorian gaol you get a reminder of the harsh treatment of prisoners in the 1800s. Its tread wheel, designed for hard-labour prisoners, is the only one in Britain still in place. A nursery above the women's workroom has a slit in the floor through which mothers could, by pulling a rope, rock their babies' cradles without stopping working. The dimly lit corridors and spartan punishment cells will run a chill down your spine.

Copper Kingdom , Parys Mountain, Amlwch Man has been extracting metal from the rocks here for a very long time – there’s evidence to suggest it was an important mining site as long ago as the Bronze Age. The Copper Kingdom visitors centre tells the story of how copper has shaped the lives of people of Anglesey – and how it made a few of them very rich indeed. Miri Mawr Soft Play Centre , near Llangefni In the centre of the island, near Llangefni, this soft play centre is perfect for letting of a little bit of steam. There’s an action-packed jungle play experience for older children with slides, ball pools, crawl tubes, rope nets, bridges and much, much more. Toddlers can enjoy a small, designated softplay area. There’s a cafe area for parents to relax in whilst keeping an eye on the children. Oriel Ynys Mon , Llangefni, Llangefni The Oriel Ynys Mon is a fascinating museum and gallery which showcases the best of Anglesey’s art, history, culture and wildlife. It’s a pleasure to visit for adults and children alike.

The gallery is a leading venue for renowned Anglesey artists like Kyffin Williams and Charles Tunnicliffe (you might recognise his work from the charming Ladybird books he illustrated). There’s a changing programme of exhibitions as well as a social history and archaeology gallery. You’ll also find a rather lovely cafe and gift shop. Pili Palas , near Menai Bridge Exotic butterflies, quizzical meerkats, giant bugs, slithering snakes, chameleons, rabbits, guinea pigs, singing parrots (he’s called Elvis) and pygmy goats. You’ll find all creatures great and small at the Pili Palas. If the sun comes out there is an outdoor adventure playground and giant bouncy castle. Hours of family fun. Plas Newydd , near Llanfair PG Plas Newydd is an elegantly imposing mansion set on the shores of the Menai Strait. It’s owned and managed by the National Trust. Parts of the house date from the 14th century, though the house has been styled with a 1930s interior and is famous for its Rex Whistler mural and exhibition.

Plas Newydd is the seat of the Marquesses of Anglesey and it houses a fascinating military museum with relics from the First Marquess of Anglesey’s military career. He was one of the finest cavalrymen of his generation, and fought alongside Wellington. Look out for the articulated wooden leg which replaced the Marquess’s right leg after it was blown to smithereens on the battlefield at Waterloo. Lloyd George Museum , Criccieth This fascinating museum at Llanystumdwy, just outside of Criccieth, tells the story of one of the greatest statesmen of the 20th century. The museum brings to life Lloyd George’s childhood with a unique display of objects, a film about his life, astonishing 'talking head' speeches, a Victorian schoolroom and library. The Victorian cottage garden is a pleasure to walk around and Lloyd George’s riverside grave is just a short walk away. An enriching and absorbing day out. Oriel Plas Gly y Weddw , Llanbedrog This is a magnificent Grade II listed Victorian gothic manor house which was built for to house the art collection of the widow Lady Elizabeth Love Jones Parry in the 1850s.

It is now, appropriately, a thriving arts centre and features an ever-changing programme of exhibitions, concerts and performances - some of which take place at the open air theatre in the ‘Lost Forest’ grounds. The house has a captivating atmosphere. Look out for the magnificent Jacobean staircase and hammer beam roof and galleries as well as Lady Elizabeth’s ghost which is said to sometimes walk the upper landings. An excellent tearoom features locally sourced home cooked food as well as wonderfully uplifting views to Snowdonia and Cardigan Bay. Bodnant Welsh Food , Conwy Nominated by BBC Good Food Magazine as the UK’s No. 1 farm shop in 2014, the excellent Bodnant Welsh Food Centre is a wonderful place to stock up your holiday larder and while away a couple of foodie hours. The farm shop features a wealth of local produce from in-house and artisan producers as well as locally-reared meat, delicious cheeses, dairy products, fruit and veg, honeys, breads, ciders and beer. At the Bodnant Wine Cellar the knowledgeable staff will help you find the perfect wine to accompany your food.

Book in for a long lunch at the Hayloft Restaurant or a leisurely afternoon tea at the Furnace Tearoom and wait for the clouds to pass. Bounce Below , Blaenau Ffestiniog Bounce Below is a unique underground playground set within an historic disused slate cavern which is just about twice the size of St Paul’s cathedral.Your journey to the centre of the earth (well, actually just 100ft underground) starts with a short train ride which will take you down to the belly of the cavern. Once you’re off get ready to bounce on what will almost certainly be the biggest trampoline nets you have ever seen. The nets are strung at different levels within two vast chambers, linked together by walkways and a succession of tubular slides. The caverns are lit by an LED light show; expect much delighted squealing as you bounce around this crazy rainbow coloured adventure. You need to be aged 7 or over to take part, and all bouncers must wear a jumpsuit and helmet which are provided for you. Ffestiniog Railway , Porthmadog Who can resist the romance and excitement of a day out on a steam railway?

The Ffestiniog Railway is the oldest independent railway company in the world and its line runs for around 13.5 miles from the harbour at Porthmadog to the historic slate mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog. It’s a stunning journey through beautiful Snowdonia landscapes, whatever the weather. The historic trains climb over 700 feet from sea level into the mountains, passing tranquil pastures and magnificent forests lakes and waterfalls on their way. You’ll pass through areas that are completely inaccessible by road, undisturbed by the sights and sounds of modern life. There’s an at-seat buffet service as well as a fully-licenced bar featuring locally-brewed award-winning beers. If the rain stops you might enjoy a wander around Blaenau (it’s a buzzing little mountain village) before you make your return journey. No one comes off the steam train without an enormous smile on their face. A magical experience whatever your age. Llechwedd Slate Caverns , Blaenau Ffestiniog At Llechwedd Slate Caverns you get to experience life as it was for a Victorian mining family.

Tours start with a ride on the UK’s steepest cable railway which will take you 100s of feet underground to explore the old mine workings. On your way you’ll hear tales of the miners’ family life – children as young as 12 would work down in these dark caverns. They helped make North Wales the slate-capital of the world in the 19th century. Museum of the Royal Welsh Fusiliers , Caernarfon Castle The mighty colossus of Caernarfon Castle is the biggest of Edward I’s ‘iron ring’ fortresses in Wales and it still packs a powerful punch. The castle itself is likely to keep you enthralled for many hours, but keep some time aside to visit the excellent Regimental Museum of the Royal Welsh Fusiliers, which is housed in the Queen’s Tower at the castle. It tells the fascinating story of Wales’ oldest infantry regiment and their role in Britain’s most famous military campaigns. National Slate Museum , Llanberis This museum, in the pretty mountain village of Llanberis, tells the story of the Welsh slate industry. And what a story it is.

North Wales was once the slate capital of the world and people have been quarrying slate here for over 1,800 years. It’s a story that has shaped this landscape in many different ways. Trefriw Woollen Mills , Trefriw, near Conwy This fascinating woollen mill has been owned by the same family since 1859. You can tour the working mill museum and see the machines which transforms raw Welsh wool into beautiful bedspreads, tapestries and tweeds. You can then buy some of these beautiful products in the Mill Shop. Welsh Highland Railway , Caernarfon Sister to the wonderful Ffestiniog Railway, but by no means in her shadow, the Welsh Highland Railway is the UK’s longest heritage railway. It runs 25 miles from its start next to the awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Site of Caernarfon Castle. From there it steams forth into the foothills of Snowdonia passing lakes, forests and stunning mountain scenery. You’ll descend into the pretty mountain village of Beddgelert before swooping through the Beddgelert Forest and crossing the remarkable Aberglaslyn Pass. The journey ends at Porthmadog.

The ride is an absolute joy – from the beautifully upholstered period carriages and first class Pullman luxury to the freshly-cooked food which you can have delivered to your seat. Come rain or shine, it’s a day out that’s guaranteed to generate big smiles. Discover more of what North Wales has to offer...

Question: Which N. Wales town has a courthouse, built in 1614, a castle, and a disused jail?
Answer: BEAUMARIS