Llancaiach Fawr Manor, Nelson, South Wales

The peaceful, rural setting of Llancaiach Fawr Manor belies the turmoil of its early years. Built in 1530 for Dafydd ap Richard, it was designed to be easily defended during the turbulent reigns of Tudor kings and queens. By the start of the 17th century the Prichards had prospered and the house was extended in 1628 to demonstrate their status. The manor is furnished and presented as it was during the Civil War in 1645 when Charles 1 reputedly came to visit.

Visitors take a step back in time and are welcomed into the Manor by the costumed servants who follow the traditional domestic and farming rhythms of life in the countryside. They share the folklore and customs of the changing seasons with visitors along with news and impact of the turmoil created by the Civil War upon the household and its staff. The household staff reenact the attitudes and knowledge of the time with no knowledge of the 21st Century or the strange clothing that some visitors may wear. An interesting experience.

As well as events held in this haunted house, this site offers catering for celebrations and conferences, an exhibition & Gift Shop, Cafe & Restaurant, as well as a Lifelong Learning centre.

The existence of passages and stairways walled up over the years leads to the interesting situation where there are more windows visible from outside Llancaiach Fawr than can be seen 
on the inside. 

www.llancaiachfawr.co.uk

National Botanical Garden of Wales, Carmarthen

Carmarthen in west Wales is the home of one of the largest single span greenhouses in the world.

There is always something to see, always something in bloom no matter what time of year you visit. Built on two levels there are walkways which enable you to explore plants from above and below. 

The windows are controlled by small motors in the struts to open and close automatically, keeping the temperature at the required level for Mediterranean plants. Within a few yards you can move plantwise from one continent to another; from South Africa to South America; no flight tickets required, and a cup of coffee and a snack just a few more steps away.

Outside there are grasslands, lakes and bog plants as well as a double-walled garden with vegetables. Acres of garden for both children and adults to enjoy.

The rill flows down into a cobbled water feature.

Gazing around as you walk up the entrance pathway, make sure you watch your footing. Otherwise you could end up with a wet foot from the small water-filled rill that runs quaintly down to a low cobbled water feature.

From a distance you may look twice and think of running from this magical metal and wool sculpture which looks quite real.

The ice house, although a little off the beaten track has now been refurbished. This would have originally been used to store ice formed over winter on the surface of the lake further down the site. This ice would then have been stored to use in the summertime for example, for making ice cream.

Inside the ice house.

Why not add variety to your visit and combine it with one of the events held there. There’s so much to see and do. I’m sure you’ll want to visit more than once.

http://www.gardenofwales.org.uk/whats-on/events/