Conwy in North Wales is set on the Conwy River Estuary, dominated by the majesty of Conwy Castle. Fine views over the harbour and Snowdonia form the backdrop to this medieval walled town. It is no surprise that today Conwy is designated as a World Heritage Site. Conwy is best known for its Castle, the most formidable link in 'The Iron Ring' of castles built by Edward I, to defend his newly won territory. Built between 1283 and 1287, the castle remains an impressive fortress appearing to grow from the rock on which it was built. Eight great round towers were built around the inner and outer wards, which are separated by a drawbridge and portcullis. Although the bridge leading to the Castle gives the impression of a drawbridge, it only dates from 1826. This graceful suspension bridge designed by Thomas Telford, makes a delicate contrast with the mighty bulk of the ancient Castle.
Start of the “C” grade walk - we walk down to the Quay past this knight in shining armour.
..and through the arch
Conway Quay
The Lifeboat shop
and we're off!
The Liverpool Arms quiet now but see it later.
We follow the Marine Walk along the estuary to Conway Marina.
Conway Marina
.. and here we have our packed lunches in this handy shelter.
..then we set off for the sand dunes
with Conway Mountain behind.which was the area of the "B" walk.
..here we follow a sandy path around the headland..
with views across the river to Deganway
and on our left towers Conway Mountain
A couple enjoy a stoll along the shore.
Conway Golf Club in a perfect setting twixt the sea and Conway Mountain..
On the left the road follows the coast usinig road tunnels - on the right is the low outline of the Isle of Anglesey.
Another pause looking over to Llandudno's Great Orme headland across the Conway estuary.
Sand dune gal - smile Peg.
A spiky thistle plant growing n the sand
We circle around and pass through the Marina again now bathed in bright sunshine.
.. we cross an inlet filling up with the incoming tide.
and are now back on the Marine Walk ..
..and the castle soon comes into view again
.. as we pass by a couple f derelict boats
..we are now nearly back on the Quay..
..which is just through this arch in the medieval town walls.
with neat cottages and brightly painted doors
The smallest hous in Britain - Yes! its just the red bit.
Time for a photo, while Jean ops to pay a pound and go inside.
Two ladies in Welsh costume take the money.
Back at the Liverpool Arms which is now much busier than this morning when we passed.
The main street in Conway
The castle dominates the town - go and see it, it is brilliant
The walk is over - people do their own thing untill we leave, and I take my camera up on to the castle walls.
You can do a mlile long walk around the town walls
A castle defender's view of the Conway Valley looking inland
A 13th cent. arrow slit looks down to the estuary
The castle almost seems part of the crag it is built on
Thomas Telford's road bridge built in 1826.
...seems like its the drawbridge to the castle.
...view from the walkway on the modern road bridge used today.
...and from it you can look down the Conway River estuary.
On the Quay is this striking sculpture of mussel shells
... now we have left Conway and have driven into Llandudno over the river and The Albert pub....
.. for our after walk meal - just be patient lads - it's on its way!
..the beer was good too -Cheers! Derek & Co
I can see they have been around with the raffle tickets.
Happy families - smile please!
Did you get lucky girls, and win a prize?.
... well never mind, you look like you are having a great time anyway.
Time to pay up for the meal
A great day out - nice walks - a pleasant meal with friends -Bliss! - To those who helped make it happen, thank you - from everyone.
As the song says "Cockles and mussels and Janet, alive alive oh!"
Views taken on the "B" walk suss, on walk day this expectant mare, seen here on the suss,was seen with her new foal. On the right a great photo of Conway and it's castle from the top of Conway Mountain taken by Janet Foster. PS Janet may have a photo of the foal, if so I will include it.
Lest we forget, before walk day someone has to go and walk the route beforehand, here Margaret Gregory sets off up Conway Mountain on suss day, backed by Janet Foster.
Janet looks out over the sea from the top of Conway Mountain.
