Moylegrove

It was just the “Navigator” and me today and based on the weather as we left are respective homes I could not blame the others. However with full faith in the Met. Office that the sun would come out in Pembrokeshire we sallied forth to Moylegrove.

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Route

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No doubt some lorries have been stuck here.

The rain had almost stopped and it did not warrant over trousers but with mud almost bound to be encountered gaiters were worn.

We walked inland along lanes to Monington, another Pembrokeshire hamlet I can tick off. We stopped here by the bridge for coffee. From here we walked uphill to Pantsaeson which has an interesting history (click the link).

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unloved church?

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Carn Ingli in the distance

The coast was regained at Ceibwr Bay after walking along a number of lanes and bridleways. This small bay was a regular launching place for canoeing trips that we used to make along the coast, but it was not inviting today with waves crashing into the cliffs.

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Ceibwr bay

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Interesting formations Ceibwr

A route was signposted back to Moylegrove alongside the Afon Ceibwr which we took albeit somewhat muddy. However there was evidence of numerous plants starting to show growth and a spring walk would be worthwhile.

Chirk

I was recently in Chester for a spot of dog sitting and wallpaper removal. The weather was not wonderful but dogs have to be walked and various paths and parks around Hoole were explored to include a stroll in the rain around the “Walls”.

Monday’s weather was the best of the bunch and in the morning Holly and I walked along the canal to Christleton and back. We then picked up Andy and headed off to Chirk for an interesting walk along mostly lanes but some muddy paths in the afternoon.

Route

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Posh gates near Chirk Castle

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Chirk castle area

The snowdrops were making an appearance.

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I managed to get home before Rhodri and Gianna and wash off Holly in the bath!

The day finished with a visit to the new library/cinema complex now known as the Story House in Chester where Rhodri and I watched a film of very talented skiers and snowboarders.

Cynheidre

Today would be a lane walk in the Cynheidre area. Once a large coal mining operation now completely unrecognisable.

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Soon after starting we passed Sylen Lakes, a place I had not noticed before. From here we continued along a minor road and visited the trig point at Mynydd Sylen. Unfortunately the visibility was not that clear although further north we could see sunshine.

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As we rejoined the road in the distance a large solar farm could be seen. I regularly pass this on the cycle trail from Cross Hands to Llanelli but today we could see the size of it.

Here on Mynydd Sylen we came across a blue plaque relating to a “great meeting” following the Rebecca Riots. Another place I was not aware of.

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The wind on this higher ground had a bite to it but we managed to find some shelter for our lunch before joining the above mentioned cycle trail which led back to the car. next to the trail near Cynheidre is an old railway which is very slowly being brought back to life.

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. This link gives some interesting history.

Paxton Tower Circular

A day that called out for a walk, blue sky and brisk temperatures. No doubt my grandson will be disappointed that I decided on a walk and not to watch him play rugby!

I walked from my home and through lanes with the highest point being Paxtons Tower.

Route

Not far from Porthyrhyd I met a colleague from Many Tears Animal Rescue who were putting up leaflets about an escaped dog which had been rescued from Romania and had been missing since 9th December last.

The views from Paxton Tower were far reaching with snow on the Carmarthen Fans.

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I had hoped to walk through grounds of the National Botanic Garden of Wales but the northern entrances were closed until February 2018 because of the restoration work being carried out. Continuing on the lanes I met a walking group and stayed with them for a while chatting about the area.

Paxton Tower circular

As I neared my home my mobile rang, it was my wife asking where I was  and this resulted in a cup of tea and a sandwich being ready as I went through through the front door – result.