Quirky chapel in a historic village
Congregate at this deftly restored Chapel with ecclesiastical joy and vast space intact. Right in the centre of Llandystumdwy village, Capel Bach Tabernacl has room for six explorers keen for walks from the door and to soak up local Welsh history. Menter Y Plu, the Llanystumdwy Community Enterprise own both the pub Tafarn Y Plu which has been open for 200 years, and Capel Bach which was built way back in 1831. The chapel, like the entire village has a story to tell. It is not a coincidence that TÅ· Newydd is based here and is the National Writing Centre of Wales. The community is an active one and the Welsh language thrives here.
Step into the beating heart of the Chapel - a large living space with squashy sofas and a traditional atmosphere. All rooms radiate from this core - follow beautifully handmade pitch pine stairs with carved banisters to hidden spaces up in the vaulted ceilings. It’s an amazing place for very close family and friends that are happy to share the joy. The airy kitchen is carefully shielded behind slender glazed doors and has all the basics for a holiday. The cosy dining area is perfect for long suppers and wine.
Three bedrooms are set off the living space – all doubles but note those in the Gods are behind curtains and screens - not for the modest. The ground floor bedroom has a door and is handy for the bathroom! The bathroom may be basic, but it gleams and has an indulgent bath to make up for the long walks.
Llandustumwy was the birthplace of the only Welsh-speaker to serve as Prime Minister, David Lloyd George. His childhood home sits across the way from Capel Bach and is the Lloyd George Museum - a fascinating glimpse into the politician's life. TÅ· Newydd was the home of David Lloyd George in later life.
Follow the Afon Dwyfor riverbank footpath past Lloyd George's grave through the Coed Trefan woodland or head to the Wales Coastal Path through the village. Dwyfor Ranch Rabbit Farm and Animal Park is around the corner for youngsters.
Less than two miles away Criccieth Castle enjoys a magnificent location right on rocky headland overlooking Cardigan Bay. The beach at Criccieth is a rock poolers haven and with some sandy stretches, is a proper seaside day out. Ice cream at Cadwalader’s with recipes that have evolved since 1927 – seriously good! Here also find Dylan’s for food located right on the seafront in a curvaceous Art Deco pavilion. Harlech is down the road for another grand castle and seaside splendour not forgetting Eryri (Snowdonia), an adventure heaven is on the doorstop. Portmeirion is not far away, and is a unique tangle of colourful architecture, domes, gardens and statues. It is quite something to find a 20th century village inspired by Portofino on the Italian Riviera here in Wales, and is worth a visit. Or jump onto a steam train and let the Welsh coast come to you.
Click on the map for local places of interest.