Sunday 31 July 2016

Opening of the R.S. Thomas room at Llanfaelrhys Church

Visitors to Manaros will know that we are great fans of R.S. Thomas. He was rector of Aberdaron until 1976 before retiring to Sarn Plas in Rhiw. He was a brilliant poet. The church at Llanfaelrhys was part of his parish and his wife was buried in the graveyard there. There is also a memorial stone to R.S. himself. Following the spoken evensong which takes place in the church every week at 2pm, there was the official opening of the room above the vestry as the R.S. Thomas centre. Here is a view over Bardsey and a wonderful collection of his poetry and prose works, some interesting family photographs and the chance to listen to the great man himself on the CD player.

Llanfaelrhys church stands near to the wonderful scenery of the Coast Path. We urge walkers to divert inland at Porth Ysgo so that they can see this beautiful church which is always open.

Llanfaelrhys church dates way back to the 6th century, but most of the building is now 19th century but with some interesting pew arrangements and a wonderful east window.

The R.S. Thomas room has a small window from which Bardsey can be seen.

There are many photographs here concerning Elsie and Gwydion, the poet’s wife and son.

Many of the books can be either purchased or read in the room itself.

Wednesday 6 July 2016

Prince says Aberdaron is a "jolly good place to visit."

Yesterday Aberdaron played host to the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall. They visited the new bakery and the Splash fish restaurant, and walked past the Ship Hotel towards the church. Alun Harrison presented the royal couple with a photograph of the Prince's previous visit in 1978. The royals then went to the church and saw the ancient stones before moving off to see Porth y Swnt.

Alun Harrison presenting the Prince with a photo of his last visit to Aberdaron taken in 1978.

The Duchess of Cornwall meeting the pupils of Ysgol Crud y Werin in St Hywyn's church.


The Duchess sampling the work of Becws Islyn Bakery.