Cyfarthfa Castle

“I know it sounds glamorous, but it was bloody cold growing up in a castle.”
Chris de Burgh
Early start for trip with K1 to Merthyr for our guided tour of Ironmaster Crawshay Bailey’s home, Cyfarthfa Castle, courtesy of Blaenau Gwent Heritage Forum. Arrived on time and were met by our guide Chris, who’d given a very entertaining talk on The Welsh Method (of puddling iron) at Bedwellty House in January. He’s a star, nearly two hours of interesting stories, witty asides and  comical anecdotes – think he’s missed his calling, should be in stand-up. Headed off to the café for obligatory coffee and cake before wrapping up the visit with a wander around the cellars.
Via Cardiff to visit a Lighting company to sort out a problem with our living room light fitting, then off to Penarth in search of lunch. Sun put in an appearance for us so it was warm enough for a leisurely stroll along the prom and onto the pier. Nothing grabbed us so we headed to the café on the cliff path, spag bol on the menu for K1 so it was decided. Another short walk to nose at the house extensions and balconies on the headland before braving the rush hour traffic home. Not as bad as feared, although had to take a detour back through town to miss the docks tailback but home in plenty of time, ‘perfect’ day out.