Set off around 9am to return to Gwarffynnon. This time the weather wasn’t as kind. Lots of rain and a near gale force wind on our journey. However, for the stops we made it held off (mostly!)

We stopped again at the National Botanic Gardens and then in Cardigan. Now… Cardigan!!! Once the county town of the now defunct Cardiganshire, we expected something vaguely worth seeing. There was nothing except perhaps the Castle, but then… seen one?

Apart from High Street favourites, Banks and one craft shop, everything else was pretty much a junk shop. Tired, run down and totally uninviting. 

There was a Market Hall. We stepped inside; we love markets. Most of the stalls looked like leftovers from car boot sales. What a waste of an attractive building.

We arrived in Gwarffynnon around 3:30pm and settled in and watched the wind trying to tear down the trees on the hillside opposite.

It’s warm, comfortable and a change of scene. Nothing to complain about there!

After a cloudy start, around 9:30am there were breaks in the clouds, so we headed off to Aberystwyth. There’s a Cliff Railway, Rheilffordd y Graig, which, every time I’ve been to Aberystwyth in the past, I’ve promised to ride, but never have.

Today was the day!

The views from the top of Constitution Hill across the town and Cardigan Bay are spectacular. In more normal times (returning next week, allegedly), there’s a café, a gift shop, and a Victorian Camera Obscura.

For today, just the scenery!

For the fitter (or insane) amongst us the summit can be reached on foot, and forms part of the Coastal Footpath. Instead, we journeyed back to sea level on the train and took a stroll along the promenade.

We then planned a visit to Borth, about 5 miles north which has an enormous beach. When we arrived, the heavens opened (and, BTW, as I write this, there’s a thunderstorm kicking off). Discretion being the better of valour, we decided that a drive around the town and adjoining estuary would be a better plan.

Back for the afternoon and evening in the snug, warm and, most importantly, dry barn!

The sun came out; it brought some clouds with it, but no rain. 

We returned to a favourite place, Aberaeron and had a stroll around. Only found a few new places to photograph, but our main objective was to have some of the best fish & chips in Wales and the best ice cream possibly world wide.

Mission accomplished!

Last time in the area we’d bought some sheep (don’t be daft… mantlepiece ornaments) in Tregaron. We wanted another set to balance the display so we returned to the shop. Despite wearing masks both times, the assistant recognised us and where we were from. Amazed!

Mission accomplished.

Another quiet afternoon, relaxing and watching the sheep, goat, chickens, ducks and pets go by.