Monday morning saw ten WWs setting off from Wick to Sophia Gardens car park Cardiff. Shock! horror! when on arrival, we were informed that car parking, due to ‘The Hundred’ cricket event on the day, was £20 per car. We made a quick decision to pay the increased cost, parked up, and set off on the trail to Llandaff.
Walking along the River Taff, we remarked on the fast flow of the water rushing by. A family of ducks kept to the bank avoiding being swept downstream. Clever ducks!
Further along the path the roar of the Llandaff Weir assaulted our ears. What power in the force of the barrier spanning the width of the river!
Chatting together, greeting passing dog walkers, we traversed the woodland path. The weather remained in our favour. Cloudy sky; thankfully, no rain. Hoorah!
Emerging from the wooded river path the group arrived at the grounds of Llandaff Cathedral. Coffee being voted a priority, the group decision was to visit the cathedral post refreshments. The Coffee Lab provided coffee/tea and various delicious bites, and a catch up with Lyn and Frank, who had been on an alternative walk in the area. One for a future Monday walk?
Llandaff has a quaint High Street with local shops, eating places and pubs. A blue plaque identifies the sweet shop, the author, Roald Dhal, who lived in the area; attended Llandaff Cathedral School, relates in stories of his childhood.
A gift shop provided a pleasurable browsing time with some purchases. Moving on to the garden of The Bishops Palace, we assembled for the obligatory photo shoot.
‘The Pound’ located next to the 13th century palace, built in 1930s, has been developed with ecofriendly features, resulting in A energy rating. Chatting with the organisers, we learned that this community meeting place is run by volunteers; funded by users attending the weekly activities.
Much to keep our interest!
We walked down to the Cathedral. Llandaff Cathedral & parish church was founded in the 12th century; is the seat of The Bishop of Llandaff. As you can imagine, there is much history attached to this magnificent building; I would encourage anyone interested, to visit.
Leaving the Cathedral, the group made their way on the return path, diverting through the Pontcanna Permanent Allotments where fruit, vegetables and flowers grew in abundance. Blackberries were ripening in the hedges along the way. The warmth of the sun appreciated by the group on this interesting diversion from the river path.
As we approached Sophia Gardens, the Hundred Cricket event was nearing commencement. We were handed ‘cricket headgear’ pop ups (see photo!) Returning to our respective cars, some stayed on for ice creams while others returned to Wick for evening plans.
It was agreed that, and enjoyable, interesting day was had, albeit the exorbitant parking fees.
Thanks to everyone.
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