Thirteen Wanderers, travelled to St Fagan’s National Museum of Welsh History in Cardiff. Leigh and David, Richard’s visiting daughter and son in law were, as ever, a welcome addition to the group.
Resisting the temptation for a pre walk coffee, we set off on our walk around the gardens, lakes and the castle situated in the grounds of St Fagans. Having passed by the ‘treetop’ walk we walked through the underpass, crossing the bridge over the lake to ascend the stone stairs to the castle.
St Fagans Castle is a grand house built on the grounds of an old Norman Castle. We also learned that the present mansion house was built around 1580.
We explored the ground floor to include butler’s pantry, kitchen and drawing room. The first floor, due to repairs, is currently closed to the public.
An obligatory photo, with the ‘castle’ was taken by a kind gardener.
Onward we explored the Italian gardens which are well tended in readiness for spring/summer with Daffodils and snowdrops already on display throughout the grounds.
The summer house, boat house and barns gave some idea of how the owners, who used the ‘castle’ as a summer residence, could enjoy a privileged lifestyle.
On the route we came across the woollen mill which was open for visitors. Wool spinning and weaving happen under this one roof. Passing by a ‘cork’ tree we came across Stryd Lydan Barn where the wooden dowelling of the structure was appreciated by some members.
Back to our starting point at the main museum entrance we sat outside indulging in coffee, cake and, as ever, much chat before saying our ’goodbyes’
Thank you everyone for your good company.
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