The unassuming town of Blaenau Ffestiniog, nestled in the bowl of the Moelwynion mountains, is quite the perplexing underdog. Even though it was a somewhat dreary day with the sun struggling to break through, the town's amplified spirit was impossible to ignore. Locals lovingly refer to this gloomy weather as "Mwrllwch", a local vernacular word used to describe the commonplace drizzle, fog, smoke and darkness that blankets their dwellings. Moreover, not to be deterred by the soggy climate, locals often exclaim "Tywydd hen ffasiwn heddiw! " meaning "Old-fashioned weather today! ".
Best known for its blue slate dubbed 'Glesni', lakes, and unwavering spirit, Blaenau Ffestiniog, or simply 'Stiniog, provides an interesting sojourn for any daytripper. Despite being geographically situated at Eryri National Park's heart, strangely, the boundaries set in 1951 have excluded it along with its vast slate-waste heaps.
One can be enticed into exploring its dense heritage through immersive experiences like the Deep Mine Tour at Zip World Llechwedd. For thrill-seekers, there are extraordinary adventures offered by Zip World such as the Caverns zipline challenge where you can soar from wall to spotlit wall within a breathtaking underground setting, reports North Wales Live.
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It's intriguing to ponder what 19th-century quarrymen would think of their once dank and perilous workplaces now transformed into exhilarating tourist attractions, thanks to Zip World's visionary efforts. History enthusiasts will be thrilled to discover remnants of Blaenau Ffestiniog's industrial past, a time when the town was known for roofing the world. Just opposite the railway station, you'll find names of old quarries etched into the ground and a miniature locomotive nearby. Find out about the latest events in Wales by signing up to our What's On newsletter here
However, the town doesn't always do itself any favours. A somewhat sombre phrase is carved into one display: "Men die, rocks in the darkness of these mountains endure." On a brighter note, there's plenty to keep visitors entertained, from lively pubs and charming cafes - including a rumoured upcoming Jamaican one - to a vibrant music scene.
I popped into Ty Coffi Antur 'Stiniog Coffee House in the town centre. The place has a welcoming, spacious atmosphere, with yellow lights adding a decorative touch to the ceiling, tables scattered around for cosy chats, friendly staff, and an array of cakes. The last time I visited 'Stiniog', I attended a gig at the former police station, now known as Cell B. An REM tribute band, named Stipe after lead singer Michael Stipe, features a gifted lead guitarist who hails from North Wales. Support award-winning journalism with WalesOnline’s Premium app on Apple or Android
The lads delivered a remarkably true-to-original rendition of classic tunes by the now sadly disbanded Georgia rockers on an unforgettable, albeit rain-soaked night. Cell B also hosts film nights, with a recent screening featuring Sir Anthony Hopkins' latest movie, One Life, which tells the story of Nicholas Winton's efforts to help Jewish children escape Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia during World War II.
Venture to the neighbouring village of Llan Ffestiniog and you'll find events like Knit Your Own Sock Night at Y Pengwern pub. Despite the weather, the spirit of 'Stiniog is enhancing its cultural scene. A local resident noted that the UK has seen more rainfall in the past year or so than any other period since records began in 1836.
Yet, volunteers are transforming the town from grey to green through community initiatives that visitors can witness. Backed by a social enterprise named Y Drefwerdd, locals distribute food, pick up litter, attach plants to railings, and plant apple trees in an orchard in nearby Tanygrisiau. So, 'Stiniog and its surrounding towns are buzzing with life and optimism. And let's be honest, whether it's rainwater or sunshine reflecting off its evocative scree slopes, the place looks like a film set.
