With the Bannisters

Category: Out and about

  • A quick lunchtime walk. Beach edition.

    A quick lunchtime walk. Beach edition.

    Taking a walk on your lunch break can be a great way to break up the monotony of your workday and improve your overall health and well-being. Today, I took a walk to the beach on my lunch break and I was reminded of the many benefits that come with stepping outside and getting some fresh air.

    Firstly, taking a walk on your lunch break is a great way to get some exercise. If you work in an office, you may spend most of your day sitting in front of a computer screen. Taking a walk during your lunch break can help you get moving and improve your physical health. Even a short walk can help improve your cardiovascular health, burn some calories, and reduce your risk of developing certain health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.

    Secondly, taking a walk on your lunch break can improve your mental health. Walking outside can help reduce stress and anxiety, as well as improve your mood. This is because walking can release endorphins, which are natural chemicals that help reduce pain and increase feelings of pleasure and well-being. Additionally, being outside in nature can be calming and restorative, helping you feel more relaxed and centred.

    Thirdly, taking a walk on your lunch break can improve your productivity. Studies have shown that taking a break and going for a walk can actually help improve your cognitive function and concentration, which can ultimately make you more productive when you return to your work. By taking a break and getting some fresh air, you can clear your mind and return to your tasks with renewed focus and energy.

    Finally, taking a walk on your lunch break can be a great way to connect with others. Walking with a coworker or friend can be a great way to bond and build relationships, which can ultimately lead to a more positive work environment.

    Overall, taking a walk on your lunch break can have many benefits for your physical and mental health, as well as your productivity and social connections. So next time you have the opportunity, consider taking a break from your desk and heading outside for a refreshing walk – your body and mind will thank you for it.

  • Climbing in the old RNLI Boathouse in Llandudno

    Climbing in the old RNLI Boathouse in Llandudno

    Recently, my family and I visited the Boathouse Climbing Centre in Llandudno, and we had an incredible experience. Although we had only planned to stay for an hour, we ended up spending over three hours there due to how much my daughter Eva loved climbing.

    As soon as we entered the centre, we were greeted by a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. There were climbers of all ages and skill levels scaling the walls and bouldering, and the staff were friendly and welcoming. We were given a quick introduction to the climbing walls and bouldering areas and set off to explore.

    Eva was excited to try everything and made her way to the tower room to tackle the top rope routes. She was determined to climb as high as possible and did an excellent job of it. Even our baby Harry was captivated by the climbers and wanted to give it a try himself.

    While Eva and I climbed, my wife Lulu stayed with Harry, who was too young to climb. Lulu was happy to watch and cheer us on, with Harry from the side-lines. The staff were incredibly helpful, offering advice and encouragement to us all, and we felt well looked after throughout our visit.

    Overall, we had an amazing time at the Boathouse Climbing Centre. The quality of the climbing walls and routes was impressive, and the staff created a welcoming and inclusive environment. Eva loved it so much that we’re already planning a return visit, and we can’t wait to go back. If you’re looking for a fun and challenging activity to do with your family or friends, we would highly recommend checking out the Boathouse Climbing Centre. https://boathouseclimbingcentre.co.uk/

  • Prestatyn Roman baths

    Prestatyn Roman baths

    Prestatyn is a small seaside town on the North Wales coast, known for its long stretches of sandy beaches and beautiful walks along the coastline. But did you know that the town is also home to a Roman bath house?

    The bath house was discovered back in the 1930s, but there is still much that is not known about its purpose. It is not clear why a bath house would have been built in this particular location, as there have been no other significant Roman remains found in the area.

    The site is currently undergoing work to secure the stone work and preserve this important piece of local history. If you want to visit the site, it is signposted for walking as it is located in a housing estate. There is parking available for two cars at the gate, and a map link is provided for those interested in exploring the area.

    While the Roman bath house may not be a well-known attraction in Prestatyn, it is a fascinating piece of history that is worth exploring for those interested in the town’s past. As more information is uncovered about the site, it will be interesting to see what new insights are gained into the lives of the Romans who once lived in this area. See Facebook for updates

  • Greenwood Family Park

    Greenwood Family Park

    If you’re looking for a family day out in North Wales, then Greenwood Family Park is definitely worth checking out. Located in Y Felinheli, it’s packed full of activities and attractions to keep children of all ages entertained.

    One of the standout features of Greenwood is its eco-friendly ethos. The park is powered entirely by renewable energy, which is generated on-site, making it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious families.

    When it comes to activities, there’s no shortage of things to do. For younger children, the park has a range of interactive play areas, including a tree-top towers and a barefoot trail.

    Older children will enjoy the bigger rides and attractions, such as the Green Dragon rollercoaster and the SolarSplash water ride. There’s also an adventure playground, a giant slide, and a bouncy castle, as well as a variety of other activities.

    But it’s not just about the rides and attractions at Greenwood. The park also has a strong educational focus, with a range of workshops and interactive exhibits that teach children about the environment and renewable energy. And if you’re feeling hungry after all that activity, there’s a range of food options available, including pizza and pasta.

    All in all, Greenwood Family Park is a fantastic day out for families with children of all ages. With its eco-friendly focus, educational exhibits, and range of activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, pack a picnic and head over to Y Felinheli for a fun-filled day at Greenwood!

  • Gypsy Wood Family Park North Wales

    Gypsy Wood Family Park North Wales

    Gypsy Wood Family Park North Wales

    If you’re looking for a fun and engaging day out with your little ones, Gypsy Wood Park in Bontnewydd, Caernarfon, Gwynedd is definitely worth a visit. This delightful attraction offers a range of interactive attractions and animals that are sure to keep younger children entertained.

    From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with the friendly staff who provided us with a map of the park and showed us around. We were immediately impressed by the beautifully landscaped gardens and the variety of animals on display. Our children were particularly delighted with the miniature ponies and the playful goats.

    One of the highlights of the park was the play area, which had a number of fun and exciting attractions, including a pirate ship, climbing frames, and swings. Our children particularly enjoyed the treehouse, which was built on multiple levels and had a number of interactive features.

    In addition to the play area, there were also a number of other interactive attractions to enjoy, including a miniature train ride, a fairy garden, and a maze. The fairy garden was particularly enchanting, with beautifully crafted fairy houses and other magical features hidden among the flowers.

    Throughout the park, there were also a number of food and drink outlets, so we were able to take breaks and refuel throughout the day. The onsite gift shop also had a variety of souvenirs and mementos for sale.

    Overall, we had a fantastic time at Gypsy Wood Park. The park was well-maintained and clean, and the staff were friendly and knowledgeable. If you’re looking for a fun and engaging day out with younger children, Gypsy Wood Park is definitely worth a visit.

  • Manorafon Farm – Abergele

    Manorafon Farm – Abergele

    https://www.manorafon-farm-park.co.uk/ Llanddulas Road,
    Abergele, Conwy, LL22 8ET

    Manorafon Farm is a wonderful place for families to enjoy a day out. It offers a wide range of activities that both adults and children will enjoy. We recently visited Manorafon Farm and had a great time.

    One of the highlights of our visit was feeding the animals. The farm is home to a variety of animals such as goats, sheep, pigs, and cows. The kids were thrilled to get up close and personal with these animals, and even got to help with feeding them. It was a wonderful experience for them to learn about different animals and their diets.

    Another fun activity at the farm is the bike riding. The farm has a dedicated area for bike riding which was perfect for our little ones. They were able to ride around freely and safely, while we watched them from a distance. It was a great way for them to burn off some energy and get some exercise.

    The new pillows were another great addition to the farm. Our kids had a blast jumping on them and trying different stunts. It was a great way for them to have some fun and get some exercise at the same time.

    The princess castles and sand area was also a hit with our kids. They spent a lot of time playing in the sand, building sandcastles, and pretending to be royalty in the princess castles. It was a great way for them to use their imagination and have some fun.

    Overall, we had a great time at Manorafon Farm. It’s a great place for families to enjoy a day out and have some fun. The farm has something for everyone, from feeding animals to bike riding to jumping on pillows. We highly recommend a visit to this wonderful place.

  • Trail-gator

    Trail-gator

    Tag-a-long bike adapter from https://www.trail-gator.com/

    If you love cycling with your kids, but sometimes they can’t keep up with you, the Tag-a-long bike adapter from Trail Gator might be the perfect solution for you. This clever device allows you to attach your child’s bike to yours, so you can tow them along when they get tired. Here’s what you need to know about this product:

    What is a Tag-a-long bike adapter?

    A Tag-a-long bike adapter is a device that allows you to attach your child’s bike to your own. It consists of a long, sturdy bar that attaches to the seat post of your bike, and a bracket that attaches to the seat post of your child’s bike. The two bikes are then connected by the bar, which extends out from your bike and slots into the bracket on your child’s bike.

    How does it work?

    The Tag-a-long bike adapter works by allowing your child to pedal along with you when they have the energy, and then rest when they get tired. The bar that connects the two bikes is strong and stable, so you don’t have to worry about your child’s bike wobbling or swaying. And because the bar extends out from your bike, you have plenty of room to pedal without bumping into your child’s bike.

    What are the benefits of using a Tag-a-long bike adapter?

    There are several benefits to using a Tag-a-long bike adapter. Firstly, it allows you to go on longer bike rides with your child, as they can rest when they get tired. This means you can explore further afield without having to worry about your child getting too tired to continue.

    Secondly, it’s a great way to help your child build up their cycling skills and confidence. By pedaling along with you, they can get used to riding on the road, learn how to follow traffic rules and signals, and get a feel for how to balance their bike.

    Finally, it’s a fun and interactive way to spend time with your child. Cycling together is a great way to bond, and by using a Tag-a-long bike adapter, you can both enjoy the ride without worrying about your child getting too tired.

    What are the drawbacks?

    As with any cycling accessory, there are a few drawbacks to using a Tag-a-long bike adapter. Firstly, they can be quite expensive, so you’ll need to be prepared to invest in one if you want to use it regularly.

    Secondly, they can be quite bulky, so you’ll need to have a car with a large enough boot to transport both bikes. And finally, they can be quite heavy, so you’ll need to be prepared to do a bit of extra pedaling when towing your child’s bike along.

    What are the features of the Tag-a-long bike adapter from Trail Gator?

    The Tag-a-long bike adapter from Trail Gator is a high-quality device that has been designed to be easy to use and reliable. It features a sturdy steel bar that extends out from your bike and slots into the bracket on your child’s bike.

    The bracket is easy to attach to your child’s bike, and the bar can be quickly and easily detached when you no longer need it. The device is compatible with most bikes and is suitable for children aged 4 to 9 years.

    One issue that some users have experienced with the Trail Gator Tag-a-long bike adapter is that the mount point on the child’s bike can slip if the bracket is not tightened properly. This can be easily resolved by making sure that the bracket is securely tightened before setting off on your ride.

    Conclusion

    The Tag-a-long bike adapter from Trail Gator is a great way to extend your bike rides with your child, while also helping them to build up their cycling skills and confidence. It’s easy to use, reliable, and suitable for children aged

  • Checking out the cycle path to Point of Ayr

    Checking out the cycle path to Point of Ayr

    If you’re looking for a stunning spot to visit in Wales, you can’t go wrong with Point of Ayr. This northernmost point of mainland Wales offers breathtaking views of the Dee estuary and is home to an important nature reserve managed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB). Here’s everything you need to know about this fascinating location:

    Location and Geography

    Point of Ayr is located immediately to the north of Talacre in Flintshire, which is in the northeast part of Wales. It is situated at the mouth of the Dee estuary and is to the southwest of the Liverpool Bay area of the Irish Sea. This unique location means that Point of Ayr offers stunning views of both the estuary and the sea.

    Nature Reserve

    One of the main reasons to visit Point of Ayr is the RSPB nature reserve that is located there. The RSPB Dee Estuary Point of Ayr is an important site for many bird species, including redshanks, curlews, and dunlins. The reserve is home to a variety of habitats, including sand dunes, salt marshes, and mudflats, which provide an important habitat for many species of plants and animals.

    Visitors to the reserve can enjoy a variety of activities, including birdwatching, walking, and exploring the dunes. The reserve is also part of the Gronant and Talacre Dunes Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), which is recognized for its importance in protecting rare and threatened plant and animal species.

    Pony Statue

    One of the most iconic features of Point of Ayr is the pony statue that stands at the entrance to the nature reserve. The statue, which is made from metal, was designed to represent the wild ponies that used to roam the area. Unfortunately, on a recent visit to Point of Ayr, the pony statue had been damaged and was awaiting repair.

    Conclusion

    If you’re looking for a beautiful and unique place to visit in Wales, Point of Ayr is a great choice. This northernmost point of mainland Wales offers stunning views of the Dee estuary and the Irish Sea, and is home to an important nature reserve managed by the RSPB. Visitors to the reserve can enjoy a variety of activities, including birdwatching, walking, and exploring the dunes. And while the pony statue may have been damaged on our last visit, it’s still an iconic feature of this special location.

  • The stabilisers are off

    The stabilisers are off

    Eva no longer needs stabilisers on her bike.

  • Ice cream time. Dairy FREE

    Ice cream time. Dairy FREE

    If you’re looking for a delicious ice cream spot with a view, the Red Boat Ice Cream Parlour in Prestatyn might be just what you need. Located at the beach front, it offers a stunning view of the sea and a great selection of ice cream flavours, including some dairy-free options.

    On a recent visit to the Red Boat Ice Cream Parlour on a Friday, we were pleasantly surprised to find that they had a few dairy-free ice cream options available. While the options were all coconut-based, they still managed to get the thumbs up from our friend Lou, who doesn’t usually like coconut.

    Aside from the dairy-free options, there were a ton of other ice cream flavours to choose from. From classic vanilla and chocolate to more unique flavours like bubblegum and black cherry, there was something for everyone. The portions were also generous, so it was definitely worth the price.

    The atmosphere at the Red Boat Ice Cream Parlour was also lovely. We enjoyed our ice cream sitting outside, taking in the view of the beach and sea. The staff were friendly and accommodating, and the service was quick, which is always a plus.

    Overall, we had a great experience at the Red Boat Ice Cream Parlour in Prestatyn. Whether you’re looking for a quick treat while exploring the beach front or you want to sit and enjoy a delicious ice cream with a view, this spot is definitely worth checking out. And if you’re dairy-free, don’t worry – they’ve got you covered!

    For more details check the link below.

    Red Boat Ice Cream Parlour Prestatyn