Cardigan shyre described with the due forme of the shire-town as it was surveyed by I.S. anno 1610 ; performed by John Speede; Jodocus Hondius caelavit

In 1611 John Speed (1551/2–1629), an English historian and renowned cartographer, published his ‘Theatre of the Empire of Great Britain’. This was the earliest English attempt at producing an atlas on a large scale. The 2nd of this work’s 4 volumes covered Wales and included a map of Wales along with individual maps of the 13 Welsh counties. Most of the maps in Speed’s work are dated 1610, though a few are earlier. Speed’s ‘Theatre’ was extremely successful and its maps became the basis for folio atlases produced up to the mid-18th century. (Speed’s county maps of Wales - National Library of Wales)

John Wood Map - Cardigan, 1834 Reference: Gogerddan 463 131/4/52

Cardigan is coloured to show the Parish of St Mary’s with an inset map of the borough. Population statistics tell of an expanding town with an increase of some 400 in its population between 1821 and 1831.

The Golden Road - Preseli Hills Pembrokeshire

The Golden Road in the Preseli Hills is an ancient trackway in Pembrokeshire, Wales. The Preseli Hills, or Preseli Mountains, are renowned for their historical significance and natural beauty. Here's an overview of the key aspects:

Historical Significance

1. Ancient Trackway: The Golden Road is believed to be an ancient track, possibly dating back to the Neolithic period. It is thought to have been used by prehistoric peoples as a route across the Preseli Hills.

2. Bluestones: The Preseli Hills are famous for being the source of the bluestones used in the inner circle of Stonehenge. These stones were transported over 140 miles to the famous monument in Wiltshire.

3. Archaeological Sites: The area is rich with archaeological sites, including burial cairns, standing stones, and hill forts.

Natural Beauty

1. Landscape: The Preseli Hills offer dramatic landscapes with rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and expansive views. The terrain includes heathland, grassland, and patches of woodland.

2. Biodiversity: The hills support a diverse range of flora and fauna, including heather, gorse, and various bird species.

3. Hiking and Recreation: The Golden Road is a popular route for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. It provides a scenic walk with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and coast.

Cultural Impact

1. Myth and Legend: The Preseli Hills are steeped in myth and legend. They are often associated with ancient folklore and stories, adding a layer of mystique to the area.

2. Local Communities: The hills and their history are integral to the identity of the local communities. The preservation of this heritage is important to the cultural landscape of Pembrokeshire.

Visiting the Golden Road

For those interested in visiting, the Golden Road can be accessed from various points in the Preseli Hills. It's advisable to check local guides and maps for the best routes and to be prepared for the weather conditions, which can be changeable.

In summary, the Golden Road in the Preseli Hills is a path of great historical, natural, and cultural significance, offering a unique experience for those interested in history, nature, and outdoor activities.

The Golden Road Map

Float to Live - Safety - RNLI

If you found yourself struggling in the water unexpectedly, your instinct would tell you to swim hard. But cold water shock could make you gasp uncontrollably. Then you could breathe in water and drown. Instead, you should Float to Live. 

The best way to float is to tilt your head back with your ears submerged. Try to relax and breathe normally. You can gently move your hands to help you stay afloat if you need to. Spread your arms and legs out to improve stability – and it's OK if your legs sink, we all float differently. Once your breathing is under control, call for help or swim to safety.

Summer has finally shown it's face here in West Wales

Ted the Gypsy Cob

Summer has finally shown it's face here in West Wales. Ted has got his rug off at last and he's enjoying chilling in the shade from the trees. That's the life!

Pizza Tipi Cardigan

Adventure Beyond

Cocker Spaniel Puppies Wales

Trixie's babies are now four weeks old and will be ready to move to their new forever homes from the 21 May. They are excited to meet their new families and if you think that could be you collecting your new adorable mini Trixie in four weeks, drop us a line! I think Trixie will thank you from the bottom of her heart as she'll be ready to wave goodbye to them by then!

There are four brown/liver working cocker spaniel puppies for sale. They are from pedigree KC registered parents and will be KC registered themselves. There are 3 girls and 1 boy, one is all brown, one has a tiny white star and the other two have white chests and toes and all of them are lovely, healthy, happy and mischievous little bundles of fur. They can be seen with their mother who is our family pet, and since birth they have lived in our home, handled loads on a daily basis, and have grown up with children, cats and another dog.

Walking the coast path, Aberporth, Mwnt to Cardigan Island

A day out exploring the Cardigan bay coast path from Mwnt to Aberporth, towards Cardigan Island. Some beautiful wild unspoilt coastline and interesting historical features, including slate quarries and water wheels

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Hello from Ted in his new rug

Hello from Ted in his new rug, helping to show off the lovely view you can enjoy from the decking at the back of the Stables. Overlooking the fields, woods and stream, it's the perfect spot for a bit of peace, and sunshine if you're lucky! How better to recharge the batteries?

What this photo doesn't show is that moments later, Ted, in aforementioned new rug, rolled in the mud and now it is the same colour as the old one... brown....!