Ringing bluestones
Post categories: Weatherman walking, walking
| 15:42 UK time, Monday, 13 September 2010
Last week I was out of the office filming two more walks in North Pembrokeshire and on Gower for the new series of Weatherman Walking.
We started from Maenchlochog and walked up to the highest point in the Preseli Hills or Preseli Mountains, Foel Cwmcerwyn, 1758 feet above sea level.
Our hike included part of the 'Golden Road' which used to be a main trade route between Wessex and Ireland.
Fortunately the waterproofs came in handy as heavy rain was followed by heavy showers but the cloud did occasionally lift, offering glimpses of the wonderful views across Pembrokeshire.
Apparently on a clear day, you can see as far as Snowdonia, the Brecon Beacons and the Wicklow Mountains in Ireland.
You can find out more about walking in the Preseli's on BBC Local.
The whole area is steeped in history with Neolithic burial chambers, Bronze Age cairns, Iron Age forts, stone circles and standing stones.
The area is also famed for its bluestones - which can only be found in this part of Britain and I've been reliably informed that some - make a ringing sound when hit!
Our walk also took us to Rosebush or Rhos y bwlch where we popped into the Tafarn Sinc pub to shelter from the rain.
After that we headed to South Gower and walked from Caswell Bay to Pwll Du passing some gorgeous coves where smuggling was once a way of life.
We also wandered down through the Bishopston Valley which is very secluded and beautiful with rare trees and wildlife including otters and a river which disappears under ground!
You'll be able to see these walks on television in January 2011 but don't worry - I'll remind you nearer the time.
Derek
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