THE GREAT OUTDOORS Looking for something different for your mini-moon or honeymoon? The Vale of Rheidol Railway in Wales is the perfect way to see the stunning Cambrian Mountains from a vantage point you can only get to by train. During this new experience, you’ll travel through 12 miles of glorious Welsh scenery on one of the most spectacular railway journeys in the UK. And you’ll do it all from the comfort of your carriage, travelling behind a vintage steam locomotive built in the 1920s. As you travel from Aberystwyth on Cardigan Bay to Devil’s Bridge in the heart of the Cambrian Mountains, you can chat with the railway’s knowledgeable loco crews, watch as red kites, once threatened with extinction, fly overhead, and soak up the views that can only be seen from the railway line. Once you arrive at Devil’s Bridge, you can visit the famous waterfalls and learn more about the legend that led to their name; indulge yourself at the award-winning Sarah Bunton’s Chocolate Shop; soak up the atmosphere while enjoying a drink and tasty treat at the Two Hoots Café or a full meal at the Hafod Inn; take a walk between the railway’s restored stations on one of the many paths and trails; or, for the truly adventurous, try your hand at driving one of the steam locomotives. And when you are ready, board your train for the return journey to the seaside town of Aberystwyth. Head over to www.rheidolrailway.co.uk for more information. DRINK IT ALL IN Pembrokeshire country house hotel, Grove of Narberth, has unveiled a new dining experience with the launch of a creative, non-alcoholic drink pairing menu at its signature restaurant, Fernery. Carefully crafted and curated by head sommelier Cathryn Bell and executive chef Douglas Balish, this innovative offering is set to redefine the offering at Grove of Narberth and showcase that amazing dining experiences can be just as indulgent with non-alcoholic options. Using ingredients sourced as much as possible from the hotel’s own gardens and local producers, the pairings draw inspiration from fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices. Using cold-pressed fruits and vegetables as a base, the team layers herbs and spices for flavour, along with teas for tannin and texture. They’ve also incorporated vinegar to add depth and length to their creations. The new drink pairings are as complex and delicious as their traditional alcoholic counterparts, and above all, they are fun, making these pairings an exciting journey of discovery and creation. Find out more at www.ferneryrestaurant.co.uk AL FRESCO CELEBRATION Driftwood Designs incorporates the work of Welsh artist and illustrator Lizzie Spikes, whose passion is creating illustrations that can be translated into homewares, cards, prints and so much more. For 2024, Lizzie has announced the launch of her new deckchairs, perfect for those of you planning an outdoor wedding. On the lawn or the patio, by the pond or the barbecue, these deckchairs will look stylish in any outdoor space. The deck chairs are currently available in four designs, which are printed on 500g artist canvas and form the seat of the chair. Visit www.driftwooddesigns.co.uk for more information about Driftwood Designs. NEWS Nearlywed All the latest from around South Wales Andrew Simmonds 9 LOCAL NEWS
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