North Wales
Renowned for the dramatic mountain scenery of Snowdonia with its lakes and rock-strewn mountain passes, North Wales also offers a surprisingly varied countryside, from the beautiful Conwy Valley to the tranquillity of the Isle of Anglesey. The coastline is equally diverse, with sandy beaches, rocky coves and spectacular cliffs - and standing proudly over the land and seascape are some of the country’s mightiest castles such as Penrhyn. The National Trust owns some 60,000 acres of coast and countryside in North Wales, including some of the majestic mountains of Snowdonia, unspoilt coastline on the Llyn, and an array of historic houses and castles.

Powis Castle
Built by the medieval princes of Upper Powis, Powis Castle has been the ancestral home of the Herbert family since 1587. The spectacular red gritstone Castle stands in magnificent gardens of the highest horticultural and historical importance. A combination of terraces, formal and informal gardens make it a delight for the enthusiast and for lovers of beauty and tranquillity. The Clive Museum displays treasures brought from India by Robert Clive and his son. The castle contains one of the finest collections of paintings and furniture in Wales. The historic town of Shrewsbury is a mere 20 miles away and the market town of Welshpool is a pleasant one mile stroll through the Deer Park. Holiday Cottage guests have free access to Powis Castle during opening hours and access to the gardens out of hours.

National Trust places nearby: Erddig, Chirk Castle. Shop and pub: Welshpool 5 minutes drive. Tea-room/café/restaurant: tea-room at Powis Castle, Welshpool. Other attractions: Dolgellau, Builth Wells, Oswestry, Welshpool, Coed-y-Dinas Garden, Home and Country Centre, Lake Vyrnwy. Activities: walking, canal boating, fishing.

Ordnance Survey Landranger 126