It’s okay, you haven’t missed Valentine’s Day! There’s still plenty of time for that, but for those of you who are looking for an extra celebration or are feeling patriotic, today’s St Dwynwen’s Day. Falling on 25th January each year, St Dwynwen’s Day celebrates the Welsh patron saint of lovers. The story goes that Dwynwen, one of king Brychan Brycheiniog’s daughters, fell in love with a man she was forbidden from marrying. She became a woman of God, wishing to forget about her love. She started a convent off the coast of Anglesey which is still there today and wished that God would grant the needs of all lovers. From the 5th century to the present day, we still celebrate with our special someone, and here are the a few ideas to do so.
-Why not go back to where the legend all started? Llanddwyn Island holds the church where the saint herself started the convent. Set offshore on a picturesque island, it is the perfect romantic getaway that holds history as well as romance. All in the easy reach of Anglesey.
-Why not really get into the spirit of the occasion by booking to take part in the St Fagans Wedding Showcase? Whether you are planning the big day or just want to go along for a bit of romantic fun, what better way to do it than surrounded by the historic beauty of St Fagans? Plus it’s free to attend!
–Hay-On-Wye, also known as the town of books, is a beautiful and inspiring location for anyone at anytime of the year. Just off the Wales/England boarder in Powys, the town is small and sweet and holds many places to stay if you’re planning on a longer trip.
-Visit Barley & Rye. The restaurant offers a large range of food options and promises to find the perfect beer for every meal, offering over 80 kinds of beer from countries worldwide. Perfect for romantic meals and will be open 7 days a week after opening night.
-For those looking for a little more of a chilled out evening, why not book now to take part in the Film Feasts night hosted at the Penarth Pavilion? Taking place on the evening itself on the 25th January 2016 at 6.30pm. The choice for this film night is Owen Sheer’s acclaimed Resistance. A nice night in without having to stay in!
words AMY WIGGINS, photo SMABS SPUTZER