15th April 2015 - Boscastle, Tintagel, Widemouth Bay, Hawkers Cove

Really nice Wild Camp on Bursdon Moor, with a stunning sunset to complete yesterday. Today again started misty, and ideal day to cross something of my "Bucket List" Tintagel! For one reason or another I've just never got there, and for someone mad about King Arthur, and the such like it has to be done. 

   Stopped at Widemouth Bay on route. Although misty the views of the cliffs, and rough rocky coastline were still awesome. The force, and power of the sea always strikes you on the side of the coast. The roar of the waves is deafening, and the vibrations underfoot as the waves hit the rocks is a stirring thing to witness. 

   One place that knows the power of nature is Boscastle. A beautiful picturesque village that was devastated by flood 11 years ago. It's a must visit. The new flood defences they've put up, and are still working on can be seen. Take time to visit The Old Forge Gallery, Artist Helen Setterington, right down the bottom of the village, opposite end to the car parking. Loved Helen's work, and I think you will too. Vivid and detailed local landscapes, and she makes her own frames. Also Crafty West Country Gifts, 3 Bridge Walk. Linda and Andy have travelled a fair bit too! Don't forget to top up your spells at the Witchcraft museum!! 

Say hello to the locals!! 

Tintagel was next. After wanting to get there for so long, would I be disappointed, would I heck! There are some places I won't take the Hairy Lads, busy towns, obviously shops, and Tintagel Castle. With extremely steep steps, of varying sizes, cliffs, and very steep climbs I personally don't think it's a place for dogs, not safe for them, or the person on the end of the lead. Some people did take theirs, but it wasn't for mine. I was totally blown away by how rugged the coastline was, and exactly where they'd built the castle, being 2 parts of it, and even how it was built. The sea mist just added to the atmosphere, it helped the imagination go back to the days when this was occupied. A stunning and magnificent fortification. If you're not into heights probably not the place for you. Loads a steep steps and climbs, but worth every step. Stunning views, lots of the ruins to explore, rugged coastline and pounding waves made it an awesome place to visit. I took loads of photos, they can be viewed via thevalleyphotographer.co.uk or join the Travels And Tails Club to view all the iPhone images. Only £10, or donation to diesel fund at gofundme.com/TravelsAndTails 

Wild Camped at Hawkers Cove, beautiful place, really misty when arrived. As it slowly lifted it revealed a stunning coastline, which provided a great late evening walk. As a note, there's a dog friendly beach just down from here, never tried it as wanted to move on, but may be worth a look. 

14th April 2015 - Simonsbath, Westward Ho!, Hartland, Bursdon Moor

After saying how amazing the weather had been, it really changed this morning. Very misty, only see about 100m in front of you, so no views were to be had. It was however still very warm. On reflection as I'm writing this, I think at the start of our travels I covered to much mileage, not exploring enough, which may have to be rectified at a later date! Travels And Tails Part 2!! 

    Westward Ho! the next stop, even the road signs have the "!" on them. Parking seemed difficult in town, so headed to the West side, finding nice cliffs to walk along with the lads, and even an empty, supposedly, maybe haunted house, myths and takes seem to vary. Lovely old house perched right on the cliff edge. Also a boat with a hedge growing through which I just loved. The weather reverting back to a gorgeous sunny day. See the images below, more at thevalleyphotographer.co.uk 

   

Further round the coast is Hartland, lovely village with an Abbey. As it happened the BBC decide to film a drama the same day I decided to explore! They did take over a tad, everywhere in town, and especially the Abbey. It's an adaptation of a book by same Author as Tinker, Tailor, Solidier, Spy. So keep a lookout for it. 

    Every now and then you come across a hidden gem that few seem to know about. Bursdon Moor is such a place. Lovely Moor, lots of wildlife, several Neolithic mounds. Not very big, but great place to Wild Camp. There's a pull in with information, and bins, just as you go on to the Moor from main road. There's no signs saying "no overnight parking" so presume it's ok! 

13th April 2015 - Lynmouth, Exmoor, Porlock, Dulverton, Simonsbath

Spending your night in a layby is not the greatest. Lorry Drivers do it everyday, and seem to cope. For a "Wild Camp" it was quiet, and that's it really! Does seem hard to find good places to park up, maybe the area, or I'm just not savvy enough yet. Although England is not known for its "Wild Camp" possibilities. Scotland, Wales and Europe are a lot more geared up for it, and accommodating. Ridiculously steep hill into Lynmouth 1 in 4!! 

     Spent day on Exmoor, with stunning views that go on forever. Ponies everywhere, what more would you want? Weather has been amazing so far on the trip. As you can see from the photo, Max loves to sunbathe. Just at the start couple of rough days, otherwise wall to wall sunshine. Today fairly momentous as I've clocked up a 1000 miles, doesn't seem that far!! Villages worth visiting are Porlock, and Dulverton, both stunning and picturesque. Real chocolate box locations. 

    

Another stop over in a layby, near Simonsbath, purely because I knew there were loos nearby for the morning, and I could continue exploring Exmoor. Lots of images available via thevalleyphotographer.co.uk, or join the "Travels And Tails" Club to view and download all the iPhone images from trip. Join by donating to the diesel fund at GoFundMe.com/TravelsAndTails 

12th April 2015 - Glastonbury, Cheddar, Burnham-On-Sea, Dunster,

Always loved Glastonbury, and although on this trip I'm trying to visit mainly places I've not been before, just had to return to Glastonbury. There's a great Car Park near town, even has somewhere to park the hairy lads when hot, some great shade. I do think it depends on what car/vehicle you have as to leaving dogs in cars. Personally I wouldn't do it in a normal car, but in the Mitsubishi Delica I'm happy to leave them parked in shade. With blackened windows at back, curtains and sun shades, water, toys, a cool space on the floor, they seem happy enough. The loos here just crack me up. Soon as you go in, a voice says "you have 15 mins before you have to leave this cubicle, failure to do so will engage the alarm system!!" Tempted to stay 16 mins and see what happens. First time you hear it, can be a tad scary!! 

     Love the shops in town. Real cafe culture too. Nowhere else do you find the variety, and the amount of magical, mystical, and the amazing. If you've never been, the shops alone are worth a visit, along with the Abbey and the Tor. Lots of myths surround here, King Arthur, Leylines and much much more. Visited one of my favourite shops, "Witchcraft Shop" Cat And Cauldron, purchasing "A Wisewomans Guide, To Spells, Rituals, and Goddess Lore" right up my street, or should I say mystic path!! Say hello to Trevor, ace chap!! 

      I was lucky to meet a lovely lady here, Sue. Who also had a Lurcher, and had been travelling in a Camper for 4 years. I have a long way to go!! Very inspirational lady, who made me think. Could I still be doing this 4 years down the line? Could spend forever in Glastonbury, my sort of place, but have to move on, onto the Cheddar Gorge. 

  Not far from Glastonbury, the Cheddar Gorge. The road runs right through the Gorge creates an awesome spectacle. Cheddar itself was absolutely heaving, probably being Sunday didn't help!! There's plenty of Parking spaces further up the road to view the Gorge. I even saw a Parking Warden climbing his way steadily up the steep hill, so be warned, altitude did not deter him!! 

    Next was to find a nice spot to park up. Tried Burnham On Sea, not one of my most favourite places if I'm honest!! Along the coast to Dunster, Dunster Castle, still nothing so ended up getting my sleep in layby on A396. 

Driftwood Now For Sale On Etsy

https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/236446208/driftwood-flat-pieces-x-4

11th April 2015 - Wantage, Uffington White Horse, Stonehenge

After last nights poor experience at the campsite, we moved on early. Into Wantage again for some shopping, couldn't resist going back a second day! Market was on today, with some great fresh veg and fruit bargains to be had. Didn't manage to walk up to the White Horse yesterday as it was just too hot for the lads. It's a shame now, as I remember the Ridgeway, it was rutted, and looked like an ancient track. You could imagine the old carts trundling down it, or the Romans cursing the ruts as they marched. Now it's all been flattened in parts, to make it more "user friendly" which in my mind takes away the whole atmosphere, and just makes it another chalk track. 

    Parked up near the Ridgeway, turn opposite road into Compton Beauchamp, takes you right up to the top. Good place for a Wild Camp, although not tried it this time. Lovely walk up to the White Horse, again lovely sunshine, also a real strong breeze to blow the cobwebs away! 

  Uffington Hill Fort, off Ridgeway, near White Horse 

  White Horse looking down over St George's Mount. 

No one is really sure why the White Horse is there. Lots of theories, ceremonial, fertility, offering to the gods, but it can definitely be seen from above better than on the ground! The hill fort has amazing views, and you can see why it was built there. Your enemies would have hard job creeping up on you. St George's mount is said to be where St George slayed the Dragon, but I'm not sure about that myth!! 

    Leaving the White Horse behind, we moved on to another landmark, Stonehenge. Personally I think it's way too commercialised now. I do understand they get hundreds, even thousands of tourists, but all these huge visitor centres, and "experiences' just ruin these places, in my opinion. These were obviously sacred places in their past, and should be treated as such, rather than amusements parks. 

   Wild Camp in a layby, getting used to this now, and lads take it in their stride. Even getting quite attached to the better ones!! 

10th April 2015 - Avebury, Wantage, Uffington, Waylands Smithy, White Horse Hill,

One of the advantages of staying overnight near some Gallops meant I could take some photos of the horses in the morning mist! They'll be uploaded to thevalleyphotographer.co.uk Driving into or through Avebury is always amazing, with standing stones everywhere you look. Found the main car park, but with no choice of visit time, or how much to pay, I did feel £7 was a lot for just some quick photos. So I changed my mind. If you turn left out of car park, then take next road on right, drive down there a short way, there's a layby to park in! Yes, I know the money keeps these places open. If you're spending all day, and there's a car full, £7 is ok, but for 1 person, just have a quick look, use the layby!! 

    Next stop Wantage. Always loved Wantage, and it's not changed a bit. Lots of little local shops. Market at weekends. Free parking for couple of hours, so a stock up of essentials. Well worth a visit, some lovely buildings, and different local shops to spend your money in. 

    Onto an area I know really well, the Vale Of The White Horse, and Waylands Smithy. Played round here as a kid. The fields then were full of poppies, and lapwings, now just full of very bright yellow rape. Parked at the NT car park, decided walk to Waylands Smithy first, really really hot day. Ended up just walking to the Smithy, and leaving the White Horse till tomorrow. Just too hot for walking the lads too far. At the car park Thames Valley Police were driving round when I got there, and when we got back. Seems to be a problem of cars being broken into while people are walking/exploring tourist sites. Easy targets. Don't leave valuables in your car, if you can help it. 

    Instead of Wild Camp tonight, thought I'd use a Campsite, electric would be handy, back up some photos. Big mistake as it happens, one of the worst sites I've stayed at. Britchcombe Farm Campsite, right under the White Horse, and I'm afraid to say that's all it has going for it. With no fresh drinking water to be found anywhere, only via wash up sinks or toilets, not exactly hygienic!! Also electric at £6 a night, ridiculous. I also heard complaints about lack of toilets for the amount of people camping in various fields around, some were "doing it" in the hedges, nice. There is a Wild Camp to be had, next road down opposite Compton Beauchamp, turn left up to top of hill. Park up by Ridgeway, much better alternative!! 

9th April 2015 - Forest Of Dean, Wollaston, Chipping Sodbury, Avebury

   Went the little back roads from the Picnic Site, rather than up A48. Up through Wollaston, the views across the Severn were awesome. No where to stop, so case of driving slow and looking!! Wanted to spot Deer, and Boar in Forest Of Dean. There are loads of places to pull in and park to go for a walk. It was a ridiculously hot day again, so somewhere shady would be good. Does seem a shame these pull ins are used as rubbish bins, why can't folks just take it home with them, or dispose of in a bin somewhere? How much effort does it take? I often end up with extra rubbish in truck, picking it up as I go, then chucking in a bin further down the road. Doesn't cost me anything to do it!! Only saw Deer in the woods, but did hear snuffling at one point, so maybe a Boar, or a Badger. 

  Forest Of Dean 

     

     A detour from the coast was decided as I want to visit Avebury, and surrounding areas. Always loved it there, grew up nearby. Choosing where I go and when is part of the pleasure of this trip! Have a plan of sorts, but nothing rigid. On A4 before Avebury, spotted a layby right by some Gallops. Great for dogs, who can stretch their legs on the Gallops, and surrounding grasslands. Several footpaths too, with views of the stunning rolling countryside. No dogs on Gallops between 7.30-12.30. Took several images, will upload to thevalleyphotographer.co.uk  

  Gallops Before Avebury 

8th April 2015 - Freshwater West, Cafe Mor, Swansea, Burry Port

    As I travel round UK, I'll be Bartering for food, and campsites. To hopefully make the money go further, and help our Bartering Partners get some coverage, and promotion. At Freshwater West there's a really good Štreet Food Trailer, Cafe Mor. They specialise in local food, Lobster Rolls, Pembrokeshire Crab, Beach Burgers made with local Welsh Beef, and Laverbread. They supplied me with my Breakfast for the day, Beach Burger, really nice, tasty, and set me up for the day. Check them out at beachfood.co.uk, or see their advert on TravelsAndTails.com. 

   Moving on, my next stop was to be the Gower. When I got to the road I needed to take there were huge queues, Police and Ambulance. Decided to give it a miss, as sitting in a traffic jam on a hot day is a definite no, especially the Hairies on board. Going through Swansea was not the greatest experience either, very busy, and everyone else seemed to know where they were going, except me!! Looked at map, Burry Port stuck out, so headed there. Nice beaches. The tide goes out fir miles, great beach for "zoomies" Contemplated Wild Camp, but very open and no loos!! I'll leave it to your imagination why I didn't stay!! 

 

   Burry Port 

      

      Headed towards Forest Of Dean. Came across nice Picnic Site for Wild Camp on A48. Loos and nice views of the Severn. Very long, hot day. 

7th April 2015 - Freshwater West, Castlemartin Range

Freshwater West is a Surfers paradise, great for photographers, and travellers alike! Park right by the beach. Great walks, either on the beach, plenty of Rock Pools to explore. Also footpaths across some stunning scenery, including Castlemartin Range, MOD land, but haven for wildlife. 

    As it's such a great spot, decided to stay over a second night. Spent the day walking, watching Surfers, the waves, and to finish the day off, a stunning sunset. Took several photos of the Surfers, will upload the to thevalleyphotographer.co.uk at some point! This is the one thing I'm struggling with, uploading images, doing websites. I do need electric really for laptop, unlike the iPad that'll charge via Solar, and lasts for hours!! So do need a campsite every now and then, good for showers too! 

6th April 2015 - Pembroke, Angle, Freshwater West

As expected the roads were really busy today, Bank Holiday Monday. What wasn't expected was the weather, hotter than the South Of France. After little while on road decided to park up in some shade in layby on main road into Pembroke. Let roads calm down, and temp cool down! There was a cafe, loos, and best of all shade, so ideal. Spotted the cafe did Fish n Chips, no brainier really!! 

    Managed to get some Super Glue from a garage, tried it on door, result!! Although new handle ordered, this hopefully will do until I can pick it up from Aunties, and install!! Quite a treat opening door from outside!! 

    When it had cooled down a bit, and there seemed less traffic, we moved onto Pembroke. Now this has to be one of my favourite towns. Lots of little quirky shops, and one window caught my eye, full of driftwood, made into all sorts, just ace. The locals were friendly, and the Castle is great!! Stocked up here with food etc. 

   Went further down the coast, stopping at Angle. To be honest, not that impressed. Lots of people, lots of dogs off lead, which is fine, if they're under control, but they were messing everywhere, and pestering kids, and other dogs, not good!! We didn't stay long. 

    It gets to the point during the day that you start thinking about where to stay overnight. Try to Wild Camp, as I don't think you can beat it, with the occasional Campsite top up!! Showers, and Battery charging. Couldn't believe my luck when just along the road came across Freshwater West. This is one of the best places to Wild Camp I've found so far. Loos, Street Food, Surfers, and loads of room to choose your spot. Awesome!! 

5th April 2015 - Whitesands

The last week just whizzed by. Feel we're all getting into the swing of it now! Hairies just treat it as the norm. All they have to worry about is "any food ready yet?" and "when's the next walk?" They've had some awesome walks, sandy beaches, rocky coasts, and endless cliff tops. They sleep when I'm driving, so it's a dogs life!! 

    Felt so chilled and relaxed at Whitesands, decided stay over. Try to move on each day, but sometimes places just say "stay a while!!" With amazing weather, and stunning views, it was hard to find a reason not to stay!! Also being Easter Sunday, did think the roads may be manic, so stay we did. Lads crashed on the grass, with me taking in the views. Need to sort my painting/sketching stuff out so I can make the most of days like today. 

4th April 2015 - Cielbwr Bay, Abercastle, Whitesands

    Thought the roads would be busy on Saturday, being Easter weekend. Hoped to avoid most of the people, and the traffic! Took some little roads round the Pembrokeshire Coast. Came across Abercastle. Stunning little bay, parking a bit scary on a tiny quayside, but well worth a visit. Really beautiful little bay.  My next stop was Ceilwbr Bay, down some vey narrow and step roads. Part of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. Not much parking available, but there are several different spots to try find somewhere. The cliffs have awesome rock formations, really nice walking area including Coast Path, and a walk by the river down to a Cafe. 

        I ventured further round the coast. The day ended by watching the sunset at Whitesands. Surfers Paradise. The sound, and sight of the waves rolling in was just amazing. Took several photos here, they will be uploaded to our Retail Site via thevalleyphotographer.co.uk Stopped at nice little quiet campsite, just up the road. Towyn Campsite, only £7 per tent. Basic with just a loo, and sink, but lovely views, and short walk to Whitesands. 

    The first week passed extremely quickly, with several highs, couple of lows, but thoroughly enjoyed it.... 

Sunset At Whitesands 

Great for Hairies too! 

3rd April 2015 - Pen Y Fan - Wee Crafty Folk, Dolbryn Newcastle Emlyn

     Lovely walk first thing, and being Good Friday there were walkers aplenty by 8am. A Burger Van pulled up, huge generator, this didn't really add anything to the picnic site I felt. Surely there's something better!! Went into Brecon to visit "Wee Crafty Folk" at Bishop Bevan Hall. Always a quirky, fun and brill Craft Fair. Not been? Check them out, dates to be found on FB. Thanks to Charlotte, who rushed off her feet still tried mending my broken door handle, but unfortunately didn't work, so back to climbing in, and out of the front!!! Wanted to make my way up to Cardigan, weather was horrendous, gales, heavy rain, and what a time for my radiator hose to decide to split!! What with this and the handle, I do feel that because I'm using the Trùsty Truck 24/7 that anything slightly weak is showing up. But if I get them all out the way first couple of weeks I'll be happy. Had to call out AA, I couldn't see a way to fix it with what I had. They arrived within 40 mins, and the guy was great, trying all sorts to finally get a solution. The day was to finish well though, finding Dolbryn Campsite, near Newcastle Emlyn. Happy to be one of our Bartering Partners. Ace site for dogs, kids, and adults. Nice little bar to spend your evenings in, reasonable prices too. Clean and hot showers. Toilet block excellent. If you have kids they even put on activities. Well worth checking out, see their advert on TravelsAndTails.com 

                                            

2nd April 2015 - Llangattock, Talybont Resevoir, Brecon Mountain Railway, Pen Y Fan

    Thursday 2nd April was my last photo shoot for my Tourism Commission. Probably saving the best to last! Headed for Talybont Resevoir. Again the weather didn't let me down, and there were good conditions for great images. Reflections were excellent. These can be viewed at thevalleyphotographer.co.uk and they'll be used for irresistibleoffa.org.uk . Next stop would be Brecon Mountain Railway. Really nice place, friendly staff, and in need of a boost to their visitors, so go on check them out. Not far from Merthyr. Quick visit to my Sisters, and then to Wild Camp at NT Picnic Site below Pen Y Fan on A470. With loos, awesome views, and splendid walks for the Hairy Lads it was ace. 

1st April 2015 - Park Farm, Llangattoc

     April Fools Day was to be a very strange day!! Took lads for their morning constitutional. Got back to my trusty truck Mitzi (Mitsubishi Delica) went to open the sliding side door, the handle snapped!! "No!!" and other words were said!! Panic set in. How do I get lads in, and out of truck? With lots of advice from the owners of Park Farm campsite, and others staying on site, I had a place to order a new one. It also dawned on me, I could get into the back from the front, and door could be opened that way!! Inconvenient, but not totally impossible!! Looked on Internet also for a part, but nothing cheaper really, only from Australia. So thought I'd keep my money local!! Part ordered, 5-8 week delivery. Decided stay another day at the site, so into town for some local goodies. Coming back with Cider, Olives, Cheese, Ham, and Bread, I ended up having a chill day, and no travelling. 

31st March 2015 - Weir Garden, Park Farm Llangattock

    The Wild Camp site was very close to today's photo shoot, Weir Garden NT. This turned out to be a photographer's dream. The weather was stunning to match the place. With Spring flowers, the river, and a walled garden I could of stayed all day, but wanted to get on to Crickhowell. The images from this shoot will be used by the IrresistibleOffa.org.uk project, will also be on thevalleyphotographer.co.uk to view and purchase. Crickhowell is a lovely town, with many local shops, and as I write this they're trying to keep it that way. Campaigning against a local pub being turned into a Coop. Check out their page on Facebook. 

    Would be staying at Park Farm, Llangattock near Çrickhowell, one of our Bartering Partners. Check out their advert on TravelsAndTails.com. Well worth checking out the site, and the area. I've already done couple of photo shoots in the area. One being Table Mountain. Really cracking walk, accessible from the town. Check out CRIC in town for more info. 

Table Mountain 

30th March 2015 - 365 Steps, Monmouth, Credenhill Park Wood

Visited Monmouth in the morning, parked up by the river, mainly just to get some provisions. Ended up with Curry and Chips. Do have a feeling my diet may suffer on this trip. Not so much as in losing weight, but as in what I'll just grab to eat instead of cooking. Images from Monmouth will be on thevalleyphotographer.co.uk 

     Decided on Tintern Area for photo shoot, on this Monday, as I'd already covered Tintern Old Station, and the Abbey. Images can be viewed, and purchased at thevalleyphotographer.co.uk Had noticed '365 Steps' previously, from Lower Wyndcliffe Car Park, and thought this walk would be ideal. Not a walk for the Hairy Lads, as very steep with lots of steps, including metal staircase. An amazing walk with stunning views, and really old woodland. Really enjoyed the walk, then took the 2 Hairies for theirs!! Images will be used on a project IrresistibleOffa.org.uk On a sad note, saw my first Wild Boar, unfortunately on the side of the road, it was a stunning animal nonetheless. Found a lovely Wild Camp site, Credenhill Park Wood. Definitely worth a visit for the views to be had from the Woodland walk. Very quiet site. Weather was dreadful at the start, fierce gales, driving rain. Mother Nature was launching our trip in style.

     Had my first encounter with the 'law' here!! About midnight, heard a car pull up, torches through the truck's windows! Oh great, I thought. Then someone said "Police"!! Eeek, was I going to be moved on? Opened my side door, with Ru attached to a lead. "Everything OK?" the extremely young Policeman asked. (sign of my age!!) "Fine thank you" my reply. "Are you staying overnight?" He asked. "I was planning to" waiting for the reply to "move on!!" But no, he was very polite, and nicely said "That's fine then, just checking who's about, and I see you have your own security!!" Meaning Ru I think, as Ru hadn't taken his eyes off him, and barked several times!! Good lad... 

   

29th March 2015 - Rhayader, Hereford

With a new MOT and a service, the trusty truck was ready. 

    Sunday 29th March our journey started. Setting off down the A44 I was a bit of a rabbit in headlights, for the first few miles. A trip I'd wanted to do for a long long time, something I'd waited and planned for was happening now! I had felt if I didn't do it now, I may never do it. There were a few tourism photo shoots to complete, so I had a plan, sort of, nothing to fixed though. Needed to go Hereford/Wye Valley direction. Getting to Hereford I had a nose at the Racecourse, and the Cider Museum! Was this the way the trip would proceed? Could always hope! Finding a Picnic Site, on the A40 just outside Hereford, with loos, place to walk the lads, looked to be what I wanted for a ** "Wild Camp". Mainly a lorry stop, but it was clean, and free!! So excited about what lay ahead. 

  **   "Wild Camp" will mean anywhere free, and legal to stay overnight. I will be doing a PDF, or maybe Mini EBook on the best "Wild Camp" sites. 

Our First Week - My How Quick It Went

With a new MOT and a service, the trusty truck was ready. 

    Sunday 29th March our journey started. Setting off down the A44 I was a bit of a rabbit in headlights, for the first few miles. A trip I'd wanted to do for a long long time, something I'd waited and planned for was happening now! There were a few tourism photo shoots to complete, so I had a plan, sort of. Needed to go Hereford/Wye Valley direction. Getting to Hereford I had a nose at the Racecourse, and the Cider Museum! Was this the way the trip would proceed? Could always hope! Finding a Picnic Site, on the A40 just outside Hereford, with loos, place to walk the lads, looked to be what I wanted for a "Wild Camp". 

     "Wild Camp" will mean anywhere free, and legal to stay overnight. I will be doing a PDF, or maybe Mini EBook on the best "Wild Camp" sites. 

     Decided on Tintern Area for photo shoot, on the Monday, as I'd already covered Tintern Old Station, and the Abbey. Images can be viewed, and purchased at thevalleyphotographer.co.uk Had noticed '365 Steps' previously, from Lower Wyndcliffe Car Park, and thought this walk would be ideal. Not a walk for the Hairy Lads, as very steep with lots of steps, including metal staircase. An amazing walk with stunning views, and really old woodland. Images will be used on a project IrresistibleOffa.org.uk On a sad note, saw my first Wild Boar, unfortunately on the side of the road, it was a stunning animal nonetheless. Found a lovely Wild Camp site, Credenhill Park Wood. Definitely worth a visit for the views to be had from the Woodland walk. Very quiet site. Had my first encounter with the 'law' here!! About midnight, heard a car pull up, torches through the truck's windows! Oh great, I thought. Then someone said "Police"!! Eeek, was I going to be moved on? Opened my side door, with Ru attached to a lead. "Everything OK?" the extremely young Policeman asked. (sign of my age!!) "Fine thank you" my reply. "Are you staying overnight?" He asked. "I was planning to" waiting for the reply to "move on!!" But no, he was very polite, and nicely said "That's fine then, just checking who's about, and I see you have your own security!!" Meaning Ru I think, as Ru hadn't taken his eyes off him, and barked several times!! Good lad... 

    Weir Garden NT

    The Wild Camp site was very close to Tuesday's photo shoot, Weir Garden NT. This turned out to be a photographer's dream. The weather was stunning to match the place. With Spring flowers, the river, and a walled garden I could of stayed all day, but wanted to get on to Crickhowell. The images from this shoot will be used by the IrresistibleOffa.org.uk project, also will be on thevalleyphotographer.co.uk to view and purchase. Crickhowell is a lovely town, with many local shops, and as I write this they're trying to keep it that way. Campaigning against a local pub being turned into a Coop. Would be staying at Park Farm, Llangattock near Çrickhowell, one of our Bartering Partners. Check out their advert on TravelsAndTails.com. Well worth checking out the site, and the area. 

     April Fools Day was to be a very strange day!! Took lads for their morning constitutional. Got back to my trusty truck Mitzi (Mitsubishi Delica) went to open the sliding side door, the handle snapped!! "No!!" and other words were said!! Panic set in. How do I get lads in, and out of truck? With lots of advice from the owners of campsite, and others staying on site, I had a place to order a new one. It also dawned on me, I could get into the back from the front, and door could be opened that way!! Inconvenient, but not totally impossible!! Looked on Internet also for a part, but nothing cheaper really, only from Australia. So thought I'd keep my money local!! Part ordered, 5-8 week delivery. Decided stay another day at the site, so into town for some local goodies. Coming back with Cider, Olives, Cheese, Ham, and Bread, I ended up having a chill day, and no travelling. 

   Sunset On The Trusty Truck - Mitzi 

    Thursday 2nd April was my last photo shoot for my Tourism Commission. Probably saving the best to last! Headed for Talybont Resevoir. Again the weather didn't let me down, and there were good conditions for great images. Reflections were excellent. These can be viewed as above. Next stop would be Brecon Mountain Railway. Really nice place, friendly staff, and in need of a boost to their visitors, so go on check them out. Not far from Merthyr. Quick visit to my Sisters, and then to Wild Camp at NT Picnic Site below Pen Y Fan on A470. With loos, awesome views, and splendid walks for the Hairy Lads it was ace. 

     Lovely walk first thing, and being Good Friday there were walkers aplenty by 8am. A Burger Van pulled up, huge generator, this didn't really add anything to the site I felt. Surely there's something better!! Went into Brecon to visit "Wee Crafty Folk" at Bishop Bevan Hall. Always a quirky, fun and brill Craft Fair. Not been? Check them out, dates to be found on FB. Thanks to Charlotte, who rushed off her feet still tried mending my broken door handle, but unfortunately didn't work, so back to climbing in and out of the front!!! Wanted to make my way up to Cardigan, weather was horrendous, gales, heavy rain, and what a time for my radiator hose to decide to split!! What with this and the handle, I do feel that because I'm using the Trùsty Truck 24/7 that anything slightly weak is showing up. But if I get them all out the way first couple of weeks I'll be happy. Had to call out AA, I couldn't see a way to fix it with what I had. They arrived within 40 mins, and the guy was great, trying all sorts to finally get a solution. The day was to finish well though, finding Dolbryn Campsite, near Newcastle Emlyn. Happy to be one of our Bartering Partners. Ace site for dogs, kids, and adults. Nice little bar to spend your evenings in, reasonable prices too. Clean and hot showers. Toilet block excellent. If you have kids they even put on activities. Well worth checking out, see their advert on TravelsAndTails.com 

    Thought the roads would be busy on Saturday, being Easter weekend. Took little roads round the Pembrokeshire Coast. Came across Abercastle. Stunning little bay, parking a bit scary on a tiny quayside, but well worth a visit. Next I came across Ceilwbr Bay, awesome rock formations, nice walking area including Coast Path.

Pembrokeshire Coast Path 

   Sunset At Whitesands. 

   The day ended by watching the sunset at Whitesands. Surfers Paradise. The sound, and sight of the waves rolling in was just amazing. Took several photos here, they will be uploaded to our Retail Site via thevalleyphotographer.co.uk Stopped at nice little quiet campsite, just up the road. Towyn Campsite, only £7 per tent. Basic with just a loo, and sink, but lovely views and short walk to Whitesands. 

    The first week passed extremely quickly, with several highs, couple of lows, but thoroughly enjoyed it.... 

 

Travels And Tails

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Full Steam Ahead, Final Trial Run

My second, and last trial run was going to be Steel, Steam and Stars IV, a Steam Train festival held over 3 days. Couldn't believe my luck when it was suggested I take some photos of this awesome event. With stunning scenery, and loads of Steam Trains, what more could a photographer want? 

    Waking up to an inch of snow on the Friday morning, was not in my plans! It soon disappeared on the lowlands with rain, but the hills were covered, and problems on the A470 meant I went the less scenic route through Newtown!! 

    First thing to do was sort out where I'd be staying. Recommended to try Station Campsite, next to Carrog Station. This turned out to be a great choice. I'd emailed them beforehand, and they were happy to be one of our "Bartering Partners". See their advert on TravelsAndTails.com. The campsite was extremely busy with no spaces to be seen!! My pitch was right by the main entrance. This was a bit of a worry at the start, wondered how the lads would cope with a lot of passers by, but they were great, enjoyed being the centre of attention. "aren't they lovely" was heard several times over the weekend! 

Carrog Station. Station Campsite right next door!! 

     Nice campsite if you have dogs, with walks to be had right from front gate. Either by the river, or up to the dog friendly pub The Grouse, just over the bridge. For train buffs it's ideal, right next to station, with great views of the trains from the bridge, and a good place for photos. Trains can even be watched from some of the pitches. Huge clean showers, wind does whistle under the doors though!! All in all a good campsite. 

The Grouse

My next stop was Corwen, to say hello to Clwydian Range And Dee Valley AONB, who I would be taking the images for. The railway line has been extended to Corwen, hopefully increasing tourism to the area. My images would be used to promote this. Corwen is a lovely old market town, that thrived when there was a station. With some awesome buildings, lot of history, and a friendly community, hopefully the extension will help their economy. First images in the bag were mainly local of Corwen, and a few trains!! 

    The truck is proving ideal for these trips. Not massive amount of space, although it's a Space Gear!! But there's room to make a brew whilst still in bed!! Hairy lads have a choice of comfy spots, and the night sky can be viewed through the Crystal Lite roof. What more do you need? 

     Off to Corwen again for the second day, more local images taken on a guided walk round the town. Ifor Williams Trailers now occupy the old station, but they've kept to original look. Lots of good places for food, and lots of history as you walk round the town, so do visit. For good photos of the trains at Corwen, go under railway line near the station to the river. Great spot to get trains coming up the slight incline. 

      My next stop so to speak, was a ride on one of the Steam Trains to Llangollen, and back. An amazing experience, and I'm still finding small pieces of coal in my hair!! Images from this can be found at thevalleyphotographer.co.uk, of the trains, and the journey. Thanks to 6880 Belton Grange for my pass. Please check out their website. They do an amazing job, so please support them if you can.

     Decided Sunday would be an all train day. The Station Campsite is a great place to view, photograph, and ride the trains. Great images can be had from the Bridge (as above) or from the field down by the river. The Hairy Lads enjoyed this spot, and the day went ridiculously quick! 

Taken down by the river, near Station Campsite.

   Monday was to be my last day. The weekend had just flown by. A walk up Pen Y Pigin was planned, and the weather was kind. Lovely views of Corwen, and the Dee Valley were to be had. Really nice walk, starting up by the church. It is steep in places, with steps. There is a booklet available with this, and many other walks in the area. Finished the day off with a pasty from Gerrards in Corwen, highly recommended!! 

    The next time we set off will be the "Travels And Tails" road trip. Mitzi (Mitsubishi Delica) having some TLC beforehand, and I have to decide what I really "need" to take with me. "Need" not "want" can be a hard choice!! Try it indoors for fun, not easy, believe me. Really looking forward to the adventure starting now. 

Trial Run

, Decided to have couple of trail runs before the main road trip. Being a professional photographer, photo shoots would be the ideal opportunity. 

Crickhowell Walking Festival is fairly early in the year, with stunning scenery and great walking to be had. Lots of guided walks available to suit all types of walkers. I chose 2 for my photo shoots, a history walk, and a mountain walk (images will be available to view at thevalleyphotographer.co.uk 

Walking down from Table Mountain

Stayed at an excellent campsite, Park Farm, Llangattock, Powys,

 http://www.parkfarm-campsite.co.uk. 

Really dog friendly, with lovely dog walks. A beautiful stream running through the site, and set in awesome scenery. Great facilities, free hot showers, laundry, all very clean. Park Farm are one of our "bartering" customers, which helps our road trip immensely and hopefully we increase their customers with our advert and promotions. See their advert on CraftyForager.com Please contact them, stay with them, you won't be disappointed. 

Park Farm

The truck was great. Kitchen worked well, could even have a brew whilst still in bed!! The Hairies seemed happy enough, even having a midnight moonlight walk, which we probably wouldn't of done at home! But it looked lovely out. All in all a successful trial run, need couple of tweeks to charging area, but nothing that can't be done... 

Ru likes his mobile kennel!! 

Preparations For The Adventure

Like most people there's always been something I've wanted to do since I can remember. An itch that needs scratching! Always wanted to explore the UK, it's such an amazing diverse island, countryside and traditions. Have explored a fair bit backpacking, but always fancied a serious road trip in a camper. For some reason everything is pointing me in this direction now, and I feel the time is right. I'm at that age, now or never!! The only commitments I have are "the Hairies" and after discussing it with them, it was decided the time is right!! 

The Hairies And Truck...

The idea came to me to try make the trip pay for itself, by highlighting/promoting our traditional crafters, foragers, food producers, wine/cider/beer brewers, quirky and dog friendly campsites, festivals on craftyforager.com. The idea of 'bartering' followed shortly. Would people be happy to give us accommodation, food etc for advertising and promotion? 

Having a Mitsibushi Delica 4x4 seemed the ideal vehicle. A 4x4 camper, that can go places your normal camper can't!! So I set about putting a kitchen in it, well a very small table, with one ring cooker, some little drawers for cutlery etc. Solar Power was next to keep everything charged, provide lights too when the vehicle not moving. Of course stuff can be charged when the vehicle being used. A heavy duty battery installed, with small Solar Panel that sits in windscreen when vehicle not in motion. Cigarette lighter fitting with an inverter, will charge iPad, iPhone, without draining main battery. All the seats move about in a Delica, making fairly comfortable bed, and an armchair. Wardrobe is large rucksack!! Of course 'the Hairies' have complete run of all the accommodation, and always nick the best spots!! 

  

There will be a couple of trial runs before the main trip, to sort any problems. Really looking forward to it, tad scary but very very exciting. Think 'the Hairies' will love it, me too!! 

Please follow the Blog to keep updated where, and what we're up to.  There will also be updates on FB, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google+, and of course the website. If you want promotion, or know someone who would, please let us know. Together we can promote, and shout about our amazing diverse island, the people, traditions, and places that make it that way.... 

A Battle Of Wills Between The Seasons.

Today's walk was on fairly low ground, with a slight venture into the hills! The weather is having a Battle Of Wills today, with North East wind going through you, come out of cover, and it's evil, combined with horizontal sleety snowy rain it really isn't nice. Winter trying to be it's worst. Walk round the corner into sunshine, no wind and it feels like a Spring Day!! Who will win this battle of the Seasons? The Battle of course produces the most amazing images. Courtesy of The Valley Photographer.