Sunday 13 January 2013

Souvenirs of Blaenau Ffestiniog


Tens of thousands of people will visit Blaenau this year and I’m confident that they will be amazed at what they see.  Slate sculptures and poetry reconnecting the town centre with its industrial heritage; dramatic and stylish. But there’s even more beyond to be discovered. Apart from hiring a local guide you may like to consider two classic books.

The first is titled ‘Worktown: The Drawings of Falcon Hildred’ and provides a designer’s perspective on the various buildings around the town. Falcon states ‘I believe that Blaenau Ffestiniog and its landscape are the best and most complete surviving industrial landscape in Britain’.

Another book I would recommend is simply titled ‘Blaenau Ffestiniog’. Fantastic photos by landscape photographer Jeremy Moore and words by Gwyn Thomas, the one time national poet of Wales, whose poetry is in the sculptures, on the pavement and either side of the slate river. 

You could probably buy both books and get free supersaver delivery from an online retailer but, for the authentic experience, why not go to Siop Yr Hen Bost.  The bookshop is about a 3 minute walk from the station (south) along the main street and you’ll find lots of other treasure inside.