North Wales

  • Rhos-on-Sea and the other Captain Morgan

    I am sure that we have all heard of Captain Henry Morgan and if we haven’t heard of him, we may have enjoyed some of his rum. However, have you heard of the other Captain Morgan? Let me introduce Captain Morgan ap John ap David of Rhos-On-Sea. Rhos-On-Sea is a popular coastal town on the…

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  • Bats in the Belfry, or in the churchyard

    International Bat Weekend 29th to 30th August, 2026 As it is International Bat Night, I feel it is only right and proper to do a blog about bats. This also gives me the perfect excuse to lurk about at dusk, in a churchyard. Firstly, I have to confess that alongside my interest in graveyards, I…

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  • The Grocer of Park Street and the Sad Demise of George Astle

    A visit to a cemetery in Wrexham, North Wales leads us to discover the grave of George Astle and to learn of his sad demise in a railway accident. We investigate what happened to his widow Sarah Astle who became a grocer.

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  • Hawarden Graveyard and the Mystery of Mary Burt

    The grave of Frederick and Mary Burt in Hawarden, North Wales, holds a local tale linking them to famous naval figures. Frederick was a farmer, while Mary maintained friendships with Emma Hamilton, a notable historical figure. Their family ties to Lord Nelson reveal intriguing connections, substantiating the regional legend.

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  • Halkyn Old Graveyard and the Mystery of the Open Tombs

    The Halkyn Old Graveyard in North Wales presents a hauntingly beautiful yet eerie atmosphere, showcasing overgrown chest tombs from the 19th century. Although initial fears about body snatching persist, experts suggest that vegetation, subsidence, and rust are primarily responsible for the tombs’ deteriorating condition over time.

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  • The Blue Bell Inn Halkyn and the Mystery of the Pirate Grave

    Our tale for Halloween incorporates a disused graveyard, a pirate (or maybe two), a local pub, fish and chips, and a mystery. As Julie Andrews sang in A Sound of Music, “these are a few of my favourite things”

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