Ardal is created by Martin Davies:
Local historian and experienced tour guide of many years with in depth knowledge of the area.
Having lived here all my life, I feel extremely lucky to be living in this area of natural beauty, surrounded by the mountains and sea with a vast history in its midst.
My ancestor Moses Williams, acted as a guide to Snowdon for many years. He was one of the first guides who used to take visitors up the mountain on horseback in 19th century. He kept the Halfway house for 28 years, a well-known refreshment house on the road to the summit of Snowdon.
Moses Williams – Sonwodon Half Way House
Moses Williams, one of the first Snowdon Guides
I have gained experiences as a local tour guide at many historical sites over many years, including sites belonging to National Trust, Cadw, Anglesey Council and also have experiences as a history lecturer at Bangor University and worked at a Tourist Information Centre.
I support many local community groups and projects, including historical walks, talks & slideshows, research and occasionally providing metal detecting services & drone photography.
I also often assist with Gareth Robert’s Walk & Discovery project, which is a great privilege. I have also volunteered on many archaeological digs.
I was also a member of a former local history group called GWYDION HERITAGE based in the Caernarfon area.
Dolbadarn Castle
I feel it is necessary to enable locals and visitors to learn of our history. In order to achieve this, it is very important to safeguard and protect what we have, and at the same time hope that everyone has a wonderful and memorable experience.
I hope that you all enjoy this website.
I would like to thank all those that have contributed and supported with this website
Giles Bohannon (Fusion IT Services) for hosting website, advice & guidance…much needed tech support
Dyfan Roberts for providing Welsh translations in Ardal Cymraeg website
Gareth Roberts for his artistic images, walks & talks with his amazing Walk & Discover Project
Karl Banholzer for his wonderful support, historical contributions, artistic images & artefacts
Gareth Foulkes for his wonderful Carnyx & being a true Celt – diolch yn fawr!
all landowners for your kind permissions for photography, filming & drone use
…and of course to all my friends & family that have put up with my constant nagging…