Attempting to Speak Cymraeg With the Locals in Northern Wales
Find hotels in Cerrigydrudion, Ll21 9, United Kingdom, GB
A fortifying homemade breakfast of eggs, ham, beans, tomato, hash, and tea at Tyddyn Bychan Rural Bunkhouse is only available to you if you attempt a bit of Welsh first. Lynda, the housemother at this farm in pastoral Cefn Brith, demands at least ‘good morning’ when you sit down at the table (a relatively straightforward ‘bore da’) and a courteous ‘thank you’ after she finally approves your fumbled greeting and sets down your plate (a more daunting diolch yn fawr, which sounds like joc-a var to my obtuse ear). At least 65 percent of this fiercely patriotic corner of northern Wales speaks Cymraeg, which looks like a mash-up of consonants but sounds almost lyrical in the mouths of locals who’ve learned English as a second language. Once you’ve assured Lynda of your sympathies to the Welsh language and people—and satisfied your stomach for the bracing cold (it will always be cold) atop the many medieval castles you will see that day dotting the Irish Sea coast—you may even attempt a hearty ‘twll dîn pob sais!’ to Lynda’s approving smile.
By Bonnie B Lee | Photo: Tyddyn Bychan Rural Bunkhouse North Wales | Feedback