Eight cars from the MGCC Yorkshire region gathered on Sunday morning in perfect conditions on the prom at Llandudno. Some, no doubt feeling a little fragile after our now traditional Saturday night get together and dinner at the "Queen Vic". 

However, the bright sunshine, sea air, and the sight of nearly 200 MG's soon revived any flagging spirits.  As we waited for the off, crews got down to perusing their route books, and making a fuss of Mike Payne's third  passenger, his border collie, Stanley.

The run began with a circuit of the magnificent "Great Orme", which looked absolutely sensational in the clear morning sunlight, and as we waited in the short queue at the toll booth, I lost the use of  temperature gauge, fuel gauge, and wipers, due to what turned out to be a worn fuse holder, not bad after covering 1.1 miles!.
 

After the Great Orme, it was on to Deganwy, Llandudno Junction, and out into the superb scenery of the North Wales countryside. The good weather continued as we made our way on near deserted roads through Betws-yn-Rhos to Llanfair, past Llyn Aled lake, and on to Pentrefoelas. Here we joined the A5 to Betws-Y-Coed, and soon arrived at our lunch stop at Llechwedd Slate Caverns, just outside Blaenau Ffestiniog.

At the caverns, the organizers had set up a large dedicated parking area, and once again we were treated to the spectacle of massed MG's shining in the sun, Marvellous!.

A few intrepid members took advantage of the opportunity to ride the train down into the slate mine and found it a rewarding experience, whilst others met old friends, took photos, and keeping an eye on a few black clouds, enjoyed the last of the sunshine above ground.

Part two began with a return to the scenic roads and lanes of North Wales. Through Rhyd and the Aberlaslyn Pass towards Capel Curig. A short stop for an ice cream at the Snowden view point, then into the Llanberis Pass. More breathtaking views as the weather, though threatening, continued to hold, adding a touch of drama to the Welsh countryside.

A challenging section followed, over narrow moor land roads towards Dinorwig and Marchlyn and on to Bethesda, where we rejoined the A5.  Next, an easily missed right turn to Lon Las Ogwen, (well we missed it!), but what a road, talk about narrow !.

Finally, it was back on the A5 to Trefriw, to Tal-Y-Cafn,and on to the finish at the National Trust Bodnant Gardens, for a welcome cuppa. There, we met up with the rest of the crews, and exchanged tales of the road. The weather had held throughout, and all agreed that it had been an excellently organized and executed tour of some of the most outstanding scenery in Britain.

Review by
Paul Croft
MGCC North Yorkshire.