Monday, May 07, 2007

Climbing, Tintern Abbey and Stonehenge

We rose early on Saturday as we took my niece and nephew climbing and sightseeing in Wales. It was Justin and Tamarin's first time rock climbing so we looked for something doable but with good views and an adrenaline rush. Symonds Yat, where we first climbed on arriving in the UK, had potential as it had very accessible climbing, great views and was close to Tintern abbey and Chepstow Castle. We made a full day of it - mixing climbing with sightseeing.

We did an initial small climb to sort out the safety issues and see how people handled the rock and heights.


Tam descending after her climb


Justin at top


Sophie doing the same climb


Then we moved onto the what we call "the pinnacle".

After the lead we set up a top-rope and brought people up one at a time so that we were all on top of the pinnacle, and the world it seemed, - tied onto webbing around the edge of the table top.

I got the opportunity for pictures from above as Tamarin, Sophie, Justin and Annalise climbed it. From the top one can see kayakers on the rapids below on the winding Wye river.

Tam first




Justin next



View from the top



After a late lunch we drove to Tintern Abbey - this abbey dates
from 1131 - more pictures and information here



Followed by Chepstow Castle




and lastly Stonehenge



All the pictures can be seen here, Click the image below.

symonds-yat-rock