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Wonderful

Winter

As winter blankets Powys in a serene embrace, the region reveals a captivating allure that beckons travellers seeking a unique and enchanting escape. 

 

Nestled amid the picturesque landscapes of Mid Wales, Powys transforms into a winter wonderland, where rolling hills and charming villages are adorned with a dusting of snow. 

The crisp air carries a sense of tranquility, inviting visitors to explore historic towns, partake in festive events, and witness the timeless beauty of the countryside blanketed in winter hues. 

 

From traditional Christmas markets and cozy local inns to invigorating outdoor activities against the backdrop of snow tipped hills, winter in Powys unveils a tapestry of experiences, each weaving together the warmth of Welsh hospitality and the magic of the season.

Image by Sunny Nguyen
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What's on

While specific events vary from year to year, Powys typically hosts a range of festive and cultural activities during the winter months.

One prevalent feature is the presence of charming Christmas markets, where local artisans, crafters, and food vendors gather to offer unique gifts, decorations, and festive treats. These markets create a seasonal atmosphere and are a delightful way for residents and visitors to partake in the holiday spirit.

Winter festivals are also common across Powys communities, featuring a variety of activities such as live music, dance performances, and traditional winter celebrations. These events serve as a platform for bringing people together to celebrate the holiday season and showcase local talent.

As the towns and villages prepare for the festive season, many adorn their streets with elaborate light displays. Official lighting ceremonies may mark the commencement of these displays, contributing to a magical festive ambiance that adds to the overall festive spirit.

Community carol singing events are another cherished tradition in Powys during the winter. These gatherings provide an opportunity for locals to come together, sing traditional carols, and celebrate the joy of the season through shared music and community spirit.

For those who appreciate the outdoors, organised winter walks, hikes, and outdoor activities take advantage of Powys's scenic landscapes. Guided walks through snow-dusted trails offer a unique perspective on the natural beauty of Mid Wales in winter.

New Year's Eve is a time for celebration in various towns and villages across Powys, with events, parties, and fireworks displays marking the transition to the new year. Local pubs and venues may host special events with music, dancing, and merriment.

Concerts, theatre productions, pantomimes and other performances are common during the winter season.Venues, community centres, and theatres host events showcasing the talents of local musicians, actors, and performers.

Additionally, winter in Powys sees the promotion of seasonal and local food and drink. Restaurants, pubs, and food festivals feature special winter menus, highlighting traditional Welsh cuisine and festive treats.

Image by Birger Strahl

Winter Wildlife 

Winter in Powys brings about a unique and dynamic landscape, influencing the behaviours and adaptations of the region's wildlife. From the rugged hills to the tranquil valleys, Powys is home to a diverse array of animals that have developed strategies to thrive in the winter months. Here are some of the notable winter animals you might encounter in Powys:

 

Birds 

The Swallows have now all departed for warmer climes but Autumn’s rich bounty of fruit and berries is attracting new visitors from distant lands.

 

Redwings flock to Wales from Finland, Norway and Sweden to feast on the berries produced by hedgerow shrubs such as Hawthorn and Elder. They migrate at night and their high-pitched whistling calls can often be heard on dark still nights, especially when large flocks are on the move.

 

Fieldfares are also arriving from their breeding grounds in Iceland and northern Europe. They visit Wales to feast on berries and fallen fruit. Orchards, especially those where fallen fruit is left on the ground, can attract huge numbers of Fieldfares. They are, however, a flighty bird and quickly retreat to the tops of trees if disturbed.  

 

Other winter visitors that are now arriving from their northern breeding grounds include Wigeon and Teal. These ducks are to be found on lakes and large ponds where they feed on aquatic vegetation and invertebrates. Wigeon and Teal migrate over huge distances to escape freezing winter temperatures in their northern breeding grounds. It's amazing to think that a Wigeon overwintering in Powys could have flown all the way from Russia.

 

At this time of year our iconic resident bird of prey, the Red Kite, is much easier to see, especially where large flocks congregate at feeding stations such as at Gigrin Farm in Rhayader. The Red Kite is a conservation success story; once down to just three individuals, the Red Kite population in Wales now numbers around two and a half thousand pairs.

 

Every now and again a bird with unusual and aberrant markings can spring up in a population of otherwise normally marked birds. There is currently one such bird coming to the Red Kite feeding station at Gigrin Farm. This unusually marked Red Kite is almost completely white; will this impressive looking bird produce white offspring? We will have to wait until spring to find out………

 

 

Deer:

The hills and woodlands of Powys are inhabited by red deer, and winter is a fascinating time to observe their behaviour. The colder months often bring about the rutting season, where male red deer, or stags, engage in impressive displays to establish dominance and attract mates.

Roe deer are well-adapted to the woodlands and fields of Powys. During winter, you may see these deer foraging for food in open areas or seeking shelter in the dense vegetation.

Mountain Hares:

In the upland areas, such as the Cambrian Mountains, you may spot the elusive mountain hare. These creatures change their fur colour to white during winter, blending seamlessly with the snowy landscapes to avoid predators.

Otters:

Powys is traversed by numerous rivers and waterways, making it an ideal habitat for otters. These semi-aquatic mammals can be observed along riverbanks and lakeshores, even in the winter months, as they hunt for fish and other prey.

Badgers:

Badgers, though less active during the winter, may still venture out in search of food. Wooded areas and fields provide habitats where badgers may be spotted foraging.

Foxes:

Foxes are adaptable and can be observed year-round in Powys. In winter, their tracks may be more visible in snow-covered landscapes, offering a glimpse into their nocturnal activities.

Grey Squirrels:

These energetic rodents remain active during winter, foraging for nuts and seeds they've stored during the fall. They are commonly seen in woodlands and urban areas.

 

Winter in Powys offers a unique opportunity to witness the resilience and strategies employed by the region's wildlife to navigate the challenges posed by the season. Whether it's the majestic deer, elusive hares, or soaring birds of prey, the winter landscape in Powys provides a rich tapestry of wildlife experiences for those keen on exploration and observation.

Image by Nanna Moilanen

Traditions 

Wales boasts a rich tapestry of Christmas traditions, influenced by both historical customs and the unique cultural heritage of the Welsh people. While some traditions are shared with the broader UK and others are distinctly Welsh, they all contribute to the festive spirit of the holiday season. Here are some notable Welsh Christmas traditions:

Nadolig Llawen (Merry Christmas):

The Welsh greeting for the season is "Nadolig Llawen," which captures the warm wishes for a Merry Christmas. This phrase is often used in cards, decorations, and festive exchanges.​

Plygain Service:

A traditional Welsh Christmas service called "Plygain" takes place in many churches. Held in the early morning hours of Christmas Day, it involves singing traditional Welsh carols.  Plygain services have a long history in Wales and are known for their spiritual and communal significance.

The Mari Lwyd (Grey Mare):

Mari Lwyd is a centuries-old Welsh tradition where a horse skull is mounted on a pole and adorned with colorful ribbons and bells. A group of carollers, led by a person carrying Mari Lwyd, visits homes and pubs, engaging in rhyming challenges with the occupants. It's a lively and unique way of spreading holiday cheer.

Calennig (New Year's Day Celebrations):

Calennig is the Welsh New Year's Day tradition of giving and receiving small gifts. Children and young people often go door-to-door, singing traditional songs and receiving small treats or coins in return. Calennig is a joyful way to welcome the New Year.

 

Welsh Cakes:

Welsh cakes, also known as "picau ar y maen," are a delicious Christmas treat. These round, griddle-cooked cakes are made with ingredients like flour, currants, and spices. They are often enjoyed with a sprinkle of sugar and a cup of tea during the festive season.

 

Taffy Making:

The tradition of making taffy, known as "siocled yn y tân" or "chocolate in the fire," involves gathering family and friends around the hearth to make toffee or chocolate. It's a sweet and communal activity that adds to the festive atmosphere.

 

Yule Log Ceremony:

The Yule Log tradition involves burning a large log on Christmas Eve, symbolising the warmth and light of the returning sun. In some Welsh communities, this tradition is still observed with the lighting of a festive log in the hearth.

Welsh Christmas Carols:

Wales has a rich musical tradition, and Christmas carols are an integral part of the festive season. Many Welsh carols, like "Deck the Halls" and "O Holy Night," are sung with Welsh lyrics, adding a unique touch to the holiday music repertoire.

 

​Christmas Day Walks:

After the Christmas feast, it's a common tradition for families to take a stroll together. The Welsh countryside offers beautiful landscapes, and a brisk walk is a refreshing way to embrace the festive spirit.

Welsh Christmas traditions showcase a blend of religious, community, and culinary customs that contribute to a warm and festive holiday season in this culturally rich nation.

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