Sam Davis big weekend preview
Conwy, with its imposing 13th-century castle, town walls, and proximity to the Snowdonia mountains, has many literary and artistic connections, and has long been attracting artists, photographers, and writers such as:
• Gerard Manley Hopkins: The Victorian poet and Jesuit priest spent time in the area, finding inspiration in the local landscapes, including the nearby Elwy Valley, which he celebrated in his poetry.
• Felicia Hemans: A 19th-century poet who lived at Bronwylfa near St Asaph( near Conwy) from 1809 to 1825, she wrote“ The Graves of a Household” and“ The Homes of England” while inspired by the North Wales scenery.
• William Wordsworth: While more famously associated with the Lake District, he wrote the poem“ We Are Seven,” which is set in Conwy.
• Charles Tunnicliffe: An internationally renowned wildlife artist and illustrator who lived in Anglesey and was deeply inspired by the landscapes of North Wales, frequently capturing the surrounding areas.
• J. R. R. Tolkien: While not living in Conwy itself, Tolkien was heavily inspired by the North Wales landscape and language, creating his“ Elvish” languages based on Welsh.
• Philip Pullman: Grew up in Harlech and attended school in the region, noting that the landscape of North Wales informed his writing.
The Conwy Camera Club, established in 1945, has produced 80 years of photographic documentation of the town, including work by Rhodri Clark, who has curated extensive archives of Conwy. The town also hosts Oriel Colwyn, a prominent photographic gallery showcasing local landscape and historical photography. The Royal Cambrian Academy, based in Conwy, has hosted numerous artists and photographers, including Sir Kyffin Williams and former president Augustus John.
Spring 2026 OUTDOOR FOCUS 7