Club History
In 1979 a small group of friends, living in Llŷn who used to walk frequently in the area, decided to organise a programme of regular walks for themselves and anyone else who wished to join them. Thus began Llŷn Ramblers.
Walks were arranged on alternate Sundays, usually in Snowdonia and also on Thursday afternoons as several members were in the retail business in Pwllheli, where early closing was on that day. A committee put together a varied programme of rambles to suit the different abilities of the group. There were strenuous climbs in the mountains, more moderate walks in the hills and easy strolls, mainly pastoral.
The popularity of the group increased steadily , with a happy amalgamation of Welsh and English, the Welsh speakers always ready to help anyone learning their language. There were a number of people prepared to lead walks and research new routes. When, after ten years, a celebratory supper was held at Plas Glyn y Weddw, the membership had grown to around fifty.
Some ramblers occasionally ventured further afield and spent weekends in Youth Hostels, where they explored the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales and other areas. They also walked the Pennine Way and Wainwright’s Coast to Coast. These were tough assignments for experienced walkers, but since 1992 walking holidays have been organised to cater for all abilities. Each year a holiday has been arranged at destinations as far apart as Scotland and Cornwall, staying at comfortable holiday centres, which specialise in outdoor activities. There are usually three different walks on offer every day and a good social programme in the evenings. The holidays have proved very popular and now up to fifty ramblers enjoy a week’s happy fellowship.
Over the years the group has worked in maintaining local footpaths and ensuring there are no obstructions. Some years ago they helped the countryside warden establish three Coast to Coast routes across the Llŷn Peninsula and these walks appear regularly in the programmes. The Club is affiliated to the Rambler’s Association, The Snowdonia Society and The Campaign for the Protection of Rural Wales.
From time to time there have been Navigation courses and First Aid instruction for the benefit of would be leaders.
In 2004 the club held a luncheon at Criccieth to celebrate its’ Silver Jubilee when members past and present came together to remember the wonderful times shared and the friendships made over the years. Rhodwyr Llŷn now has well over 100 members.
Harold and Rene Hayes