Live at the Wye is a music festival in the Wye Valley. I think the river through the Wye marks the border between England and Wales. My host Bob (green tee-shirt) and his friend Syd picked me up from Speech House (yes - its a place name) and we made our way there for the pre-festival gig.
Locally crushed cider was a stand-out from this picturesque bar by the river. I also sampled my first taste of mead. Hmmm. Local brews here are the traditional hand-pull ales, malt dominant and confident in their tradition.
After our mead and a chicken curry we made our way back to England (over the rail-bridge across the river) for the music that was peeling its way across the valley.
We got there in time for a covers band that I hope is not an indication of the music that I may find there this afternoon!
This shot up the valley shows the light at half past nine at night.
A great night. Bob and Syd were fantastic hosts proud of their Welsh valley and a little embarrassed by the music. Loads of laughter. Good fun.
I was thinking of heading Swansea way today but already its 12.05 - the Wye Valley music festival proper seems like a relaxed way to spend the day prior to my colleagues arriving tomorrow.
Castles don't - to be honest. But it seems that castle hunting is something that must be done when in these old places. Of course - once I got there I found myself moved by the sense of history and the stories well-told. 
I visited Usk, Abergaveny and Raglan castles. Usk and Abergaveny were free to stroll about and in the balmy (true!) summer warmth with blooming Victorian gardens and locals lunching it made for a lovely afternoon.
