Harry Potter (Real) World

Phil's Journey through Journalism

Aka Edinburgh the birthplace of Harry in theory, where JK Rowling penned some of her works and certainly the 7th book Deathly Hallows.

The 5* hotel where JK spent 6 months writing her last book
Harry Potter Paradise
Edinburgh Castle
Graveyard that inspired some of the characters in the Harry Potter series
Leith river run to Dean Village

Also in prep for the marathon I spent time running around the city including a parkrun at Holyrood and Arthur’s Seat and again along the Leith river. These were particular highlights!

Tollymore

Phil's Journey through Journalism
Summer Fuscias
A trip down memory lane and a few new sights
To the confines of the park
There are two sets of stepping stones in the park
‘cuz every time we touch’ Cascade (not cascada)

Summer has gone
Was it ever here?
I am summer
So are you
Let's make it last forever

Derrymore, Newry

Phil's Journey through Journalism

National Trust treasure documents the ownership of this thatched bungalow. The centre also documents the act of union which was a failure for the Cathloics in 1800 by effectively succeeding power to London.

Thatched Roof was a nice change of scenery from traditional National Trust properties
The Woodhouse is actually private
There is a quaint graveyard with a private church at the back formed my Quakers

Snowdon and the Fairy Glen

Phil's Journey through Journalism

Great race up UK’s largest mountain outside Scotland. Finished in 2 hrs almost on the dot. Wet conditions were cooling.

Pre race, nervous but keen to get done ✔️

The race went okay. I had misjudged a 300m climb two-thirds in and had to pace out a few leaps. The night before I realised this but had done enough distance runs to keep myself positive of making the cut-off at 1hr near summit. The top was refreshingly cool and aided a smooth-ish descent.

Conwys Castle (Not to be confused with Conway in NI)
Conwy Town, Quaint

Today I needed a rest so attended Conwys Castle for tired runners!

Shakedown in the Fairy Glen
The UK’s smallest house

Betsy-y-Coed

Phil's Journey through Journalism

I’m here for a mountain race on Saturday. After an unsuccessful trip to two barbers I finally caved and opted for forest trail direction swallows waterfall.

Last night’s run still keeping the heart going but ideally early is best. Found a church and trinket shop Bob Dydd. I wonder why?

Tomorrow I’ll be up Snowdon at 1085m.

Inside St Mary’s Church in Betsy-y-coed
Stained Glass design
Sappers Bridge
Forest walk
Waterfalls, Waterfall everywhere..
Quaint train stations
Fields near the hotel