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Easter in Harlech

Easter Reflections at St Tanwg’s, Llandanwg


Nestled in a hollow among the sand dunes at Llandanwg, the ancient church of St Tanwg offers a place of peace and quiet reflection. Worship in this simple medieval building is accompanied by the deep roll of the sea — a timeless soundtrack to a site steeped in history and meaning.

This small stone church, with its circular ‘llan’ (enclosure), was once the parish church of Harlech. Founded in the 5th century, it’s one of the oldest Christian sites in Britain. Inside, by the altar, lies a long pillar stone dating from the same era, believed to have journeyed across the sea from the Wicklow Hills in Ireland. In the churchyard rests the grave of Welsh poet Sion Phillips, who tragically drowned crossing from Shell Island to Llandanwg in 1620.

As Easter approaches, it’s a poignant place to think about themes of life, death, and rebirth.


Now, I imagine most of you know the basics of the Easter story — but if not, no worries! Here's a quick refresher. Easter is a Christian holiday celebrating the resurrection of Jesus. It takes place on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the Spring Equinox, and it follows Good Friday, the day Christians believe Jesus died on the cross. Easter Sunday marks the miraculous moment — the resurrection, three days later.

So where do chocolate eggs and colourful hunts come into all of this? Well, while eggs aren’t directly part of the original Easter story, they’ve long symbolised life and rebirth. That’s why they’ve been adopted into the traditions of the season — a celebration of hope, renewal, and new beginnings.

Whether you spend Easter Sunday in a centuries-old church by the sea or simply sharing chocolate eggs with loved ones, may it bring you peace, joy, and a renewed sense of wonder.



Easter Recipes


Easter is here — and that means it’s time for a well-deserved treat! It’s the perfect occasion to celebrate, spend quality time with family, and enjoy something sweet together. These delicious recipes are a great way to get everyone involved, have a bit of fun in the kitchen, and whip up some truly tasty creations!



Easter Treats in Harlech


There are so many delicious Easter treats about at the moment, but if you want some of the finest, make your way over to Celtic Cofiadwy, where you can purchase chocolate figurines and so many more! The chocolate is handmade in Harlech and just sublime. Also, be sure to pop into Y Groser Harlech, where you'll find a tempting range of Easter treats — from artisan Welsh chocolates to freshly baked cakes and breads.




Easter Traditions


Easter is filled with familiar symbols like eggs, lambs, and fluffy chicks — but it’s also a time rich with tradition. Here are a few classic Easter customs that are a must when it comes to celebrating the season.


Eating Hot Cross Buns, you know spring is on its way when hot cross buns turn up in your local shop.


Egg hunts might seem a bit childish, but they’re actually great fun for all ages!

Join in the Easter Egg Trail on 20 April at Harlech Castle.


Easter Parades: this is a very unusual tradition; it could be associated with markets and local events.


Fly Kites – It might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Easter, but kite flying is a surprisingly fun tradition! While it’s often linked to summer, it also fits perfectly with Easter — a joyful, breezy activity you can enjoy just about anywhere. Why not head down to Harlech Beach this Easter and make kite flying your new family tradition?


Easter Baskets – I’m currently obsessed with Easter baskets! They’re the perfect alternative to egg hunts for older kids (and let’s be honest, adults too). You can fill them with all sorts of goodies — from Easter sweets and chocolates to crafts, decorations, cuddly toys, slippers, candles, and more.

A great spot to pick up a basket ready to fill is Cambrian Clearance in Llanbedr — you never know what unique treasures you’ll find!


Amazing Easter Basket Ideas:

Girls –

10 year olds: Bunny slippers, easter colouring books, books, pens, chalk, teddy, slime, brush, easter claw clips

11 year olds: Slime, Hair accessories, Journal, markers, colouring books, mini karaoke machine, lip gloss, easter claw clips, jelly cat.

12 year olds: Easter face masks, books, easter eggs, fluffy socks, fluffy pyjamas, markers, stanleys, candles, blankets.

13 year olds: Sunglasses, face masks, bunny spa headbands, candy, books, markers, colouring books, Easter phone cases, and sunglasses.


Boys –

10 year olds: Lego, candy, Easter slippers, games, books, headphones.

11year olds: Lynx, Nerf guns, games, sliders, cross necklace, and Lego.

12 year olds: Game cards, emoji pillows, candy, body spray, headphones.

13 year olds – Socks, candy, cologne, sliders, portable charger, backpack speaker,



 
 
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