Visitors to Manaros will know that we are great fans of R.S. Thomas. He was rector of Aberdaron until 1976 before retiring to Sarn Plas in Rhiw. He was a brilliant poet. The church at Llanfaelrhys was part of his parish and his wife was buried in the graveyard there. There is also a memorial stone to R.S. himself. Following the spoken evensong which takes place in the church every week at 2pm, there was the official opening of the room above the vestry as the R.S. Thomas centre. Here is a view over Bardsey and a wonderful collection of his poetry and prose works, some interesting family photographs and the chance to listen to the great man himself on the CD player.
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Llanfaelrhys church stands near to the wonderful scenery of
the Coast Path. We urge walkers to divert inland at Porth Ysgo so that they can
see this beautiful church which is always open.
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Llanfaelrhys church dates way back to the 6th
century, but most of the building is now 19th century but with some
interesting pew arrangements and a wonderful east window.
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The R.S. Thomas room has a small window from which Bardsey
can be seen.
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There are many photographs here concerning Elsie and
Gwydion, the poet’s wife and son.
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Many of the books can be either purchased or read in the
room itself.
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