Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
here. The earliest part of today's stone church dates to the 12th century, although that
building was largely destroyed in 1211 during a raid by England's King John, whose men
also burned the city. Further ravages took place in the 13th century, during Edward I's in-
vasion, and in 1402, during the Glyndŵr uprising. Two centuries later Cromwell's men
used the cathedral as stables.
Much of the architecture seen today is thanks to the work of the eminent architect Sir
George Gilbert Scott between 1870 and 1880. More recently, Aled Jones (choirboy turned
TV and radio presenter) trained his adolescent vocal chords here.
The cathedral has a small shop and an exhibition about its history. An artistic highlight
is the late-15th-century, almost life-sized, oak carving of Christ, seated and shackled in
the moments before his crucifixion. A stroll in the adjoining bible gardens, supposedly
containing every plant mentioned in the bible, makes for a tranquil counterpoint to the
city's bawdy pub scene.
Gwynedd Museum
& Art Gallery
OFFLINE MAP
MUSEUM
GOOGLE MAP
(
www.gwynedd.gov.uk/museums
;
Gwynedd Rd; 12.30-4.30pm Tue-Fri, 10.30am-4.30pm Sat)
In
between the archaeological relics and beautifully crafted furniture typical of similar small
collections, this museum has some interesting displays on the nature of Welshness and the
battles for its survival. Downstairs there's a gallery devoted to temporary art exhibitions
(most works are for sale), and a tourist information terminal (Bangor doesn't have a tour-
ist office).
Garth Pier
(adult/child 50/20p; 8am-6pm Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm Sun)
Given the large expanse of mudflats ex-
posed at high tide (a paradise for all manner of wading birds), it's surprising that the
Victorians chose to build one of Britain's longest pleasure piers here. Built in 1896, Garth
Pier stretches 460m into the Menai Strait, reaching most of the way to Anglesey. Kiosks
with fanciful oriental rooves are scattered along its length and there's a tearoom at the
very end. In the distance you catch the sun glinting off Thomas Telford's handsome Menai
Suspension Bridge.
LANDMARK
Festivals & Events