RHIANNON - THE CELTIC DESIGN CENTRE

In the heart of a small Welsh speaking town surrounded by spectacular scenery, the Rhiannon Celtic Design Centre is an outstanding showcase of all that is best in Celtic jewellery, arts and crafts. The centre was established in 1971 by Rhiannon Evans, a jewellery designer with an international reputation for her original and unique interpretations of the Welsh and Celtic artistic traditions. This very special attraction has recently been extended to include even more facilities: You can watch all of Rhiannon's jewellery being handcrafted by her own skilled goldsmiths in the Exhibition Workshops, where they create special jewellery in silver and gold, and also using rare and precious Welsh Gold, mined a few miles away in north Wales. As well as original Celtic knotwork and traditional Welsh images, many of Rhiannon's distinctive jewellery designs draw their inspiration from the landscape and wildlife of this most beautiful part of Britain. Other designs are based on old Celtic legends, or derived from pieces of jewellery made thousands of years ago by the Celts themselves. All of the jewellery is displayed in the Welsh Gold Centre, and there is also a comprehensive mail order catalogue if you can't visit. Opening by 2004, the Museum of Celtic Jewellery traces the development of Celtic artistic styles and techniques, and includes many archaeological finds and exquisite pieces of jewellery. It provides a special insight into the way Celtic jewellery was made and used &endash; many of the skills involved have hardly changed in 2000 years. The Celtic Gallery and Shop features guest artists and themed exhibitions, as well as the very best Welsh and Celtic crafts. This is certainly not your average Welsh Craft Shop - handmade pewter from Cornwall, tweed from Ireland, crystal from Scotland, lampworked glass from Wales, as well as many other examples of the very best in contemporary Celtic artwork. Rhiannon and her family search the Celtic countries relentlessly to find the best craftspeople, and when they can't find just the right product, they even commission their own exclusive pieces for the shop. Finally, the Traditional Welsh Tearoom provides a welcome chance to relax and enjoy the legendary Welsh welcome, as well as traditional Welsh food like cawl, bara brith, or a glorious afternoon tea. There is also the best coffee in the town, healthy light snacks and deliciously fresh juices to drink. The Rhiannon Celtic Design centre is open from Monday to Saturday throughout the year, except between Christmas and the New Year, and on St David' s Day.