Cake at the Castle

In need of a little tidying up: a rake, a shovel, a power-washer, and trailer, a wheelbarrow, two fire extinguishers and a big barbecue...

I must say that the quality of the succulent carrot cake and accompanying coffee served outside Tafarn y Ddraig at the Ruthin Castle was excellent and enjoyable. The cake wasn't as nice as Marina's at the Coffee Cabin, though. But it's 50p cheaper at the Castle and you do get the virtuousness of supporting a business central to Rhuthun/Ruhin which is really in need.

A box of cakes and plastic cutlery made the best of things. Although we were the only people partaking at the Castle, the bin was nice and full, indicating that during the morning there'd been some trade. 

Inside the newly erected wigwam is this air of being unfinished

Till allowed to open fully outdoors, the plan was to buy your coffee & cake then take a wander round the grounds. 

Tea time or wine time?At least the time at the Castle Hotel is correct four times a day!!

The positive nevertheless were a nice walk around the grounds. The negative it has to be said was the fact that the ground wasn't looking its best. It seemed a little un-cared for. 

Work very much needed in the gardens

Returning to the outdoor area due to open on Monday, there's still the sense that Ruthin Castle isn't quite ready. That's probably because the outdoor furniture's there but technically cannot be used. The area still seemed to be in a state of flux and preparation for a week's time when the Castle can serve proper food on a plate without plastic cutlery to guests seated outdoors. Even though takeaway coffee was available, there was no signage other than at the gatehouse. There was a significant cloud of dust at times swirling in the breeze.  

I think the one issue of concern was when one of our party was charged £5 for a cake and a bottle of sparkling water. No matter the quality of the cake, that seemed rather excessive. It does, of course, go to a good cause, though.