Several excursions may be made from Caernarvon, with great satisfaction to the tourist; the principal of which is a visit to PLAS-NEWYDD, the elegant seat of the Marquis of Anglesea, situated in the Isle of Anglesea, and distant about six miles from Caernarvon. If the wind and tide prove favourable, the picturesque scenery of the Menai will be viewed to great advantage by hiring a boat at the quay. {191} But if this most advisable plan should not be approved of, the walk to the Moel-y-don ferry, about five miles on the Bangor road, will prove highly gratifying. The Menai, whose banks are studded with gentlemen’s seats, appearing scarcely visible between the rich foliage of the oak, which luxuriates to the water’s brink, is filled with vessels, whose shining sails, fluttering in the wind, attract and delight the observing eye; whilst the voice of the sailors, exchanging some salute with the passing vessel, is gently wafted on the breeze. Crossing the ferry, we soon reached the ancient residence of the arch-druid of Britain, where was formerly stationed the most celebrated of the ancient British academies: from this circumstance many places in this island still retain their original appellation, as Myfyrim, the place of studies: Caer Idris, the city of astronomy; Cerrig Boudin, the astronomer’s circle. The shore to the right soon brought us to the plantations of Plâs-Newydd, consisting chiefly of the most venerable oaks, and noblest ash in this part of the country: —“Superior to the pow’r Of all the warring winds of heaven they rise; And from the stormy promontory tower, And toss their giant arms amid the skies; While each assailing blast increasing strength supplies.” BEATTIE’S MINSTREL.