Why a Duke of York monument at the top of this hill....

Pen y Ball is a small hilltop hamlet in Flintshire, North Wales.
Although it is only around a couple of miles distant from the sea level Dee estuary, it is surprisingly high. Especially in winter.
Sitting on the edge of Halkyn Mountain, there is a surprising amount of industrial history dating back thousands of years.
And a more recent monument which commemorates 3 events in the life of The Duke of York who became King George V of England.
Join me as we explore the history and why a memorial is placed here, in this inhospitable and perhaps obscure yet prominent location.
If you'd like to visit Pen-y-Ball for yourself, there is much useful information on our website at www.haveagrand...

[@GTexplores]

Getting the pronunciation of Pen-y-Ball correct or even somewhere near correct was quite a challenge. After asking the advice of several local friends, it turn out that "say what you see" is in this case the most correct. Goooogles suggestion of "Pen i Belle" seems to be far from correct. I do know that my Yorkshire accent will prevail, but I've overdubbed with my best effort!

[@welshdragon2148]

Thank you.

[@GTexplores]

You're welcome!

[@davidpowell6098]

Another place close to mine, thank you for these tours, very enjoyable.

[@GTexplores]

Thankyou! Whilst I do have ambitions to travel further away, I do recognise just how popular my videos about small places local to Flintshire are. I'm born in Yorkshire but I have spent almost 10 years living, paying taxes, buying things and working in North Wales. In yorkshire there is a saying:- "Look after the pennies and the pounds will look after themselves" This is a principle which I do uphold and I do my best to apply throughout my day. Suggestions for places always welcome. I'm currently interested in any connections / rumours / folk stories / legends connected in any way with Maen Achwyfan, Romans in Wales, ancient roads / footpaths, etc. GT

[@lillianrenshaw6115]

I walked that hill many times in my youth but not any more It is steep. Your pronunciation is ok even with your accent and I must say that you make Grand videos .

[@GTexplores]

Indeed, it is steep! I walked up the hill myself. The monument is dedicated to the Duke of York, and I did briefly wonder if this was the hill which he marched 10,000 men up before marching them down again. It turns out that was a different Grand Old Duke of York!