Family Matters

Halcyon days spent holidaying in north Wales inspired Sarah Cross to build a special home that strengthens her ties with a bygone era

- Janet Mcmeekin

Had it not been for an incredibly stormy night back in 1882, it’s highly unlikely Sarah Cross would ever have built a stunning New England-style home in a magical, coastal spot in north Wales. ‘At the time, my great-great grandmother had travelled from London to Holyhead, with the intention of sailing to Dublin to visit her parents in Ireland,’ explains Sarah. ‘However, when rough seas meant the crossing was cancelled, she ended up staying in nearby Trearddur Bay on Anglesey.’

Having spotted Rhoscolyn across the headland, Sarah’s ancestor was enchanted by the breathtaking view, and made a point of visiting there the following year. After instantly falling in love with Rhoscolyn, her tales of this carefree coastal village, with its golden sandy beaches and secluded coves, piqued the interest of Sarah’s relatives. Soon, her great-great aunts and uncles also began holidaying, and then building properties there.

‘As a child, I spent every summer here, staying with my extended family, including cousins and siblings, in the house my grandparents bought,’ says Sarah. ‘I’ve such fond memories of fun times, playing in rock pools, lobster-potting and excitedly exploring with my brother, sister and cousins – just as previous generations of our family had done. As a result, all the cousins have an extremely close relationship, which is something we cherish.’