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The landscape around Snowdonia National Park has undergone many transformations. In the 19th century the slate mining industry dramatically changed the landscape here and brought prosperity to the region. When the mines closed, nuclear energy and the power plant at Trawsfynydd became the largest employer in the area. But this part of Snowdonia is now undergoing another transformation, one that encourages thrill-seekers and adventurers to explore what lies beyond the mountain slopes. Helen Skelton finds out more about the industry that made north Wales world famous and takes a look at some of the new attractions on offer to visitors.

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In March 2010 all 73 miles of Hadrian’s Wall were lit up to celebrate a major anniversary – 1,600 years since the Romans left Britain for good. Matt Baker and Julia Bradbury were given exclusive access to the rehearsals for this epic celebration - getting a sneak preview of the flares and beacons that would light up the ancient monument from Newcastle in the east and through Carlisle in the west.

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The 20th century brought a discovery that would transform the world forever – nuclear energy. Trawsyfyndd nuclear power station was the first of its kind in Wales and Helen finds out how its modernist design has left a lasting legacy on the surrounding landscape. She then heads to Llyn Trawsfynydd, a manmade reservoir originally created in the 1920s to supply water for Maentwrog hydro-electric power station. Helen finds out how the lake has been developed into a fishing hotspot for anglers.

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In the heart of the Wiltshire countryside is Tedworth House - a recovery centre run by Help for Heroes in partnership with the Ministry of Defence.Ìý The residents are working to overcome the trauma of injury or illness and dealing with a military career cut short.Ìý Through working with nature in the 30 acres of woodland, the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust teaches them skills to equip them for the future.ÌýÌý Jules Hudson hears the inspirational story of Corporal Michael Day who was blown up during a routine patrol in Afghanistan. Thanks to Michael’s experience here, he now has a whole new career to look forward to - teaching outdoor and woodland skills.

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Despite its dilapidated appearance, the abandoned oil refinery site of Canvey Wick in Essex is teaming with life. Dumped sediment from the dredging of the River Thames has created a patchwork of habitats that house an abundance of plants and creatures. Ellie Harrison meets the conservationists trying to preserve this hidden treasure. Then she travels to a former rubbish tip, Thurrock Thameside, to discover how the local Wildlife Trust has transformed the dump into a wildlife haven.

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The slate industry made a name for the small town of Blaenau Ffestiniog, nestled within the heart of the Snowdonia National Park. Helen learns about the miners who spent their lives working underground from local historian and guide Phil Jones. The landscape has also been defined by the mountains of slate casting long shadows beneath them and soon thrill-seekers will be able to get a bird’s-eye view of the dramatic scenery by zip lining across the quarry. Helen bravely tries sightseeing at speed before bouncing on to another attraction below the ground.

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Adam Henson takes a look at his farming year as he gets on with some seasonal jobs. In late autumn some of the cattle need housing because grass is in short supply and the conditions are starting to get too wet. His white park calves are ready to be weaned from their mums and moved into the shelter of the barns for the winter. The highlands are a hardier breed and get to stay outside all year round, but they still need some TLC. Adam’s Gloucester Old Spot pigs also live outside during the winter, because of their thick skin and hair. But to keep them warm at night Adam provides them with a good layer of straw. But it is not just livestock that Adam farms. He also has a thousand acres of arable crops to look after – and the weather has not been kind.

Helen meets Angela Proctor, who is helping to build family friendly cycle trails at Lanhydrock, before putting up some bat boxes. She then visits Lanhydrock’s partner site, Cardinham Woods, where the more experienced can ride. Helen soon learns that these are not just areas for an exhilarating sport – the trails are also helping to improve accessibility for wildlife conservation. She then helps Chris Mason, the ranger at Cardinham Woods, with planting Dog-violets that will, hopefully, attract Pearl-bordered Fritillary butterflies.

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