A freshwater lake and urban waterfront at the mouth of the River Taff and Ely in Cardiff, Wales.
Skywatchers across the UK have observed a major solar eclipse, with more than 90% of the Sun obscured at peak in parts of the country. Crowds gathered at Greenwich, Edinburgh and Belfast, using ISO-rated glasses and improvised viewers to watch as daylight dimmed and a fiery ring appeared. Observers describe it as emotional and magical, while experts warn of eye safety and note the event’s scale is the strongest since 1999.
The Guardian profiles Syd Bennett, formerly of the Internet, as she releases Beard, a solo album she calls her first truly hers. The piece traces her departure from group dynamics, the move to a private studio, and her new focus on authentic self-expression after years of collaboration.
The National Eisteddfod of Wales has returned to its roots near Cardigan for its 850th birthday, with events spanning 1-8 August in Llantwd, Pembrokeshire. The festival, a major Welsh-language culture beacon, attracts about 150,000 visitors yearly and features poetry, music, drama and visual arts. This year’s edition highlights historic sites and traditional rites while welcoming a broad audience.