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Top 5 Bluebell Walks in West Wales for Families

1/5/2025

 
Spring in West Wales is a magical time when the landscape bursts into a sea of blue with the blooming of bluebells. For families looking to explore these natural wonders, here are the top five bluebell walks that promise beauty and adventure for all ages.
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1. Dinas Head Circular Walk
Situated on the stunningly beautiful Pembrokeshire coast, the Dinas Head Circular Walk offers breathtaking views alongside its vibrant bluebell displays. With its gentle paths winding through lush greenery, this trail is perfect for families, offering various picnic spots where you can stop for a leisurely lunch and opportunities for wildlife spotting along the way. The coastal backdrop adds an extra layer of scenic beauty, making it a memorable experience for everyone involved.

2. The Llanerchaeron Loop
Located near the charming town of Aberaeron, this National Trust-managed property provides a delightful mix of historical insight and natural beauty. The woodlands surrounding Llanerchaeron come alive with bluebells in spring, setting a picturesque backdrop for an enriching family day out. As you walk through these trails, you'll find yourself immersed in both the enchanting natural beauty and the fascinating history that these grounds have to offer, making it a fulfilling outing for both kids and adults alike.

3. Colby Woodland Garden
Famed for its vivid azaleas and rhododendrons, Colby Woodland Garden also hosts a stunning bluebell display that attracts visitors from near and far. Explore the unique garden meadows and winding paths, where children can enjoy finding secret nooks and experiencing nature up close. The blend of diverse plant species offers an educational opportunity, as kids can learn about different flora while enjoying the serene environment. The garden's layout encourages exploration, turning a simple walk into an adventure of discovery and wonder.

4. Teifi Marshes Nature Reserve
At Teifi Marshes, families can enjoy an immersive nature experience amidst the diverse wildlife and vibrant flora. The reserve's boardwalks provide easy access for pushchairs, leading you through lush areas of bluebells that form a sea of blue each spring. It’s an ideal spot for observing local wildlife, from birds to small mammals. Don’t forget to stop by the visitor centre, which offers engaging wildlife activities and educational materials designed specifically for children, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of the natural world.

5. Pentre Ifan and Ty Canol Wood
Venture into myth and mystery at Pentre Ifan, an iconic Neolithic burial chamber surrounded by fascinating legends, before heading to Ty Canol Wood, one of the most ancient woodlands in Wales. The area becomes a carpet of bluebells in springtime, creating a magical setting for family adventures. As you explore these historical and natural sites, you'll feel transported through time, surrounded by both the vibrant sights of blooming bluebells and the rich history that permeates the area. It’s a journey that stimulates both the imagination and the senses.

Tips for a Perfect Family Bluebell Walk
  • Timing is Key: Visit during late April to early May for the best bluebell displays, as this period typically marks the full bloom and ensures you experience these flowers in all their glory.
  • Pack a Picnic: Many of these locations have dedicated picnic areas, perfect for enjoying a family lunch surrounded by nature’s beauty. Sharing a meal with such stunning scenery can add a touch of joy and relaxation to your outing.
  • Respect the Environment: Stay on marked paths to protect the delicate bluebell flowers and their habitat, ensuring that these natural spots remain pristine for future generations to enjoy. Learning and teaching environmental respect and conservation is a valuable part of the experience.
These walks promise more than just a scenic view; they offer families a chance to connect with nature and each other. In addition to physical activity and fresh air, the time spent on these walks encourages bonding and creating cherished memories. Plan your visit to West Wales this spring, and experience the mesmerising beauty of bluebells firsthand. 🌼🐾

  • National Trust - Llanerchaeron: Information about the Llanerchaeron property, including visitor information and historical insights.
  • Colby Woodland Garden - National Trust: Learn more about Colby Woodland Garden, its history, and what visitors can expect to see.
  • Welsh Wildlife Centre - Teifi Marshes Nature Reserve: Detailed information on the Teifi Marshes Nature Reserve, including events, wildlife, and visitor facilities.
  • Visit Pembrokeshire - Dinas Head Walk: A guide to the Dinas Head Circular Walk with tips on what to expect and points of interest.
  • Cadw - Pentre Ifan: Visiting the Pentre Ifan burial chamber, including its history and significance.

Sparkling, Hidden Gems – And Where To Find Them

1/12/2024

 
It's well known that gorgeous West Wales is truly beautiful and many of its treasures are well known to travellers who holiday in this part of the country. But what else is there? Where are those precious hidden gems that you have to be 'in the know' to know about?

Want the inside scoop? Look no further.
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  1. St Govan's Chapel
    The best of the best when it comes to hidden treasures... St. Govan's Chapel stands as testament to both spiritual devotion and natural wonder. This ancient chapel, believed to have been built in the 13th century, is perched precariously on the edge of the cliff, its stone walls blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. The legend is that the saint was pursued by pirates and sought refuge in the cliffs, where a cleft miraculously opened to provide sanctuary. The tiny chapel is only accessible via a steep flight of steps that wind down the cliffside and, to add to its mystery, if you count the steps on the way down you may find that you count a different number going back up!

  2. Ffynone Waterfall
    Hidden within the enchanting woodlands near Boncath, Ffynone doesn't get nearly as much attention as its better known, flashier, nearby counterpart, Cenarth Falls. But don't skip a visit here, because the Ffynone waterfall definitely has its charms, not least because it's the tallest of the four waterfalls in Pembrokeshire. Park up in the small car park, and meander along the moss-covered trail, not forgetting to look up, up, up at the tall, swaying fir trees way above you. And don't forget to bring a towel and some swimmers, you might just fancy jumping into the plunge pool at the foot of the waterfall when you get there. If you're lucky you'll be the only ones there and you can sit back and just enjoy the play of light through the foliage, adding a magical touch.

  3. Castell Bach Cove
    Nestled along the rugged coastline of North Pembrokeshire, Castell Bach Cove is a hidden coastal haven, a gem waiting to be discovered by those who venture off the beaten path. Park up at Cwmtydu Beach and head north along the coastal path to access. Looming over the secluded inlet is what's left of what was once an Iron Age fort, one of only a few to be found in Ceredigion. You can just imagine people in days gone standing there, looking out to sea for marauding invaders.

  4. Carningli Common
    The panoramic views over the Preseli Hills and Cardigan Bay are definitely worth the hike up to Carningli Common. Often referred to as the Mountain of Angels, this majestic silhouette against the skyline above Newport town is the remains of a 450 million year old volcano. The name "Carningli" is believed to have Celtic roots, translating to "Rock of Angels," and local folklore suggests that it may have been a site of ancient ritual significance. Today, Carningli Common is a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts, with a network of walking trails that lead through heathland, bracken-covered slopes, and meadows. Legend has it (yes, of course there is one!) that St Brynach spoke to angels, skylarks, and ravens here, so keep a keen ear out for his conversations.

  5. Cae Hir Gardens
    In the heart of the lush Pembrokeshire countryside you'll find Cae Hir Gardens, a horticultural gem harmonising a blend of art and nature. This five-acre Welsh garden, located near Cribyn, is a labour of love created by the visionary artist Wil Akkermans and continued now by his family. There's an ornamental garden, a garden nursery, and of course a tea room with home made cakes and teas. Cae Hir Gardens stands out for its botanical diversity and also for the incorporation of sculptures and artwork that seamlessly integrate into the natural surroundings. The garden's Japanese influences, reflecting Akkermans' travels, add a unique touch.

  6. Penbryn Beach
    Penbryn Beach is a pristine mile-long stretch of golden sands surrounded by rugged cliffs and rolling hills. There's plenty of competition for endless sandy beaches along this coastline, so Penbryn is often overlooked in favour of high profile places such as Mwnt, Tresaith, Aberporth, and Llangranog, but the best thing about this beach is the beautiful walk to get there. From the car park, follow the footpath signs through the shady wooded valley lined with flower-covered verges, and wait for the view to suddenly open up onto the beautiful beach in front of you. And as if that wasn't enough, the delightful Plwmp Tart, a local treasure renowned for its delectable homemade tarts, is definitely worth a stop for lunch.
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  7. The Cilwendeg Shell House
    The Cilwendeg Shell House is a unique wonder built in the 1820s for the Morgan Jones family, who owned Cilwendeg Mansion at the time. A testament to the creativity and artistry of its creator, George Heywood Sumner, the Shell House is adorned with intricate mosaic patterns created from thousands of seashells, stones, and pieces of glass. It was first discovered in 2003, having been hidden from view with overgrown woods, and sadly in need of repair. With all the works done, the walls are now alive with vibrant colours and intricate designs, depicting scenes from mythology and nature. The attention to detail is astounding, making the Shell House a true labour of love. ​

A Seaside Symphony: Walking the Wales Coastal Path from Newport Beach to Poppit Sands

1/11/2024

 
This journey is a symphony of nature, culture, and tranquillity so lace up your boots, breathe in the sea air, and let the path enchant you with its coastal magic. Walking a stretch of the stunning Wales Coastal path is a highlight of any holiday here at Trenewydd Farm and although parts of it can be quite challenging, the absolutely outstanding view will soothe any aching limbs or sore feet. The stretch from Newport Sands to Ceibwr Bay is glorious, and getting a lift to Newport and walking back is a great way to do it (there are local taxis available, or we'll give lifts if we can).

Make sure you have water and refreshments with you as you head up from the car park at Newport, as there is nowhere to stop once you're underway. As the path unfolds, it reveals panoramic views of Newport Sands so make sure to look back as you climb the cliffs - as you can see, even on a lovely blue-sky day, the sandy Pembrokeshire beaches are not at all crowded. 
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There are plenty of places to stop along the way, a perfect backdrop for a peaceful picnic. Some of the highest cliffs in Pembrokeshire are along this stretch so it really does have the best views. Keep an eye out for dolphins, grey atlantic seals, and seabirds.

A highlight of this walk is when you arrive at Pwll y Wrach, or Witches Cauldron, close to the finish at Ceibwr Bay. This is a chasm in the and the water is a vibrant green. You can take a dip in the sea here, but do watch out for seal pups around September time. cliff formed by a collapsed cave, formed along a fault where the sea has gradually eroded the sandstones and shale.

Ceibwr Bay was once the port which served nearby Moylegrove village and the surrounding area, and you'll see the remains of a ruined lime kiln here too. There is a lovely stone bridge you can sit and rest on, and shallow water for paddling or just taking off your shoes and socks to cool your feet.

Follow the path up to Penrallt Garden Centre where you can either get picked up, or walk back to Trenewydd from there. Once back, have a refreshing dip in the pool then jump in your hot tub for a well deserved relax!

You might see people from a local company such as Cardigan Bay Active kayaking or coasteering along this section, but that's an adventure for another day!

Step Into Autumn's Beauty

1/9/2024

 
As the warmth of the summer fades into autumn, there's a distinct charm in taking a leisurely walk through the woods and there are several to choose from in this area.

The woods in autumn offer a change of scenery, with leaves turning into a vibrant display of reds, yellows, and oranges. The air carries a refreshing crispness that awakens the senses. As you tread upon the forest floor, the satisfying crunch of fallen leaves accompanies your every step.

So, as autumn approaches, consider a simple walk in the woods. It's a chance to slow down, breathe in the crisp air, and find joy in the understated beauty that surrounds you. Sometimes, the most fulfilling journeys are the ones that require nothing more than an appreciation for the season and a willingness to wander.
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1. Pengelli Forest
This forest is part of one of the largest ancient Oak woodlands in West Wales and is a wonderful place for a peaceful walk on crunchy autumn leaves. There are four circular walks of varying lengths, so you can choose the most suitable for you.
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2. Ty Canol
This 170-acre ancient woodland dating back at least 6000 years is a National Nature Reserve and it is in an area famous for its archaeological sites. This forest is old, and it's beautiful, and it's a joy to wander round with its moss covered trees and many species of lichen.
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3. Coedmor National Nature Reserve
This gorgeous walk along the Teifi Gorge follows a riverbank path and is particularly lovely in the autumn with the range of fungi to see. It is now a nature reserve to protect the oak woodlands and wildlife.
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4. Pantmaenog Forest
If you're looking for panoramic views as part of your forest walk then this is the one for you. Look out for kestrels, buzzards, and red kites on your way round. 
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Find Peace in a Nature Reserve

1/7/2024

 
The abundance of nature here in West Wales is one of the best reasons to visit this wonderful area and there are in fact more than 70 National Nature Reserve in Wales, where habitats and wildlife are protected. AutumnWatch 2022 was actually filmed in our nearest Nature Reserve, the Welsh Wildlife Centre and Teifi Marshes. There are plenty of other options available within an hour or two's drive, but these are our closest. 
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1. The Welsh Wildlife Centre, Cilgerran
The Welsh Wildlife Centre is just 10 minutes away from us, in the nearby village of Cilgerran. You can drive there, or a great option is to park up in Cardigan then cross the old bridge and walk over the boardwalks to reach it that way. It's only about a mile each way, and is perfectly flat for buggies or wheelchairs. The newly refurbished visitors centre is a beautiful construction and houses interactive information screens, a fab information centre, a shop, and also the Glasshouse Café, which is good food at good prices. If it's nice, you can take your food outside and enjoy the stunning views over the Teifi valley and Cardigan town.

In the school holidays it's worth checking to see if they have anything on for the kids. There's usually nature based arts and crafts, or bug finding and that kind of thing which you can book ahead for. It's a wonderful place to visit at any time of year, there'll always be something to see!
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2. Pengelli Forest National Nature Reserve, Cardigan
Pengelli Forest is part of the largest area of ancient oak woodland in West Wales, where you'll see sessile oak, ash, alder, and birch trees. Near the entrance is a very useful map, which allows you to pick the length of your walk and follow the coloured guide arrow all the way round. It's a great place to head to see bluebells in the spring, and there are plenty of other beautiful wild flowers too as well as hazel, honeysuckle, hawthorn and holly.
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3. Ty Canol National Nature Reserve, Cardigan
This enchanting reserve is covered in ancient oak trees, and rocky outcrops surrounded by wood pasture which as been grazed by cattle, sheep, and ponies for centuries. This open type of woodland means that lichen thrive in this area, because the woodland plants that would have prevent lichen from growing have been grazed. You can also walk to the mystical Pentre Ifan burial chamber from here.
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4. Llys-y-Fran Reservoir
The reservoir and surrounding habitats form part of the Cleddau Rivers special area of conservation and the mix of farmland, woodland, scrub and waterside make it an area rich in a variety of wildlife. You'll find badgers, foxes, otters, and polecats among the woods and forest floor. There is a circular footpath of about 6.5 miles around the reservoir, which includes a self-guided nature trail, and a variety of other land and water based activities on offer.
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