Y Byddwn

This small nature reserve, which gives excellent views of the Brecon Beacons, is a section of the former Brecon to Merthyr railway line. Originally built as the Brecon to Hay-on-Wye tramroad, it became a railway in 1864. The line closed in 1964 and became a nature reserve in 1980.

Location

Nearest town is Groesffordd, LD3 7SU.

OS Map Reference

SO 087 277

Know before you go

Parking information

Park considerately on side of track, and walk along course of old railway to site.

Walking trails

A path runs the length of the reserve along the old railway bed. Unfortunately, it is unsuitable for wheelchairs.

Access

From Brecon follow the A40 east for 2 miles, and turn left, then right for Groesffordd. Just before entering Groesffordd turn right again for Llanfihangel Tal-y-llyn. After half a mile, a wide verge on the right indicates the starting point for foot access. Proceed through the left hand gate and walk along the disused railway line for half a mile until you come to the reserve entrance gate.

Dogs

Under effective control

When to visit

Opening times

The nature reserve is open access.

Best time to visit

Spring and summer

About the reserve

The reserve annually hosts many species of woodland birds such as treecreeper, goldcrest and bullfinch while summer migrants include chiffchaff, blackcap, spotted flycatcher and redstart. The meadow is home to many interesting moths and other insects and a species list of all flora and fauna is available.

Much work since 2017 has been carried out at the reserve to increase its potential to encourage a more diverse flora and fauna. The woodland beyond contains a seasonal pond that dries up in summer.

What to look out for

To the left of the flower-rich grassland at the site entrance is a row of trees that include oak, beech, wych elm and mountain ash. Watch out for mallard, grey wagtail and dipper. The disused railway is an important feature in the landscape for commuting and foraging bats, including the rare lesser horseshoe bat. In the spring and summer the repetitive call of the chiffchaff, the musical warble of the blackcap and the soft, descending call of the willow warbler can be heard.