Reserve Information
Location
Turn off the B4599 onto Hendreladus, Ystradgynlais. Go through the kissing gate by Ystradgynlais youth and Community Centre and follow Sustrans route 43 for quarter of a mile. The reserve is in front and to your right. Alternatively access the southern side via Weavers Road, off Station Road, Ystradgynlais.
Nearest town Ystradgynlais. Post code SA9 1SE.
GridReference
SN 796 108Directions
Find out herePublic Transport
Find out hereOpening Times
24/7/365Size
40.9 hectaresWalking Information
The reserve is an open access reserve, you are allowed to visit the reserve on foot for your quiet enjoyment of the wildlife present. There are no formal paths and areas can be wet at all times of the year. A small river runs through the site. Please visit the site with care.Access
The Sustrans route 43 cycle path provides wheelchair access through the site.Geology Trail
Parking
Please park carefully in Weavers Road, Ystradgynlais, taking care not to block the road or property entrances.Dogs
Please keep dogs on a lead to prevent disturbing ground nesting birds.Grazing Animals
There may be cattle or ponies on site, please do not approach them or feed them. Additionally there may be electric fencing to keep them off parts of the site, please cross this with care.Factsheets and Guides for Your Visit
This reserve, once the site of extensive coal mining, is a great example of how nature has reclaimed the landscape. It is a rich mix of wildlflower meadow, rhos pasture and young woodland. It is one of the best sites in Wales for the rare marsh fritillary butterfly.
What to look out for
Marsh fritillary adults flying in June, the caterpillars feeding on devil’s bit scabious in August and in mollinia tussocks in September within their larval webs. The spring and summer wildflower displays are stunning. The rhos pasture has purple flowering devil’s bit scabious in summer. The species rich wildflower meadows have magnificent displays of ragged robin and angelica. Grass-snakes, slow-worms and common lizard can be seen basking in the sunshine. The wet woodland is inhabited by many woodland birds. It is a good site to hear the well known call of the visiting cuckoo.
