Cwm Clydach National Nature Reserve

Cwm Clydach National Nature Reserve is a protected nature reserve in a steep gorge in South Wales with ancient beech forests and several streams. The site covers about 25 hectares and features narrow valleys with diverse vegetation and rocky slopes.

The area was protected by the Nature Conservancy Council to preserve its ancient semi-natural beech woodlands. Natural Resources Wales now manages the reserve and maintains its ecological value.

The site maintains educational panels throughout the reserve to inform visitors about local wildlife, plant species, and conservation methods.

The reserve has several walking trails of varying difficulty connected to parking areas at the main entrances. The paths link to public roads and the national cycleway, offering options for visitors of different abilities.

The reserve is home to rare whitebeam trees growing on limestone outcrops and provides refuge for bird species including pied flycatchers, nuthatches, and green woodpeckers. This combination of uncommon plants and specialized bird life makes the area particularly valuable for wildlife enthusiasts.

GPS coordinates: 51.80600,-3.13600

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:44