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A Centre for Walking
In
1896, when "The Ramblers illustrated Guide to Llandrindod Wells"
was written by W. J. Bufton, he began the section on walks and
footpaths as follows: "For an enjoyable walk the visitor to Llandrindod
Wells has not to go far out of the town. He is no sooner out of
his lodgings than he finds himself in the midst of charming and
varied scenery, and he can take no road or footpath without catching
a glimpse of beauty in the surrounding countryside, which makes
walking a real pleasure"
One
hundred years have passed since the publication of that guide,
but the sentiments expressed still apply. Llandrindod Wells is
blessed by being in the centre of some of the most beautiful,
peaceful and unspoilt countryside in Britain. Armed with O.S.
Pathfinder maps nos. 970 and 992, and suitable walking shoes and
clothing (just in case it rains), walkers, experienced or casual,
can spend many happy hours following the footpaths radiating from
the town, many of which are now way-marked. A short journey by
car, rail or bus takes the walker into the remoter regions of
West Radnorshire, from where many footpaths lead to the 'Green
Desert of Wales'.
The
many and varied routes cater for a wide diversity of interests
- photography or sketching; geography or history; bird watching
or botany the scope is endless, with much easy walking and superb
long distance views when the weather is right.
Although
many footpaths are now way-marked, the walker must ensure that
unmarked routes are public rights of way. Providing the farmers'
property is respected, gates are closed, animals left undisturbed
and litter taken home, an enjoyable day is guaranteed. However,
remember the weather can change very quickly in all seasons, and
the correct clothing and footwear for wet weather and rough terrain
is recommended.
From
Llandrindod lake, a path is sign-posted though the woods which
rise above lake. This leads out onto an open hillside with a stony
cairn, 1165ft above sea-level, visible on the horizon. It is well
worth a visit and affords spectacular views of the Brecon Beacons
to the south and Plynlimon to the north west. Further on the walker
soon joins the old drovers' road across Pawl-hir which overlooks
Llandegley Rocks and beyond that the sensuous undulations of the
Radnor Forest. An alternative route leads down to Carregwiber
Farm, with a road off to the right just before the dip into the
farm leading to Howey, a small village which can boast two country
inns offering good food and drink. A sign-posted path back to
Llandrindod via the Old Parish Church completes an enjoyable circular
walk.
An
alternative circular walk from the town can be made by following
the road around the lake and up to the golf links, passing the
Hall Farm and Llandrindod Old Parish Church on the right. About
half a mile beyond the clubhouse a road turns off to the left
and drops down into the quaintly named "Happy Valley", which in
the spring is bedecked with a carpet of bluebells. This lovely
walk leads to Shaky Bridge, a local beauty spot, with a picnic
site available for public use. From the road next to the picnic
site, cross the river Ithon by the footbridge known locally as
Shaky Bridge (fortunately it is no longer shaky) and follow a
path to the isolated Cefnllys Church, still used for regular worship.
Perhaps you will have a few moments to rest awhile in this haven
of peace and tranquillity, before attempting the stiff climb up
Castle Bank, directly opposite the church. This leads to the site
of Cefnllys Castle, now little more than a pile of rubble. The
views offered from this vantage point are breathtaking, with the
meandering River Ithon, far below, surrounding the hill on three
sides, and proving the worth of the site in earlier days for fortifications.
Returning to Shaky Bridge, follow the road up the steep hill and
past Bailey Einon farm back to Llandrindod Wells.
These
are but a couple of the many choices available to visitors, whether
they be experienced walkers, or just out for a couple of hours
in the beautiful surroundings on offer. Details of these and other
walks are available in the Information Centre located in the Town
Hall in Temple Street. Given the weather, the visitor who wishes
to get away from the stresses of living and working in the 1990s
could do no better than make use of Llandrindod Wells as an ideal
centre for a walking holiday.
John Selwyn.
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