Llyn Rhos-ddu

Semi-wild welsh ponies grazing on the dunes. We kept our carrots well hidden to avoid strenuous begging as they seemed keen to meet us. :o)

The warren was created in the 13th century, but the death of rabbits due to myxomatosis in 1956 (and the absence of other large grazing animals) led to thick rank grassland and a decline in the species richness of the dunes. Horses were introduced in 1986 to graze the dunes and this has reversed the decline and as a result the botanical species-richness of the grass has trebled. Snowdonia as a backdrop in the distance.

The village is sited in a pretty exposed spot near the south-western corner of Anglesey.

A popular spot to lie relatives to rest. The church is beyond the adjacent wall.

The path crosses fields and pasture towards the large plantation.

Much of the forestry plantation is given over to Corsican Pine but here along the sunlit path borders some broadleaved species have managed to grow.

The dune system is extensive and many paths are just pony paths made by grazing ponies, so from time to time, unless following a bearing, it is advisable to gain some height to check out the lie of the land. You can recreate classic films such as 'Ice Cold in Alex' or 'Beau Geste' here.

A lane rising towards Newborough and towards the site of Llys Rhosyr.

Llys Rhosyr is an archaeological site of the ruins of a Welsh medieval commotal court. Archaeologists at Gwynedd Archaeological Trust consider it to have been a Welsh royal home, and have established an exhibition in the Pritchard-Jones Institute in the village on their findings. Excavations to date reveal that the enclosure had a large stone and thatch hall, associated accommodation and storage barns and very likely a farm close by. A fierce sandstorm in the winter of 1332 buried the site and much of the surrounding area. Henry Rowlands mentions the site in his 18th century Mona Antiqua Restaurata. By the 20th century nothing was visible on the surface, though local people knew the precise location of the remains, which was always known as 'cae'r llys' ('the field of the court' in English). From 1992,it was excavated by the Gwynedd Archaeological Trust, and was opened to the public for the first time in 1995. What remains here is the outline of the walls, only around a quarter of which are exposed, including the main surrounding wall and foundations and lower walls of three large buildings, possibly the hall, a chamber and storage barns. Many artifacts were recovered from the site, including pottery and silverware, indicating use by those of a high social status.

Looking west approaching the Model village Turn off. Viewed from close to Clynnog

Old fence line on waterlogged ground.

Llyn Rhos-ddu in the distance.

Somebody seems undeterred.