Mynydd y Lan

Downs, Moorland in Monmouthshire

Wales

Mynydd y Lan

Brynawel across the Sirhowy Valley Credit: Alan Hughes

Mynydd y Lan is a picturesque area located in Monmouthshire, Wales. It is known for its stunning views and diverse natural landscapes, encompassing both downs and moorland. With an elevation of approximately 400 meters, it offers visitors and locals alike a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Welsh countryside.

The downs of Mynydd y Lan are characterized by their gently rolling hills and open grasslands. These provide a perfect setting for leisurely walks, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside. The downs are home to a variety of flora and fauna, with wildflowers, grasses, and small mammals commonly found in the area.

In contrast, the moorland of Mynydd y Lan presents a more rugged and wild terrain. Dotted with heather and gorse, it offers a completely different experience for nature enthusiasts. The moorland is also home to various bird species, including the iconic red grouse, making it a popular spot for birdwatching.

Mynydd y Lan has a rich history, with evidence of human activity dating back to the Bronze Age. Ruins of ancient settlements and burial mounds can still be found in the area, adding an element of historical intrigue to the natural beauty. It is also a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Whether exploring the downs or venturing into the moorland, Mynydd y Lan offers a serene and captivating experience for all those who visit. Its untouched landscapes and tranquil atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and anyone seeking a peaceful escape in the heart of Monmouthshire.

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Mynydd y Lan Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.629367/-3.1497271 or Grid Reference ST2092. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Brynawel across the Sirhowy Valley

Alan Hughes

Renewing the lining of Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal

The Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal (popularly referred to as the Mon & Brec) was originally two separate canals: the Brecknock & Abergavenny Canal, and the Monmouthshire Canal. The 35-mile navigable section seen today is mostly the former. Following discussions in the 1790s, it was decided to link the two canals at Pontymoile. The Monmouthshire Canal, including a branch from Malpas to Crumlin, was opened in 1799 with the Brecknock & Abergavenny extending from Brecon to Gilwern by 1800, finally reaching Pontymoile by 1812. Though originally constructed to transport coal, lime and agricultural products the canal was used extensively by ironmasters and industrialists as their main transport network, bringing the raw iron ore up the canal from Newport to Llanfoist Wharf and thence by tramroads to the iron works and returning with trams loaded with iron, the finished product. In 1880 the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canals were taken over by the Great Western Railway. Within 35 years, commercial carrying had all but ceased. Throughout the 20th century various parts of the Monmouthshire Canal were filled in for road construction. Both canals were abandoned by the early 1960s but restoration work from Brecon to Pontymoile began in 1968 following vigorous campaigning by canal enthusiasts. Recent developments have included a complete regeneration of the terminus at Brecon, and various works continue to reclaim the navigation between Pontymoile and Newport. The Blaenavon area and a section of the canal were granted World Heritage status in 2000 in recognition of its historical significance. Link

Canal and River Trust

David Smith

Sirhowy River from Penllywn Tramway Bridge

David Smith

Shared path in Sirhowy Valley Country Park

David Smith

Track in Sirhowy Valley Country Park

David Smith

Speed bump on track in Sirhowy Valley Country Park

David Smith

Path to tramway bridge, Sirhowy Valley Country Park

The 1824 tramway bridge is described in ST2091 : Penllywn Tramway Bridge (Pont Dramffordd Penllywn)

David Smith

Sustrans path marker, Sirhowy Valley Country Park

David Smith

Path across Penllywn Tramway Bridge

David Smith

River under the Penllywn Tramway Bridge

The bridge is glimpsed behind the tree branch

David Smith

Field by the river below Penllywn Tramway Bridge

David Smith

A467 south of Newtown

David Smith

170207 at Crosskeys station

The Transport for Wales Class 170 diesel multiple unit from Cardiff Central to Ebbw Vale Town is at platform 1 in May 2022.

Jaggery

Ticket machine on Crosskeys railway station

Transport for Wales ticket machine on platform 1 in May 2022.

Jaggery

Crosskeys station platform 1

Platform 1 is for trains to Newbridge, Llanhilleth, Ebbw Vale Parkway and the terminus at Ebbw Vale Town.

Jaggery

170201 in Crosskeys

Viewed from Crosskeys station platform 1 in May 2022. The Transport for Wales Class 170 diesel multiple unit heads towards its next stop at Risca & Pontymister station.

Jaggery