Begwns

Heritage Site in Radnorshire

Wales

Begwns

Ruin at Bird's Nest Was this once a cottage, or simply a barn? Situated at the edge of the open common with a fine view across the Wye valley towards the Black Mountains. — Ruin at Bird's Nest Credit: Gordon Hatton

Begwns, located in Radnorshire, is a remarkable heritage site known for its stunning natural beauty and historical significance. Situated in the heart of Wales, this vast expanse of open moorland covers an area of approximately 1,200 acres.

The landscape of Begwns is characterized by rolling hills, heather-clad moorland, and ancient woodlands, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare species such as the black grouse and the red kite. The site also boasts a rich archaeological heritage, with numerous prehistoric features scattered across its terrain, including Bronze Age burial mounds and Iron Age hillforts.

Begwns has long been a popular destination for walkers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts. The area is crisscrossed by a network of well-maintained footpaths and trails, offering visitors the opportunity to explore its vast expanse and discover its hidden treasures. There are also several picnic spots, making it an ideal location for a day out in nature.

The heritage site is managed by a local conservation trust, ensuring the preservation of its natural and cultural heritage. The trust organizes regular guided walks and educational events to raise awareness about the importance of protecting this unique landscape.

Begwns is not only a place of natural beauty but also a site of historical significance, offering a glimpse into Wales' ancient past. Its stunning vistas, abundant wildlife, and rich history make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the natural and cultural heritage of Radnorshire.

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Begwns Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.09/-3.223 or Grid Reference SO1644. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Ruin at Bird's Nest

Was this once a cottage, or simply a barn? Situated at the edge of the open common with a fine view across the Wye valley towards the Black Mountains.

Gordon Hatton

Cattle on the hillside

Cattle resting in the first of the improved pastures below the open common of The Begwns. In the distance are Hay Bluff and Lord Hereford's Knob, separated by the Gospel Pass.

Gordon Hatton

Track junction at the moor edge

Two of the many tracks and paths that criss-cross the open area of the Begwns.

Gordon Hatton

Large pond below the Begwns

This must be an artificially created pond as it isn't shown on OS maps of 100 years ago. The distant view is towards the whaleback of Mynydd Troed which reaches 609m.

Gordon Hatton

Hillside with gorse

The southern fringes of The Begwns area of open moorland, here with grassland and gorse bushes. The view across the Wye valley is towards the northern flanks of the Black Mountains with Hay Bluff to the left.

Gordon Hatton

Open country south of The Roundabout

Track across the common with a fine view towards Pen-y-Fan, the highest of the Brecon Beacons.

Gordon Hatton

Trig point close to The Roundabout

The trig marks the high point of a stretch of fine open common land now managed by the National Trust. This view looks south towards the distant line of the Black Mountains with Lord Hereford's Knob to the left and Waun Fach, the highest point in the range appearing above the shaded slopes towards the right.

Gordon Hatton

Sheep on the hillside

All looking to see if two approaching walkers could be safely ignored or whether it would be better to flee.

Gordon Hatton

Which path to take?

Several options for walkers on The Begwns. It would be hard to get lost up here, unless in a thick hill fog.

Gordon Hatton

Sheep on The Begwns

The grazed area in the foreground has grass growing where once there was a general cover of bracken. This has been cut back allowing sheep to graze. The view is across the Wye valley towards the big hills on the English side of the border beyond Hay on Wye.

Gordon Hatton