Caeau Wood

Wood, Forest in Monmouthshire

Wales

Caeau Wood

The Rock and Fountain Inn, Penhow Beside the A48. — The Rock and Fountain Inn, Penhow Credit: Eirian Evans

Caeau Wood is a picturesque woodland located in Monmouthshire, Wales. Spanning over an area of approximately 100 acres, it is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility amidst the beauty of the natural world. The wood is situated near the village of Llanishen, just a short distance from Monmouth.

Caeau Wood boasts a diverse range of tree species, including oak, beech, and ash, creating a rich and vibrant ecosystem. The woodland floor is adorned with an array of colorful wildflowers, adding to its charm and appeal. Walking through the wood, visitors are treated to the soothing sounds of birdsong and the occasional sighting of local wildlife, such as deer and squirrels.

The wood is crisscrossed by a network of well-maintained walking trails, allowing visitors to explore its various nooks and crannies. These trails cater to all levels of fitness and offer opportunities for leisurely strolls or more challenging hikes. There are also picnic areas dotted throughout the wood, providing a perfect spot to rest and enjoy a packed lunch while immersing oneself in the peaceful surroundings.

Caeau Wood is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its ecological importance, particularly for its diverse range of bird species. It offers a unique and tranquil retreat for visitors, allowing them to connect with nature and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether it is a leisurely walk, birdwatching, or simply seeking solace in the beauty of the woodland, Caeau Wood has something to offer for everyone.

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Caeau Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.617631/-2.8068801 or Grid Reference ST4491. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

The Rock and Fountain Inn, Penhow

Beside the A48.

Eirian Evans

The track to Castle Farm

Bob Harvey

The house on the hill

A 17th century house on the site of Penhow Castle Link

Bob Harvey

A natural moat

l land below Penhow Castle the natural plain and its little stream forms a natural barrier

Bob Harvey

Row of trees

Bob Harvey

Quarry wall

A curious ring wall left around a quarry, and then breached.

Bob Harvey

Disused Quarry

Another view of ST4291 : Quarry wall

Bob Harvey

Quarry entrance

a series of stern warnings

Bob Harvey

The A48

The A48 runs 119 miles from Gloucester to Carmarthen across South Wales. Link

Bob Harvey

Barn at the Rock and Fountain Inn

This is an ancient monument, a 17th century barn and stable Link

Bob Harvey

Penhow Castle

Grade II* Listed Penhow was developed from a heavily-built keep and was the first castle with a stone keep to be built in Britain by the conquering Normans in 1070 and has claims to be the oldest inhabited castle in Wales. Less than a century after the keep tower was built the larger area of the inner bailey was enclosed within a thick stone curtain wall. By the 14th century Penhow was quite a stronghold. The drawbridge was operated by counterweights of stone rediscovered in 1979. Above the lower hall, the Great Hall achieved its present shape in the late 1480s. The Lewis family converted Penhow from an old-fashioned castle to a modern house shortly after 1674. Thomas Lewis' son Thomas was High Sheriff of the county. Stephen Weeks bought the Norman stronghold in 1973 and rebuilt the ruins into an award-winning attraction that opened to the public in 1978. Penhow Castle was sold to a London businessman and closed to the public on 29th December 2002. The important thing about the house is that it was home to the famous Seymour family which eventually produced a King and Queen of England in Jane Seymour and Edward VI.

Bob Harvey